While 2020 has brought unprecedented change and challenges and to local and global organisations, this week has been one for welcome celebration! Businesses across the region joined together to showcase achievements with the Mainframe Derby and East Midlands Chamber 2020 Awards going ‘virtual’ in response to COVID-19.

For Bloc Digital this week has also been one for reflection and gratitude. Rounding up our 20th anniversary year with two awards for growth, innovation, cutting-edge work and an increasing industry profile is reaffirming our vision for the future.

The Mainframe Awards was the first of the events to make the shift to the virtual world with an evening highlighting the success of the digital and creative community in Derbyshire. On 30th November the virtual celebration was hosted live by Derby QUAD and the Mainframe Team, with Director Keith Cox representing Bloc Digital.

Nominated alongside Reckless Yes and Mr Shaw Limited for ‘Putting Derby / Derbyshire on the Map’, Bloc Digital was presented with the award by Simon Kirk from Marketing Derby who cited Bloc’s efforts in flying the region’s ‘digital revolution’ flag as an important factor.

Directors Keith Cox and Chris Hotham recently visited Derby QUAD to collect the award in an exciting and Covid-safe handover. Reflecting on the win, Director Keith Cox said “Derby is where the vision for Bloc Digital started. We’re proud of our strong roots here in this talented and forward-thinking community and while we’ve grown and established satellite offices in Bournemouth and the US we are a Derby business, always will be.”

Director Chris Hotham added “We know that hard work, talent, innovation and determination are at the heart of our business but to have that publicly recognised makes us particularly proud. We’re very honoured to have received this award for playing our part in developing the region’s prominence in the creative digital sector – attracting business in and showcasing innovation and talent out.”

Directors Keith Cox and Chris Hotham collecting the Mainframe Award for Putting Derby / Derbyshire on the Map. Image credit: Mainframe.
The East Midlands Chamber Business Awards was the second of the two virtual events, showcasing talent and achievements from businesses across the region. This year saw a great number of worthy nominees reach the final in their respective categories with results announced on 3rd December.

Alongside finalists Cosy, Scenariio, think3 and West Road Haulage, Bloc Digital eagerly awaited to hear the outcome for the Outstanding Growth Award. After the win was confirmed by award sponsor Amazon, Director Keith Cox said:

What started as two technical illustrators now stands as one of the UK’s leading immersive digital studios – pioneering emerging technologies across markets, offering innovative services, doubling in size in the last two years, and establishing a Bloc family of companies.

Chris Hotham commented: “This award goes out to our team. At the heart of our creativity are our people – that’s why we’re committed to building and nurturing the best talent. It’s their skills and attitude behind the scenes that powers the engine and makes us ‘Bloc’.”

One member of the team that particularly shone during the East Midlands Chamber Awards was Ranica Brown. Ranica continues to conquer new heights – reaching the final for Apprentice of the Year by demonstrating exceptional progress and contribution to our team and work. Having recently commenced the first Digital UX Degree Apprenticeship course in the UK we are extremely proud of all her achievements to date and know she has a bright future ahead!

Both awards ceremonies proved fantastic events and demonstrated the region’s success in moving award ceremonies virtually. In a year where Bloc Digital celebrates 20 years in business, we’re proud of the Bloc team for receiving recognition for this year’s hard work and determination. We look forward to further growth in 2021 – continuing to put Derbyshire on the map, flying the flag for innovation, talent and collaboration, and being part of the region’s success story.