Sophic Studio, the beginning.
They were work colleagues involved
with the regeneration of Hull but it
was a graphic and business studies
course which convinced Steve Procter and Gary Brearley to take their skills
and experience into the wider world.

Both have taken guidance
from the business support
team at the regeneration firm, PROBE (Hull) Ltd who in turn are interested in Steve and Gary’s design skills.

Steve, says: “It’s a dream
come true, the start of something that could turn massive over the years. The name Sophic means “wise”,
and we felt we had developed our skills to a level where we
felt comfortable about going
on our own – a wise move!
The Freedom Centre (in Hull)
is a symbol of a new modern Hull, as are we.”

The pair have set up their own graphic
and web design company, initially specialising in helping other new businesses. Not only did Steve, 26,
and Gary (40) develop their skills
whilst working for a Hull Development Company, but they are also the latest tenants at PRNDC.Ltd’s £3.5 million flagship, the Freedom Centre.

Steve, a father of two has spent the
last five years as a designer for a regeneration company designing publications, posters and brochures,
and other company literature.

Gary, who until recently worked for
the St Aidan’s Community Project in
East Hull, has been responsible for designing web sites for organisations
such as St Aidan’s, PRNDC and credit union HERCU. Bringing his love of art
to the company.

So far they are working
within the Hull area, with
work already offered from Preston Road NDC and many other organizations like
PROBE Hull Ltd, plus everything from fitness firms
to engineering companies and large housing groups. They are also organising start-up packages for new businesses which PROBE Hull Ltd are helping to launch with help
from the Princes Trust.

Gary, a former chef, adds: “Obviously as a new business, we know what it’s like at the beginning so one of our main aims is to provide low-cost but effective web and graphic
design for other newcomers.

We offer a logo, letterhead, business card and basic website from £399.” We are into our first year and we can’t believe the work and interest already.