Analogue Wonderland, one of the UK’s top film photography retailers and producers, has purchased SilverPan Film Lab, a processing facility in Bristol.

The company, launched in 2018 by mother and son combination Mary and Paul McKay, claims that the acquisition would enable it to offer a broader choice of in-house developing chemistries and services, as well as its first actual retail store. According to Analogue Wonderland, this provides it even more ability to preserve and promote the art of film photography in the digital age.

Analogue Wonderland claims that SilverPan Film Lab will continue to operate freely under the new management, allowing it to keep its individual character while continuing to provide the same services and experience that its clients have come to expect.

“There will be no immediate change to website, branding or physical location — and the same technicians will remain in charge of processing their customers’ films. The acquisition will bring added resources and technological advancements to SilverPan Film Lab, enabling it to enhance its offerings and meet the growing demands of film enthusiasts,” Analogue Wonderland says. “With a shared passion for the craft and a dedication to delivering exceptional customer experiences, Analogue Wonderland and SilverPan Film Lab are poised to create a significant partnership in the film photography community,” the company says.

SilverPan Film Lab, which was founded in 2018, believes that by partnering with Analogue Wonderland, it will benefit from purchasing and marketing know-how, robust infrastructure, and customer support.

“The acquisition by Analogue Wonderland marks an exciting new milestone for SilverPan Film Lab,” Duncan says. “Our uniquely bespoke approach to running a commercial film lab is something I have been proud of from the start; offering access to the maximum choice of high quality options in development techniques, scanning and printing to the passionate film photography community; ‘Your film, your way.’”

Customers of Analogue Wonderland and SilverPan Film Lab can expect an “enhanced experience” and an expanded choice of film items accessible in the Bristol storefront, as well as film processing and printing services. SilverPan Film Lab’s full blog post describing the acquisition to clients can be seen on the lab’s website.