Five years after launching as a Sunderland brand and design studio, Kenfolk is entering a new phase of growth - expanding both its team and its services while remaining committed to investing in the city's creative talent.
The agency has recently relocated to a larger office at the North East BIC, reflecting a period of sustained growth that has seen it evolve from a specialist design studio into a full-service creative agency.
Since opening its doors in 2020, Kenfolk has broadened its offering well beyond branding and design. Today, clients can access everything from PR and communications to social media management, photography and videography, allowing the agency to support organisations throughout every stage of their marketing journey.
For Creative Director Ross Palmer, the move is about more than simply gaining additional office space – it’s about creating an environment that matches the agency’s ambitions.
“As we’ve expanded into a full-service agency, we needed a space that allows us to welcome clients and showcase the breadth of what we do. We can now take businesses on a complete creative journey, from developing their brand identity through to producing video content, managing PR and delivering impactful social media campaigns.”
Alongside its business growth, Kenfolk has also reached an important milestone in its commitment to its people, becoming the first brand and design studio in Sunderland to achieve accreditation as a Living Wage Employer.
Ross believes the accreditation reflects the agency’s ambition to help strengthen the region’s creative sector by attracting and retaining talented people.
“We’re incredibly proud to be Sunderland’s first Living Wage accredited design studio. Investing in our team is fundamental to what we do, and we’re passionate about creating opportunities for creative professionals to build successful careers here in the North East, rather than feeling they have to move elsewhere.”
Kenfolk’s expansion also highlights the role flexible business space can play in supporting ambitious companies as they grow. Having spent the past 18 months based at the BIC, the agency has been able to scale its operations while remaining rooted in Sunderland.
Steph Drinkald, Assistant Centre Manager at the North East BIC, said: “It’s been fantastic to see Kenfolk’s journey over the past 18 months. They’ve continued to evolve their services while staying true to their creative values, and we’re delighted to support them as they move into this next stage of growth.
“Their commitment to becoming a Living Wage Employer is particularly encouraging and demonstrates how business growth can go hand in hand with investing in people. They’re a brilliant example of the innovative businesses choosing to grow here in Sunderland.”
With a larger home, an expanded service offering and a people-first approach, Kenfolk is continuing to demonstrate how creative businesses can grow, innovate and build lasting careers in the North East.
kenfolk.co.uk
