An education technology firm based in Sherburn in Elmet, near Leeds, has invested in a new Yorkshire headquarters as it further develops its software offering, targeting universities across Europe and North America.

Software2 is the company behind AppsAnywhere which is currently used by over half of all universities in the UK. The firm plans to grow revenue by 25% in 2019, with turnover forecast to rise to £5.5m, up from £4.4m in 2018.

The new HQ is located in a former village pub, the Foresters Arms, which has been converted into office space, meeting rooms and social areas.

The larger premises gives the company more space for its current 30-strong team, plus the additional 20 employees it expects to recruit over the next three years to increase its revenue.

Business co-founder Nick Johnson said: “After nearly 10 years in business we’re thrilled to be opening our new HQ, just 10-minutes’ drive from where it all started back in 2009.

“It’s crucial in attracting the skilled workforce we need to be successful in the global higher education markets. And with so many great technology companies in nearby Leeds, it’s important we stay competitive in the marketplace for jobs and local talent.”

Johnson added that Software2 will be continuing to drive expansion into the higher education market as well as increasing its presence among North American universities and colleges.

“We’ve achieved incredible growth since launching AppsAnywhere in America and Canada in 2014,” he said. “With more than 5,000 potential university and college customers in those markets, our new HQ gives us the platform to capitalise on the incredible growth opportunity there thanks to both our UK and US based teams.”

Founded in 2009, the company’s key customers include Durham University, Imperial College London and University of Michigan.

Software2 recently announced that it was entering the Australian higher education market through local channel partner iSTRATEGY.

Johnson said: “We are excited to be based in the Selby district and are looking forward to working with the local authority to support our ongoing operation and future growth.”