A Torfaen-based app developing firm is aiming to link local services and suppliers with residents.

Set up in November 2018, uddr is the brainchild of three Pontypool men - Michael O’Neill, a marketing professional, Dave Smith, whose background is in electronic engineering, and Stuart Arthur, whose has 15 years’ experience in software consultancy and mobile application development.

They spotted an opportunity to link local businesses and services to local residents who can book or order and pay securely for local services via a cost effective, safe and easy to use mobile ecommerce platform.

The three are currently identifying local services and products that could come on board in these early stages of the app’s development prior to its official launch.

Michael said: “The possibility of making a positive impact on our local community here in Torfaen 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 our smart technology and open up a whole new customer base. We aim to bring local services back to the heart of the community when we launch in a few weeks.”

Less than six months since the business was established, a number of local business partners have already registered, including, for example, domestic cleaning services, mobile hairdressing and boiler servicing.

However, this is just the start of uddr’s journey. The team wants 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 local Torfaen companies to get on board and benefit from increased business via this new channel.

Shaun Luxton, owner of Complete Clean, said: “I am excited to be the first carpet cleaner on uddr in Torfaen. The uddr app will provide a simple way for new and existing customers to access Complete Clean services in a faster and more efficient way and as a business we will receive secure and easy payments for our work.”

Dave said: “We’re really encouraged by the services, products and businesses that are already registering to be on the app. We are keen to hear from anyone who runs a local business. If you would like to find out more about how to become an uddr partner and have your own place on uddr (or know someone in business who may be interested), just get in touch and we can guide you through the simple steps you need to take.”

The uddr app is due to be officially launched over the coming weeks.