Partner Article

North East agency of the year targets export growth

The Unknown Creative, the Newcastle-headquartered independent brand agency, has outlined its ambitions as it enters its sixteenth year. The agency’s international client mix now makes up 80 per cent of its overall portfolio, led by major projects in life sciences, aviation technology, transport and green energy. 

The agency now plans to grow revenue by an additional 25 per cent in the next eighteen months, to hit the £1.25 million mark.

Recently named Agency of the Year at the North East Marketing Awards, The Unknown Creative has doubled its headcount in the last five years, launched its own Design School to nurture upcoming local talent, and entered new international markets, particularly in North America.

Commenting on these recent successes, founder and creative director John Dunne said: “2024 was a strong year for us. Our team grew by 20 per cent, our client base by 30 per cent, and we saw a 25 per cent revenue increase in specialist international projects across life sciences, biotech, aviation technology and green energy.

“We have big ambitions for 2025, aiming to upskill, strengthen and nurture talent within our team, as well as hiring for two new roles.

“Since launching The Unknown Creative in 2009, we have worked hard to deliver outstanding creative work, top-tier client service, and a legacy of craft, originality and integrity.”

The Unknown Creative provides strategic and design partnerships to clients around the world. This year, it launched the innovative biotech product CryoCase with US-based cell and gene therapy firm BioLife Solutions. CryoCase is a rigid container intended to replace the easily-damaged bags currently used for biological samples, helping to reduce wastage and plastic use in the medical sector.

Other clients include travel technology specialists SITA, for which The Unknown Creative has recently worked on a series of animations and films, including for new Automated Border Control (ABC) Gates launching in airports around the world.

The Unknown Creative has also supported the national hair and beauty franchise Saks for 14 years, having recently delivered a 50th anniversary campaign for the well-known brand.

The agency is committed to investing in its people and community. Last September saw the launch of The Unknown Creative Design School, an in-house programme for graduates and entry-level creatives on the team to help hone their craft and boost their careers. The team also provides pro bono creative support to Saks to raise funds and awareness for the gynaecological cancers charity The Eve Appeal.

To learn more about The Unknown Creative, please visit: https://theunknowncreative.com/ 

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Rachel McBryde .