A GROWING North East film production business that began as a one-man design studio has joined Sunderland’s booming creative sector, setting up a new base at the North East BIC.
Howell Media, run by father and daughter duo Chris and Issy Howell, specialises in video production, live event streaming and training services.
The new office at the BIC marks a significant step in the company’s evolution from its roots in Barnard Castle to becoming an integral part of the region’s fast-growing media landscape.
Chris launched the business in 1989, initially providing graphic design services. In 2010, Howell Media transitioned into film production and has since evolved into a leading provider of high-end promotional videos, TV adverts, documentaries, broadcast-quality live streaming, and live event coverage across the North East.
The business has evolved alongside advancements in technology and video production, allowing it to stay ahead of industry trends and continually expand its creative offer.
“We’ve always been a creative family,” said Chris: “What started with me has now evolved into a team that includes my daughter Issy, who leads our video editing and training offer and a network of freelancers and creatives. It’s a unique set-up, but it works really well, we’re proud of what we’ve built.”
The move to Sunderland was driven by a desire to be part of something bigger. Chris added: “We knew we needed to be in a city, but it wasn’t until we started attending events and talking to people that it became clear Sunderland was the place to be.
“There’s so much energy here, the investment, the creativity, the people, it’s all happening in Sunderland. You look out of our office window and see Crown Works Studios being built, that’s the future of the film and TV industry right on our doorstep.”
“The BIC has been a perfect fit for us,” he added. “We were looking for a base that was accessible, great value and had a real sense of community and the BIC ticks every box. From day one, we’ve been welcomed by so many supportive people. It’s not just a place to work, it’s somewhere you can grow, collaborate and really feel part of something.”
The company already has strong ties with local colleges, offering work placements and opening doors into the industry for young people – something both Chris and Issy are deeply passionate about.
“Social legacy is really important to us,” Chris said. “We want to show young people, especially those from challenging backgrounds, that there is a place for them in the creative industries.”
For the team, the BIC offered more than just office space, it provided a supportive environment where the business could thrive.
As a working mother, Issy said: “Having an on-site nursery was a huge pull for me to relocate to the BIC and it’s been a huge help, it’s given me the freedom to focus on growing the business while knowing my little one is nearby.”
Since moving in, the team have also been tapping into the BIC’s expert support network. “We’ve got a couple of brilliant business advisers who check in with us regularly,” said Issy. “It’s great to have that kind of support in place, it helps keep us on the straight and narrow and gives us people to bounce ideas off.”
Doreen Howard, Centre Manager at the BIC said: “It’s fantastic to welcome Howell Media to our community here at the BIC. Their passion for storytelling, commitment to skills development, and the family dynamic at the heart of the company is second to none, they are a real credit to the region. They bring so much creative energy to everything they do, and we’re delighted that they see the BIC as being the perfect place to build on this success.”
Cllr Kevin Johnston, portfolio holder for business, housing and regeneration at Sunderland City Council, said: “Howell Media’s move to Sunderland is another fantastic example of the city’s creative momentum attracting forward-thinking, dynamic businesses. It’s great to see a family-run company with such a strong track record and commitment to skills development choosing Sunderland as its base. Its decision to relocate here will provide a major boost to our growing media and film sector, and it’s clear they’ve been inspired by the energy and ambition of what’s happening here. We’re proud to welcome them to the city and look forward to seeing them continue to go from strength-to-strength.”