We’ve been shaping brands since 1985.
Whether launching something new or transforming what already exists, we help brands define who they are, how they show up, and how they tell their story with clarity, confidence and connection.
Based in Cardiff, we’re a strategic brand, design, and digital agency supporting clients across the UK. We work closely with our clients to explore ideas, challenge thinking, and create work that is thoughtful, purposeful and effective.
What makes us different
We don’t overcomplicate things. What we do is simple: we listen, we collaborate, we create. Every project is a partnership with our clients and within our team.
We turn insight into action, ensuring every project delivers work that is clear, impactful and designed to achieve real results for our clients.
Culture
Creative + Curious
We love exploring ideas and pushing boundaries.
Collaborative
Great work comes from great teamwork — and we mean everyone.
Honest + Straightforward
We speak plain English, no jargon, no fluff.
Fun (but serious about results)
We enjoy what we do and it shows in our work.
A team built on experience and fresh thinking
A friendly mix of experienced strategists, creatives and digital specialists who genuinely care about the work we do and the clients we work with.
Between us, we bring decades of experience and fresh new talent, giving us the ability to bring confidence and trust, along with a fresh and current perspective. Together, we know what works, what to push, and help brands shape ideas, build strong identities and spark real change.
What was true at the start runs even deeper today
From a small Cardiff studio to a full-service agency, Martin Hopkins has been shaping brands for over 40 years. Founded by Bob Martin in 1985, the agency built a reputation for creativity, a personal approach and delivering results that make a difference.
Today, James leads the team, guiding the evolution from a design-focused studio to a fully integrated, strategic brand and digital partner - all while staying true to the values and excellence that have defined us from the start.
We help businesses become brands that drive meaningful growth – creating positive change with thoughtful strategy and design.
Why choose us
Strategic insight
We translate business goals into clear, actionable brand strategies.
Creative expertise
Thoughtful, bold, and relevant work built on years of experience that delivers results.
Proven results
We deliver projects and assets that make a real impact.
Collaborative approach
We work with you at every step to ensure your vision comes to life.
Clear advice & guidance
We explain the thinking and options so you can make informed decisions.
Bilingual capability
English and Welsh expertise ensures accessibility and compliance where required.
Award-winning work
Since our agency began over 40 years ago, we’ve been dedicated to building and refreshing brands. Along the way, our commitment to creativity, collaboration, and thoughtful design has earned recognition for the work we do.
We’re proud of the awards we’ve received, but only because they reflect the results we deliver for the ambitious clients we work with.
Design awards & recognition
Best Branding Agency 2025 – South Wales
at the SME Welsh Enterprise Awards.
Best Brand & Website Design Company 2024
at the SME Welsh Enterprise Awards.
Brand Design Agency of the Year 2022
at the UK Enterprise Awards.
Cardiff Life Awards Finalist 2022
Creative category
Best Brand Design Agency Cardiff 2021
at the Welsh Enterprise Awards.
Design for Best Annual Report Brochure in the UK
for the Price Waterhouse Award for a National Government Agency – awarded in Parliament.
CIB Award of Excellence (Nationally) for Tourism Brochure (Wales)
Award in France (Best Design of Overseas Tourism Brochures)
French/ German/ Italian/ Dutch etc – series of 8 foreign language brochures advertising tourism for Wales for Government Authority.
Partners & certification
Living Wage Employer
We’re proud to be a Living Wage Employer – an independently calculated rate that reflects the cost of living in the UK. It means everyone here is paid fairly for the work they do, without compromise. For us, looking after our people isn’t a ‘nice to have’ – it’s the foundation of a healthy, creative studio.
Avetta Certified
A rigorous, third-party vetting process where contractors and suppliers prove they meet major companies’ standards for health, safety, sustainability, and compliance.
Design Declares
Design Declares is a growing group of designers, design studios, agencies and institutions here to declare a climate and ecological emergency. As part of the global declaration movement, we commit to harnessing the tools of our industry to reimagine, rebuild and heal our world.
Cyber Essentials Certified
We are Cyber Essentials certified, demonstrating our commitment to protecting client data and maintaining strong cyber security practices. This government-backed certification confirms that we have the essential technical controls in place to guard against common cyber threats and keep your information secure.
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