Founded in 2002 by three creatives with a shared vision, Taxi Studio has grown from a bold Bristol start-up into a globally recognised agency. With a new studio space, long-standing client partnerships, and a fiercely independent mindset, the team reflects on their journey so far—and what’s still to come.
Nestled in the heart of Bristol’s creative scene, Taxi Studio is the kind of place that proves great design isn’t bound by geography. Founded in 2002 by Alex Bane, Ryan Wills and Spencer Buck—three creatives who took the road less travelled—the studio has grown into an internationally recognised powerhouse without ever trading its South West roots for a London postcode.
“We set out to prove that world-class creativity doesn’t have to come with a London postcode,” says Natalie Matti-Brown, client services director. “Why not Bristol? The UK’s creative heartbeat isn’t just in the capital. Cities like Manchester, Brighton, Edinburgh, and, of course, Bristol are buzzing with talent.”
That sense of place is important. Bristol’s energy—its independence, vibrancy, and raw creativity—seeps into everything Taxi does. It’s a city known for counterculture and colour, so it’s no surprise that a studio born here would blend big-brand thinking with a spirit of rebellion.
Building something of their own
Back in the early 2000s, the three founders were working together at a different agency when the owner decided to step away. Left at a crossroads, they could’ve packed their bags and headed to London like many others. Instead, they took the plunge and built something of their own—something that could thrive outside the capital’s shadow.
Since then, the studio has grown steadily, staying true to its founding vision, but that’s not to say the road’s been smooth. “Every day throws a new curveball,” says creative director Karl Wills. “Truth is, staying in business is the challenge. There isn’t one single ‘we made it’ moment—just a deep respect for the industry, and an understanding that creativity and commerce are two sides of the same coin.”
That balancing act—between artistry and accountability—sits at the core of Taxi’s philosophy. From local start-ups to global household names, every project is approached with the same rigour and curiosity. While the studio’s client list may span continents, they’re just as happy working with Bristol-born brands.
“We’re more than capable of competing with the big agencies,” Karl continues. “Doing it from the South West, where we grew up and built our roots, just makes sense. And yes, when the right local project comes up, we jump at the chance.”
Milestones and Momentum
While Taxi’s rise wasn’t marked by a single breakthrough moment, there have been plenty of standout milestones. One early turning point came when the studio pitched a left-field idea to The Science Museum: instead of traditional marketing materials, why not create interactive leaflets that brought the exhibits to life?
It was a bold move that paid off. The client loved it, the industry noticed, and awards followed. “It turned heads, bagged awards, and opened doors to bigger opportunities,” says Karl.
However, accolades aside, what really defines Taxi is the strength of its relationships. “Some of our client partnerships span decades,” says Natalie. “That says a lot about the kind of work we do and the way we do it.”
Projects with purpose
Among the team’s personal highlights, a few names stand out. For Natalie, it’s the strategic transformation of Minute Maid and Tim Hortons—iconic brands with huge scope and equally high stakes. “As a Canadian living in the UK, working on Tim Hortons was a particularly epic experience. The scale of the work allowed us to create something unforgettable—and award-winning.”
For Karl, the most challenging project has been a more personal one: carving out his own path within the studio. “I started here as a junior. Spencer and Ryan were like brothers—well, Ryan is my actual brother. I had to prove myself, fight to stand out, and show what I could do.” That sense of ownership and opportunity runs throughout the studio’s culture.
“Every project is an opportunity,” he continues. “The excitement comes from pushing the work, pushing the brief, and seeing where it takes us.”
Culture, not cliques
At Taxi, the culture is intentionally flat and ego-free. Good ideas can come from anywhere, and everyone’s voice matters.
“Psychological safety is key,” says Natalie. “We nurture people to bring their best without fear. There’s no hierarchy when it comes to ideas. When I joined, I had little branding experience, yet my opinion was always valued.”
It’s a place that balances freedom and responsibility—where the phrase work hard, play hard still rings true, but on your own terms. “There’s no one way to be at Taxi,” she adds. “The platform is here; it’s up to you what you make of it.”
A space of their own
That mindset extends to the studio’s new space—an upgrade that signals how far Taxi has come. “We’d outgrown our old space,” says Karl. “It didn’t reflect the scale of who we are now. We’re competing with the best in the world, and we needed a space that showed it.”
Designed by the team, for the team, the new studio captures the heart and soul of Taxi. It’s sophisticated. It’s grown-up. But more than anything, it feels like home. “When you walk through, you feel like you’re in Taxi,” Karl adds. “And that’s exactly what we wanted.”
Challenging the brief
So what makes Taxi different? For one, they don’t just answer briefs; they challenge them. “Strategic design thinking is at the core of everything we do,” says Natalie.
That means asking difficult questions, pushing clients to aim higher, and being comfortable offering honest opinions. “We’re partners, not suppliers,” says Karl. “We want to create something better than expected, and we’ll keep going until we get there.”
The studio’s smaller size is also a strength. There’s room for everyone to shine and space to grow. “It’s what you make of it,” Karl adds. “If you’re up for it, Taxi gives you the platform to make an impact.”
What’s next?
Looking ahead, the studio is focused not on reinvention but on confidence. “We’re not about chasing trends,” says Natalie. “We double down on what we do best. Confidence is key.”
That includes expanding Taxi’s presence on the global stage. “Why not?” says Karl. “We’ve got the talent, the work, and the drive, so now it’s about making sure the world knows it.”
From bold beginnings in Bristol to global ambitions, Taxi Studio is a shining example of what happens when you choose your own path and build something brilliant along the way.