L-R: David Stephenson CEO, Pragma and Steve Kent, CEO FrontRow Energy Group

Downhole Tools International (DTI), provider of coil tubing, wireline, slickline and cable deployed tools, has rebranded as Pragma as the company shifts strategic emphasis towards development and commercialisation of advanced well barrier technologies.

Supported by recent investment from FrontRow Energy Technology Group, alongside the BGF (Business Growth Fund), the company’s leadership team is repositioning the business around a three-tier well barrier portfolio, led by its flagship M-Bubble metal expandable barrier technology, while continuing to support customers with its wider downhole tools offering.

The rebrand, which in fact reinstates the company’s original name, marks a strategic return to its original, innovation-led roots; developing technologies to address complex well integrity, water management and plug and abandonment challenges across the global energy sector.

In doing so, Pragma has invested significantly in its people, technology pipeline and international market presence, positioning the business for long-term growth.

The appointment of David Stephenson as CEO in late 2025 has been followed by creation of a strengthened management and international business development team, all with a track record in global well intervention and well barrier development, across design, operations and commercialisation. 

While progressing the redesign and relaunch of its PKB and IX plug technologies under the Pragma brand, the proprietary M-Bubble technology will remain central to the company’s growth strategy, with continued focus on commercial deployment and international adoption, particularly across the Middle East and Asia Pacific regions.

David Stephenson comments: 
“Rebranding as Pragma is about more than a change of name - it’s about reaffirming our focus on well barrier technology and the innovative approach upon which the business was founded.

“With the support of FrontRow and BGF, we’re in a strong position to grow M-Bubble whilst developing well technologies from concept through to commercial deployment, as we help operators tackle increasingly complex well integrity and water management issues.”

KeyFacts Energy Industry Directory: Pragma