A new report, backed by the Northern Powerhouse Partnership, says businesses need to maximise the benefits of digital technologies to drive business transformation and economic growth.

EY’s United Through Tech report is based on information taken from around 100 business leaders, entrepreneurs, academics, investors and market influencers to understand how business communities can better use digital technologies to unlock business and economic growth.

Little progress had been made on bridging the productivity gap between the economies of the North and the South, EY said.

Henri Murison, director of the Northern Powerhouse Partnership, said: “Digital is one of the prime capabilities of the Northern Powerhouse – a sector where we lead the UK and, with the right investment, government backing and business collaboration, could become world-leading.

“This will unlock the skilled jobs of the future we need to kickstart our economy, helping to rebalance the economy and narrow the North-South divide.”

  • LOCALiQ, part of Newsquest Cumbria, is next week holding a series of free digital seminars to help local businesses navigate the online landscape and make the most of digital marketing to help them thrive.

Each session lasts roughly 90 minutes and includes free tea and coffee.

The Carlisle seminars will be held on Wednesday, February 6 at The Halston at 10.30am and 2pm.

To book, visit https://tinyurl.com/carlislelocaliq

The West Cumbrian seminars, at Energus, Lillyhall, will be held on Thursday, February 7 at 10.30am and 2pm.

To book, visit https://tinyurl.com/westlocaliq

The Barrow seminars will be held at Abbey House Hotel and Gardens on Friday, February 8 at 10.30am and 2pm.

To book, visit https://tinyurl.com/barrowlocaliq

Places are limited.