A Torfaen-based app developing firm is aiming to link local services and suppliers with residents, via their new app called uddr.

Uddr is the brainchild of three Torfaen men – Michael O’Neill, a marketing professional, Dave Smith, with a background in electronic engineering, and Stuart Arthur, who has 15 years’ experience in software consultancy and mobile application development.

The app provides a direct link for businesses and services to local residents, who can contact, book and even pay for local services via a cost effective, safe and easy to use mobile communication and ecommerce platform. Uddr users simply enter their postcode to reveal a host of local businesses offering services and products in their area. The platform then provides direct contact with companies via the WhatsApp messaging app or booking via a secure payment system, depending on the service type.

Michael O’Neill said:

“The possibility of making a positive impact on our local communities and cities in South Wales and helping smaller businesses grow was the driving force behind starting the business.

Uddr bridges the technology gap for local businesses to make them more accessible to the general public, integrate them with smart technology and opens up direct contact with a whole new potential customer base. We aim to bring local services back to the heart of the community and provide an ‘uddr’ way to advertise your business locally.”

Little over a month since the app was launched, a number of local business partners have already registered, including domestic cleaners, tradespeople, beauticians, gardeners, business services and more.

However, this is just the start of the uddr journey. The team want the app to offer customers a truly diverse range of services and products across all sectors, all provided by local, trusted businesses and are therefore looking for more companies to benefit from increased business via this new cost-effective channel.

Ben Jon Dare, owner of BJD Relocation Services, said:

“I am delighted to be on board and excited to see where uddr goes in the future. Any businesses even thinking of joining uddr should not hesitate, as the team have been awesome to deal with. You’re not left in the lurch after you sign up like most, they provide continued support and any queries are met with a fast and helpful response.”

With more businesses and service types being added daily, uddr aims to become a one stop shop for customers to connect with and support local businesses.

Dave Smith said:

“We’ve had a great response since launching the app and we are very encouraged by the services, products and businesses that have already joined us and started to received enquiries and bookings through the app. We are keen to hear from anyone who runs a local business that wants an alternative and cost-effective way to advertise in their area. The beauty of uddr is that it can work for almost any business type, as shown by our already diverse range of businesses on the app. Also, with profiles starting from just £10 a month, we believe uddr provides a very cost effective and modern alternative to other local advertising methods.”

Gaynor Wakeling, Business Support Manager at Torfaen Economy & Enterprise said

“Having provided  business support to the Uddr team during their start up phase, I am delighted to see their business develop  and grow.  This type of business is an excellent example of how  technology can help support a local economy.”

Councillor Richard Clark, deputy leader and executive member for economy, skills and regeneration at Torfaen Council said

“Linking local communities with local services via an easy to use  mobile communication and ecommerce platform  sounds very exciting. Uddr’s popularity is evident by the number of local suppliers already registered.  I’d like to wish the team at Uddr all the very best in their new venture as the business develops and grows.”