Bloc in the USA

Bondholder Bloc Digital has announced significant international growth with the creation of a North American office and the appointment of its first permanent US member of staff.

Founded as a start-up in 2000 by former technical illustrators Keith Cox and Chris Hotham, Bloc Digital has experienced rapid growth within UK and European markets in the last five years, supporting businesses through cutting-edge 3D modelling, animation, immersive (VR and AR), and web solutions.

Announcing the news, Director Keith Cox said: “The digital nature of our business means we have a truly global reach, being able to work with international customers as easily as those based within the UK.”

Creative Director, Chris Hotham, added: “We’re incredibly proud of our US growth, to be flying the flag for UK talent, skill and success and strengthening our position at the forefront of this industry.”

Since 2011, Keith and Chris have expanded Bloc’s capabilities from animation to a multi-discipline studio including 3D modelling and enhanced motion graphics. This has been further supported by strategic investment in R&D, which has enabled the company to pioneer and develop an international reputation in immersive VR & AR familiarisation experiences and training platforms.

The business now has a growing portfolio of international clients across engineering, pharmaceutical, technology and manufacturing sectors. It has simultaneously expanded into a wider Bloc family with three new specialist markets (Bloc Media, Bloc Creative and Bloc Arch Viz) and now employs 50 people across the four divisions.

Chris Hotham continued: “Recent global events have shown the increased need for businesses to embrace digital technologies and solutions, particularly within virtual and augmented reality environments. Our solutions and products deliver real-time benefits to businesses, enabling them to work smarter, operate more efficiently and deliver greater impact.”

The company's first appointment in the US, marking a significant milestone in the its development, is Client Manager, Sam Swayze, who will focus on developing engineering and manufacturing markets.

Announcing the appointment, Director Keith Cox said: “We have been enjoying fundamental growth in the North American manufacturing and technology sectors over the past 12 months, with income generated there multiplying by more than a factor of 10. The establishment of a permanent US base is a logical and strategic development to continue our strength.”