An ambitious media specialist based in Aberdeenshire has invested a substantial five-figure sum to offer cutting-edge media solutions to local companies.
Fennel Media, part of the Fennel Group owned by local entrepreneur and restaurateur William Bird, has invested in two unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), more commonly known as drones, added state-of-the art filming and editing equipment, developed a creative design studio and hired two experienced personnel to its team as part of the firm’s growth plans.
The business has also extended its services to offer clients access to audio visual hire and installation through Aberdeen-based AV One Solutions.
Based in Inverurie, the company’s studio has tripled in size while the new technology provides full in-house video capability and standalone aerial work. All pilots are certified by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and are BNUC-S qualified.
Fennel Media, which only launched in June, has also appointed creative directors Richard Baron and Kevin Stride, both highly skilled cameramen and editors with more than 20 years’ combined experience, including working in hostile environments such as the offshore oil and gas industry.
The company has secured and delivered new business totalling a six-figure sum in the past six months, including inspection work, training and induction videos, corporate and promotional videos and national television commercials.
Fennel Media is continuing to expand into new market sectors including food and drink, agriculture, forestry, renewables and property across Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, the Highlands and the Central Belt – with a view towards expansion into the rest of the UK and internationally in 2017.
William Bird, owner of Fennel Media, said: “While the north-east is continuing to feel the pinch of the downturn, it has been of strategic advantage to us with our cost-effective approach bringing tangible benefits to clients across multiple business sectors.
“Coupled with the addition of Richard and Kevin to the team, the investment in the studio and cutting-edge equipment means we are able to provide clients with an unrivalled level of technical expertise and a service offering which is quite unique in Scotland – something that’s been an important factor in our growth to date.”
Jo McIntosh, business development manager at Fennel Media, said: “Our aim is to become the go-to company across Scotland, and further afield, for innovative filming and inspection work which supports growth for our clients. Although we’re not the biggest company, our creativity, level of technical knowledge and capability are huge and the feedback we’ve received from clients has been terrific which gives us great cause for optimism as the business moves forward.”
The inspiration behind Fennel Media came from company owner William Bird’s passion for drones and flying, a hobby which dates back more than a decade. He became approved for aerial work by the CAA in 2014.
The business provides full video production, UAV survey and inspection, photography, audio visual rental and installation, animation and 3D modelling – all of which are bespoke and tailored to suit individual clients’ needs.
