OPD Turns 13: Unlucky for Some, but Not for Us
The number 13 gets a bad rap. Triskaidekaphobia, the fear of 13, has roots in everything from Norse myths to Christian tradition. Some say it’s unlucky because of ancient dinner parties gone wrong. Others blame the chaos of having 13 full moons in a year, which played havoc with medieval calendars.
But it’s not all bad press.
In Italy, fare tredici literally means to hit the jackpot. In France, 13 was once a symbol of luck on charms and postcards. And the baker’s dozen - giving 13 instead of 12 - is still seen as a generous tradition. In Hindu culture, the number is associated with peace, long life and good fortune.
So how does OPD feel about turning 13?
Honestly - we’re into it.
Because 13 also marks the start of the teenage years. And we think that’s a pretty good place to be. We’ve got the energy, drive and ideas of a teenager - but backed by the experience and maturity that comes from solving hundreds of design challenges and growing from a founding duo to a team of nearly 40.
As we’ve grown up, we’ve also grown sharper. We’ve focused in on three key sectors, medical, consumer and industrial, where we know we can add real value. And we’ve put in place the systems that help us scale with confidence, including ISO 13485 and ISO 9001 certifications.
We’ve made some new friends along the way too. From our early days in Oxford to our new base near Harwell Campus, we’ve built strong links with the wider design and science community across the county - and we’re thankful for the support and collaboration we’ve found here.
The OPD difference - still New Product Science
From the very beginning, our approach has been grounded in rigour. New Product Science is our way of applying that - a structured, evidence-based design methodology that brings creative ideas to life in commercially and technically viable ways.
It’s what helps us tackle complex briefs with confidence. What makes us trusted by clients when the risks are high or the timelines are tight. And it’s what sets us apart - not just as problem-solvers, but as partners in long-term product success.
Thirteen years in, we’re still refining and evolving New Product Science - integrating new tools, new insights, and new demands from the sectors we serve. But the core principle hasn’t changed: do the thinking, then make it real.
Thank you – and here’s to what’s next
OPD wouldn’t be what it is without the people behind it - our talented team, our brave and brilliant clients, and the network of collaborators and partners who help bring ideas to life.
Thank you for your trust, your creativity and your belief in better.
We’re looking forward to what the next stage holds - and if you’re curious about working together, revisiting an idea, or exploring something completely new, we’d love to hear from you.
Here’s to year 13 - and all the good things to come after it.
