Blackad Ltd

Specialties

We’re web copywriters, with offices in Glasgow and London. Chances are you’ve seen our copy on the websites of Tesco, Vodafone and AXA.

We also train people: you can ask us to run a tailored, private copywriting course for your team. From blog writing skills to FAQs, we can help. If you just need to train a few people, you might prefer to book a place on one of our public courses.

One last thing: we still write for advertising and design — mainly for Scotch whisky clients.

History

Established in 2002.

The business was started by Alan Black. Alan resigned from his role as an advertising agency creative director, right in the middle of the dotcom crash. It seemed like the right thing to do. Not everyone agreed.

Blackad started with a roster of direct clients. Many, like Matthew Algie, as still with us today. Gradually, word got around, and we started working for larger brands. By 2006, we were working with RBS Group — across their NatWest, RBS and Lombard brands. By 2008, we’d picked up Vodafone too.

Today, we have a mix of agency and direct clients. We also work with startups.

Meet the Business Owner

Alan B.

Business Owner

Alan started his career, at a London-​based agency called Barkers. Actually, the role had been advertised as ‘creative slave’. They weren’t kidding.

Despite the job title, he somehow managed to create ads for the Metropolitan Police, Currys and Coopers & Lybrand (now PWC).

After a few years in London, Alan headed back to Glasgow to build a creative team for another part of Barkers. When he left in 2000, it was the largest and most successful team of its type in Scotland. Alan then moved to TMP Worldwide’s Scottish operation — which is where he hatched the plan to start Blackad.

Since 2002, Alan has led Blackad. He also writes a hell of a lot of copy. His direct clients include Standard Life, Tesco, Crieff Hydro and Auchentoshan.

Blackad Ltd also recommends

Billy Bilsland Cycles

2

reviews

Bikes

Alan B. says,

«It’s where we go to get our bikes fixed. And to buy new kit. Friendly, intelligent advice.»

Good Creative

Graphic Design

Alan B. says,

«Brilliant strategic thinking. Backed by highly creative execution.»

TBP!

Graphic Design

Alan B. says,

«A very experienced creative team, with a great attitude.»

Matthew Algie & Co

Coffee & Tea

Alan B. says,

«Coffee. Tea. Machines. And everything else. The most ethical, quality-​obsessed business we know.»