Independent Kent record label Toolroom moves to new Shoreditch HQ

Independent label Toolroom has relocated from Kent to a purpose-built headquarters in Shoreditch, London, signalling a new phase for the dance label’s operations.

The new space features four custom-built studios and a central office that brings together all arms of the business, from Toolroom Records to its Amplified label services division, Engine Room artist management, and the Toolroom Academy education platform.

“Relocating to Shoreditch is both a physical and symbolic move,” said Mark Knight, founder of Toolroom. “It places us at the heart of the UK's music industry, enabling us to be closer to artists, collaborators, and the energy that drives our scene. This new headquarters embodies our commitment to staying at the forefront of electronic music.”

Permanent studio residencies include producers James Hurr, Luke Hemmings, D.Ramirez and Toolroom Academy alumni Lewis John. Space is also allocated for visiting Toolroom artists, producers and Academy students.

“Our new headquarters is designed to be a hub of creativity and collaboration,” said George Ankrett, music director at Toolroom. “The terms ‘A&R’ and ‘artist development’ get thrown around the industry fairly casually, however, I’ve always prided myself on Toolroom’s commitment to spotting and working closely with artists to achieve their goals. Our London space is an extension of this, where I hope artists flourish and create alongside the guidance and knowledge we provide.”

Founded 21 years ago by Mark and Stuart Knight, Toolroom’s move to East London places Toolroom at the center of the UK music industry. “This move represents a significant step in Toolroom's evolution,” said Miles Shackleton, Toolroom COO.

“We’ve seen consistent year-on-year growth across every part of the business — from our core label to artist management, education and label services. We’re releasing more music than ever through a growing ecosystem of imprints, all powered by fully independent distribution. And at the same time, Toolroom Academy continues to innovate and scale quickly. Shoreditch gives us the physical space to match that ambition — to collaborate more deeply, move faster, and invest in the next generation.”

Named Beatport’s “Best Selling Label of the Year” for two consecutive years, Toolroom has an expanding team that includes 22 full-time employees. The brand umbrella supports over 7000 Toolroom Academy students worldwide, services five in-house labels including Toolroom Trax, Love & Other, and Zerothree, provides label services for Know Where, Kaluki, and Danny Howard’s Nothing Else Matters, and sees international artists Martin Ikin, Essel, Tony Romera, Cassimm, and Crusy signed to Engine Room management.