Disrupt Insight was founded in August 2023, sparked by an idea from a client conversation asking why agencies are not trying to disrupt more.

Co-founders Chris Bland and Matt Rice-Haynes set out with the aim of creating something different. They developed an approach that combined traditional methods with technology, behavioural science and analytics.

The agency started with no legacy clients and no database. It built a low-overhead business model based on a modular ‘plug and play’ approach, where clients receive either full-service, field and tab or ‘thinking only’. According to Disrupt Insight, 44% of its work comes from this model, which it says offers a ‘leaner, smarter’ option for clients with tightening budgets.

Disrupt Insight has become a partner to clients including Amazon, Warner Bros, NFL, Formula 1, Boots, and M&S. It developed an in-house studio to create outputs using approaches including infographics, mini-sites, films and AI podcasts.

Work has also included self-funded studies, webinars on sustainability and women’s sport, and conference talks.

In the 23 months until July 2025, the company grew from two to nine full-time employees. It said it booked £2m in sales between August 2024 and July 2025, and converted one-off projects into global trackers, securing tracker revenue each year going forward.

Co-founder Chris Bland said: “Turns out a little disruption goes a long way – we are super proud to win best new venture! Credit goes to our phenomenally talented team, our adventurous clients who took a chance on us, and everyone who’s championed our mission to shake things up, do brilliant work and have some fun along the way. Two years in and we’re just getting started. Excited to see what comes next in 2026.”

Pictured: Disrupt Insight team on stage at the 2025 MRS Awards