Top 10 Best Advertising Agencies in Shetland Islands

Advertising in a Remote Island Economy

Shetland's economy is surprisingly diverse for a population of around 23,000. Seafood and aquaculture, oil and gas, renewable energy, tourism, creative industries and the emerging space sector at SaxaVord Spaceport on Unst all contribute to a dynamic business environment. Many of these businesses sell far beyond the islands, which makes professional advertising essential for reaching customers across the UK and internationally.

Because the local market is small, Shetland organisations often work with a combination of island-based media partners and Scottish agencies that operate remotely. Improved broadband and video conferencing have made this model highly effective. This ranking considers creative quality, strategic capability, sector experience, remote collaboration and relevance to Shetland's key industries. Businesses should always review current portfolios and services before appointing an agency.

The Top 10 Advertising Agencies and Partners for Shetland Businesses

1. The Leith Agency

The Leith Agency is one of Scotland's most celebrated independent advertising agencies, known for memorable, award-winning campaigns. Its experience with public sector, drinks and consumer brands makes it well placed to help Shetland organisations craft campaigns with emotional impact and broad reach. Its strategic thinking and creative storytelling set a high benchmark in Scottish advertising.

2. Union

Union is an established Edinburgh agency with a strong record in integrated advertising, digital and brand campaigns. It has worked with major Scottish brands across tourism, retail and financial services. For Shetland businesses aiming to raise their profile on the mainland, Union offers a balance of creativity, data-informed planning and practical delivery.

3. Stand Agency

Glasgow-based Stand Agency specialises in brand, advertising and digital work for clients in education, tourism and public services. Its collaborative approach and focus on clear messaging suit organisations that need to communicate complex value propositions simply. Stand is a strong partner for cultural and community-led projects.

4. Family Advertising

Family Advertising is an independent Edinburgh agency known for bold creativity and a friendly, collaborative culture. It has delivered campaigns for well-known Scottish brands and public bodies. Its ability to deliver striking ideas on realistic budgets makes it appealing to Shetland businesses competing for attention.

5. Mearns & Gill

Aberdeen-based Mearns & Gill is one of the north of Scotland's longest-established marketing agencies. Its proximity to Shetland's main ferry and air links, along with its understanding of the north-east and island economies, makes it a natural fit for Shetland clients. It offers advertising, design, digital and media planning services.

6. Fifth Ring

Fifth Ring, headquartered in Aberdeen with an international presence, specialises in marketing for technical industries, especially energy. Given Shetland's significant role in oil and gas through Sullom Voe Terminal and its growing renewable energy sector, Fifth Ring's sector expertise is highly relevant for energy-related companies operating on the islands.

7. Multiply

Multiply is a Scottish agency combining creative advertising with digital and social expertise. Its integrated campaigns span strategy, content production and media. For Shetland tourism and food businesses seeking to engage younger audiences online, Multiply's digital-first approach is particularly valuable.

8. Equator

Equator is a Glasgow-based digital agency offering advertising, search, analytics, web development and creative services. Its data-led methodology helps businesses measure campaign performance precisely. Shetland companies with e-commerce operations, such as knitwear and food producers, benefit from Equator's performance marketing expertise.

9. Whitespace

Whitespace is an Edinburgh-based creative agency known for innovative brand campaigns and digital experiences. It works across tourism, culture, education and commercial sectors. Its thoughtful design and campaign work suit Shetland organisations that want to tell distinctive stories rooted in place.

10. Local Media Partners: The Shetland Times and SIBC

For reaching islanders directly, local media remains indispensable. The Shetland Times newspaper and the commercial radio station SIBC provide trusted channels for advertising to the island community. Their local knowledge and established audiences make them essential partners for events, recruitment, retail promotions and community campaigns.

Advertising Trends Relevant to Shetland

Digital advertising now dominates many Shetland marketing budgets, especially for businesses targeting visitors and online customers. Video content showcasing dramatic landscapes, wildlife and local craftsmanship performs exceptionally well on social platforms. Place-based branding, supported by initiatives such as Promote Shetland, helps local businesses benefit from a strong collective island identity. Sustainability messaging is also increasingly important, particularly in seafood, renewable energy and tourism.

How to Choose the Right Agency

Start by defining clear objectives, whether that is increasing bookings, launching a product or recruiting staff. Look for agencies with relevant sector experience and a portfolio that demonstrates creativity and results. Ask how they collaborate remotely and how often they will visit or communicate. Clarify budgets, reporting methods and timelines upfront. Combining a mainland agency with local media partners often produces the strongest results for island businesses.

Final Thoughts

Shetland businesses have access to a wealth of advertising talent across Scotland, alongside trusted island media outlets. By choosing partners who understand the islands' unique identity and key industries, organisations can create campaigns that resonate locally and reach audiences across the UK and beyond.