At just 23 years old, Nick Saunders embarked on a journey that transformed an empty warehouse in Cardiff into one of Wales’s premier event businesses. Starting with a temporary license and a vision to recreate the vibrant nightlife events of Liverpool, Saunders founded DEPOT a decade ago. The company has evolved into a sprawling enterprise, hosting renowned music artists and attracting hundreds of thousands of music enthusiasts annually.
DEPOT’s growth has been nothing short of spectacular, with ventures like hosting gigs at the iconic Cardiff Castle, partnering with Wales legend Gareth Bale to launch a golf-themed bar, and organizing the annual DEPOT in the Castle festival. Recently, the company announced its involvement in a vast outdoor gig space in Blackweir Fields, where Kings of Leon are set to headline.
Despite the overwhelming success, Saunders remains humble and forward-focused, always striving for more. He credits the company’s resilience to the risks taken in the early days and the lessons learned along the way. From ordering excess champagne for an event to navigating through unpredictable business challenges, DEPOT has emerged as a thriving force in Cardiff’s events and food scene.
Reflecting on the past decade, Saunders marvels at DEPOT’s journey from a temporary pop-up concept to a prominent establishment that prioritizes inclusivity and quality. The company’s commitment to delivering exceptional experiences to guests, whether at an intimate gathering or a large-scale concert, has earned it a loyal following both in Cardiff and beyond.
DEPOT’s success story extends to its diverse portfolio, including the Tiger Yard street food venture in Cardiff Bay and the expansion to a 30,000 square-foot warehouse capable of hosting up to 2,100 guests. With a track record of 18 gigs and 170,000 attendees at Cardiff Castle in a single year, DEPOT has solidified its presence as a key player in Wales’s entertainment landscape.
Saunders remains deeply involved in every aspect of DEPOT’s operations, ensuring that each event is executed flawlessly and leaves a lasting impression on attendees. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, DEPOT emerged stronger, pioneering outdoor events that marked a return to socializing and live music experiences for the community.
Looking ahead, Saunders maintains a pragmatic outlook, acknowledging the ever-evolving nature of the events industry. As DEPOT continues to innovate and engage audiences with compelling offerings, Saunders remains committed to upholding the values that have guided the company since its inception.
From humble beginnings in a warehouse to orchestrating large-scale productions and collaborating with industry giants, DEPOT’s remarkable journey under Nick Saunders’ stewardship exemplifies resilience, creativity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in the entertainment realm. As DEPOT marks its 10th anniversary, the future holds endless possibilities for this trailblazing enterprise.