All About Guitar Partners with Distiller Music Group
Bristol, UK – March 25, 2025 – All About Guitar, the UK’s premier resource for guitar enthusiasts, is excited to announce a strategic partnership with Distiller Music Group. This collaboration aims to enhance the range of services offered to guitarists, combining All About Guitar’s expertise in custom-built instruments and educational content with Distiller’s renowned recording facilities and industry network.
David Gillam, founder of All About Guitar, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership:
“At All About Guitar, our mission has always been to support and inspire guitarists at every level. Teaming up with Distiller Music Group allows us to expand our offerings, providing unparalleled resources and opportunities for the guitar community.”
Expanded Services for Guitarists
This partnership introduces several enhanced services:
David Gillam added:
“This partnership is about more than just services; it’s about building a community where guitarists can thrive. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional, we’re here to support your musical journey.”
For more information, visit All About Guitar or Distiller Music Group.
Media Contact:
David Gillam
Founder, All About Guitar
About All About Guitar:
All About Guitar is the UK’s leading platform for guitar enthusiasts, offering custom-built instruments, professional setup and repair services, educational resources, and a supportive community for guitarists of all levels.
About Distiller Music Group:
Distiller Music Group is an independent, artist-focused company encompassing records, publishing, live events, and a state-of-the-art recording studio. Their mission is to support musicians at every stage of their creative journey.
Written by Theo Locke, this article has previously appeared on the ADLIB Blog.
Here’s our chat with ORCA, a purpose-driven challenger brand agency based in Bristol, known for helping brands unlock meaningful impact through creativity.
ORCA discusses their journey to B Corp certification, what sets them apart, and how they’re using design to drive positive change for people, planet, and purpose.
The purpose of our series “Balancing Profit and Purpose” is to feature fellow businesses on that mission, to hopefully inspire many more to join the movement.
We are ORCA, a purpose-driven challenger brand agency based in Bristol. As brand specialists, we focus on three core services: brand strategy, brand identity and brand activation. Our overarching goal is to drive meaningful impact through creativity.
We work exclusively with purpose-led and challenger brands, those who are driven to do things differently, challenge the norm and stand out in their industries. We believe that every brand has the potential to be a force for good, and we love partnering with the next generation of leaders to bring ambitious ideas to life.
What sets ORCA apart from other agencies is our challenger mindset. It is not just something we say; it is a mentality that runs through every part of our business. From the clients we work with, to the collaborators we partner with, to the team in our studio. This mindset fuels our approach to every project, no matter the scale. It pushes us to ask better questions, dig deeper and deliver work that genuinely moves the needle.
Our entire ethos at ORCA revolves around people, planet and purpose, so we were already aligned with many of the core principles of the B Corp movement. In that sense, it felt like a natural next step. It would have been hard to justify not becoming a B Corp. We were also hugely inspired by the businesses in Bristol and beyond that were already part of the B Corp community. Seeing the positive impact they were making, and how they were holding themselves to a higher standard, really resonated with us. It just made sense for ORCA to be part of that.
For us, this certification is more than just a badge. It is a powerful statement of intent and a clear demonstration of our commitment to using business as a force for good. It brings a sense of accountability to everything we do and connects us to a wider network of like-minded organisations pushing for real change.
Anyone who has been through the journey will agree that becoming a certified B Corp is a challenging and time-consuming process. It requires you to thoroughly scrutinise your business and the way you work. While the process was demanding and at times arduous, it was also incredibly rewarding.
We were fortunate to already be on the right trajectory before we began. Many of the practices and processes we had in place were already aligned with B Corp values, which gave us a strong foundation. Even so, going through the certification encouraged us to dig even deeper and further refine how we operate. Receiving our B Corp accreditation was an incredible moment for the whole team and stands as one of our proudest achievements at ORCA. Since then, the support and generosity we have received from the B Corp community has been amazing.
As we’ve mentioned, working with purpose-driven brands that are pushing boundaries towards a better future is one of the key ways being a B Corp shapes our client relationships. This also ties into our environmental considerations, ensuring we collaborate with clients who strive to operate as ethically and sustainably as they can.
For example, we worked pro bono with The MAZI Project, a Bristol-based charity dedicated to providing nutritious meals to disadvantaged young people. We delivered a complete visual identity
overhaul to position them as a leading voice in food equality and social justice. This partnership really highlights how design can drive tangible, positive change.
But ultimately, for us at ORCA, being a B Corp is just as much about looking after our people. We value individuality, personal growth and building a vibrant, supportive culture. As a brand agency, we are only as strong as our team. Supporting and nurturing that talent is essential. We work hard to create an environment where our team can grow both personally and professionally because we believe happy people create the best creative work.
For the past decade, brand purpose has been the golden ticket in marketing. The playbook was simple: stand for something bigger than your product, weave social impact into your messaging, and watch consumers reward you with loyalty, engagement and increased revenue.
But here’s the plot twist: that strategy can backfire – if you don’t back up your claims.
Let’s start with the numbers:
This isn’t just a consumer trend – it’s hitting B2B hard. Buyers are becoming increasingly cynical about grand statements on sustainability, diversity and corporate responsibility. What they want now is proof, not platitudes.
The B2B landscape is changing fast, and purpose-washing is no longer a competitive advantage.
Old playbook: “We’re committed to a greener future.”
New playbook: “Our cloud infrastructure cuts energy costs by 32%, reducing carbon footprint and expenses.”
Old playbook: “We believe in empowering diverse voices.”
New playbook: “Our AI tool eliminates bias in hiring, improving candidate diversity by 45%.”
Old playbook: “We prioritise ethical supply chains.”
New playbook: “We provide full supply chain transparency so you can track every material back to its source in real time.”
B2B buyers don’t want big-picture promises – they want tangible benefits backed by data, case studies and real-world outcomes.
So, what should B2B brands focus on instead? Hard-hitting, proof-based messaging that delivers ROI, efficiency and outcomes.
B2B buyers don’t need another mission statement, they need evidence. Instead of vague “we care” messaging, offer:
Example: Instead of saying, “We help businesses reduce waste,” say:
“Companies using our software cut operational waste by 47% in the first year.”
Stop talking about how your brand is saving the world. Shift the focus to how your customer benefits.
Example: Instead of saying, “We’re committed to digital inclusion,” say:
“Our accessibility tools help businesses reach 20% more customers with disabilities.”
B2B buyers want to see what’s in it for them – so show them.
Too much B2B copywriting is bloated with corporate fluff. In a post-purpose world, direct, unfiltered and even slightly irreverent messaging is cutting through the noise.
Example: Instead of:
“We believe in leveraging innovative, forward-thinking sustainability initiatives for a more responsible future.” say:
“Your servers shouldn’t cost the planet. Our cloud platform runs 80% cleaner and 50% cheaper.”
In a landscape filled with big, vague promises, one of the most unexpected trust-builders is honesty about limitations.
Example:
“We’re not 100% carbon neutral – yet. But by 2026, we’ll cut emissions by 60% with these three initiatives.”
This level of self-awareness and credibility is what today’s B2B buyers actually trust.
B2B brand copywriting must evolve beyond empty purpose-driven marketing. The new rules are simple:
The brands that ditch the old playbook first will be the ones that win in 2025 and beyond.
So the real question is – how fast can you adapt?
Think your brand copywriting could do with a refresh? Get in touch at [email protected]
Marking 15 years in the industry, design agency Fiasco is unveiling a rebrand that reflects its evolution and deep-rooted belief in the power of emotion. The agency has built a reputation for crafting work that harnesses human connection, visual storytelling, and impactful digital experiences. Now, with a bold new identity, Fiasco is doubling down on its core belief: emotion belongs at the forefront of design.
“Every project we work on is strategically built around a core emotion to create a powerful and meaningful connection with the audience. We’ve turned this approach into a transparent offering: humanising brands by delivering that emotion at every touchpoint, building lasting associations over time.” — Chris Tozer, Partner & Creative Director.
“We started Fiasco 15 years ago with no clients, no agency experience, and no roadmap. What we had was a set of values and a belief that we could do things differently by carving our own path.
We care deeply about the people we work with. From the Fiasco team to our partners, our work is driven by energy and strives to make people feel something. Now, our own brand reflects that belief and level of care” — Ben Steers, Co-founder and Exec. Creative Director.
Fiasco’s year-long rebrand was an in-house, studio-wide collaborative effort influenced by every member of the 16-person team. The process was challenging, iterative, and at times chaotic — but that’s exactly what made it meaningful. By handing the reins to the people who shape Fiasco daily, the agency has created an identity that every team member can proudly own.
“By giving our team the freedom to shape our brand in-house, it has become a true reflection of the care we put into our work and the people we impact.” — Gabby Luciani, Account Director.
“The new visual identity is built on a creative tension: the balance between the maturity and expertise we’ve developed over 15 years and the playful, spirited personality that defines us.” — Julia Darze, Partner & Design Director.
To achieve this, Fiasco has carefully paired two contrasting typefaces — one functional, one playful — and anchored the design in a minimal based palette of dark and light, accented by bright, celebratory secondary colours. They introduce ‘little moments of joy’ through motion and interaction.
Custom glyphs disrupt the structure of the refined logotype, creating unexpected moments that delight and surprise. Now, the way text animates or a button moves on rollover holds as much significance as the words themselves — reflecting their broader approach to brand identity that merges strategy with emotion.
Fiasco isn’t just evolving its own identity — it’s sharing 15 years of lessons, insights, and creative thinking with the wider design community. Through open conversations, skill-sharing, and knowledge exchange, the agency is committed to helping others grow, learn, and push the boundaries of brand and digital design.
Over the next year, these initiatives will include open studio days, portfolio reviews, career advice, internships, mentorships, and an FAQ resource hub, to name a few.
Fiasco’s rebrand is a bold reaffirmation of what they’ve always believed: great design isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about evoking emotion, shaping experiences, and creating meaningful impact.
Check out Fiasco’s new look and feel here: fiasco.design
Following a competitive pitch, SIM7 has been selected by the British Council as a key agency on its framework to supply services over the coming years.
SIM7 will work in partnership with the British Council’s international marketing teams, creating strategic messaging, copywriting and content to drive the organisation’s global initiatives.
This work will involve developing digital and OOH campaigns, creating assets across all channels, and supporting the British Council’s extensive international outreach.
SIM7 will join a handful of leading UK agencies selected to support the British Council’s strategic goals.
About the British Council
The British Council is the United Kingdom’s international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities. Operating in over 100 countries worldwide, the British Council builds connections, understanding, and trust between people in the UK and other countries through arts and culture, education, and the English language, reaching millions of people annually.
Says SIM7’s Simeon de la Torre, “As an agency with extensive international experience, this is a perfect partnership for us. We’re excited about working on some of the most significant cultural and educational initiatives globally, and empowering the British Council by delivering the effective messaging that we’re known for.
“Our capabilities closely align with the British Council’s mission to promote and uphold the English language worldwide. Our expertise will enhance the British Council’s efforts to make English accessible to learners across diverse cultures and backgrounds. Through innovative campaign strategies and engaging content, we’ll support the British Council’s role as a global leader in English language teaching and assessment.
“We’re looking forward to connecting with the international communities that the British Council fosters and supports.”
“The British Council is one of the best names in the industry for cultural exchange and educational opportunity, and the SIM7 team are all keen to help them deliver their mission of building connections between the UK and the rest of the world.”
SIM7 is an award-winning creative agency that uses language to empower design. We drive growth by creating brands, campaigns and strategy – for marketing teams around the world. Our experience in international education extends to universities, leadership organisations, business schools and more. For more information, contact Simeon de la Torre [email protected]
Gold: Best Expression of a Brand on Social Media Channels
Bronze: Best Use of Copy Style or Tone of Voice
The Transform Awards celebrate excellence in brand strategy and execution across Europe. saintnicks’ work with Ascot Racecourse brought to life the brand’s creative platform, Elegance at Play – combining social-first storytelling, a distinct tone of voice, and thumb-stopping, jaw-dropping content that captured the attention of both loyal racegoers and new audiences alike.
Speaking on the win, Fraser Bradshaw, CEO at saintnicks, said:
“We set out to create a truly ownable brand voice and world-class social content that matched Ascot’s stature as an iconic British institution. To see that work recognised is a brilliant moment for the team and a testament to the power of brave, collaborative thinking.”
If you’re after a creative brand agency that will go the extra mile for your brand, drop saintnicks a line. You can find out more about their brand, campaigns, content and digital expertise here, or reach out to their Client Services Director, Francois d’Espagnac.
Being part of the Bristol Creatives community let’s explore how Business Leaders and HR can build a future-proof benefits strategy to stand out in the crowd.
In 2025, Business Leaders and HR Teams face a perfect storm of rising costs, shifting employee expectations, and global complexities. More than ever, benefits are a critical lever for your company’s success. Looking through the latest research alongside my day-to-day experiences I am witnessing some of the key trends that are reshaping the benefits landscape. It’s these insights that can help build a benefits package that really sticks the landing in 2025.
Trend 1: Low Employee Engagement
Despite many companies identifying employee engagement as their top priority in 2024, only a handful truly offered full flexibility in their benefits packages along with disjointed platforms further exacerbating this issue. Employees still struggle to find what they really need, reducing the perceived value of their benefits.
Companies can boost engagement by implementing flexibly of benefits and improving communication. Flexible allowances empower employees to spend on the benefits that matter most to them, while regular touchpoints ensure that they know what benefits are available to them.
But there’s another challenge. Most organisations don’t even have the data they need to make improvements. Without clear metrics, Business Leaders and HR teams are left guessing at what’s working and what’s not, making it harder to optimise benefits for engagement and retention.
If large enough (if you know…you’ll know!), employers should consider implementing a centralised benefits platform to simplify access and improve communication. Companies should also track key engagement metrics like utilisation rates and employee satisfaction to ensure their benefits are making an impact.
Trend 2: Reprioritising Foundational “Core” Benefits
In 2024, organisations reallocated their budgets to prioritise foundational (or Core) benefits such as medical and life insurance. This shift was largely driven by soaring healthcare costs and NHS waiting lists.
But focusing solely on reactive interventions without addressing preventative measures risks perpetuating the cycle of rising costs and declining health outcomes.
Companies should hold off on completely cutting wellbeing spend and instead pair foundational benefits with preventative wellness initiatives. Low-cost strategies like workplace wellness programs, ergonomic assessments, and access to digital wellbeing tools can reduce long-term healthcare expenses while boosting employee satisfaction. Just ask fellow member Nairn Robertson of Active Teams fame!
With employer healthcare costs reportedly increasing by up to 150% in some regions, benefits leaders are under growing pressure to rethink their approach. More organisations are shifting toward hybrid models that combine traditional insurance with preventative care, such as epigenetic testing, mental health support, and lifestyle coaching. Taking a proactive stance on employee health isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a necessity.
Trend 3: The ESG Opportunity
Despite dominating much of the conversation in previous years, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations remain underrepresented in benefits strategies. While initiatives like electric vehicle schemes are gaining traction, the broader social aspects of ESG—such as inclusivity and equity—are often overlooked.
But the winds are due to change. Generation Z highly value sustainability and inclusivity. Organisations that fail to align their benefits with these principles risk losing talent to competitors who demonstrate stronger commitments. Flexible bank holidays, DEI-focused initiatives, and sustainable benefits can enhance your employer brand and meet the expectations of a values-driven workforce.
Companies that integrate social responsibility into their benefits—whether through inclusive healthcare policies, sustainable investment options, or support for underrepresented groups—will gain a significant competitive edge. Employers should go beyond surface-level ESG efforts and embed these principles into their benefits programs.
So, what is the future of benefits? It’s clear…evolve and adapt or risk falling from behind. The data is clear: Business Leaders and HR who take a proactive, data-driven approach will lead the way in 2025. Flexibility, innovative tech, and ESG-aligned benefits aren’t just trends—they’re the new standard for a competitive, future-proof benefits strategy. Companies that embrace this shift will build stronger, more engaged workforces, while those that stick to outdated benefits risk losing top talent. The good news? With the right tools and insights, you can take control of your benefits strategy and turn it into a true driver of success.
If you wish to explore these themes further, then drop me a line!
As more businesses seek to balance profit with purpose, the need for a clear and compelling brand strategy has never been greater. Rhombus’ workshops provide a tailored approach to branding, helping organisations sharpen their identity and communicate their values effectively.
The free sessions are designed to give businesses actionable insights, covering:
Stakeholder Insight: A comprehensive brand survey to uncover key perspectives and set the stage for an impactful workshop that drives real results.
Understanding the landscape: An analysis of industry trends and competitor landscapes to help businesses identify new opportunities to position your brand for the future.
Reaching the right people: A deep dive into customer motivations to ensure brand messaging resonates effectively.
Defining your competitive edge: Rhombus will analyse your strengths, spot market gaps, and position your brand for long-term success.
Uncovering your brand DNA: A framework to distill what makes your brand unique—its core values, attributes, and the emotional and functional benefits that resonate with your audience and team.
“B Corps are founded on the idea of using business as a force for good, but without a strong brand strategy, even the most impactful missions can struggle to reach the right audiences,” said Simon Day, co-founder of Rhombus. “We want to help fellow B Corps define their vision with clarity and confidence.”
Rhombus is offering just 10 workshops throughout B Corp Month, available on a first-come, first-served basis. Businesses that secure a session will benefit from a two-hour deep dive into their brand strategy, with expert guidance tailored to their specific needs and challenges.
Participants will leave with clearer positioning, refined messaging, and a stronger understanding of how to leverage their brand to drive meaningful change. The workshops are completely free, with no obligations attached, reinforcing Rhombus’ commitment to supporting businesses that share its values.
With the growing prominence of ethical business, B Corps operate in an increasingly competitive landscape. A strong brand strategy is crucial for:
By offering these workshops, Rhombus is equipping B Corps with the tools they need to strengthen their presence and create a lasting impact.
UK-based B Corps interested in securing a free brand strategy session can register here via Rhombus’ website.
With limited spaces available, early sign-ups are encouraged.
Rhombus remains committed to supporting purpose-driven organisations, proving that strong branding can be a powerful driver of positive change.
Creating a brand film is an incredible opportunity for businesses to connect with their audience on a deeper level. In today’s fast-paced digital world, a well-crafted brand film can tell your story in a way that resonates emotionally, showcasing not just what you do, but why you do it. This powerful visual medium allows you to highlight your values, mission, and unique offerings while engaging potential customers in an impactful way. Think of it as a compelling narrative that not only builds brand awareness but also fosters trust and loyalty among consumers who are looking for authenticity.
Also, with the rising popularity of video content across social media platforms, having a brand film can significantly increase your reach and visibility. By sharing your story through this dynamic format, you’re not just promoting products or services; you’re creating an experience that invites viewers to be part of your journey. Ultimately, investing in a brand film is about crafting memorable moments that leave lasting impressions – helping you stand out in a crowded marketplace and truly connect with your audience.
The creation of a brand film unfolds in three essential stages: pre-production, production, and post-production. The pre-production phase presents the opportunity to dive deep into understanding a brand’s vision and goals. This is a time to brainstorm ideas, develop scripts, and plan every detail – from casting talent to location scouting- ensuring everything aligns perfectly with the brand message. Moving into the production stage, it becomes all about bringing those ideas to life, capturing stunning visuals and audio that resonate with the brand’s audience. Finally, comes the post-production stage; this involves editing the footage, adding sound design and visual effects that elevate the brand’s story. By following this structured approach to brand film production, you can create captivating content whilst ensuring it effectively conveys your unique narrative to your target audience.
When it comes to managing a project, several key factors come into play that can significantly influence the outcome. First and foremost, establishing a clear project scope is crucial; it sets the foundation for what needs to be achieved and helps keep everyone aligned. Client feedback loops are equally important, as they ensure that things are on the right track and allow for adjustments based on insights. Changes in creative direction can sometimes arise, but with open communication and flexibility, an experienced production company will be able to adapt while still meeting deadlines. Additionally, resource availability plays a vital role in planning – knowing what tools and talent are out there enables an effective execution of the creative vision. Lastly, logistics around filming locations shouldn’t be overlooked; coordinating these details early on helps avoid potential hiccups later in the process. Keeping all these elements in check, enables a smooth workflow that leads to great results for clients while fostering a collaborative environment that inspires creativity.
There are several key steps to bringing a brand film to life. It all starts with scripting and storyboarding, working closely with a brand to craft a compelling and memorable narrative. Once the script is locked down, the next phase is finding the perfect faces and voices that embody your brand’s essence. Seeking out settings that enhance your story and create an authentic backdrop for your brand film shouldn’t be underestimated. Filming days can be scheduled, dedicated to capturing every important moment and making sure everything aligns with the creative vision. After shooting, the editing process usually begins – this is where the footage is carefully pieced together to create a polished final cut that genuinely reflects your brand’s message. Each step of this process is designed to tell a brand’s unique story in a way that connects, captivates and engages viewers.
In terms of brand film creation, the average turnaround time can vary significantly based on the project’s scope and complexity. Typically, a quick turnaround project might take anywhere from a few weeks to a month, allowing brands to get their message out swiftly without sacrificing quality. However, for those looking for something more comprehensive – complete with detailed storytelling and high production values – the process could extend to several months. This is where understanding your goals becomes crucial; knowing whether you need a rapid response or an in-depth exploration can help streamline the approach. We’ve had clients who opted for both styles: one brand needed a lively promotional video in just two weeks for an upcoming event, while another invested several months into crafting an intricate narrative that highlighted their mission and values through animated storytelling. Ultimately, whether you’re seeking speed or depth in your brand film creation, we can help guide you through each stage.
Creating a brand film is an exciting journey which can add genuine value to your business. If you’re ready to elevate your brand’s story through captivating visuals and compelling narratives, an engaging brand film could be the answer. Whether you’re looking to attract your audience on social media, enhance your website, or create memorable content for a live event, a well-crafted brand film can make a great difference. At Vivid, we believe that every brand has a unique story waiting to be told. With our expertise in film, motion design and animation, we’d be happy to help you articulate your story in a way that resonates with your audience. Let’s collaborate and bring your vision to life. Reach out today, and let’s start crafting something extraordinary together!
saintnicks have been appointed by Mitsubishi Pencil Company UK (MPCUK), a leader in innovative writing instruments, to handle its POSCA and uni-ball brands.
Together, both MPCUK and saintnicks will harness the power of storytelling and dynamic creative content to bring MPCUK’s uni-ball and POSCA brands closer to its customers.
Through a series of innovative campaigns and brand activations, we will be reinforcing the brands’ trusted reputations for high-quality pens and creative markers, while fostering a connection with audiences through relatable, inspiring narratives.
“We’re incredibly excited to team up with saintnicks,” said Hannah Hurling, Head of Marketing at MPCUK. “Both uni-ball and POSCA have always been about enabling creativity and self-expression, and saintnicks’ expertise in storytelling and bold creative ideas makes them the perfect partner to bring our vision to life.”
The uni-ball brand was established in 1979 and is owned by the Japanese Mitsubishi Pencil Company, which has a rich legacy dating back to 1887. Today, uni-ball is a leading name in the UK stationery market, renowned for high-quality writing instruments that combine innovation with reliability. The brand’s commitment to quality, performance and design has made it a favoured choice among students, professionals, and creators, solidifying its reputation as one of the most well-known brands in the UK market.
For over 30 years, POSCA has accompanied creativity in all its forms, quickly becoming a favourite tool for artists worldwide. Initially embraced by graffiti artists, the brand’s popularity quickly spread beyond urban spaces. Today, POSCA markers are recognised globally for their vibrant colours and versatility, making them ideal for a wide array of applications—from street art and fine art to illustration, portraits, and home crafts.
The collaboration comes at a time when consumers are seeking more authentic connections with the brands they choose. MPCUK has long been a trusted name in writing and artist tools, offering consumers writing pens and creative markers that combine quality, style, and reliability. The new partnership is set to enhance the brand’s visibility, reinforce its connection with customers, and celebrate the art of writing and the power of creativity.
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