UpMyStreet expands local business directory

The company said that it has increased the number of local service categories from 200 to 500, creating subsequent growth in content to 1.3 million listed local services and companies, from an original 750,000.

New categories include Computers & the Internet, Weddings & Parties and Travel & Tourism. UpMyStreet said it had also made existing categories more user-friendly by adding a number of sub-categories. This in turn provides the opportunity for advertisers to target more specific market segments and audiences.

Julia Grinham, commercial director at UpMyStreet.com, said: "We've made these changes as feedback from our users showed there was a need and desire for them."

UpMyStreet was acquired by utilities comparison website uSwitch in May this year, after a failure to raise further funding forced it into administration. Since the takeover, the company has refocused its business model around its core directory-based information services, and looked at how these can be expanded to attract new users and revenue streams.

New services include a postcode dating service. The company has also teamed up with search advertising firm Overture to add contextual ads based on searches, building on its existing range of geographic and demographic targeted advertising services.

In addition, it is planning a revamp of its website early next year to help attract more users in its drive towards profitability.

15 October 2003:

"www.upmystreet.com ":http://www.upmystreet.com

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