The company joins several specialist service-providers based at the studio complex.

Special effects outfit Real SFX is the latest screen-sector company to set up a branch at The Bottle Yard Studios’ creative hub in Bristol.

Founded in 2008 and covering the whole of the UK, Real SFX has its headquarters in Cardiff, and has amassed credits including (TV) Doctor Who, Peaky Blinders, You, Fool Me Once, as well as films such as The Expendables 4.

Specialist areas include pyrotechnics (eg explosions and fire effects), atmospheric effects (including fog, smoke, rain, and wind), mechanical effects (eg custom-built rigs and mechanisms for action sequences) and environmental effects (such as simulations of natural phenomena like storms and floods).

Real SFX has also launched KIT4CREW, a new sustainable initiative designed to make use of unused or unwanted creative industry workwear. The Bottle Yard Studios fully supports the scheme, and has installed donation bins in numerous locations at its two sites. The initiative saw Real SFX named Green Business of the Year at the 2024 South Wales Business Awards last month.

Danny Hargreaves, Real SFX founder and company director, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to be opening a Real SFX workshop at The Bottle Yard in Bristol. Expanding our presence to this vibrant and creative hub marks a significant milestone for Real SFX. The Bottle Yard offers a unique environment that aligns perfectly with our commitment to excellence and innovation in special effects, and the promotion of sustainability in the industry.

“We were keen to strengthen our presence within Bristol, and The Bottle Yard was the natural choice for this expansion. We will be utilising our skilled crew in the area and also offering new training and job opportunities to bring more talent into the industry, either by upskilling local professionals such as electricians, engineers and carpenters, or by supporting new entrants. This move not only enhances our ability to serve our clients better but also reinforces our role in the UK’s thriving film and TV industry. We look forward to contributing to the innovative projects and exciting developments happening at The Bottle Yard.”

Laura Aviles, head of film, Bristol City Council, added: “We are delighted to welcome Real SFX to The Bottle Yard Studios. With an exceptional track record in the special effects field and a strong commitment to supporting our sustainability and skills development aims, they are a fantastic addition to our Creative Hub.”

The Bottle Yard’s Creative Hub consists of more than 15 businesses permanently based on site, providing a range of specialist film and TV services.

KIT4CREW’s recycling facility at The Bottle Yard Studios