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:
- £50,000 monthly recurring revenue: Achieved through strategic bootstrapping that emphasizes significant economic growth and self-sufficiency.
- Search Awards finalists: Recognition 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 client satisfaction and exceptional service.
- 600% ROI for clients: Demonstrates the agency’s success in delivering significant returns on investment.
Navigating challenges and strategic growth
One of Matt and David’s big challenges was the choice to start their business without seeking external funding. This strategy required careful planning and financial discipline, promoting a strong emphasis on efficiency and careful budget management.
This discipline proved vital, particularly during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the difficulties, Bubblegum Search proved more resilient, exceeding £500,000 in revenue and being named a finalist in the prestigious Search Awards.
Specialized in core forces
Originally, Bubblegum Search provided a wide range of marketing services. However, Matt and David quickly identified their expertise in SEO and digital PR, which led them to concentrate solely on these areas. Looking ahead to 2025, the agency aims to position itself as a leading 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 persistence, continuous learning and a dedication to excellence. From our early days of bootstrapping to building a robust company culture and sharpening our focus on SEO and digital PR, we have consistently aimed to deliver first-class services. Our goal is to lead in SEO and creative digital PR while establishing exceptional 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 need for brands to demonstrate authority and expertise. The agency believes that Digital PR is a key tool to establish and strengthen brand authority, especially by acquiring high-quality backlinks.
Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs
Matt advises potential business partners to ensure they bring complementary skills to the table. Many startups falter when partners possess similar skills, 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 can benefit from extensive experience in the field before starting 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.