Bubblegum Search is an SEO and Digital PR agency established in September 2016 by Matt Cayless and David Mackie. Beginning with just two laptops and a vision, they launched the agency from their gardens and built it from the ground up.
Key milestones and achievements:
- £50k Monthly Recurring Revenue: Attained through strategic bootstrapping, highlighting significant financial growth and self-sufficiency.
- Finalists in the Search Awards: Acknowledgment of innovative strategies and leadership in digital marketing.
- New London Office in 2024: A major expansion that strengthens Bubblegum Search’s presence in a key market.
- 86% Client Retention Rate: Evidence of the agency’s dedication to customer satisfaction and exceptional service.
- 600% ROI for Clients: Demonstrates the agency’s success in delivering substantial returns on investment.
Navigating Challenges and Strategic Growth
One of Matt and David’s major challenges was the choice to bootstrap their business without seeking external funding. This strategy demanded meticulous planning and financial discipline, which fostered a strong emphasis on efficiency and careful budget management.
This discipline proved crucial, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Despite the difficulties, Bubblegum Search emerged more robust, surpassing £500,000 in turnover and being named a finalist in the esteemed Search Awards.
Specializing in Core Strengths
Initially, Bubblegum Search provided a broad range of marketing services. However, Matt and David soon identified their expertise in SEO and Digital PR, leading them to concentrate exclusively on these areas. Looking ahead to 2025, the agency aims to position itself as a premier creative SEO and Digital PR agency in the UK.
Reflecting on their journey, Matt Cayless said:
“Growing Bubblegum Search has been an extraordinary journey characterized by perseverance, continuous learning, and a dedication to excellence. From our early days of bootstrapping to building a robust company culture and honing our focus on SEO and Digital PR, we have consistently aimed to deliver top-notch services. Our goal is to lead in SEO and creative Digital PR while establishing unparalleled brand authority for our clients.”
Future Trends and Strategic Planning
As digital technology evolves, Bubblegum Search recognizes the increasing role of AI in search technologies and the necessity for brands to demonstrate authority and expertise. The agency believes that Digital PR is a key tool for establishing and enhancing brand authority, particularly through acquiring high-quality backlinks.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Matt advises prospective business partners to ensure they bring complementary skills to the table. Many startups falter when partners possess similar skill sets, leaving critical areas underdeveloped. Ideally, one partner should focus on business operations while the other drives sales and marketing efforts.
In the competitive SEO landscape, true expertise can set you apart. Aspiring entrepreneurs may benefit from extensive experience in the field before launching their own ventures.
Consider seeking investment to accelerate growth and alleviate financial pressures. While bootstrapping provided Bubblegum Search with essential lessons in resource management, external funding can facilitate faster expansion and allow more focus on strategic and creative aspects of the business.
