Merseyside brand marketing manufacturer and supplier Wild Thang continues its international expansion with new base in the US. Tony McDonough reports
Brand marketing specialist Wild Thang is extending its international footprint by opening a new base in the US.
From its headquarters in Bootle, Wild Thang manufactures and supplies a large range of branded marketing materials.
They include uniforms, banners, promotional clothing, stationery and phone chargers to multiple blue chip clients which have included SkyBet, McDonald’s and Paddy Power.
Early in 2022 the firm, which employs more than 50 people, opened its first international base in the Republic of Ireland. This was a critical post-Brexit resource that allowed it to service clients within the EU.
Now, buoyed by the success of that expansion, Wild Thang is extending its international footprint with a new operation in New Jersey, close to the bustling global metropolis that is New York.
Wild Thang founder and managing director, Andrew Dwerryhouse, said: “In a momentous leap forward, Wild Thang proudly announces the opening of its newest office in New Jersey.
“This significant expansion marks a pivotal moment in our company’s journey, underlining our commitment to growth and international presence. The establishment of our New Jersey office is not just big news for us, it’s spectacular news.
“This move enables us to tap into new markets, strengthen existing relationships and position ourselves at the heart of one of the world’s most vibrant international business landscapes.”
When COVID hit in early 2020, Wild Thang was already committed to a £2m expansion of its Bootle headquarters. The firm did see a dip in trade during the pandemic but Andrew still saw the long term value in the investment, and he has been proven right.
Post-COVID the business has gone from strength to strength. It has invested hundreds of thousands of pounds in new machinery and new staff. It has also taken a big step forward in its net zero aims by installing 290 solar panels to meet 80% of its energy needs.
Wild Thang received further good news this week when it was named in the top 10 of Sourcing City’s Distributor of the Year list for 2023. Andrew said: “This recognition is particularly special as it is a result of the votes cast by our Sourcing City suppliers.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to each supplier who took the time to acknowledge and appreciate the values we uphold in our business relationships.”
Expansion into the US has been in the planning for more than a year, with the first steps being taken by joining ASI – Advertising Specialty Institute, which Andrew says has been invaluable in helping it understand the North American Market.
He added: “This aligns us with the foremost institute supporting many industry professionals and promoting the highest standards, ethics and values. With a membership of more than 25,000 it is the foremost organisation by industry professionals across the US.”
Wild Thang also worked with the British and Irish Trading Alliance (BITA), a non-profit networking organisation. He explained: “They started the whole ball rolling by connecting us with a fantastic New Jersey Company, Cove.
“Cove has been invaluable in helping us navigate the process of legally forming the US company, setting up bank accounts and giving us expert legal advice which has been critical in our journey so we are ready to now officially trade stateside.
“Internally Wild Thang directors Sarah and John Howarth have done an outstanding job managing the US expansion project.”
John said: “We want to personally thank Michael Gattoni of Cove for hosting our visiting team at their offices, but also for the very kind hospitality by providing us with the all-American taste experience of Dunkin Donuts and a Box O’ Joe coffee treat.
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“Wild Thang’s expansion into the US signifies a bold step into a new chapter of growth and international success.”
Sarah added: “Our expansion into the US is a very exciting moment for us. We have worked hard as a team over the past 12 months to get the business operational and to a place to be able to launch Wild Thang International, with the help of our team in the US this is now a reality.
“Excitement is building across our teams as we take steps to create the same culture, foundations and approach whether operating in the UK, EU or US.”