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Manchester’s Eight Engines Among Business Insider’s Top Creative Companies in the North West

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Manchester-based video agency Eight Engines has been named one of Business Insider’s Most Exciting Companies in the North West, solidifying its position as a standout name in the region’s creative landscape.

Originally launched as a TV drama production company creating programmes for the BBC, Eight Engines transitioned into a full-service video agency in 2017.

Since then, the business has built a strong reputation for producing cinematic video content for clients ranging from international corporations and well-known consumer brands, to major public bodies and grassroots organisations.

“This recognition is a huge honour and a real boost for our entire team,” said Jack Leigh. “We’ve grown organically from a passion for storytelling into a company that’s trusted by some of the biggest brands in the world to bring their vision to life. We’ve always believed that great storytelling is about having the right idea and team to tell it – and our strength lies in making every budget, big or small, work harder to deliver exceptional results.”

Recent projects by Eight Engines have seen them partner with major names like Google, Sony, the BBC, IHG, and Help for Heroes, alongside regional organisations such as Transport for Greater Manchester and Bam UK, as well as a range of independent local agencies.

Recognised for their inventive, engaging content, the team has earned a strong reputation in both the North West and the wider international video production community for their storytelling-led approach.

“What excites me most,” Leigh added, “is taking a tricky, niche topic and turning it into something your audience can’t scroll past. Even if the initial brief is something that could on the surface be a bit dry, we love breathing colour, clarity and adding a touch of mischief into our content. When marketing feels like binge-watching, everybody wins: your message sticks and viewers come back for more.”

Leigh brings years of experience in high-end production, having worked on major titles like Peaky Blinders and Fast and Furious. It’s this depth of industry expertise that has helped shape the agency’s signature style and quality of output.

That said, Leigh insists the team deserves full credit for their recent recognition.

“Honestly, I get to work with the best group of people I could ask for,” Leigh said. “We’re a close-knit team, and every project is a shared creative journey. That passion and drive is reflective in every single member of our team – and that is what has driven us to this point in our business.”

The agency has weathered significant challenges in recent years, including the impact of Covid, economic uncertainty, and the evolving influence of AI on creative industries — making this accolade all the more meaningful.

As they look ahead, Eight Engines is focused on continuing to push boundaries in storytelling and content creation – both across the North West and on a broader global stage.

Appy Pie Teams Up with name.com to Offer Free LinkedIn Website Builder and .bio Domain

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Appy Pie, the global no-code AI platform, has partnered with domain registration provider name.com to introduce a free AI-powered LinkedIn Profile-to-Website Converter. The new feature allows users to transform their LinkedIn profile or resume PDF into a personal website, which comes with a complimentary .bio domain for one year, hosted by name.com.

This new offering makes it easier than ever to build a polished professional website. Users simply upload their LinkedIn profile or a CV in PDF format, and Appy Pie’s AI technology extracts important career information such as education, work experience, and skills. It then generates a responsive, mobile-friendly website, which users can customise by choosing from various design templates, layouts, and colour options—no coding required.

“We’ve empowered anyone to transform their LinkedIn profile or resume PDF into a live, personalised website in minutes,” said Abhinav Girdhar, Founder and CEO of Appy Pie.

“This feature, in partnership with name.com, eliminates the complexity traditionally associated with creating a digital identity. Our aim is to make professional visibility accessible to everyone.”

Dave McBreen, VP, Registrar at name.com, added:

“We’re excited to collaborate with Appy Pie and bring .bio domains to their users. This partnership enhances our mission to provide an easy way for individuals to establish their online presence, offering seamless integration with Appy Pie’s AI resume website builder.”

Whether you’re a freelancer, job seeker, consultant or creative professional, this tool offers a quick and accessible way to build a strong online identity. The included .bio domain helps users present themselves in a modern and professional way—standing out in today’s digital-first job market.

Private E-Prescriptions Surge Amid Lengthy NHS Delays

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As NHS waiting lists reach record levels, more people in the UK are choosing private healthcare for quicker, more efficient access — especially when it comes to routine services like prescriptions.

Private e-prescription platforms are quickly becoming the preferred choice for patients and clinics alike.

Turning to Private Options in a Strained System

With over 7.7 million people on NHS waiting lists by late 2023, the need for faster care has never been greater. What’s changing now is that patients aren’t just going private for surgery or specialists — they’re also looking for quicker solutions to everyday medical needs, like getting prescriptions filled.

This shift is leading many to explore more convenient, digital-first alternatives to traditional pharmacy services.

The Rise of E-Prescription Platforms

One of the fastest-growing areas in private healthcare is e-prescription platforms.

These digital services make it easy for GPs to issue prescriptions remotely, allowing patients to have their medication delivered directly — all without stepping foot in a pharmacy.

Healistic, a healthtech firm at the forefront of this innovation, has built a platform that links up private healthcare providers, pharmacies, and delivery services to ensure medications reach patients quickly — sometimes in just two hours.

Its founder, Daniel Bulkin, puts it simply:

“People can get food, dinner or a cab in minutes. So why are we still waiting days for medication?”

Designed for Patients and Providers

Healistic’s platform is all about making healthcare easier. Prescriptions can be written and shared in seconds. Patients handle everything online, while local pharmacies and eco-friendly couriers do the rest — often delivering within the hour.

The service is completely free for doctors and clinics to use. Already, hundreds of practices across the UK have come on board, reporting a better experience for patients and reduced admin for staff.

Notably, the platform supports controlled medicines — including Schedules 2 through 5 — something many other digital services can’t yet offer due to regulatory challenges.

Sector Growth Backed by Data

Recent market data confirms the trend: the UK’s private healthcare sector expanded to £12.4 billion in 2023 — up from £11.4 billion a year earlier — and private prescriptions are a growing contributor.

The broader pharmacy sector is also on the rise, forecast to surpass £58 billion by 2030. Much of this growth is being fuelled by new digital offerings.

As people become more confident managing their health online, demand for platforms like Healistic is expected to continue climbing.

More Than Just Medication

Healistic isn’t just focused on prescriptions. The company is working toward creating a centralised, secure digital hub for all aspects of private healthcare — what it refers to as a “digital patient home.”

Inspired by Open Banking, founder Daniel Bulkin envisions a model of “Open Healthcare” — where patients have greater control over their data, appointments, and medical services, free from bureaucracy or delays.

Private Health Reinvented Through Technology

Digital solutions are becoming essential in today’s private healthcare landscape. As demand for speed, flexibility and convenience increases, services like Healistic are stepping up to meet expectations.

With the landscape evolving rapidly, e-prescription platforms may soon become a central part of how care is delivered in the UK — offering modern, efficient solutions to old healthcare problems.

Learn more or enquire about partnerships at: https://healistic.net

CTI Digital appoints new CEO to drive innovation and growth

CTI Digital, the North West-based full-service digital agency, has appointed Chris Burgess as its new Chief Executive Officer to lead its growth strategy and cement its position as the go-to partner for digital transformation.

Chris (pictured) brings over two decades of entrepreneurial and technological expertise to CTI Digital. He joins with a proven track record in delivering digital transformation for global organisations, including Credit Suisse, Transport for London and the Ministry of Defence. He has also founded and scaled several high-growth ventures in his previous role as CEO of Future Technology IP Ltd.

As part of the wider strategy to grow the business and solidify itself as a leading player in the UK’s digital industry, Chris will lead CTI’s expansion in AI-driven services, including interactive and immersive experiences using AI, VR and AR technologies.

He will also focus on deepening relationships across key sectors such as charity, higher education, tourism, membership organisations, and eCommerce, building on CTI’s work with clients including Chester Zoo, Mind, Little Greene, Polyflor, De Vere Hotels, and the University of West London.

Simon Wilkinson, chairman of CTI Digital, said: “We’re pleased to welcome Chris Burgess as our new CEO. His entrepreneurial mindset, technical prowess, and ability to anticipate industry trends make him the ideal leader to elevate CTI Digital to new heights. With Chris in charge, we’re confident in our vision to become the premier partner for digital transformation in the UK, helping clients modernise, innovate, and grow.”

Under Chris’ leadership, CTI Digital is set to sharpen its core services, accelerate innovation efforts and introduce new initiatives to attract and retain top digital talent.

Chris Burgess, CEO at CTI Digital, said: “I am honoured to be joining CTI Digital at such a pivotal moment. Organisations across every sector are grappling with rapid digital change. Our role is to simplify that journey, using the best of design, data and emerging tech to deliver results that matter. The team’s focus on creativity, technology,and innovation resonates deeply with my own values, and I’m looking forward to working with them to push boundaries and deliver transformative digital experiences that help our clients to thrive.”

Founded in 2004, CTI Digital employs over 150 specialists across two North West offices and works with clients delivering strategic consultancy, website design and development, and digital marketing.

Halton Business Leader Wins Entrepreneur of the Year at 2025 Awards

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Nick Griffiths, Managing Director and Owner of Industrial Cooling Equipment Ltd (ICE), has been awarded Entrepreneur of the Year at the distinguished Halton Business Awards 2025.

This accolade celebrates individuals who demonstrate outstanding entrepreneurial drive, creativity, and sustained growth within the Halton area – and Nick’s journey with ICE over the past 15 years stands as a powerful testament to these qualities.

ICE, a family-run business based in Runcorn, has built a strong reputation across the refrigeration sector as a trusted and respected name.

Since taking over leadership in 2011, Nick has overseen an impressive 500% increase in revenue, developing ICE from a small outfit with just three engineers into a thriving enterprise.

Reflecting on his achievement, Nick commented:

“It’s nice to get some recognition for the past 15 years of work I’ve put into ICE. When I took over in 2011, we had £5,000 in the bank, a looming £12k tax bill, and just a few engineers – myself included. I had no business experience at all. What I did have was grit, determination, and a vision.”

Born in Liverpool and educated at New Heys Comprehensive, Nick’s path was far from conventional. He was excluded from school shortly before completing his final year but returned to sit his GCSEs. At 16, he worked part-time in a butcher’s shop before joining ICE in 2001 as an apprentice – the company where his father had been a director.

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Nick Griffiths

Gaining practical knowledge from seasoned professionals, Nick rapidly progressed through the business, eventually becoming a senior engineer overseeing pharmaceutical accounts during a time of increased regulatory pressure.

In 2011, following the heartbreaking loss of his father to Motor Neurone Disease, 26-year-old Nick stepped in as the sole director – despite lacking formal business education.

Relying solely on hands-on experience and a relentless work ethic, he navigated the business through tough times and learnt how to lead while under intense pressure.

“That time was unbelievably hard – personally and professionally,” Nick recalled. “I had to make ICE a success, not just for myself, but for my family and everyone who depended on the business. There were countless sleepless nights, months I couldn’t pay myself, and moments when I questioned everything. But I kept going.”

Today, ICE is set to expand its team to over 20 employees, runs a thriving apprenticeship scheme, and is known for both technical expertise and excellent customer care.

The company was named BID Business of the Year in 2015 and secured Family Business of the Year titles at the Halton Business Awards in both 2019 and 2023. In 2025, Nick’s individual contribution has now been formally recognised with the Entrepreneur of the Year award.

“It’s easy to look at the numbers today and miss what it took to get here,” said Nick. “The callouts at 3 am to save money, missing family events, turning up to work after losing both parents – this is what being an entrepreneur looks like behind the scenes. It’s not glamorous, it’s just hard work, sacrifice, and believing in your team and your mission.”

Looking ahead, Nick is ambitious about the future of ICE:

“We’re aiming to become a £10 million turnover company. That will come through a combination of strategic acquisitions and organic development. The foundation is there – now it’s time to build on it.”

Help desks and client portals explained: Choosing the right tool for your customers

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The customer is king, so the saying goes. No matter how good the quality of your products or
services, it’s all for nothing if your customer service is lacking.

Unhappy, unsatisfied customers may not only never return, but spread word of mouth about their bad experience.

But fortunately, the inverse is also true – if your customer service excels, then your reputation is likely to soar, and business with it.

To this end, it’s crucial for most modern businesses to have some customer support tools at
their disposal – but which ones should you use, and what exactly do they do? The two most
common tools on the market are the help desk and the client portal. We’ll go into their features, the differences between the two, and which one you should choose for your business.

What is a help desk?

First, let’s delve into the help desk. A help desk is a piece of software designed to maximise the efficiency and effectiveness of your customer service. It can either be hosted on-site or in the cloud, and most help desk software suites are highly customisable.

The main purpose of help desk software is to track, log, and measure every customer interaction, from common issues like returns and product queries to sophisticated tech support issues.

Common features of a help desk include:
● A ticketing system to take in customer requests or queries and turn them into tickets that
can be categorised, routed, tracked, and closed when the issue is resolved.
● Automation so simple requests can be handled automatically, without the need for
human input.
● Collaboration and communication tools
● Metrics to measure performance and identify any potential trouble spots.
In short, a help desk is there to make your customer service consistent, high quality, and
reliable.

What is a client portal?

However, it’s worth mentioning one other feature that often comes with help desk software: the customer portal. Simply put, a client portal is a collection of information (whether it’s a knowledge base, FAQ, a self-service portal, or all of the above) designed to let customers
resolve their own incidents and questions without involving human support staff.

Typical features of customer portal software include:
● AI-powered features, such as AI chatbot support agents or knowledge bases
● Customisation features so that the portal blends seamlessly with the rest of your website
● A community forum where customers can ask questions and even get support from
other customers
● Seamless escalation from self-service to service from a human agent or AI chatbot,
because sometimes self-service isn’t always the best solution to a problem.

One or both?

At the beginning of this article, we raised the question: which one of these tools should a
business use? The answer should not surprise you. Given that help desk software is there to
assist human agents in providing excellent customer support, and client portal software is there to help customers help themselves, the most obvious answer is to have both.

Fortunately, a lot of help desk software comes with client portal features included, so you don’t have to purchase two separate software suites to get the full range of functionality.

There’s another good reason for offering both to your customers: some customers, especially
younger ones, really like solving their problems on their own with self-service, whereas more
complex and technical issues often call for the expertise of a human agent.

Older clients or customers in particular may prefer communicating with a human to solving an issue themselves via a knowledge base. In some fields – finance, insurance, or healthcare, for example – having a client portal is almost mandatory, as self-service can play a big part in those industries.

What’s the ROI?

Finally, let’s talk about the return on investment for help desk and client portal software.
Properly implemented help desk and client portal software will almost certainly speed up your
response and resolution times – and with most customers now expecting quicker responses
than they did five years ago, that’s of crucial importance.

Automation features, smart routing, and personalised contextual support will bring you faster resolution and happier customers.

Omnichannel communication is another important benefit. Omnichannel support is just another way of saying your business can accept incoming customer requests via SMS, email, social media, web form, or any other number of communications channels.

The more ways a customer can reach you, the happier they’re going to be. When it comes to client portals, the immediate benefits should also be clear. A self-service portal takes pressure off your human agents by letting customers resolve issues without having to talk to another human being. This frees up your support staff to handle the more sophisticated problems and/or issues that require more nuance and a human touch to resolve properly.

If you don’t yet have a help desk or client portal set up for your business, the benefits are
numerous and the drawbacks few – you have nothing to lose.

SB Bank Introduces Pre-Launch Phase with Cutting-Edge Hybrid Financial Model

SB Bank has officially initiated its pre-launch phase, debuting a hybrid financial model that combines traditional banking with blockchain innovation—ushering in a new era of security, openness, and user empowerment.

Bringing a fresh perspective to digital finance, the model fuses conventional services with decentralised tools to better serve the needs of contemporary consumers.

The SB Bank platform is already accessible via top app stores and is set to unveil a full-featured digital ecosystem. Key benefits include rewards in SB Coin, its proprietary crypto token, as well as virtual and physical payment cards packed with exclusive perks—all delivered through a fortified digital infrastructure designed with the future in mind.

Jerônimo Rodrigues, CEO of SB Bank said: “We believe the future of banking isn’t just digital – it’s transparent, collaborative, and secure. Blockchain is not just a feature; it’s the foundation of how we operate.”

A cornerstone of the platform is its use of blockchain-based smart contracts. These self-executing agreements govern financial products like loans, insurance, and customer incentives. They simplify the process, eliminate ambiguity, and provide users with greater confidence and speed.

This smart-contract-enabled system also introduces stronger accountability and reduced overhead, allowing users to engage with financial tools in a more secure and efficient way.

SB Coin plays a central role in this ecosystem, acting as a utility token that rewards user activity and facilitates internal transactions. Tied to financial reserves, the token is built for real-world use, making it more stable and accessible than most digital assets.

To encourage early adoption, SB Bank is offering a special incentive: new users who sign up and share the SB Coin promotional video on social media will receive 25 SB Coins—valued at €25—directly into their accounts. This campaign will run for a limited time.

For further information, visit www.sbbank.eu.

Bridging Finance Set for £12.2bn Surge – Why Demand Keeps Rising Across the UK

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Once considered a niche solution for property transactions, bridging finance has now entered the financial mainstream. According to new analysis by West One Loans, the UK’s bridging loan market is projected to soar to £12.2 billion in 2025—a new milestone for the short-term lending sector.

This growth reflects a broader shift in how individuals and businesses access capital in a market marked by high interest rates and increasingly cautious high-street banks. So, what’s behind this surge—and why is bridging finance becoming a go-to choice for a growing number of borrowers?

Here’s what’s driving the trend.

New figures confirm record activity

The closing quarter of 2024 saw bridging loan completions hit a remarkable £2.3 billion, the highest quarterly total on record. This brought the annual figure to £7.34 billion—an increase from £5.76 billion the previous year. For the first time ever, the total outstanding loan book in the sector has surpassed £10 billion, with strong indications that growth will continue through 2025.

It’s not just a one-off surge. The appetite for quick, flexible financing is becoming entrenched.

Why bridging is on the rise – seven key reasons

1. Speed is essential
Traditional lending processes often can’t meet the pace of today’s property market. Bridging loans, which typically complete within five to six weeks, enable buyers to act swiftly and avoid losing out on key opportunities.

2. More flexible underwriting
Bridging lenders tend to assess loans based on the asset’s value and the planned method of repayment—rather than relying solely on credit scores. That makes this type of funding more accessible for those with unconventional financial backgrounds.

3. Use cases are expanding
Beyond property purchases, bridging loans are now widely used for covering tax liabilities, funding refurbishments, consolidating debts, and managing short-term business costs. They’ve even become an option for those working in London property management, especially when dealing with urgent repairs, big renovations or improving rentals quickly between tenancies.

4. Greater access to capital
With some providers offering loan-to-value ratios as high as 75 percent, borrowers are able to fund larger projects and unlock more value from their assets than through traditional loans.

5. Tailored loan structures
Bridging finance offers bespoke solutions. Options such as interest roll-up, flexible repayments, and short-term arrangements make them ideal for plugging funding gaps with precision.

6. A broader customer base
It’s no longer just seasoned developers and landlords using bridging loans. Homeowners, entrepreneurs, and SME owners are all recognising how this type of finance can help them move quickly when timing is critical.

7. Clear exits make borrowing safer
The presence of a defined repayment strategy—often refinancing or selling the property—makes bridging loans less risky than they may seem at first glance. Lenders and borrowers both benefit from having a clear exit in place.

Why now?

This sharp rise in demand is being fuelled in part by tighter lending policies from mainstream banks and persistently high borrowing costs. In this environment, bridging lenders are stepping in with faster decisions, more creative lending models, and fewer bureaucratic hurdles.

For borrowers who need to move fast—whether it’s securing a deal or stabilising cash flow—bridging finance presents a compelling option.

Proceed with caution

Despite the benefits, bridging loans aren’t suitable for everyone. They are intended for short-term use and typically carry higher costs than standard lending. Anyone considering one should carefully evaluate the numbers and seek financial advice before proceeding.

In summary

Bridging finance is no longer the preserve of a small corner of the property sector. With the market on track for a record-breaking 2025, it’s clear that this type of funding is becoming a cornerstone of modern UK finance—valued for its speed, versatility, and accessibility.

For those with the right exit plan and a need to move quickly, it may be the ideal solution.

Business powerhouse Kate Hardcastle MBE brings global book tour to Cheshire

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Retail leaders from across the North are being invited to an unmissable evening of insight, innovation, and straight-talking strategy as Kate Hardcastle MBE brings the UK North stop of her international book launch tour to Arighi Bianchi in Macclesfield this Wednesday.

Globally known as “The Customer Whisperer”, Hardcastle is one of the retail sector’s most trusted consumer behaviour experts, advising major global brands including Disney and M&S.

She’s now taking her acclaimed knowledge on the road to promote her new book, The Science of Shopping: How Psychology and Innovation Create a Winning Retail Strategy, following its UK release on June 3.

On Wednesday, June 11, from 6–9pm, the spotlight will shine on Macclesfield’s iconic Arighi Bianchi store as Hardcastle headlines a fireside conversation hosted by BBC Radio 2’s Phil Williams.

The event, open to retail and business leaders, promises no-nonsense insights into the shifting landscape of modern retail, backed by sharp analysis and hard-earned experience.

Forget the fluff – Hardcastle is known for cutting through the noise. The evening will cover some of the boldest and most commercially critical challenges retailers face today: from decoding what truly motivates customer behaviour, to navigating the balance between tech-driven innovation and human connection.

Attendees will also hear from a panel of high-profile retail names, including Richard Pownall (CEO, Pooky Lights), Jan Duckworth (MD, Cox & Cox), and Sarah Bianchi (CEO, Arighi Bianchi). Adding a unique perspective to the mix is Paralympic Champion Hannah Cockroft, who will speak on retail accessibility and the importance of inclusive design.

Kate has acted as an advisor for Arighi Bianchi, creating a headline strategy that has seen the brand reaffirm its position in a challenging market. She cites the family-run business in the book, as an example of retail done right – blending heritage, heart, and forward-thinking innovation.

Why attend?

In a market overwhelmed by data and obsessed with digital, The Science of Shopping takes a refreshingly holistic view – blending consumer psychology with practical, real-world strategies.

Highlights include Kate’s original “Buyerarchy of Needs” framework (comfort, connection, confidence, control, community), a sharp focus on the “Human Touch” in the age of AI, and case studies featuring retailers like Selfridges, Erewhon, Aldi, and Primark.

This Cheshire stop is part of a high-impact global tour already spanning Dubai, Milan, London, New York, Los Angeles, Cannes, and Amsterdam, with Asia dates to be announced for the autumn.

Tickets are £19.95 (with fizz and canapés) or £49.95 for those wanting a signed copy of the book.

Whether you’re deep in retail strategy, interested in consumer trends, or just want a front-row seat to one of the sector’s sharpest minds, this is not an event to miss.

Event details:

Wednesday, June 11, 6–9pm at Arighi Bianchi, The Silk Road, Macclesfield, SK10 1LH

Tickets: BOOK HERE https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-science-of-shopping-official-launch-tour-with-kate-hardcastle-tickets-1368656030029

Dalian Talent Group Signs Landmark Three-Year Deal to Launch Hello Kitty and Friends Across EMEA

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Dalian Talent Group has secured a major licensing agreement with Sanrio, covering one of the most extensive Hello Kitty and Friends product ranges to date across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. The partnership introduces a playful and design-forward product line across home fragrance, personal care, perfume, and gifting.

Building on the viral success of a special 50th Anniversary capsule collection launched in 2024, Dalian Talent Group has unveiled a broad-scale product range under its new three-year licensing agreement with Sanrio. As a global leader in branded and private label lifestyle products, Dalian will bring Hello Kitty and Friends into homes with a series of thoughtfully designed and sensorial collections.

This exclusive agreement represents one of the largest Hello Kitty licensing deals ever signed with a single partner. The collaboration spans an imaginative collection of products—from sculpted candles and bath fizzers to body mists and collector-style gift items—designed to appeal to nostalgic fans and new audiences alike.

The range will debut in July 2025, launching across major retail outlets including Miniso, HMV, Next, Action, and Forbidden Planet.

Dalian’s creative approach goes far beyond traditional licensing models, with a strong emphasis on reusable packaging, multi-material vessels, and scents that embody the whimsical charm of the Hello Kitty and Friends universe.

The product line includes:

  • Personal care: Hand wash and lotion duos, alongside quirky bath fizzers

  • Home fragrance: LED and 3D sculpted candles, plus stylish reed diffusers

  • Perfume: Body fragrance mists and eau de toilette

  • Gifting: Fragrance advent calendars, multipacks, and character-inspired candles

Innovative features include 3D character candle lids and silicone toppers shaped like frosted trees or decorative plant pots. Each item is designed for extended use—whether as trinket storage or a keepsake. Scent choices range from Vanilla Crème Brulee to Raspberry Donut and Pina Colada.

Hamish Morjaria, CEO of Dalian Talent Group, said:

“For us, this isn’t just a brand for us to work with. It’s a true partnership built on trust and creativity. The values of kindness, friendship, and fun align perfectly with our vision for inclusive, joyful products that live beyond the packaging.
Our collections really break with convention, featuring a playful design language across glass, ceramic, and silicone materials. Each product is collectible and display-worthy.”

Sanrio selected Dalian based on its commitment to ethical production and industry leadership in scalable lifestyle design.

Silvia Figini, Chief Operating Officer Sanrio (EMEA, India and Oceania), added:

“The collaboration with Dalian Talent Group started in 2024 with a strategic eye on our Hello Kitty’s 50th anniversary. What began as a celebratory capsule collection has naturally evolved into a three-year global licensing agreement rooted in creativity, craftsmanship, and brand integrity. These exciting collections are a true celebration of Hello Kitty and Friends’ spirit, reimagined for a global audience.”

Product Collections:
Launching from July 2025 both in-store and online, the four main collections include:

  • The Original Collection – Featuring nostalgic colours and fruity scents like tutti frutti and cherry rose

  • The Bakery Collection – Designed around baked treats, with croissant- and cupcake-shaped fizzers and toppers

  • The Seasons Collection – Celebrating the year’s changing moods with themed toppers and reusable vessels

  • Hello Kitty and Friends Collection – A bold, character-led series with scents such as warm cashmere and passionfruit & kiwi

Retail prices will range from £4.99 for smaller gifts to £19.99 for premium collectibles. The full catalogue and pricing details are available upon request.