Celebrating 25-Years of Studio Global: Making brands stronger
our story
In 2000, we started with a simple belief: great design makes businesses stronger.
Twenty-five years later, that belief still drives everything we do.
We began as a small design and print studio with ambition - and a big beige Mac!
Our mission was simple: create work that looked great and worked hard in the real world.
In those early days, our founders, Darren Mooney and Ben Pratten, designed and printed seemingly every pub and club flyer in Bournemouth. We didn’t always get paid in cash, but we ate and drank well - not bad for two designers in their twenties.
We cared so much about quality that we bought our own printing presses to control every detail of production. That commitment to craft and doing things properly has stayed with us ever since.
The multi-million-pound donkey!
Our first big break came in an unexpected way. While flicking through Blackmore Vale magazine, we spotted that Hall & Woodhouse had a new retail manager. We made a cold call and offered to share a few creative ideas for a race-day invite. The reply: 'Impress me.'
Our winning concept was a cheeky postcard featuring a donkey with wonky teeth and the headline: 'Not everybody gets the chance to go to the races.'
The client loved it! That playful idea turned into a partnership that’s lasted more than two decades - growing from one campaign into full creative support across the Hall & Woodhouse estate. It was proof of what’s possible when creativity meets clarity - and how bold ideas can build long-term relationships.
Taking risks & backing ourselves
Seven years in, we decided to take a leap few small studios would dare - sponsoring a Formula One team. We approached Minardi, and they said yes on the spot.
For three years, we flew across Europe with clients, stood in pit lanes, and saw our logo on the side of trucks.
It was surreal - and it taught us something we’ve never forgotten: when you back yourself, BIG things happen.
The work that shaped us
Over the past 25 years, our work has evolved as much as the world around us - but our goal has always stayed the same: to help brands grow stronger through clarity and creativity.
From those early pub flyers to award-winning campaigns for Virgin Media, Molson Coors, Hall & Woodhouse, and Steele Raymond, every project has shaped who we are today.
We’ve built brands from the ground up, refreshed those ready for change, and helped established names rediscover their voice. Our work spans sectors - from hospitality and professional services to technology, finance, and community organisations - proving that powerful ideas transcend industry lines.
Every project has shaped who we are today: a team that listens deeply, thinks strategically, and crafts every detail with care. Each brief reminds us that when creativity is clear and purposeful, it doesn’t just look good - it works hard.
The people who made it happen
No agency lasts 25 years without great people - and there are far too many to mention by name. Every person who’s been part of our journey has helped shape Studio Global into what it is today. We’re especially proud of our current team - the best yet - a group that brings together strategic minds, creative thinkers, and problem solvers who care deeply about doing great work and doing it well.
We’ve evolved from a small print studio into an agency that helps brands think bigger and communicate more clearly. Our growth has always been driven by curiosity, strong relationships and a focus on making every brand we work with stronger.
Darren Mooney, Creative Director
Seven years ago, we separated the print side of the business into Impress with Print, freeing us to focus on brand, digital, and film.
Joe Broadbent joined us from Holland, expanding our film and storytelling capabilities.
Our long-time friendship with Anthony Tilley led to a partnership with b4b - combining their technical expertise in development, SEO and PPC with our creative and strategic approach.
When Sharon Parker joined, everything came together. Now our Managing Director, Sharon has shaped Studio Global into the business it is today - structured, sustainable, and set for the long term.
And of course, there’s Darren Mooney - founder, Creative Director, and self-proclaimed Head of Hustle.
Darren’s big heart, creative energy, and drive to build meaningful relationships continue to inspire us all.
We’ve built a culture that blends strategic thinking with fearless creativity - where clarity meets craft, and collaboration drives everything we do.
But it’s more than that. We’re a team that values mutual respect, curiosity, and care - where every voice matters, and everyone has space to grow. We believe that doing great work and enjoying the process go hand in hand. From creative brainstorms to studio celebrations, we make time to have fun, support one another, and stay inspired.
It’s that shared sense of pride and purpose - both in what we create and how we work together - that’s carried Studio Global through 25 years of change and growth.
Looking ahead
What's next?
We’re not standing still. Our studio space is doubling in size, giving us more room for collaboration, production, and creativity - a space designed for big ideas and bold thinking.
As we grow, we’re also investing in the next generation of creatives. From portfolio reviews and student placements to hands-on experience that bridges the gap between education and industry, we’re proud to help emerging designers take their first steps into the creative world.
As we look ahead, we’re investing in UX/UI and exploring new frontiers in AI-driven visualisation - both in film and imagery. From that first beige Mac to today’s AI-powered workflows, we’re still driven by the same curiosity about what’s possible.
Our purpose remains the same: to help forward-thinking brands thrive - with clarity, creativity, and meaningful results.
After 25 years, we’re as passionate as ever about what we do. We’ve seen how creativity can transform businesses, and that’s what drives us every day.
Sharon Parker, Managing Director
Thank you
for 25 incredible years
To every client, partner and team member who’s been part of the Studio Global story - thank you.
We’ve spent 25 years making brands stronger, and we’re just getting started.
If you’re looking for a creative partner who brings clarity, creativity and consistency to every project - let’s talk.