The River Group is today celebrating its 25th year as a business.
The River Group, based in London’s Marble Arch, was started in 1994 by CEO Nicola Murphy and her then business partners – and has become the largest independent content agency in the UK.
It produces industry-leading campaigns for 23 international brands, including Holland & Barrett, Co-op, Superdrug, Cunard, The Perfume Shop, Everywoman and WW.
Nicola praises her colleagues for River’s many successful years, and says their talents have been the key to the agency’s longevity.
“I always say I’m the mum of seven children, with River being my seventh child!” she says.
“As I am of all my kids, I’m super proud of River and all we’ve achieved in the last 25 years, both for clients and staff, new and old alike.
“25 years in business is a massive achievement and we continue to grow despite challenging business conditions. This is all because of our dedicated and talented staff, and our loyal clients who have entrusted us with their fantastic brands, and who have supported River, and me personally – some of them throughout the majority of the journey so far.”
River began life as a contract publisher, producing magazines for the likes of Asda, Harrods, Liberty of London, BMW and IBM.
While the agency still publishes magazines for big brands, as well as magazines on the newsstand in the UK and overseas, much of River’s work is now in video and social media.
Nicola adds, “Some of Rivers 23 clients have been with us for 10 years or more, including Holland & Barrett, Superdrug, WW, Co-op and the Ramblers, and for that I sincerely thank them.
“To my colleagues, I can honestly say that it’s been an absolute pleasure working alongside you. And to all my clients, thank you – for your trust, your business and your loyalty.
“River could not have done it without you, and I would not have wanted to. Cue the Kleenex.”
To mark the 25th anniversary, River employees have taken part in numerous charity challenges over the last 12 months – including a sponsored cycle ride and the Three Peaks Challenge.
They have so far raised more than £13k for three charities close to the agency’s heart – The Katie Piper Foundation, Dogs Trust and Demelza Hospice Care for Children – with more activities still to come.
Nicola says the events have been a perfect way to mark the special year for the business.
“River has always been involved in charity fundraising since we started the agency 25 years ago – and most especially in the last four years, for our appointed charity The Katie Piper Foundation, of which I’m a trustee and director,” she explains.
“It therefore made sense to give something back once more in our 25th year of business. So, we have committed to raising £25,000 in celebration of this fantastic milestone.”
You can donate to the three fantastic charities and help River reach its £25k goal at: www.justgiving.com/company/therivergroup