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Strava to relocate European HQ to Bristol
San Francisco-based social network Strava its moving its European operation from London to Bristol.
The company says Bristol has been chosen for its growing reputation as one of the UK’s pre-eminent creative and technology hubs as well as a strong talent pool, and good transport connections nationally and internationally.
Gareth Nettleton, VP of marketing for Strava, said: “We are delighted to be relocating to Bristol as a significant step in 2016 to expand our international marketing team and achieve our ambitious international growth goals. Bristol is the perfect location for us as a business; it reflects our ethos as a company in terms of innovation, creativity – and importantly – practicing what we preach in being active in the cycling and running communities.”
Bristol mayor George Ferguson added: “This is more great news for Bristol. Our city is recognised as a cycle friendly city and our level of ambition is recognised across Europe. We will continue to make it even more accessible for anyone that wants to ride a bike – boosting individual and public health.
“This news demonstrates that more and more people and businesses see Bristol as one of the very best cities to work and live. Our business sector is continuing to challenge other leading cities across Europe. This means more jobs for Bristol and will encourage other clean tech businesses to come and base themselves here.”
Matthew Cross, head of inward investment at Invest Bristol & Bath, said that “it is a testament to the strength and scope of this region’s world-class digital tech cluster that a San Francisco company like Strava has decided to relocate its European headquarters to Bristol, as it expands its international team”.
“Strava is a forward-thinking and innovative brand that is having an impact across the world – so we’re very pleased they’ve chosen this city as the place for them to do business in Europe.”
Strava was founded in 2009 by Michael Horvath and Mark Gainey. The platform lets cyclists and runners track their rides and runs via iPhone, Android or dedicated GPS devices, helping its members analyse and quantify their uploaded activities, as well as providing motivation and camaraderie.
Since its founding, Strava has grown from a handful of members to tens of millions of athletes around the world. At present, 150,000 new members sign up to Strava every single week. In 2015, globally, Strava athletes uploaded a staggering 5.3 activities every second.
Main image by Jake Strangel, courtesy of Strava