In 1999, while the world was grooving to Genie in a Bottle by Christina Aguilera, and Julia Roberts was asking to be loved on the big screen, Gary and Katie Parlett were starting a journey that would define the future of Answer. The internet was still a fledgling concept, businesses were operating with basic back-office systems, and the skills needed for growth were scarce. But where others saw uncertainty, Gary and Katie saw opportunity—and a chance to do things differently.

From Marshalls Mill to Union Mill: the power of collaboration

When Answer Digital began in a small office at Marshalls Mill on Water Lane Leeds, the goal was simple: to build a company grounded in collaboration. In a world where many tech businesses preferred to work in silos, Answer wanted to foster true partnerships, embedding talent and knowledge into their clients' teams to help them grow and evolve alongside the internet. This spirit of collaboration wasn’t just about solving immediate problems; it was about preparing businesses for a future that no one could yet see.

The approach paid off. From that modest start in Leeds, Answer expanded across the UK, from offices in Warrick, Guildford and London to partnering with the likes of Vodafone Global, McLaren and the NHS, we finally found our found long-term home at Union Mill, where we've been for the past 18 years.

But the journey hasn’t always been smooth sailing.

Navigating challenges from the Dotcom crash, recession, and beyond

Every company has its challenges, and for Answer, those early years were a test of resilience. The dotcom crash in 2001 put the entire tech industry under pressure, and the financial crisis a few years later only compounded the difficulties. Yet, through every challenge, Answer Digital adapted, learning, growing, and strengthening the foundations of what we are today.

As Gary Parlett put it: "We wanted to give outcomes and agile practices so people could carry on without us. We now get clients that stay with us not because they have to, but because they want to." This ethos of empowering clients, enabling them to thrive independently, remains central to our work and our success.

Defining Our values and our future

In 2014, on our 15th anniversary, the entire Answer team travelled to Malta for a company-wide retreat. This trip wasn’t just a celebration—it was a turning point. It marked the beginning of a journey toward defining our values, the principles that have guided us ever since.

By focusing on resilience, collaboration, and continuous improvement, we ensured that Answer would always be a company that stays ahead of the curve. These values were the driving force behind our 2011 rebrand, positioning us as a company that doesn’t just provide one answer but empowers clients to find their own.

Employee Ownership

In 2020, Answer took another significant step forward with the introduction of employee ownership. This move wasn’t just about restructuring; it was about deepening our commitment to the people who have made this company what it is. By giving our team a stake in the business, we ensured that Answer’s future would continue to be shaped by those who care most about its success.

As we embark on this new chapter, our focus remains clear: to be the best partner for our clients and the best employer for our team. After 25 years, we’ve learned that it’s the scars—the challenges we’ve faced and overcome—that define us and make us stronger.

Celebrating 25 Years: The Anniversary Games at Burtonfields Hall

To mark our 25th anniversary, the entire Answer team came together for an unforgettable Summer Away Day, held at the picturesque Burtonfields Hall. With an Olympics theme, we wanted this special day to be about more than just celebrating our success, it was about reinforcing our values of collaboration, teamwork, and giving back to the people who have been instrumental in our journey.

Over 100 of our team members participated in the Anniversary Games, with a variety of fun and competitive events designed to bring everyone together. The games weren't just about winning, they were a chance for us to reflect on our shared history, exchange ideas, and hear key business updates, while embracing the spirit of collaboration that has been at the heart of Answer Digital for 25 years.

It was a day filled with energy, laughter, and a reminder of what makes Answer special: our people. The Summer Away Day was more than just a company event, it was a celebration of our journey, a moment to appreciate our team’s contributions, and an opportunity to strengthen the bonds that will carry us into the next 25 years.

What’s next for Answer Digital?

As we celebrate our 25th anniversary, we reflect not only on where we’ve been but also on where we’re headed. We’ve survived and thrived through industry upheavals, technological revolutions, and global crises. And through it all, we’ve stayed true to our core belief: that collaboration and people are both people to long-term success.

Our journey is far from over. We’re continuing to push boundaries, drive innovation, and create meaningful partnerships that empower both our clients and our team. And while the future may be uncertain, one thing is clear: Answer will continue to be the catalyst for change, driving forward with resilience, creativity, and collaboration.

Here’s to the next 25 years of finding the answers together.