Northern Ireland creative and brand agency poised for global expansion after record-breaking year and tripling headcount

Belfast creative and brand agency DHD is preparing for a milestone year of growth and global impact in 2025, building on a record-breaking performance in 2024.

Since founded in Kilkeel in 2008, DHD has transformed from a small creative studio into a powerhouse in the marketing and branding space.

The agency has tripled its headcount since 2020 and now employs 15 talented professionals, with plans for further expansion.

In recent months, DHD has welcomed six new team members and secured a string of high-profile client wins, including prestigious partnerships with Harvard Business School, MIT, the University of Michigan, and Northwestern University.

Closer to home, DHD has worked with industry leaders such as McLaughlin and Harvey, Cancer Fund for Children, and Two Stacks Whiskey. This expanding portfolio highlights the agency’s broad expertise across sectors like retail, hospitality, energy, and non-profits.

“We’ve seen remarkable growth in recent years,” said David Henderson, founder and creative director of DHD.

“We’re thrilled to continue delivering innovative and impactful solutions to clients globally. Our team’s passion and dedication have been the driving force behind our success.”

DHD’s move to Belfast’s Ormeau Labs in 2022 has also proven pivotal, placing the agency in the heart of a dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem. The move has allowed DHD to collaborate closely with clients and partners, spurring innovation and enhancing the agency’s ability to quickly adapt to changing industry trends.

David explained: “Our move to Belfast placed us closer to clients and partners, enhancing our ability to innovate quickly and forge valuable new connections. The collaborative energy and access to talent have been game-changing, enabling us to build a strong, creative, and well-rounded team.”

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As DHD prepares for an exciting 2025, the agency is focused on expanding its creative and digital services, particularly in the fields of healthcare, sustainability, sport, and entertainment. The agency plans to broaden its offerings in social media strategy and content creation while continuing to push the boundaries in videography and photography.

David continued: “We’ve come a long way since starting with just a handful of us and some big ideas back in 2008. Now, we’re a team of 15 and still growing. Seeing globally renowned clients like Harvard Business School trust us is proof that creative passion and hard work resonate, no matter where you’re based. Building and rebuilding brands is what we do best, and in 2025, we are going to be working with some genuine, globally renowned household names.

"I’m excited for DHD to bring innovative design solutions to healthcare, sustainability, entertainment, and sport sectors in 2025. These dynamic fields demand fresh ideas and meaningful engagement with customers, service users, and the wider public.”

The agency is also set to attend key industry events such as SaaStock in Dublin, MAD//Fest in Manchester, and Web Summit in Lisbon, further solidifying its reputation on the global stage.

David emphasizes that DHD’s success lies not just in its creative output but also in its culture.

He added: “Each member of our team genuinely supports one another, and that collaborative spirit drives the quality of work we deliver. Being a Northern Ireland business has positioned us exceptionally well for global partnerships—our connectivity and talent pool make us ideal for international collaboration.”

As 2025 begins, DHD is ready to seize new opportunities while staying true to its mission: delivering creative and effective solutions to clients worldwide.