LET YOUR PROJECT SOAR
WHO WE ARE
Matt Allen - Owner, Blackhawk Design
A passion for marketing & design excellence.
Blackhawk Design is the brainchild of owner Matt Allen, whom after studying Business with a major in Marketing in college — loved the challenge of finding creative ways to solve a problem. However, after learning the principals of Marketing, he wanted to expand his skillset further — so that he could not only conceptualize, but also execute the marketing solutions he envisioned. This led to another 2-years of college specializing in Computer Graphic Design.
In 2014, Matt accepted the role of Marketing Manager at a prominent Canadian Import/Export company that specializes in product development and distribution. He quickly ascended to the role of Director of Operations and Director of Marketing in North America.
During this time, he co-created over 300 products — some of which found homes on the shelves of notable retailers such as Canadian Tire, Shoppers Drug Mart, Petro Canada, Safeway, Sobey’s, Wallgreens, Circle K, Home Hardware, Co-op, Love’s Truck Stops, Centex, Canco, and more.
He also became versed in the process of sourcing, importing, and producing products (both domestic and overseas), travelling to manufacturing hubs such as Hong Kong and China multiple times. There he would find new products, meet manufacturers, visit factories, and attend world renowned trade shows including China’s Canton Fair.
After nearly 8 years in this role, he decided it was time to expand the scope of his work, and graciously resigned.
In 2022, armed with refined skills, industry-tested experience, and a proven track record — it was time for Blackhawk to take flight.
WHAT WE DO
Pictured: Warp Worm - Novelty Consumer Toy (Designed in 2024, sold throughout North America)
Creative solutions that get results.
We provide premium design and marketing solutions for brands and products that want to stand out from the pack.
Whether that’s display/packaging development and design, branded presentations/sell sheets/catalogues for distributors and corporates, large trade show booths and materials, realistic mockups of the finished product from scratch, floor and counter display systems, or consulting on how to get the most out of your product — we’ve got you covered.
You may have an existing product that needs a refresh in order to outsell the competition, or a product idea you need taken from paper napkin concept, to physical completion. Perhaps even an upcoming product you’ll need pre-sell prior to producing — and you’ll need materials created to represent it’s final look. We can do all of that, and everything in between.
We have the expertise to set your brand and products apart, and the experience to know what gets results.
Look to us as your one-stop-shop, to help you design it, present it, produce it, and sell it.
HOW WE DO IT
Pictured: StickerKraze Bamboo Stickers - Retail Counter Item (Designed in 2023, sold in North American market)
Plan it. Build it. Love it. Grow it.
The process always begins with a Consultation Meeting.
You present your idea, product, brand, or concept. We discuss what you’re looking to achieve and how. We brainstorm, conceptualize, discuss, and collectively decide on a path that fulfills all objectives. Input from all stakeholders is welcome, and we will provide plenty of insight and ideas of our own to the mix. The meeting concludes with what is to be produced, how it will be delivered, and a vision of how it should look. We finalize the details with you, and get to work.
Next, we put it on paper with a Project Agreement.
A direction has been defined and finalized. The work to be done has been confirmed. We list all of the deliverables in a straightforward way — and we build what’s been agreed. Nothing more is needed from the client end, so sit back and relax.
The fun part, Delivery.
We deliver your files and products in the manner agreed, in an organized electronic folder with all items clearly named and labelled. Files are provided as defined in the consult so that they are ready to go for your factory, printer, or manufacturer. We can also provide you working (editable) files as an add-on option — so that you can make changes on the go (without expert help) should your product line evolve, change, or expand. Should you want additional products to help augment the brand or product further, we can always do more!
WHAT THEY THINK
LILIAN JASKIEVICZ
PROCUREMENT LEAD - BOMBARDIER CANADA
”I am delighted to provide a testimonial for my esteemed colleague Matt Allen at Blackhawk Design.
His outstanding work in every aspect of what he does, is nothing short of impressive. It is a consistent reflection of unwavering dedication to quality and excellence.
From the very beginning, Matt has delivered exceptional results in every project he undertakes, and exceeds expectations.
His meticulous attention to detail and commitment to high-quality outcomes have set a standard for our team. Great work is just the starting point for Matt; he effortlessly combines this with his exceptional communication skills.
He has an extraordinary ability to convey ideas clearly and effectively, ensuring that everyone on our team is informed and aligned.
Furthermore, Matt is a natural leader. He inspires and motivates those around him, fostering a collaborative and positive work environment. His approachable demeanour encourages open discussions, allowing the team to tackle challenges creatively and with confidence.
I wholeheartedly recommend Matt Allen to anyone looking for an industry leader. His remarkable combination of great work, outstanding communication skills, and strong leadership make him an invaluable asset in any professional setting or project.”
MELANIE O’NEILL
PRINCIPAL, CEO - EFTIE CONSULTING
“It is with absolute pleasure that I provide a recommendation for Matt Allen at Blackhawk Design.
To say that Matt is a relentless achiever would be an understatement. His skillset is far reaching. He has been instrumental in providing solid leadership in all aspects of the importation of goods from several different countries, distribution (domestic and cross border), and e-commerce.
Oftentimes, turnarounds for projects are very tight. Matt always rises to the challenge, is able to prioritize many different projects simultaneously and does it with a true commitment to integrity.
Matt wears many hats, from as simple as refining existing marketing framework, to ground up new product development - cradle to grave. His ability to switch and pivot daily is a source of amazement for me.
He is able to put himself into any role within the organization seamlessly. Operations, Finance, Marketing, Development, HR, Procurement - the list goes on and on. Matt can solve problems, both within a team and independently – but more importantly is intuitive enough to recognize a potential problem before it occurs.
Matt is a leader in branding and marketing. His work is creative, pragmatic and quite stunning. He understands his market demographics and price points. When onboarding new category items, he researches relentlessly and is always prepared to say “I don’t know – but I will find out”. Attention to detail in his work is impeccable.”