Executive Summary

Solid State Logic (SSL) remains committed to integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into our operations and culture. A globally respected leader in audio technology and innovation, we conduct business responsibly and sustainably, providing high quality products, protecting the environment and supporting the local community.

As part of our commitment to social responsibility, SSL has supported Sobell House Hospice in 2024 through various fundraising events to raise funds and awareness. These include OxTrail, Oxfordshire’s first ever sculpture trail and the Oxford Half Marathon.

Our dedication to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education remains a core part of our outreach efforts. SSL staff participated in local school programs, promoting careers in audio engineering and technology. We continue to mentor aspiring engineers and provide hands-on experience to inspire the next generation of innovators.

SSL fosters a collaborative and inclusive workplace prioritising employee wellbeing and development. In 2024, we expanded our internal engagement programs, including wellness initiatives, skill-sharing, and regular town halls to communicate important messages transparently. Charity-driven team activities strengthen our culture of purpose and connection.



Charity


Sobell House Hospice is an important long-established local charity that provides compassionate palliative care to people with life-limiting illnesses. It aligns closely with SSL’s values of community support, dignity, and care.

Founded in 1976 and part of the Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, Sobell House supports patients and their families at home, in hospitals, and at their purpose-built hospice. The charity has a deeply important place in the heart of SSL. We’re proud to support causes that make a real difference to the lives of local people, and the work that we do with Sobell House demonstrates our commitment to social responsibility and community wellbeing as part of our broader ESG strategy.




Sobell House – OxTrail


SSL was proud to sponsor OxTrail 2024, Oxfordshire’s first-ever sculpture trail, supporting Sobell House Hospice. We sponsored a life size ox, DOTS (Dreams of the Spires) which was painted by RAWZ, a local artist, hip-hop MC, and spoken word poet from Oxford.

The 30 life-sized ox sculptures were displayed around Oxford in July and August. Local families and visitors to Oxford could take part in the OxTrail to visit as the ox sculptures. In September, the oxen were auctioned to raise further funds for Sobell House, and SSL managed to secure DOTS who resides in our office. Sponsoring the sculptures, raised awareness, encouraged community engagement, and supported Sobell House’s vital work across Oxfordshire.

Watch the timelapse of DOTS creation here: https://solidstatelogic.com/ssl-oxtrail-2024-landing-page


Three Peaks Challenge

In June 2024, SSL supported another fundraising initiative. 20 climbers successfully completed the Three Peaks Challenge. 15 colleagues conquering all three mountains and 5 took on one or two peaks. Among the 15 climbers who completed the full challenge, 9 finished in under 24 hours, while a further 5 completed it just over the 24-hour mark demonstrating incredible dedication.

This event showcased teamwork, resilience and personal achievement but also highlighted our commitment to physical endurance and environmental awareness as part of our broader ESG objectives.

The challenge fostered team spirit and supported our chosen causes, with all participants contributing to fundraising efforts and raising awareness for important local initiatives.


Oxford Half Marathon


Solid State Logic (SSL) was proud to support the Oxford Half Marathon 2024, with 12 SSL runners participating to raise funds for Sobell House. On Sunday, 13th

October, they took on the 13-mile course, running through Oxford’s iconic city streets and scenic parks to support Sobell House’s vital work in palliative care and bereavement support. This is another initiative that showcases SSL’s commitment to community engagement and social responsibility. It was inspiring to see our team come together to contribute to this meaningful cause and we look forward to supporting Sobell House again in 2025.

STEM Engagement and Education


SSL is proud to actively nurture the next generation of talent in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). As a company of innovation and technical excellence, we recognise the importance of supporting young people on their journey into STEM careers, especially in audio engineering and digital technology.


STEM Ambassadors Program

SSL currently has 7 dedicated STEM ambassadors who contribute their time and expertise to a wide range of initiatives that inspire students and early-career professionals. These ambassadors are passionate about sharing real-world industry knowledge, and helping young people discover the exciting possibilities of a future in audio.


Work Experience and School Placements


We maintain strong relationships with local educational institutions to provide meaningful work experience opportunities. In 2024, students from Marlborough School and Burford School, attended hands-on placements to demonstrate the daily reality of working in a high-tech, creative environment. These placements cover a broad spectrum of departments, giving students insight into engineering, manufacturing, and business operations.


Educational Visits

We regularly welcome school and university groups to our headquarters. These visits give students a behind-the-scenes view of our operations, from R&D to manufacturing and testing facilities. Our team leads interactive tours, demos, and Q&A sessions designed to educate and inspire.


Mock Interviews and Career Guidance

Our team supports career readiness programs, including mock interviews at Burford School; where we help students prepare for the professional world. Sessions simulate real interview experience, providing valuable feedback on communication, confidence, and presentation skills.

Social

At SSL, we believe our people are at the heart of everything we do. Social initiatives are designed to create a safe, inclusive, and connected workplace where individuals feel valued, supported, and empowered. Whether it’s through workplace wellbeing, personal development, or community engagement, we are committed to building strong, positive relationships with employees, customers, suppliers, and the wider community.


Health, Safety, and Wellbeing




Employee physical and mental wellbeing are priority. In 2024, we enhanced our focus on mental health with Mental Health Awareness Days and informal gatherings. Employees were able to connect with our Mental Health First Aiders and discuss important topics in a supportive environment.

To further support wellbeing and social connection, we hosted casual get-togethers including Pancake Day, breakfast bap mornings, and cake days, helping to create space for informal conversation and community spirit during the working day.

The SSL football team meets weekly not only to play the beautiful game but also to build relationships, trust and a space for important conversations that support mental wellbeing. We have invested in a small gym with the latest equipment supporting our belief that a healthy workplace is a happy workplace. A table tennis and pool table are the latest edition to our staff pavilion and given its regular use, was worth the investment. The physical, mental and emotional benefits of being outside in nature are well documented. Colleagues come together regularly to walk and have a chat during lunchtimes.


Employee Engagement

We remain proud of our support for Sobell House, our chosen company charity. A standout activity in 2024 was the OxTrail Scavenger Hunt. The team from SSL explored Oxford to search for artistic oxen sculptures; having fun and raising awareness. The event was a brilliant combination of charity, creativity, and team bonding.


We also hosted our first-ever Summer Festival, welcoming colleagues, and their friends and families for a sunny day of live music (performed by SSL colleagues and their bands). This event celebrates our creative roots, a love of music and brings together everyone in a special way.

Other 2024 highlights include our Summer Party, featuring activities like Total Wipeout, laser shooting, golf, and football games. We hosted this on company grounds to encourage camaraderie and fun. We celebrated the 30th anniversary of our legendary SSL Music Night, where colleague bands took the stage for an unforgettable night of live entertainment and celebration.


Long Service Awards

At SSL, we recognise long service for employees who have been with the company for 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, and even 45 years. Long service awards celebrate the dedication and loyalty of our long-standing team members. These awards reflect our appreciation for employees’ contributions and acknowledge these significant milestones in their careers. The awards honour individual achievement and our commitment to employee well-being and retention. In 2024 we awarded the following:

3 x 20 year awards

6 x 25 year awards

1 x 30 year award

3 x 35 year awards

2 x 40 year awards

Environment and Sustainability

At Solid State Logic, environmental responsibility is central to our innovation in audio technology. We are committed to reducing our environmental impact and supporting a low-carbon future through practical, sustainable initiatives. These include the use of pulp-moulded and recycled packaging, and the integration of Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) aluminium and plastics in key products. We've implemented energy-efficient power-saving modes across our product range to cut energy use during idle periods. Together, these actions reflect SSL’s commitment to sustainable design and responsible manufacturing.


Workplace Initiatives

Solid State Logic was the first member of the Audiotonix group to introduce a cardboard compactor to streamline recycling efforts and minimise landfill waste. To reduce our reliance on non-renewable energy, we also invested in solar panels, which now provide a significant portion of our facility’s electricity. Additionally, we have created a wildflower meadow to support pollinators and enhance local biodiversity. This is complemented by the installation of bird and owl boxes to provide safe nesting habitats for native species. These actions reflect our approach to environmental stewardship and our commitment to fostering a more sustainable future.


Packaging

Solid State Logic is committed to improving the sustainability of our packaging through thoughtful design and material choices. By standardising the dimensions of key products—including the Harrison 32C, SSL 18, Alpha 8, Revival, and Super 9K, we have streamlined our packaging requirements.

We developed bespoke pulp tooling for our SSL 2, to replace traditional foam packaging. In collaboration with our suppliers, we have transitioned foam-based packaging, to 50% recycled PE foam. Additionally, we are minimising printed materials by placing essential documentation directly onto product boxes, further reducing waste.


Materials

Solid State Logic is dedicated to responsible material sourcing and reducing the environmental impact of our products through the use of recycled and sustainable materials.

High-volume products such as the SSL 18, Alpha 8, Revival, and Super 9K incorporate Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) Aluminium 5052-H32, which contains a minimum of 80% recycled content, significantly lowering the carbon footprint associated with raw material extraction and processing.

Wherever feasible, we also specify PCR plastics in our designs. For example, the SSL 2 chassis is manufactured using PCR plastic, and many moulded components across our product range are targeted for PCR material integration. These choices reflect our ongoing effort to embed circular economy principles into our design and manufacturing processes.


Power Saving

As part of our commitment to energy efficiency and sustainable product design, Solid State Logic has implemented advanced power-saving modes across a range of our products. These features are designed to reduce energy consumption during periods of inactivity without compromising performance.

Our Origin console includes an Auto Sleep mode that reduces power usage from under 900 watts during operation to less than 40 watts in standby. Similarly, the Puredrive operates between 27–45 watts in typical use, dropping to as low as 4.8 watts in Auto Sleep mode. The BUS+ features both Auto Sleep and Deep Sleep options, reducing power draw from under 38 watts during use to just 10 watts in Auto and less than 1 watt in Deep Sleep.

The System T platform incorporates multiple hibernation modes that can cut power consumption by up to 25%. Additionally, our upcoming O-Series products will include both auto-sleep and hibernation functionality to further enhance energy efficiency. These power management innovations reflect SSL’s proactive approach to reducing the environmental impact of our technologies.