THG Studios, nestled next to Manchester Airport, has emerged as a formidable creative force, spearheading the prodigious growth of numerous brands.
- The studio’s expansive 160,000 sq ft workspace is among the largest creative facilities in Europe, serving well-known clients like Disney and Myprotein.
- Facilitated by a strategic acquisition, THG Studios has transitioned from serving internal brands to providing comprehensive creative services globally.
- The studio’s commitment to staff development creates a dynamic culture of growth and opportunity for both new talent and seasoned professionals.
- With AI integration and a focus on creativity, THG Studios aims to challenge current barriers and explore new content arenas.
THG Studios, located on the 16.8-acre ICON Business Park, stands as the nerve centre for a wide array of creative projects involving brands such as Disney and Myprotein. The scale and ambition of this operation are palpable, making it one of Europe’s most significant creative studios. The studio’s journey began nearly 17 years ago, serving as an in-house creative powerhouse for THG’s brands like Myprotein, ESPA, and LOOKFANTASTIC. Over time, the studio evolved under Matt Moulding’s vision to transform it from a mere cost centre to a profit-generating entity by extending its creative services to brands globally.
The metamorphosis of THG Studios into a major player in the creative agency landscape is attributed partly to its strategic acquisition of Macclesfield’s Hangar Seven in 2017. This move, combined with its in-house expertise, enabled the studio to cater to a global clientele, producing work for entities like Disney, Asda, and Sky Bet. The diverse team of 350 individuals, including strategists, creatives, and photographers, is tasked with bringing ideas to life within a space where ambition matches the vast ceiling heights.
Among the studio’s notable projects this year was a global TV advertising campaign for the Disney Store, which marked a significant milestone as the first global project of its kind undertaken by THG Studios. Similarly, the complex rebranding of Myprotein to broaden its market appeal from traditional gym-goers to a more inclusive wellness audience underscores the studio’s expansive creative vision. This transformation followed extensive customer engagement to align the brand’s new image with consumer expectations.
The studio also fosters a dynamic culture of growth and development, emphasising career progression and training. The commitment to nurturing talent from within is evident, with many rising from junior roles to leadership positions. A pertinent example is an in-house barista who became a Studio Assistant after showcasing his photography skills. Collaborations with local educational institutions further reinforce THG Studios’ resolve to cultivate the next generation of creative professionals.
In addressing the rise of AI, the studio maintains a balanced approach, integrating technology to manage routine tasks while allowing human creativity to flourish in developing groundbreaking ideas. Jo Jeffers, Head of Strategy, articulates this perspective, noting that AI complements rather than replaces traditional creative processes. The studio’s ambition extends beyond its current achievements, aiming to expand its reach into original content creation and new media channels.
THG Studios stands poised to redefine the creative landscape with its growing influence and commitment to innovation.
