1284 Communications has marked its fifth year in business - celebrating with clients and colleagues at the Manor House in Quorn.

Founded on 20 July 2020, 1284 has gone on to win regional and national industry recognition for its work on East Midlands innovation.

The Loughborough-based consultancy specialises in strategic communication for high-growth and mid-corp businesses.

It also works with a number of local authorities, charities, and social enterprises as part of its regional economic development mission.

The celebration on June 26 caps a successful 12 months for the firm. 

The team completed Institute and Loughborough College’s 12-week AI+ programme. They used the programme to fundamentally transforming the way the company operates, and manages campaigns.

Elsewhere, 1284 moved to its own offices at the Advanced Technology and Innovation Centre (ATIC).

Meanwhile, Amy Orton commenced the MSc Strategic Leadership programme at Loughborough University Business School, while Lauren is preparing for her PRCA apprenticeship end point assessment.

George was shortlisted for Company Leader of the Year at the Business Desk Leadership Awards, and 1284 was shortlisted for CIPR Small Consultancy of the Year and PRCA Midlands PR Company of the Year.

Lauren is a finalist in Apprentice of the Year at the Enterprising Women Awards 2025.

Earlier this year, 1284 was accepted as a Crown Commercial Supplier and the team also achieved Cyber Essential Plus Accreditation and were awarded Fair Payment Gold by the Office of Small Business Commissioner.

The team has also commenced work - through Suz Everitt and Sirius Transformation - to become ISO 9001 accredited.

While supporting clients, the team has also logged 221 hours of pro bono work and 349 hours of personal development.

More recently, UKC3 became the company’s first national client.

1284 was founded by former Leicester Mercury Editor George Oliver in 2020 as he completed his Master's at Loughborough Business School.

Its purpose throughout has been to promote local authority, high growth, and mid-corp innovation in the East Midlands.

By using efficient and targeted B2B and G2B strategic communications, 1284 builds clients’ profile, effectiveness, networks, and productivity. 

1284 uses purposeful and authentic communications to develop good ideas through change.

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