GEL Studios has been named Employer of the Year at the South West Business & Community Awards.
Judges praised the purpose-led agency for building a supportive and inclusive environment focused on collaboration, professional development and wellbeing.
The company said the accolade reflects its belief that a successful business begins with the right team and underlines its commitment to fostering a culture where creativity and purpose work side by side.
GEL Studios supports staff to develop new skills by providing both time and budget for training. It also encourages open discussions around career ambitions and personal growth.
The agency employs 17 in-house specialists and has introduced a range of benefits. These include flexible and hybrid working, private healthcare, above-average pension contributions, annual bonuses and above-inflation pay rises.
Earlier this year, the firm formally enrolled in an employee ownership scheme, allocating 30 per cent of the business to current and future team members.
GEL Studios is an Accredited Living Wage Employer and a B Corp Certified business. It said fairness, sustainability and social responsibility are embedded throughout its operations.
The company is currently experiencing sustained growth. Recent developments include new hires across its marketing and web development teams, the acquisition of Digital Marketing Agency Infinity Nation and the appointment of two additional directors as part of a five-year expansion strategy.
Operating from its dedicated studio in Swindon, the agency works with SMEs along the M4 corridor. It builds long-term partnerships through collaborative, results-driven projects spanning branding, website development and marketing strategy.
The business was also shortlisted for the Outstanding Contribution to The Community Award.
Founder Graeme Leighfield said:
“We’re incredibly proud to have won Employer of the Year. From the very beginning, we’ve believed that if you create the right environment for talented people to thrive, great work will naturally follow.
“Our team is the heart of everything we do. We’ve created a workplace where people feel supported, valued and inspired to grow, while also using our creativity to make a meaningful difference in the communities around us.
“A great place to work is so much more than free coffee, beanbags, lego and painting all the walls green. It’s about building a space where tough chats can happen in a respectful, honest and safe way. It is about everyone being aligned behind a shared purpose.
“This award is a testament to the culture we’ve created and reinforces our commitment to continuing to build a workplace where creativity, collaboration and purpose go hand in hand”.
