Monday, February 24, 2025

Skyseal is Now Proudly Owned by its Employees

 Coventry-based Optagon Group, which owns Skyseal, a specialist provider of roof lights, has moved to Employee Ownership Trust for its 50-strong workforce, which now owns the majority of the company.


Coventry, Warwickshire, United Kingdom., February 21, 2025 – Coventry-based Optagon Group, which owns Skyseal, a specialist provider of roof lights, has moved to Employee Ownership Trust for its 50-strong workforce, which now owns the majority of the company.


First established in 2010 and based in Swallowgate Business Park, Coventry, Optagon owns and operates a family of brands. These include Rubber4roofs, Skyseal, SkyGuard and Kitbuildr.


Optagon, which has established a nationwide presence, can ship to anywhere in the UK and offers drop-ship services for other online retailers through its national distribution network.


The move to employee ownership was motivated by an offer from a larger organisation to buy the business. However, the founders, Tom and Tina Cullingford, turned it down to let the staff be in charge of the company's destiny.


Explaining the decision, Tom and Tina Cullingford stated: “Building a company requires hard work and determination, but creating a great business takes a great team. In 2023, a large organisation approached us with an offer to acquire the business, prompting significant reflection. While the offer was attractive, we ultimately decided that the company’s future should be shaped by those who contribute to its success every day.”


Tom Cullingford will remain as managing director, continuing to lead the company alongside a senior leadership team. He will be joined on the board by two newly appointed legal directors, general manager Antony Murray, and finance director Zoe George.


Reflecting on the transition, Antony Murray commented: “When Tom and Tina first mentioned transferring ownership to the entire team, it was both a surprise and an exciting opportunity. This move is a testament to the strength of the team and the success we have built together. The journey ahead presents a learning curve, but being part of such an innovative and forward-thinking organisation is an incredible opportunity. Every member of the team now has a meaningful stake in Optagon’s ongoing success.”


Employee-owned corporate finance adviser BCMS supported the shareholders and senior team throughout the transaction.

Tom and Tina Cullingford added: “A special thank you to the BCMS team for their guidance and support in ensuring a seamless transition to employee ownership. Their people-first approach, hands-on assistance, and expertise in areas such as valuation and communication were invaluable. Most importantly, having BCMS involved allowed the senior team to remain focused on running the business without disruption.”;


About Skyseal

Skyseal is a trading name of Optagon Ltd and exists to provide builders, roofers and competent DIY’ers with a wide variety of modern roof light options. Formerly known as Roof Depot, our company has been a trusted name in the skylight and roof window industry for years. As we transition to our new brand, Skyseal, we remain committed to delivering the exceptional products and services customers have come to expect. We are passionate about modern roofing solutions and the most up-to-date technologies in the skylight world. With our 3D configurator, we ensure our customers can find the perfect skylight for their properties and build it to their exact needs with ease, whilst ensuring longevity in their choices. You wouldn’t build a house and expect it to last only 10 years, so why do we put up with this when it comes to your roof!


Wednesday, February 5, 2025

Lance Reegan-Diehl Makes Top Ten Guitarist List in Vancouver

 Steve Newton Interviews and Comments While Comparing Sound to Satriani

Vancouver, BC — February 4, 2025— Lance Reegan-Diehl was recently included in the Top Ten List of Vancouver guitarists on writer Steve Newton’s site - Ear Of Newt, music writer/critic for The Georgia Strait. The timing couldn’t be better and coincided with the release of a video for "Sleepy Wheel," a track from his Maniacal Cavern album. This album, a testament to Reegan-Diehl's musical versatility and creativity, features a unique blend of rock, jazz, and blues and has been well-received by music enthusiasts. “Sleepy Wheel” – Features Producer/Bassist Kevin Stuart Swain (THOR, Al Harlow) on the track.

Maniacal Cavern was the 15th studio album that Lance had produced, and his 29th record that he has recorded on, played on, been a session guitarist, and/or otherwise been a part of.

Lance Reegan-Diehl is a Guitarist, Composer, Producer, and clinician who has lived in Korea for many years. He endorses Chapman Guitars, Sound Drive Amplification, Olympia Strings, and Graphtech Guitar Parts.

He is also known for his steadfast support of the U.S. Military and events that help that community, a contribution that his audience profoundly appreciates.

Reegan-Diehl's fluid guitar style and technical prowess allow him to play any music exceptionally well. His recordings of instrumental guitar albums have created a legacy that many of his contemporaries have not enjoyed.

His energy and unwavering love for music continue to this day, with many projects simultaneously inspiring his audience with his passion.

About 
Lance Reegan-Diehl

Lance Reegan-Diehl (L.R.D.) is a guitarist hailing from Vancouver B.C. and an enduring talent in the music industry with his guitar work appearing on several albums, and his own solo releases and L.R.D. Band releases. His music work in and out of the studio is a testament to his talent and affinity for creating magic and transferring it to the listener via the digital and analog methods, live performances, and clinics. Lance is the epitome of the indie artist with the necessary fortitude and drive to succeed in a competitive market. He is the consummate musician, producer, clinician, businessman, and an example to anyone that wants to succeed in the music industry. The guitarists work has also appeared on several albums and singles over the years. 

Monday, February 3, 2025

Marcu Ioachim Shop Launches Exclusive Collection of Custom Art and Products on Redbubble

Explore a Range of Unique and Artistic Designs for Apparel, Home Decor, Accessories, and More

 

Cugir,Alba,Romania., February 3, 2025 - Marcu Ioachim Shop, a creative online shop, is proud to announce the launch of its exclusive collection of custom artwork and designs  available on Redbubble. Featuring a wide variety of unique illustrations, the shop offers one-of-a-kind products including apparel, home decor, stationery, accessories, and more – all designed to help customers express their personal style and creativity.

From vibrant, eye-catching illustrations to minimalist, thought-provoking designs, Marcu Ioachim Shop brings fresh and diverse art to life on high-quality, customizable items. Each product is crafted with care, ensuring that every customer receives a unique, artistic piece that resonates with their individuality.

Marcu Ioachim Shop is built around the idea of merging artistic expression with everyday life. Whether customers are seeking a statement piece to wear, decor to transform their living space, or a gift that stands out, Marcu Ioachim Shop offers a wide selection of products that are both beautiful and functional. Available items include t-shirts, hoodies, phone cases, stickers, tote bags, pillows, posters, and much more.


Marcu Ioachim Shop is not just about creating beautiful art—it's about fostering a sense of personal connection to the designs. Each product is made to order, ensuring that customers receive a piece that is not only unique but also crafted with care and attention to detail. The shop’s commitment to quality is reflected in the range of premium materials and printing options available, giving customers the freedom to choose from a wide variety of colors, sizes, and styles to best suit their preferences.

As an independent artist, Marcu Ioachim Shop embraces the power of creativity and individuality. "I want to encourage people to explore their personal style through art and design," the creator explained. "Redbubble’s platform provides the perfect way to make that possible. It allows me to share my work with a global audience, and for customers to access high-quality products that make them feel like they’re wearing or living in a piece of art."

  1. Product Highlights:
  • Apparel: Choose from a range of clothing including t-shirts, hoodies, tank tops, and more with exclusive designs.
  • Home Decor: Personalized wall art, posters, cushions, blankets, and more to brighten up any living space.
  • Accessories: Stylish phone cases, tote bags, and stickers that add flair to everyday essentials.
  • Stationery: Notebooks, journals, and greeting cards with artistic touches to make every written word special.

"We're excited to bring our designs to the Redbubble platform," said the creator behind Marcu Ioachim Shop. "Whether you're looking for something bold and expressive or simple and elegant, there's something here for everyone. I want to provide people with art that connects with them on a personal level, and Redbubble’s print-on-demand platform allows for the perfect blend of creativity and customization."

The shop is now live and ready to serve customers worldwide, offering both domestic and international shipping options. All items are made to order, ensuring that each piece is carefully printed and packaged with the utmost attention to detail.

Marcu Ioachim Shop invites customers to explore its full range of products and find the perfect piece to elevate their wardrobe, home, or gifting experience. With new designs being added regularly, there’s always something fresh and exciting to discover.



About Marcu Ioachim Shop:
Marcu Ioachim Shop is an independent art shop on Redbubble, created by an artist with a passion for crafting unique and imaginative designs that transform everyday items into personalized, wearable art. Offering a wide range of customizable products including clothing, home decor, accessories, and more, Marcu Ioachim Shop combines creativity with quality, providing customers with a fresh way to express their individual style. With a commitment to originality and a growing collection of designs, Marcu Ioachim Shop is dedicated to making art accessible and meaningful to people everywhere.