drew lanza

Our June issue of BOLT! explores the intricacies of developing packaging for multiple entertainment brands under a single overarching brand, from establishing visual hierarchy to the myriad of benefits of leveraging a unified approach to package design. If you have thoughts on this topic, please chime in. I'd love to hear from you! https://bit.ly/3VuP4fp

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In continuity to my ongoing blog series about #legacy #brands, read up about HERSHEY'S Chocolate. #branding #brandstrategy #hersheys #hersheyschocolate

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Sometimes, someone else has to say it. I've been traveling all over the world, telling people how amazing the new Formlabs Form 4 is. Not (only) because it's my job, but because I deeply believe it. I've printed on it a ton and it is going to change how industries operate. How people design products. How they improve the manufacturing line. How they serve patients. And how they manufacture parts in production. Thankfully, TechRadar Pro came the rescue with a flawless 5 out of 5 star review of the Form 4. "For those looking for one of the most reliable, high-quality, and least messy resin 3D printers on the market, the Form 4 has little competition at this price point." "Throughout testing, 8 litres of resin—clear, grey, and black—were used without a single issue, a stark contrast to some of the best, cheaper printers that often encounter failures." I couldn't have said it better myself. #3dprinting #additivemanufacturing #innovation #easeofuse #reliability #accessibility #quality

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Prize pools on sweepstakes are big draws for consumers. The bigger the prize the greater the draw. So when defining your Estimated Retail Value (or ERV) for each prize keep in mind there are other costs associated with those prizes, one of which is, in the US, anything with an ERV over $600 will require a 1099 to be issued to the winner. This means more work to administer the sweeps and more money to mail those forms. Making sure you factor those costs into your total budget will lessen any surprises later on. #yesterlearnings #sweepstakes #promotions #design

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With twenty years in the creative field, I've seen sensory-rich packaging design become a game-changer. This article spotlights six brands that have reimagined their packaging to engage the senses, leading to increased consumer interest. It's a smart fusion of art and science, proving that impactful design can shift consumer perceptions and cement a brand's place in the market. Essentially, it's the art of turning simple packaging into an immersive experience that leaves a lasting impression.

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Recently I’ve posted print designs with CRABS and SHRIMPS, so when I saw that the next Spoonflower Design Challenge is “Crustacean Core”, I thought, hmm, time for LOBSTERS! Public voting for this Challenge opens this Thursday May 9, and I’d love your vote for my new “Lobster Dinner” design! You can link to the Voting Page here: https://lnkd.in/dRDVXCC7 . FUN FACT: The claws of mature lobsters are different, one is the larger “crusher” claw (this dominant claw can be either left or right) that moves slowly and is used to break up hard food; the other is a smaller “pincher/cutter” claw that moves faster and is used to tear up soft food (they can even catch small fish with it!) I wish I had known this fact before I finished my new “Lobster Dinner” print design because then I would have had fun exaggerating that difference...But I see that the claws did end up being different anyway! . . #unblinkstudio #jackietahara #shopunblinkstudio #lobsterprint #lobsterpattern #lobster #seafoodpattern #seafoodart #foodpattern #foodprint #surfacepattern #surfacepatterndesign #surfacedesign #surfacedesigner #patterndesign #patterndesigner #printdesign #artlicensing #patternlicensing #licensingartist #printandpatterndesigner #printandpattern #colorandpattern #fabricdesign #modernfabric #modernfabricdesign #thejoyoffabric Shutterfly #unblinkstudiospoonflower #spoonflower #spoonflowerartist

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🍭 Top 3 Takeaways from this week's Sweets & Snacks Expo: 1️⃣ Occasions are the NEW Seasonal While traditional seasonal products aren't going anywhere (pumpkin spice: you *ARE* safe), consumer demands are evolving FAST. Whether it's aligning an LTO with a Taylor Swift album drop or deciding what snack to buy for a Vanderpump Rules Reunion watch party with friends, brands and retailers that solve for occasions in culture will outpace their peers by a mile. A standout example was Jack Link's Protein Snacks Bloody Mary Mixes: "people were already putting beef sticks in their Bloody Marys, so it made sense that we show up at brunch!" 2️⃣ The Better-for-You vs. Indulgence Battle Continues NCA Sweet Insights reports that only 53% of consumers believe BFY confections exist, and just 1 in 10 purchase them frequently (predominantly Gen-Z). Experts confidently state: "Indulgence is not going anywhere," even as consumers cut back on snack purchases citing health concerns. The takeaway? Consumers will never give up indulgence—it will just look different in the future. There's a MASSIVE, untapped opportunity in this space. Standout brands already threading the needle beautifully include BEHAVE and NICKS, both of which highlight indulgence with drool-worthy flavor and texture, and an "oh-by-the-way this is actually better for you" twist. FFUPs also caught my eye with their unabashed "NOT HEALTHY" claims, embracing the pure joy and emotional benefits of snacking without any B.S. 3️⃣ Foodie Influence International flavors aren't new, but what stood out was the expressive brand storytelling in snacking. There were so many founders on the expo floor sharing the flavors of their culture with infectious joy. El Nacho was particularly memorable—their tortilla chips were not only delicious, but their packaging was a vehicle for storytelling with cheerfully rebellious characters. I am an immediate fan (especially of Ms. Mango). Nomad Snacks also drew me in with their journey of international flavors like chimichurri and ramen. Lastly...our team has a few more takeaways in our pocket too spicy to publish here 👀 DM if you want to hear more! #SweetsAndSnacks #ConsumerTrends #foodandbev LPK Emily Dominick Kyle

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gordan popic & Dexyco 🎧 Excited to share my latest adventure on the Toyriffic podcast with the one and only Michael Rothling! 🚀 In this groundbreaking episode, we dive deep into the vibrant Serbian toy market. 🇷🇸 I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Dexyco buyer, gordan popic 🤝 We explored the ins and outs of toy distribution in Serbia, uncovering some fascinating insights along the way. 🎯 Gordan’s expertise and passion were truly inspiring, making this conversation not just informative but also incredibly enjoyable. 🎉 If you're keen on understanding global toy markets, trends, and the secrets behind successful distribution, you won't want to miss this episode. 🌍💡 Whether you're in the industry, a toy enthusiast, or just curious about international business dynamics, there's something for everyone in this chat! Tune in to discover why Serbia is becoming a key player in the toy world and the opportunities this market holds. 🚀🧩 #ToyrifficPodcast #ToyIndustry #SerbianMarket #ToyDistribution #GlobalTrends #BusinessInsights #NetworkingProfessionals #InnovationInToys #MarketDynamics #PodcastLovers Let's connect, listen, and learn together! 🌟

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"Sometimes we plant the seeds for trees under whose shade we will never sit." 🌳 Shortly after I started at Walmart, a proposal came to me to build a photo studio in Los Angeles, I said Yes. And... WHAT IF? WHAT IF we dream bigger. Build an integrated Production Studio and Creative Lab. Grow our creative capabilities. Create content at the speed of retail and culture. Tap into the diverse talent right here in LA, a community of the world's greatest storytellers. Create more impact and help more people live more equitably, more sustainably, more beautifully. The bigger dream included a massive Production Studio with space to grow capabilities, natural light fashion studio, shooting kitchen, sound stage, virtual production stage, editing and finishing capabilities. Brand Lab - to build and grow owned, partner and private label brands. Story Lab - to win hearts, minds and spirits. Culture Lab - to put the brand in culture and culture in the brand - collaborating with diverse creators. Innovation Lab - to embrace new technology from virtual production to AI to who knows whats next. Sometimes all it takes is a Spark. And a hell of a lot of teamwork. To all those who made the bigger dream a reality, well done. I hope you kept the yoga studio and the dog run:) #walmart #brand #retail #leadership #chiefcreativeofficer #creativity #inhouse #agency #storytelling #purpose #impact #production #virtualproduction #collaboration #team #dream #cocreation #community #diversity #equity #DEI #sustainability #style #LosAngeles #LA #AI #innovation #spark #dream #whatif #gobig #failforward #thedrum

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“What knowledge gap do you have today?” 🤔 Great question Elizabeth Oates! Always inspiring to hear how insights can help drive effective action. Interested in learning more about how insights can help drive meaningful growth? Let’s connect! Finch Brands

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NeoCon and Fulton Market Design Days 2024 Recap: A Joyful Fusion of Colors, Shapes, and Textures! Earlier this week, Tracy Ho and I enjoyed a few thrilling days filled with discovery, knowledge-sharing, networking, and a vibrant celebration of creativity and innovation at THE MART and in #FultonMarket. Our key takeaways: > Sustainability Focus: Manufacturers are emphasizing their commitment to sustainability through storytelling, highlighting the full lifecycle of their products and improvements at every step. > Attracting Employees: Employers continue to seek effective ways to bring people back to the office. > Evolving Amenities: There’s a shift from large group-focused spaces to private, individual spaces. > Semi-Enclosed Furniture: These designs foster intimate and comfortable conversations, enhancing workplace connections. > Neuroaesthetics: Top of mind for manufacturers, with products designed to ease over-stimulation and recognize the impact of light, color, and texture on our brains. > Concierge Services: Becoming an expected standard in the workplace. > Focus Areas: Prioritizing 'psycho-physical' and 'sensory comfort,' using sound-absorbing surfaces, textiles, curtains, and flooring to create tranquil meeting areas. > Sensory Design: When designing commercial interiors, engage all five senses! Exciting shifts are happening in our industry, and we’re eager to see where things go from here! #SDIdesign #SDIretail #SDIhospitality #Sustainability #OfficeDesign #Collaboration #Design #Innovation #InteriorDesign #ExperienceDesign #RetailDesign #HospitalityDesign #CommercialInteriors #CommercialDesign #WorkplaceDesign #WorkplaceInnovation #FutureOfWork #Chicago #TheMART #DesignDays #NeoCon2024

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Is the redesign of packaging driven by the real market need or by the boredom of marketers? 😤 In the latest BRANDERMAN episode, William Caruso and I delve into how some brands sacrifice recognition and familiarity for novelty. Necessary innovation or unnecessary risk? Share your opinion now! #PackagingDesign #ConsumerPsychology #Marketing

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Just saw the old Impossible Foods packaging next to the Jones Knowles Ritchie revamped design at Sprouts Farmers Market. I experienced the redesign earlier this year at #expowest - so it was fun to do a little compare/contrast against the old in the freezer: Color: The shift from a unique teal-and-white combination(that felt a little 90's in a good way) to a robust meaty red is different for sure. While I have a nostalgic connection to the old teal, white, and yellow scatter pattern, the new red hue taps into a more masculine and emotionally charged purchasing dynamic. It feels like a bigger play at meat eaters, especially in the larger context of the meat department. Callouts: The redesign significantly boosts the size of the three main callouts, making the essential product info pop even more on the shelf. I’d nudge the white text just a bit bigger for better readability and balance with the larger statement they're connected to. Tagline: The subtle but significant change in the tagline from "made from plants" to "meat from plants" steers the brand in a new direction. This linguistic shift might resonate differently with consumers, again appealing to folks looking for more "meat". Photo-style: Swapping flavor cues for a more distant, stylized look reminiscent of a fashion spread—a big jump visually. They're leaning into creating more of a scene with the cutting board - and it feels more like it's part of a gourmet kitchen. Logo: The logo's had a little work done too—still that tight, condensed sans serif, but now with rounded corners and a taller stance. It fills its space better (especially in this particular format), aiming for more impact without losing its roots. What do y'all think? Yea or Nay on the new? #PackagingDesign #ImpossibleFoods #BrandRefresh #DesignThoughts #Sprouts

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What a nice orange spot color...let's see what it looks like in process...ohhhhhhh nooooooooooo... A quick review for all those out there who don't stare at swatch books all day long: Spot colors, AKA Pantone Colors or PMS Colors, are (in a perfect world) precise, vibrant and consistent. The idea is that the exact color I spec in my swatch book, that I then add to my swatches in my design file will print perfectly at the printer. (There might be some variation due to substrate, but usually "What You See Is What You Get" rings true. Essentially these colors are created with a special recipe of ink that is created precisely by a press person. Process colors, on the other hand, can sometimes be a completely different animal. These are colors created by layering CMYK. There's still a "recipe", however because these colors are made this way they are often less vibrant and a little unpredicatble. Just look at the conversion of yellow colors, ornage colors, and even some blue to see the stark differentces between Spot and Process colors. If you have the time and budget, work with your printer on scatter proofs or drawdowns for the proposed colors. This way, you, your designer, and the printer can align on expectations before committing to printing 250k units! Navigating the world of spot vs. process colors can be tricky, but understanding these basics can save you from some major headaches. Share your color challenges below! The good, the bad and the ugly! #PackagingDesign #GraphicDesign #ColorStruggles #SpotColors #ProcessColors #ButtermilkCreative #betterwithbuttermilk

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Something interesting in my sector of design is packaging. I've been spending a lot of time talking about the 'perception of form' in packaging. It seems that there is a lot of category confusion in forms because we, as manufacturing entities, don't think about this design language. https://lnkd.in/gd9mCeZU Johnson and Johnson for example. They moved their baby shampoo into this sustainable, recyclable carton....that also looks exactly like orange juice - in form and graphics. Just because it's not in a fridge, doesn't change people's perception of 'something to drink'. I would mistake this for food. as we move forms around, and create new products the form is just as much apart of the design as the graphics and i think designers, engreneers. and Research and development could work together to create something unique over something borrowed. what do you think? #packaging #design #creative #Graphicdesign #packagingdesign

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I hate GQ Magazine but this article is interesting. Maybe authenticity doesn't matter? Maybe I'm wrong. Maybe it's why so many trends are inauthentic. Gorpcore (Goretex when not needed), Athleisure (tights, "running shoes" while not doing any athletics), etc.. Maybe it's why fast fashion that looks good in a photo but is shitty in real life is popular? Maybe it's why "dupes" (aka knockoffs) are somehow seen as OK? Do younger consumers care about brand history and authentic reputation or only surface appearances? Maybe I'm just old? --- I’m the owner of The Directive Collective footwear design consultancy. We make great footwear, not just great sketches. #design #footwear #footweardesign https://lnkd.in/g-zuFtHS

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We used A.I. to create 30 different love songs inspired by the internet's love for Cheddar Bay Biscuits. Everything from Emo to Gospel to Hair Metal to Folk. A and B sides are now ready to butter up those eardrums: https://lnkd.in/gcmJz7zc #ai #advertising #ai #tech #aitools

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Brand Identity concept for a new CPG/DTC product. Can't share too much yet but it's coming along nicely! #cpgbranding #dtcbranding #brandidentity #branddesign #logodesign

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