Meet the Design4Retail Team, Experts in Retail Design

VISION & MISSION

We are 60+ talented individuals, experienced in all aspects of design and implementation.

Design4Retail is a team of over 60 inventive, experienced, and passionate creatives driven by a shared love for design and the impact it can have. As a multi-award-winning Design Agency, we constantly challenge ourselves to create standout retail interiors and compelling brand communications that bring ideas to life in meaningful, memorable ways.

Founded in 2003 by Chris, Tim, and Jon, the agency has grown significantly over the years, but we’ve stayed proudly independent and true to our roots. Based in a beautiful, converted barn just outside Leicestershire, the countryside setting reflects a down-to-earth culture that our clients consistently value.

What truly sets Design4Retail apart isn’t just a picturesque location, but a grounded approach and commitment to honesty. Our clients often tell us that we’re refreshingly grounded and approachable, and we’re proud to remain this way as we continue to grow. From branding and creative insight, through to technical detail, project management, and production, we’re the retail design agency with integrity.

Our goal is to transform the retail design industry from a fast, wasteful approach to one that priorities sustainability, responsible sourcing, and environmental accountability.

From our start twenty years ago, our role has always been to provide the best support to our clients with an approachable face and a can-do attitude. Today, this means being sustainable; it’s the only way to continue to make great design and great experiences available to many people for the years to come.

Chris Baker

With over 35 years in retail design, Chris began his career in 1988 after studying graphic design at Nene College. After holding senior creative roles at top agencies—where he met future partners Tim and Jon—he co-founded Design4Retail in 2003. A hands-on creative, Chris is passionate about turning ideas into reality and fostering strong client relationships. Notable D4R milestones include the Alliance & Leicester branch redesign, projects with adidas for London 2012, and Harrods’ 5th floor revamp. Outside the studio, he’s often found on the golf course or supporting the Northampton Saints.

Tim Howitt

Tim’s career in retail design began before graduation, working summers at Oakley Young, where he moved from hands-on assembly to the design studio. After earning a degree in Design and Technology from Loughborough University, he joined full-time as a Technical Designer, eventually shifting into account management and business development. Over the next 12 years, Tim worked with leading retailers and global brands, including Boots, adidas, Nike, Microsoft (plus many more)—building the foundation that led to co-founding Design4Retail alongside Chris and Jon. Outside of work, Tim splits his time between family life with horses and dogs, fair-weather motorbike rides, and planning his next ski trip.

Jon Vinall

Jon has spent over 35 years in the retail design industry. Although not classically design trained, Jon comes from a family with Design & Printing in the genes. He began his career as a Project Manager and learned from some outstanding industry peers, about the creative process, materials, production techniques and the organisational skills that a successful Project Manager needs to master. Jon thrives on feeding inspiration to the team and watching them transform ideas into exceptionally crafted possibilities. Outside of work, Jon enjoys travel, staying active, and the joy of socialising with good food, wine, and music.

2D Designers

With a passion for retail storytelling, the 2D design team craft beautiful branding, graphics and artwork for a broad range of clients and industries. Don’t let their façade fool you, this talented bunch are the two-dimensional divas of the design world.

3D Designers

Responsible for transforming creative beliefs into tangible designs, the 3D and spatial design teams are enviable when it comes to innovative retail strategies. Their uncompromising compassion towards people and the planet leads to the consistent delivery of creativity with a conscience.

Marketeers

Focused on digital marketing and events, as well as new business strategies, the marketing team continually promote D4R as the honest creative agency it is! Eyes on the prize, this trio are always three steps ahead.

Client Services

Expertly managing a portfolio of clients and ensuring that each project runs as smoothly as possible, the client services team have a lot on their plates but never fail to deliver. At the D4R Christmas party, you’ll find them first in line at the bar.

Developers

A talented team that transforms creative into technical development which leads the production and installation of any space. Key personality traits of the development team: quick wit and sarcasm.

Projects

From chatting with suppliers through to driving across the country to manage project installations, the project management team are responsible for maintaining our high-quality projects. With meticulous attention to detail, they all love a good spreadsheet!

Logistics & Production

Constantly on the move, our skilled Logistics team ensures your fixtures, furniture, and merchandise are perfectly placed. They bring designs to life with calm precision all while exceeding our clients’ expectations.

Admin

Responsible for managing everything from finance and day-to-day operations through the delivery of production elements, this team are at the heart of D4R. The friendliest of teams to greet clients at reception.

Careers

Join Us

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JOBS

Are you the future of Design4Retail? We are always on the lookout for passionate people to join our growing team. Can’t see what you are looking for? Drop us a line anyway and tell us a bit about yourself! We will always respond and who knows what the future holds.

careers@design4retail.co.uk

INTERNSHIPS

Want to gain more experience in the wonderful world of retail design? We offer 6-12 month internships for design and marketing to students on a sandwich course, or for those just finished their studies. Drop us a line and you could start your career with D4R!