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  • Every year, Data Protection Day serves as a reminder that data protection isn’t just about ticking compliance boxes — it’s about safeguarding your business, your customers, and your reputation.

    Data is at the heart of day‑to‑day operations. Customer information, financial records, employee data, intellectual property – it all lives somewhere, and if it’s not properly protected, it becomes a risk. As a managed service provider (MSP) working closely with businesses across the region, we see first hand how data privacy challenges continue to evolve.

    Data Privacy Is No Longer Just an IT Issue

    Historically, data privacy was often viewed as a technical concern – something for IT teams to handle in the background. Today, that mindset no longer holds up.

    Remote and hybrid working, cloud adoption, and increasingly sophisticated cyber threats mean data now moves across more systems, devices, and locations than ever before. At the same time, regulations such as UK GDPR place clear responsibility on organisations to protect personal data and demonstrate how they’re doing it.

    In practice, this means data privacy has become a business‑wide responsibility. A single incident – whether it’s a ransomware attack, a phishing email, or human error – can lead to operational disruption, financial penalties, and long‑term reputational damage.

    The Risks Facing North East Businesses

    While high‑profile breaches often make national headlines, smaller and mid‑sized organisations are just as vulnerable – and often more so.

    Many businesses operate with:

    • Limited internal IT resources
    • Legacy systems that haven’t been fully modernised
    • Growing reliance on cloud services without clear governance
    • Employees juggling multiple devices and passwords

    Cyber criminals look for easy entry points. Weak access controls, unpatched systems, or unclear data policies can all expose sensitive information.

    What Data Privacy Really Means in Practice

    Protecting data isn’t about deploying one piece of software and hoping for the best. It’s about putting layered, practical controls in place that work for your business.

    That includes:

    • Knowing what data you hold, where it’s stored, and who can access it
    • Ensuring systems are secure, patched, and monitored
    • Using strong identity and access management to prevent unauthorised access
    • Backing up data properly and testing recovery plans
    • Educating staff so they understand their role in keeping data safe

    Data Protection Day is a good opportunity to step back and ask an important question: If we were audited or breached tomorrow, could we confidently explain how our data is protected?

    The Role of a Managed Service Provider

    For many organisations, managing data privacy internally is a challenge – not due to lack of care, but lack of time and specialist expertise.

    A local MSP can help by:

    • Assessing current risks and identifying gaps
    • Implementing security controls aligned with your business needs
    • Monitoring systems proactively rather than reacting to incidents
    • Supporting compliance efforts without over‑engineering solutions
    • Acting as a long‑term partner, not just a supplier

    Making Data Privacy Part of Your Culture

    Technology alone won’t protect your data. Some of the most common breaches still come down to human error – clicking a malicious link, using weak passwords, or sharing information inappropriately.

    Building a culture where data privacy is taken seriously makes a measurable difference. Clear policies, regular training, and leadership buy‑in all help ensure that protecting data becomes part of how your business operates, not an afterthought.

    Looking Ahead

    Data Protection Day isn’t about fear – it’s about awareness and action. Small improvements made now can significantly reduce risk in the long term.

    If you’re unsure whether your current setup is giving your data the protection it deserves, this is the perfect time to review it. A fresh perspective can highlight risks you may not even realise exist.

  • Towards the end of 2025, Microsoft released Microsoft 365 Copilot for Business. This new plan delivers the same powerful AI capabilities that larger enterprises enjoy – at a lower, more accessible price point, aimed at SMBs.

    Key Benefits of Microsoft 365 Copilot

    Here’s what Copilot brings to your business:

    AI-Powered Assistance Across Microsoft 365 Apps
    Copilot integrates seamlessly with your standard suite of Office tools –  Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams – helping you draft documents, analyze data, create presentations, and manage emails effortlessly.

    Smarter Decision-Making
    Use Copilot in Excel to uncover trends, generate insights, and build models without needing advanced data skills.

    Effortless Communication
    In Outlook and Teams, Copilot summarizes conversations, drafts responses, and even helps schedule meetings—saving you and the team hours each week.

    Creative Content Generation
    Quickly create engaging presentations in PowerPoint or polished reports in Word with AI-driven design and writing suggestions.

    Security and Compliance Built-In
    Enjoy the same enterprise-grade security and compliance standards that Microsoft 365 is known for.

      How We Can Help You Get Started

      Adopting AI can feel overwhelming – but that’s where we come in. Our team can help you:

      Assess your business needs and identify where Copilot will deliver the most impact.

      Set up Microsoft 365 Copilot quickly and securely.

      Provide ongoing support to ensure you’re getting maximum value from your investment.

      Whether you’re looking to streamline workflows, improve collaboration, or unlock new insights, we’ll guide you every step of the way.

      Why Now?

      AI isn’t just the future—it’s the present. Businesses that embrace tools like Copilot gain a competitive edge through efficiency, innovation, and smarter workflows. With Microsoft 365 Copilot for Business, that edge is now within reach for SMBs everywhere.

      Reach out to our experts to see how we can get you started on your AI journey.

    1. AI Is Everywhere—and Growing Fast

      The annual Microsoft Ignite conference in San Francisco made one thing very clear: AI isn’t just a trend; it’s a tidal wave reshaping how we work. From Copilot in Microsoft 365 to advanced automation in Azure, AI is becoming deeply embedded in everyday tools. This promises incredible productivity gains—but it also introduces new risks that many organizations aren’t prepared for.

      One of the most pressing risks? Shadow AI.

      What Is Shadow AI?

      Shadow AI refers to employees using AI tools without organizational oversight or approval. It’s the AI equivalent of “shadow IT,” where unsanctioned apps creep into workflows. Except now, the stakes are higher because AI tools can:

      Process sensitive business data

      Generate outputs that influence decisions

      Store or transmit intellectual property outside your control

      Why Shadow AI Is a Growing Problem

      AI adoption is accelerating faster than governance frameworks. Employees are curious, and tools like ChatGPT, Copilot, and other AI assistants are just a click away. Without clear policies, staff may:

      Paste confidential data into public AI tools

      Use AI-generated content without validation

      Introduce compliance and security risks unknowingly

      It’s just as easy as performing a google search – you load up the webpage, pop in your question, and the AI agent will respond. I’ve seen examples, and indeed marketing, with prompts like “Rephrase this email so it’s more professional”, or “Shorten this text”. People are using AI as a proof-reader – how many of them know that – by default – any conversations with ChatGPT is saved to train future AI models, unless you opt out.

      The Risks You Can’t Ignore

      Data Leakage
      Sensitive information shared with external AI services can leave your organization vulnerable.

      Compliance Violations
      AI usage without governance can breach GDPR, or industry-specific regulations.

      Reputation Damage
      Incorrect or biased AI outputs can lead to poor decisions or public embarrassment.

        What Should You Do?

        Educate Your Workforce
        Train employees on safe AI practices. Make it clear what data can and cannot be shared.

        Create AI Usage Policies
        Define approved tools and outline acceptable use cases. Include guidance on data handling.

        Monitor and Govern AI Usage
        Implement solutions to track AI adoption and prevent shadow AI from becoming a security blind spot.

        Shadow AI is already here, and ignoring it could lead to costly mistakes. Now is the time to act: educate your teams, set policies, and build a culture of responsible AI use.

        There are tools you can use that can restrict popular AI tools before satisfying some of the privacy settings.

        Want to learn how Odyssey can help with preventing Shadow AI? Give us a call, 01642 661888.


      1. Odyssey Systems has issued a warning over a ‘vishing’ scam sweeping the North East designed to harvest Office 365 log in details.

        The victim receives an email from a known contact whose details have previously been captured by the scammers, saying they have left a voicemail message.

        To listen, the recipient is asked to log on using their Office 365 username and password – allowing the hacker access to the entire email account.

        Vishing or voice phishing is the practice of sending emails which pretend to be from a reputable person, company, or government service to trick people into surrendering sensitive information.

        The first the victim is often aware that their data has been compromised is when all their email contacts receive an identical vishing email, sometimes within minutes of the initial security breach.

        Mike Odysseas, founder and managing director of Stockton-based Odyssey Systems, said that it was one of several similar vishing attacks, all based on voice messages.

        Some persuade recipients to either give away their passwords while others ask them to click a link that then downloads malware onto their computer.

        He said: “These vishing attacks use the name of a familiar sender and rely on the victim’s curiosity to listen to the message.

        “I would urge people to use Two Factor Authentication (2FA) which provides a much higher level of protection than Single Factor Authentication that many users have for Office 365 accounts.”

        With many of the vishing scams originating from abroad, the system is further strengthened through verification being linked to a UK-registered phone number.

        2FA offers a much higher level of security, adding a further level of authentication other than username and password to access an account – preventing someone being able to gain access using stolen details.

        Mike added: “Many of these vishing attacks focus on harvesting data and in doing so they perpetuate the scam by constantly gaining access to fresh email addresses.

        “They are searching for sensitive information and the possibility that the password used to log to the Office 365 account is the same used by the victim for the online banking or one use for your online banking or Amazon account – which can potentially land them with a big pay day.”

      2. Odyssey Systems is offering clients a free telephone conferencing service as part of its ongoing package of support during the coronavirus crisis.

        Despite many businesses and organisations switching to video conferencing platforms, telephone conferencing has the advantage of using a fraction of the bandwidth while at the same time being highly effective and user-friendly.

        The system provided by Stockton-based Odyssey can accommodate many people and is simple and easy to set up.

        Mike Odysseas, founder and managing director of Odyssey Systems, said that while an increasing number of companies are taking advantage of video conferencing platforms, telephone conferencing is a widely accepted format which offers greater reliability and security.

        It also does not suffer from some of the quality issues surrounding video conferencing – especially when being used from home when there are often competing demands for bandwidth.

        He added: “Communication within businesses is vital, especially at a time when so many people are working from home. Odyssey is offering its telephone conferencing system to clients free of charge during this lockdown period to ensure their staff, customers or suppliers remain connected.”

        Odyssey Systems has been extremely busy in the past weeks ensuring its clients had the necessary technology in place to introduce home working at short notice.

        Mike said its 37 staff had begun working from home prior to the lockdown and used the same systems and services supplied to clients without any issue.

        “There have been some challenging situations but all those were met, and solutions successfully delivered. I must pay tribute to my staff, who have all done a phenomenal job working night and day to ensure our clients were in a position to begin working remotely.

        “The most common issues faced involved legacy equipment, which was not always able to support home working, along with requests for call divert facilities to multiple mobile phones, which is a fairly complex procedure.

        “It has been an especially busy time for Odyssey and we are moving onto the next stage – which is continuing to support those businesses through these exceptional circumstances, and our offer of free telephone conferencing service is just an example of that.”

      3. The founder of telecommunications firm Odyssey Systems says the widespread adoption of home working by North East business due to the coronavirus lockdown will have beneficial and far-reaching consequences.

        Mike Odysseas predicts that, with the communications technology proving itself both reliable and user-friendly, companies will continue to embrace the concept of remote working once the pandemic has passed.

        Increased acceptance of teleconferencing and teleworking may also give businesses in the North East an advantage over their counterparts in London and the South East, where operating costs are higher, as the traditional emphasis on geographical location grows less important.

        Mike, who is managing director of the Stockton-based firm, said remote working will deliver a decrease in carbon emissions as fewer people are required to commute.

        With video and audio conferencing now an accepted way of communicating, there will be a reduction in the number of physical meetings with clients – allowing staff to spend less time travelling.

        Employees will also benefit from greater flexibility and an improved work-life balance while businesses make cost and efficiency savings while maintaining or even increasing productivity.

        Mike said: “The genie is out of the bottle in many respects and I believe businesses, which are already seeing the many advantages, will continue to embrace remote working.

        “In future, it may result in the demand for less office space as a proportion of staff work from home at any one time, reducing overheads.

        “This trend may also make business in the North East more competitive over their counterparts in other regions where operating costs are higher. With greater acceptance of communication via video or audio conferencing, geographical location is far less important.

        “The biggest benefit for both businesses and employees is time, which is a commodity that you can’t buy, and the time gained can be more efficiently and productively used.

        “Covid-19 is a disaster for both our society and economy but it has forced businesses to adapt and use technology to continue to function in what are very challenging conditions. Once this is all over, I believe those businesses that emerge will continue to take advantage of a whole new way of working.”

      4. Unreliable internet connectivity has proved to be the number one IT headache for those working from home during the lockdown period, according to a poll by Odyssey Systems.

        However, despite the niggles, 52% said they would like to continue working from home, 33% for either all or most of the time – citing convenience or an improved work life balance as the main benefits.

        Of those working from home, only 5% said they had experienced regular IT issues, whilst 21% only experienced occasional problems and 21% having none whatsoever.

        The main problems cited were:

        • Internet connectivity (57%)
        • Virtual Private Network (VPN) (13%)
        • Accessing files (9%)
        • Poor quality laptop, desktop, or tablet (7%)
        • Other issues (5%)
        • Insecure network (3%)
        • Lack of training or access to IT support (3%).

        Mike Odysseas, founder and managing director of the Stockton-based telecommunications expert, said the results of the poll, which involved up to 3,488 people, revealed a seismic shift in attitudes towards remote working.

        He added that the ability to work from home had major social and financial benefits for staff and employers alike and, despite the last-minute rush by many businesses and organisation to instigate home working, the technology had proven reliable with most reporting no drop in productivity and some experiencing an increase.

        “The pandemic may have forced everyone apart, but technology was able to and reconnect businesses with their employees, customers and suppliers very effectively.

        “There were no major issues and most people were able to work as efficiently and productively, if not more so, from home as in the workplace.

        “The fact that most experienced only occasional or no issues at all is a tremendous testament to the success of this technology and that many of the issues encountered are easily and inexpensively solved.

        “For example, the majority of the 57% who reported problems with internet connectivity could solve them by switching to a provider, such as Odyssey Systems, providing a business-quality service, improve the quality of wireless equipment and ensure critical devices are hard-wired with priority over other devices.”

        The poll, conducted by independent market research company DRG at the start of this month, found that 52% of respondents said they would prefer to continue working from home in future if their job allowed. Just 28% said they would prefer to return to the workplace while 18% were undecided.

        Those who preferred to remain working from home said the main benefits were:

        • Convenience (35%)
        • Improved work life balance (34%)
        • Reduced transport costs (20%)
        • More efficient working process (10%).

        Most said they would like to spend the majority of their week working from home, with 16% completely and 17% for three fifths of the time) with 11% wishing to spend three tenths of their time at home.

        Just 6% said they did not wish to work from home, while 17% said they were unable to carry out their job at home and 30% said they were not in employment.

        ENDS

        NEWS RELEASE: ISSUED ON BEHALF OF ODYSSEY SYSTEMS

        CONTACT: Andrew Douglas 01325 363 436

        Photo: Mike Odysseas

        Editor’s Notes:

        Odyssey Systems provides supplies the highest quality products and services, including business telephone systems, business lines and calls, business internet and business domain names and website hosting, to about 1,300 companies, largely in the North of England.

        The firm was founded by Mike Odysseas in 1987 and has grown to be an employer of more than 30 people serving around 1,300 clients across the North of England, with the stability of owning its own premises and being debt free.

        Odyssey is structured primarily around its aim to provide the best customer service in the telecommunications sector, ensuring clients have the right product and service when they need it, and that Odyssey staff are always available to help.

        https://www.odyssey-systems.co.uk –

        Unreliable internet connectivity has proved to be the number one IT headache for those working from home during the lockdown period, according to a poll by Odyssey Systems.

        However, despite the niggles, 52% said they would like to continue working from home, 33% for either all or most of the time – citing convenience or an improved work life balance as the main benefits.

        Of those working from home, only 5% said they had experienced regular IT issues, whilst 21% only experienced occasional problems and 21% having none whatsoever.

        The main problems cited were:

        • Internet connectivity (57%)
        • Virtual Private Network (VPN) (13%)
        • Accessing files (9%)
        • Poor quality laptop, desktop, or tablet (7%)
        • Other issues (5%)
        • Insecure network (3%)
        • Lack of training or access to IT support (3%).

        Mike Odysseas, founder and managing director of the Stockton-based telecommunications expert, said the results of the poll, which involved up to 3,488 people, revealed a seismic shift in attitudes towards remote working.

        He added that the ability to work from home had major social and financial benefits for staff and employers alike and, despite the last-minute rush by many businesses and organisation to instigate home working, the technology had proven reliable with most reporting no drop in productivity and some experiencing an increase.

        “The pandemic may have forced everyone apart, but technology was able to and reconnect businesses with their employees, customers and suppliers very effectively.

        “There were no major issues and most people were able to work as efficiently and productively, if not more so, from home as in the workplace.

        “The fact that most experienced only occasional or no issues at all is a tremendous testament to the success of this technology and that many of the issues encountered are easily and inexpensively solved.

        “For example, the majority of the 57% who reported problems with internet connectivity could solve them by switching to a provider, such as Odyssey Systems, providing a business-quality service, improve the quality of wireless equipment and ensure critical devices are hard-wired with priority over other devices.”

        The poll, conducted by independent market research company DRG at the start of this month, found that 52% of respondents said they would prefer to continue working from home in future if their job allowed. Just 28% said they would prefer to return to the workplace while 18% were undecided.

        Those who preferred to remain working from home said the main benefits were:

        • Convenience (35%)
        • Improved work life balance (34%)
        • Reduced transport costs (20%)
        • More efficient working process (10%).

        Most said they would like to spend the majority of their week working from home, with 16% completely and 17% for three fifths of the time) with 11% wishing to spend three tenths of their time at home.

        Just 6% said they did not wish to work from home, while 17% said they were unable to carry out their job at home and 30% said they were not in employment.

        ENDS

        NEWS RELEASE: ISSUED ON BEHALF OF ODYSSEY SYSTEMS

        CONTACT: Andrew Douglas 01325 363 436

        Photo: Mike Odysseas

        Editor’s Notes:

        Odyssey Systems provides supplies the highest quality products and services, including business telephone systems, business lines and calls, business internet and business domain names and website hosting, to about 1,300 companies, largely in the North of England.

        The firm was founded by Mike Odysseas in 1987 and has grown to be an employer of more than 30 people serving around 1,300 clients across the North of England, with the stability of owning its own premises and being debt free.

        Odyssey is structured primarily around its aim to provide the best customer service in the telecommunications sector, ensuring clients have the right product and service when they need it, and that Odyssey staff are always available to help.

        https://www.odyssey-systems.co.uk –

      5. The Stockton-based telecommunications company says businesses can easily switch from the outdated ISDN system in favour of SIP, which ensures continuity of productivity wherever their employees are via hosted telephony.

        This replaces traditional landlines which keep staff anchored to their office desk with a cloud-based system hosted remotely and connected via the internet.

        Odyssey Systems is advising businesses in the North East that they can follow the example of social media giant Twitter by allowing staff to work from home to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

        It says such capabilities will prove crucial in supporting the UK economy and maintaining services, should the country experience a significant outbreak of coronavirus.

        As well as current concerns over health, remote working is increasingly becoming a lifestyle choice – with the Office of National Statistics predicting that 50 percent of UK employees will be working remotely by the end of this year. Meanwhile, 90 percent of staff say they’d like to work remotely at least part time.

        Innovative and agile technology such as SIP deliver advanced remote working capabilities, video and web conferencing plus the flexibility to add or remove users without disruption or extra cost.

        Installing a hosted system is both easy and inexpensive and offers complete freedom by connecting staff in the car, at home or across multiple sites via desktop phone, laptop or mobile app – with the same functionality as an office-based system.

        Call quality is guaranteed to be superior than calling a landline or a user’s mobile and clients are unable to tell the difference if connected to a home extension and any issues over background noise are solved through the use of noise cancelling headsets.

        In a blog post, Twitter announced this week that it was mandatory for its staff in Hong Kong, Japan and South Korea to work remotely – while it was “strongly encouraging” its 5,000 employees around the globe not to come in as part of its strategy to prevent the spread  of the Covid-19 coronavirus.

        Mike Odysseas, founder and managing director of Odyssey Systems, said: “Modern technology makes it possible for any business to follow the lead of Twitter and allow their employees to work from home – or virtually any location, if required.

        “Such a capability could prove crucial to preserving the economy and maintaining services should the UK fall victim to a mass outbreak of coronavirus – but it can also save both businesses and their employees time and money.

        “Various studies have found staff who work from home are more productive and so remote working can have a really positive effect. We have grown used to working as part of a team in a fixed location but everyone can learn to work differently. I believe more and more businesses will adopt a more relaxed attitude towards remote working as cloud-based solutions grow and reshape every sector.”

      6. The latest Women in Business event has been hosted by Odyssey Systems – with the role and ethics of the BBC firmly in the picture.

        The discussion group, which meets on a regular basis at our Stockton headquarters, also raised the question of how news is reported as well as the devastating effects of social media.

        The forum, which involves several leading Tees Valley businesswomen, acknowledged that while the BBC was an important source of political news there was a perception – especially in its coverage of the Brexit debate – that it had failed to remain neutral, with much of its reporting biased towards the ‘Remain’ campaign.

        Christine Gilbert, director of Odyssey Systems, said: “The overall feeling of those around the table was a desire for the BBC to be both measured and impartial in its coverage of news.

        “Much of the reporting in the media is sensationalised, which has the effect of obscuring the real facts.”

        The group also discussed the negative effects of social media in the wake of the tragic death of Love Island presenter, Caroline Flack, and the online bullying and criticism targeted against her.

        Added Christine: “The sad fact is that social media is largely a free-for-all where keyboard warriors feel they have a right to spill their vitriol at anyone they wish, no matter how undeserving.

        “There is a disconnect provided by social media that means users feel emboldened to write whatever they want – when they wouldn’t dream of repeating it were they face to face with their ‘victims’.

        Those who attended the meeting were: Linda Wearmouth, Christine Gilbert, Danuta Czerwinska, Fiona Charlton, Joanne Dougherty, Angela Ashcroft, Louise Wheatley, Chris Nolan, Barbara Brooks, Jill Tyerman, Cath Devereux, Karen Shields and Marnie Crowther

      7. Odyssey Systems has invested in a cost-effective electric vehicle charging station that has increased its charging capacity fourfold.

        The Stockton-based telecommunications company is now able to keep its four electric cars on the road much longer, thanks to the rapid charge technology.

        The installation of the charger – part of the company’s ongoing strategy to convert its entire fleet to electric – is also available for Odyssey staff to use, encouraging more to switch to hybrid or pure electric vehicles for their daily commute.

        The Rolec 22kW Quantum pedestal charger, installed by Hartlepool-based JDM Earth, can deliver up to a 90-mile range after just one hour’s charge, with a full charge taking between three and five hours.

        This is compared with an outdated EV charger already fitted at the Preston Farm premises that requires an entire day to fully charge just one electric vehicle – which previously severely limited the number of electric vehicles the company could operate.

        Andrew Middlemiss, finance director of Odyssey Systems said: “This really is a game changer as the business transitions towards creating a greener fleet of vehicles.

        “We were restricted by ‘range anxiety’ based on the length of time it took to achieve a full charge and the limited number of vehicles able to be plugged in.

        “This new charge point allows our salespeople to hit the road with sufficient range for a round trip to Leeds or Newcastle. It means electric vehicles are no longer at a disadvantage when compared with their petrol or diesel counterparts.

        “We’re keen to convert our entire fleet to electric, as it makes sense both for both the environment and our business, which is rapidly evolving in its aim to become carbon neutral.

        “Odyssey Systems is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and I hope that by investing in this charging infrastructure we can play a part in the growing trend towards a widespread adoption of electric vehicles.

        Jennifer Mullen, operations director of JDM Earth, said: “As an EV charging installation specialist, we are seeing a dramatic increase in the number of businesses installing workplace charge points.

        “As the technology continues to evolve, there has been a growing demand for electric cars, this is largely due to the upcoming tax incentives for electric company vehicles, cost efficiencies, the current subsidies available and also businesses looking to increase their green credentials.”

      8. The Tees Valley Mayor has hailed the collaboration between three growing businesses as a blueprint for future success.

        Ben Houchen toured the offices of Odyssey Systems, Lemon Business Solutions and Vintage at Preston Farm Business Park, Stockton, where he met staff and learned more about their achievements.

        Odyssey Systems not only supplies business critical IT and telecommunications systems to both companies but has provided the extra office space necessary to allow both to expand.

        Call management specialists Lemon, which is based on the first floor of the Odyssey building, has taken over the ground floor previously occupied by chartered financial planners, Vintage.

        In turn, Vintage has moved into an adjacent 3,250 sq. ft office building also owned by Odyssey.

        Both Lemon, which employs 80 people and last year generated a turnover of £2.4m, and Vintage, which has grown its staff from 10 to 17 following a period of rapid expansion, rely on Odyssey’s industry-leading hosted telephony system.

        As their landlord, Odyssey’s onsite presence also brings with it the reassurance of close technical support. Its cloud-based telephony system is highly cost-effective and offers businesses greater reliability and flexibility, allowing users to make calls on any device from any location.

        Mayor Houchen said: “Small and medium size enterprises are the backbone of our economy and it was great to visit three local companies working so closely together. All three firms have developed a reputation second to none in their respective sectors and it’s fantastic to see them working so closely together.  

        “This type of business collaboration across Tees Valley is one of the ways we are going to grow our economy and create the good quality well-paid jobs we all want to see.”

        Mike Odysseas, founder and Managing Director of Odyssey Systems said: “We view Lemon Business Solutions and Vintage not only as valued customers, but as neighbours and we are keen to support our fellow businesses in whatever way we can.

        “A reliable and resilient telecommunications system is vital to both companies, especially to Lemon, which last year handled 2.5m calls, and we are able to guarantee their connectivity is second to none. 

        “We are also a responsible landlord and are delighted to have helped both companies grow.”

        Martin Anderson, who is Lemon’s joint managing director, along with Lesley Wratten, said: “The Mayor expressed a great deal of interest in our business and it was a pleasure to welcome him to our offices.

        “The most important thing about being a contact centre is that our customers can be confident that we can provide a reliable service 24/7. Our presence in the Odyssey building is key to that, offering us extra reassurance and excellent customer support.

        Sam Tate, Managing Partner at Vintage, said: “We have an ever-growing reliance on technology and the infrastructure that Odyssey provides, along with our new office, has allowed us to grow our business.

        “The Mayor is passionate about creating jobs in the area and I hope he was encouraged by what can be achieved when businesses work together.”

      9. A tyre and autocentre company which provides 24-hour breakdown cover has expanded its business with the support of Odyssey Systems.

        New Bridgegate Tyres Ltd, which is based in Barnard Castle and Newton Aycliffe, recently opened a new depot on Tyneside to maintain its fast response times throughout the North East.

        To assist its aim, Odyssey, the Tees Valley-based telecommunications and technology company, installed a fully hosted telephone system at its Gateshead facility.

        This delivered all the key features the company required – including an ability to divert calls quickly and efficiently to its technicians’ mobile phones and an automatic GDPR-compliant call recording facility – without the need to invest in a major telephony system.

        In addition, the company is also benefitting from high availability internet access which guarantees connectivity through multiple links.

        New Bridgegate Tyres Ltd operates a fleet of 24/7 response vehicles specialising in truck, bus, car and agricultural tyres. Owned by Philip Wilks, it also provides vehicle servicing, in-house mechanical repairs and MoT tests.

        Corporate clients of the 24-hour breakdown service includes the Ministry of Defence, Durham Constabulary and a range of commercial customers.

        The business, which was founded in Barnard Castle five years ago expanded in 2017 when a second base was established in Newton Aycliffe.  The latest Gateshead depot allows it to respond to emergency call outs in the north of the region more quickly to maintain its average 49-minute attendance time.

        James Bowman, Bridgegate’s General Manager, said: “We are delighted with this new telephony system and are considering extending it to our other two depots.

        “This company has built its reputation on a quality service and fast response times, so a flexible, efficient and above all reliable telephony system is key to our success and future growth.

        “Odyssey Systems installed an excellent product which meets all our requirements. Furthermore, their technical support gives us the added reassurance that our customers can always reach us any time of the day or night.

        Christine Gilbert, Director of Odyssey Systems, said: “We have worked closely with New Bridgegate Tyres for many years supporting its growth with technological solutions. This new system supports their flexible and responsive way of working, which in turn allows them to provide a more efficient and responsive service for their customers.”

        Odyssey Systems currently supplies telecom solutions to 30 per cent of the UK’s largest tyre distributors

        Established in 1987, it is a leading supplier of hosted telephony, cloud services and high-speed connectivity solutions to more than 2,500 customers in the UK.

        This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is newbridge-1024x670.jpg

      10. Tees Valley-based Odyssey Systems is helping to boost the productivity at PD Ports, one of the UK’s major port groups, with the completion of the final phase of a major telephony infrastructure project.

        Odyssey was tasked with streamlining PD Ports’ system to provide an end-to-end solution and improve connectivity across its multiple sites throughout the country.

        PD Ports previously worked with several suppliers to deliver its telephony requirements and the partnership with Odyssey allows it to be managed by one, locally-based supplier that has helped to reduce costs through measures implemented by the telecommunications firm.

        The complete overhaul of the service, which was completed over a two year period, given the complexity of the project with multiple providers previously involved, included the installation of a Mitel MiVoice business system, utilising PD Ports’ existing land connectivity and routers, so no further investment was required.

        The new system also provides a number of desktop and mobile-based apps to enhance employees’ internal and external communications, as well as allow them to see the presence of everyone on the network.

        Encrypted call recording is another feature that has been installed to provide additional security measures and to ensure PD Ports meets current regulatory requirements.

        Odyssey’s team of technicians also provided comprehensive staff training upon completion of the project, having worked closely with PD Ports’ entire IT team to implement the efficient measures.

        Jan-Willem Rikkerink, IT Director at PD Ports, said: “Working with Odyssey Systems, we’re now on a telephone system that fits our business requirements and will support our future growth.

        “Communication is a key element of our business and bringing all of our employees together on one system will ensure we can continue to provide the best service for our customers. Now that the systems are in place, Odyssey continues to provide great ongoing support and the projected cost savings are now being realised.

        Matthew Park, Sales Manager at Odyssey Systems, said: “Our work with PD Ports demonstrates our ability to deliver effective solutions on behalf of clients, regardless of size or complexity. We have worked tirelessly and effectively to deliver a system fit for one of the region’s leading businesses that will boost connectivity between its extensive workforce and sites across the country.

        “We are looking forward to building on this partnership with PD Ports and providing them with the technological tools to be able to service its customer more efficiently that will boost its productivity.” 

        Established in 1987, Odyssey Systems is an award-winning company and leading supplier of hosted telephony, cloud services and high-speed connectivity solutions to more than 2,500 customers in the UK.

      11. A long-established manufacturer of hair and beauty care products is eyeing up expansion with the upgrade of its telecommunications system.

        Newton Aycliffe-based Tricogen Laboratories has invested in the new system to support its staff and connectivity between its site in the town and expansion into Sweden.

        Odyssey, a Tees Valley-based telecommunications and technology company, has worked with Tricogen for more than 10 years and installed the hosted telephony system. The upgrade has also supported staff’s flexible working as the sales team are able to access the system remotely using an app-based platform. 

        The installation will also support Tricogen’s future expansion as it aims to launch further sites and the hosted system will amalgamate and connect all current and new locations’ telecommunications and networks together.

        Established in 1946, Tricogen manufactures an extensive range of hair and beauty care products for customers operating internationally, including salon groups, celebrity hairdressers, specialist animal grooming suppliers and wholesalers to the professional hair and beauty trade. The company is headquartered at its 1.5-acre site on Aycliffe Business Park.   

        Neil Bagnall, Operations Director of Tricogen Laboratories, said: “We are committed to continued investment in our infrastructure and processes, which will support our long-term growth. We have worked with Odyssey for more than a decade, which has advised on and delivered effective solutions as technology has advanced to meet our bespoke requirements.

        “There is scope for future expansions with new locations and this latest enhancement to our system provides us with the connectivity and technology to support our ambitious aims.”

        Christine Gilbert, Director of Odyssey Systems, said: “We’ve enjoyed a longstanding partnership with Tricogen, supporting its technological needs as it continues to grow and develop as a global brand. The new system supports flexible working and dealing with customers remotely, while future-proofing the business in the event of expansion and strengthening the connectivity between Tricogen’s locations.”

        Established in 1987, Odyssey Systems is an award-winning company and leading supplier of hosted telephony, cloud services and high-speed connectivity solutions to more than 2,500 customers in the UK.

      12. Odyssey Systems has supported the expansion of a Tees Valley-based veterinary practice as it extends its offering to pet owners across the region.

        Jacqui Paterson’s Veterinary Surgery has doubled the size of its Nunthorpe practice after leasing larger premises on The Avenue, in the village.

        It previously operated out of a smaller satellite practice on The Avenue and required a larger one to cope with increased demand as well as to be able to deliver further veterinary services.

        Telecommunications firm Odyssey, which has worked with Jacqui Paterson for more than five years, supported the expansion and move with the installation of a future-proofed system to connect each of its sites.

        The company has installed new hosted-telephony technology from Mitel, which enables seamless connection between the practice locations for both internal and external calls.

        Established in 1996, Jacqui Paterson Veterinary Surgery has grown to become the largest independent veterinary practice in Teesside, employing more than 20 staff. due to its 3 locations Jenny Walker, Practice Manager at Jacqui Paterson Veterinary Surgery, said: “The practice has gone from strength to strength in recent years and this latest expansion demonstrates our commitment to our customers. We are now able to deliver even more services at our larger premises, which is driving growth as we are now able to meet our continued increased demand. “

        To be able to deliver for our customer base, we require a robust system in place to be able to manage our team’s schedules and deal with enquiries and bookings, and Odyssey has supported our endeavours for many years. This latest system installation has future-proofed the business further and ensures we are able to look after our clients and their pets in an efficient manner, while contributing to our future success.”

        Preston Farm-based Odyssey Systems is an award-winning company and leading supplier of hosted telephony, cloud services and high-speed connectivity solutions to more than 2,500 customers in the UK.

        Christine Gilbert, Director of Odyssey Systems, said: “We have worked alongside Jacqui Paterson’s for many years now to support its telecommunications across the practice’s multiple sites. It was great to be involved in this latest expansion and we were able to provide a modern solution that fits the practice perfectly and enhances Jacqui Paterson’s connectivity.”

      13. As well as keeping businesses talking, we do like to get out and about in the business community. 

        We are delighted to be attending the Northern Business Exhibition today and tomorrow in Manchester, which is a fantastic event that brings together so many professionals from across the North. 

        It has grown to become the largest business show in the North of England, and we are proud to be a part of it. 

        If you happen to be visiting over the next few days, feel free to drop by our stand and our team of professionals will be able to tell you all about Odyssey Systems and how we can support your business.