Long before founding Arcade Time Machine, Jon worked as a business advisor during the early days of internet marketing — a time when many small businesses were only just beginning to understand the potential of getting online.
“Even 20 years ago, I could already see how digital marketing would allow smaller businesses to compete with much larger organisations,” says Jon. “The problem back then was that websites, online marketing, and professional services were expensive and out of reach for many independent businesses.”
Determined to help smaller companies compete, Jon taught himself web design and digital marketing so he could help clients build websites, improve visibility online, and reach new customers without massive budgets.
Today, Jon believes modern AI technology is creating another major shift for independent businesses — one that could be just as significant as the early rise of the internet itself.
While building Arcade Time Machine, AI-assisted tools were used throughout the startup process to help overcome technical barriers, improve planning, and allow the business to compete more effectively despite limited resources.
AI-supported workflows helped with:
“Years ago, small businesses struggled because specialist knowledge was expensive,” says Jon. “You needed separate people for marketing, technical support, design, business planning, and web development. AI is now helping smaller businesses access knowledge and tools that previously would have been unaffordable.”
Jon believes AI is becoming a major opportunity for entrepreneurs with strong ideas and passion, even if they don’t come from highly technical or corporate backgrounds.
“AI didn’t build the business for me,” he explains. “But it helped me learn faster, solve problems, improve ideas, and compete in ways that would have been impossible for many small businesses years ago.”
Arcade Time Machine itself reflects that blend of nostalgia and modern technology — combining retro gaming culture with immersive experiences, modern systems, data-driven improvements, and innovative customer engagement ideas.
“Technology has always changed business,” says Jon. “The internet changed everything 20 years ago. I believe AI is going to do the same for the next generation of independent businesses.”
Arcade Time Machine is planned to open in July 2026 in Stockton-on-Tees.
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