The platform brings together local businesses, residents, and visitors in one central online hub designed to encourage shopping local and strengthen community connections.
Founded by Yarm resident and web developer James Mills, This Is Yarm provides local businesses with modern digital tools to help them thrive in an increasingly online world—while preserving the personal, community-focused experience that makes local shopping special.
“This Is Yarm was created with a simple mission: to make it easier for people to discover, support, and engage with local businesses,” said James Mills, founder of This Is Yarm. “At a time when it’s easier than ever to shop online with big national brands, we want to actively encourage people to shop local, support their neighbours, and help Yarm’s independent businesses continue to grow and succeed.”
This Is Yarm is designed as a one-stop digital destination for the town, allowing local businesses to:
For residents and visitors, the platform makes it easier to discover new businesses, access local offers, and stay connected with what’s happening in Yarm—all while supporting the local economy.
James Mills brings over 25 years of experience in web development to the project, having developed an interest in web design long before studying Information Technology at the University of Teesside. Originally from Teesside, James knows Yarm well and has always had a strong connection to the area.
After securing a role with a local company whose head office was based in Dubai, James was offered the opportunity to relocate overseas. He spent 11 years living and working in Dubai before a sudden and life-changing event brought his family back to the UK.
James’ son, Hudson, was diagnosed with hepatoblastoma, a rare form of liver cancer, when he was just 18 months old. Within 48 hours, James, his wife Fiona, and Hudson relocated back to the UK so Hudson could begin urgent treatment. After several traumatic months, Hudson is now in remission, and the family has since settled in Yarm.
“After everything we went through, I wanted to do something positive—something that gave back,” James said. “Building This Is Yarm felt like a meaningful way to support the town we now call home, encourage shopping local, and help the businesses and residents that make Yarm such a special place.”
The platform has been entirely self-funded by James, driven by a desire to give back to the community rather than external investment. This Is Yarm is working closely with Yarm Town Council and the Yarm Business Forum as it continues to grow its visibility and business directory.
Several local businesses are already using the platform, with Bagel Bros live on the digital loyalty scheme and additional businesses, including Stickland & Halt, set to roll out soon.
In early 2026, This Is Yarm will launch a “We Are Listed” campaign, where participating businesses will display a window poster to show their support for shopping local and their involvement with the platform.
The long-term vision for This Is Yarm is simple: to showcase the incredible businesses in Yarm, connect residents with local services and information, and create a stronger sense of community through technology.
By combining modern digital tools with a hyper-local focus, This Is Yarm aims to make supporting local businesses easier—and more rewarding—than ever.
To find out more, please visit https://thisisyarm.com/
