Meredith Post

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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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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What's going on over at Cedar's Foods? Specifically in their design system department? Design consistency isn't just a nice-to-have; it’s essential for building a recognizable and trusted brand. I recently spotted a few displays of Cedar’s products over at our local Sprouts Farmers Market that perfectly illustrates the challenges of inconsistent design. Take a look at the image. Cedar’s offers a range of very tasty Mediterranean products, but in this small example, the packaging design varies significantly across their lineup. From different fonts and patterns to varying label placements and styles, it’s a visual jumble that could easily confuse consumers. What’s the issue? The use of different design elements makes it hard for consumers to quickly recognize the brand, creating inconsistency. Additionally, multiple design elements create visual noise, detracting from the product’s message and causing clutter. Without a consistent look and feel, the brand loses its identity and strength, leading to brand dilution. Is the logo the same across all the products? Well, yeah - but as we all know a logo does not make a brand - and the array of elements throws things off. A well-defined design system acts as a blueprint for your brand. It ensures that every piece of communication—whether it’s packaging, social media, or advertising—looks, feels, and sounds like it’s coming from the same place. Consistency helps customers instantly recognize your products on the shelf, which builds brand recognition. A cohesive look and feel communicate reliability and professionalism, fostering trust. It also streamlines the design process, saving time and resources. Moreover, a good design system provides guidelines while allowing for creative flexibility within those bounds. Any other thoughts? Is this system working for anyone? Anyone struggle with packaging systems? #DesignThinking #Branding #PackagingDesign #DesignSystems #betterwithbuttermilk #buttermilkcreative

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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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Laura Silverman questioned at the beginning of this episode why Kirk Visola (he/him) would bring her on the Kirk + Kurtts Design Podcast - as she's not the typical guest profile - but Kirk and I thought, why WOULDN'T we bring her on? Introducing the term "NAnthropologist" - a mash-up of "NA" and "Anthropologist" - to describe the field Laura has pioneered. Her knowledge of the non-alcoholic beverage brands is expansive, and she doesn’t just look at what brands are cool (like Kirk and I do) - her assessments are multidimensional and thoughtful. When she gives recommendations (and she gives many in the episode - listen for them!), you take note and immediately go out and buy all of it. This is such a fun and timely episode with all the focus on the #NA category and the shift in drinking culture to less or no alcohol at all. And as Laura says, she's at the nexus of this industry. Listen in and learn from Laura: https://lnkd.in/epUSmg2i And make sure to follow Laura and Haylee Jordan and tune into their next #NADossier episode. And please review the show if you have a sec! #DesignPodcast #MentalHealthAdvocate #NonAlcoholicBeverages #ZeroProofLifestyle #PodcastEpisode #Branding #MindfulDrinking #DesignInspiration #betterwithbuttermilk

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One of the best articles to come out recently on brand strategy. Worth the time. When you are done listening to the Unorthodox Podcast by Rosie Lee Group, take a moment to read this one. #innovation #brand #creativity #bobdylan

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We're nearing that annual milestone when fresh graduates step out of college, eager to embark on their professional journeys. Securing that first job can be quite the challenge, especially when your portfolio may be limited. Dive into my latest blog where I share what I believe are the most effective strategies to navigate this pivotal moment.

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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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✨Hormel Foods' (SPAM) old-fashioned branding has stood the test of time, yet a transition to a cleaner and more contemporary design for their A+ content could elevate the user experience to match the evolving landscape of online shopping, while preserving the brand's unique character. Here's how we'd improve their current content: 🛠️Visual Clarity: Streamline the header by selecting one appetizing image rather than multiple images. The focal point can quickly communicate appeal and make their great catch phrase stand out. 🛠️Brand Storytelling: We'd tell the SPAM story with a modern twist, using a mix of vintage and current photos to narrate its evolution and significance in various cultures. 🛠️Lifestyle Association: Create scenarios where SPAM is the hero, such as camping trips or quick meals, making it relatable and increasing the desire to buy. 🛠️Serving Suggestions: We can better highlight SPAM's versatility by incorporating clear, attractive serving suggestions with clear, high quality images to inspire shoppers. ✨If you'd like to elevate your Amazon sales through better design, drop us a line! 👉 https://georges.blog #itsalwaysdayone #amazondesign #amazonsellers #designroast #BrandIdentity #designsubscription

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Let’s bring some nutrition into cards. That’s something OPC (Organic Playing Cards) probably thought of themselves when they started to create playing cards with various fruit and vegetable themes. Together their team and I refined OPC’s positioning allowing the brand to double down on the things it is already known for. In a collaborative effort, we discussed ways to redefine OPC during multiple strategy sessions. The goal was to clarify OPC’s voice and approach to ideate, produce, and sell products as a community-first brand. Eager to grow and expand awareness the following are some learnings we discovered. Complete Case Study: https://lnkd.in/ewCPvx3T —- Client: Organic Playing Cards Strategy: Max Jung

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A takeaway from Adobe's AI/Terms of Service controversy: Creatives are, understandably so, on high alert when it comes to product/software changes around AI. Not only to protect our original work and IP but guarding the privacy of our clients and upholding NDA's. Many creatives I know have questions about AI, are vigilant about vetting any changes, and significant news spreads like wildfire. Although many of us use AI tools in our day-to-day or are overall optimistic (myself included), there is still a lot of unease and uncertainty in the community. Communicating changes clearly, in plain English (we're not lawyers), and making clear what it is and is not when making these updates is critical. #ai #creativeleadership

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🍫🍿 People are changing HOW, WHEN and WHY they snack. From GLP-1 drugs to Gen-Z's attitudes around emotional and physical health, we have stepped into a new era within the snacking category. ...and you bet we're gonna talk about it! Join me and my colleagues on Wednesday, June 12th for a virtual roundtable where we'll reflect on Sweets & Snacks Expo and discuss the emergent trends that are changing the game. ➡️ RSVP at the link below, and DM me with any topics you want covered #snackingtrends #futureofsnacking #snacksandsweets #webinar LPK Emily Flannery Kyle Schutte

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These physical objects being “crushed” does not define your creativity or your future as an artist, designer, or musician… Well, here we go again with a large portion of the creative community up in arms about a recent Apple ad for the new iPad. I’ve been hearing responses to a recent post on X like… — “Apple's image is built on connections with creative professionals. Those people have an intimate attachment to the tools of their craft. Symbols of meaning and fulfillment. Making an ad with this destruction is unprofessional and offensive on a different level.:)” Or… “I'm a designer. I had tons of crappy clients and this commercial is just plain sad. You must read the room of what's going on in the world right now. I get the message of "all in one" but using the crunch (or pressed) wasn't a nice approach. Destroying instruments where a lot of musicians appreciate is kinda sentimental. The musicians play their instruments because they feel joy and is the only thing they can afford. There is a crisis where we cannot buy the basics such food so probably won't have the $ to buy iPad. It's just tone deaf. Maybe 10+ years ago would've been another way to interpret but right now, 2024, nah. People are desperate and watching these commercials where they are pushing consumers to spend more on technology which are going to replace all art and creativity in a small device... not cool.” — Take things as you may, but… I find the symbolism of “destruction” to have been taken far too literally and rather perceive the visual concept of the ad to be about “compression and integration” through the process of “pressing and forming” so many creative tools into a single product. If this same visual concept were for an iPhone and the items being “crushed” were a fax machine, telephone, radio, keyboard, scanner, Rolodex, modem, monitor, encyclopedia, books, albums, etc. Would everyone have the same reaction? I don’t feel an iPad or any product will ever “replace all art and creativity”, but rather as a tool that may perhaps introduce more people to it. Technology will never stop for anything, and neither will human creativity.

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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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🎥 The Changemakers, Episode 44 🎥 HOW TO REFRESH YOUR BRAND EXPRESSION Nick Levesque, Creative Director, Asana Yes folks, we're back with a truly great episode that really gets to the nub of that age-old question: rebrand versus brand evolution. What’s the difference, and how do you determine which is right for you? When Nick joined Asana, he quickly identified which option would take the Asana brand to the next level. So how did he and his team navigate their way through the many challenges that these projects always throw up? Join us as we talk consistency vs evolution, distinctive assets, community feedback, internal/external collaboration, positioning for SMB vs enterprise and a whole lot more! This is definitely one for all the brand nerds out there. Links in comments - hope you enjoy watching/listening as much as I did chatting with Nick. What an awesome guest 😊 #brand #B2B #creative

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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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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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I talk with #consumergoods clients about their brand anchor being a person, a place, or a thing. I'm sure it's called something different but it gets at the point that what you anchor your brand on is going to be one of those three pillars. 👯 Name -- Obvious but it can depend on how much of that person's personality becomes part of the brand. Think Ben & Jerry's versus Stacy's Pita Chip Company, Inc. You know who Ben and Jerry are but do you know Stacy? 🚲 Thing -- More often that not, a thing is a lifestyle. Peloton Interactive is most certainly a lifestyle brand, even though it's "anchored" in the main group of cyclists during a race. 🌄 And Place -- Again, obvious but the trick with place is knowing how to convey the "feeling" of a place versus the "details" of a place. Most early-stage brands start with details that someone who visits the place would know. As they grow, they have to translate that to feelings. A good case in point is Tucson Tamale, who's expanding into Tucson Foods to capture the feeling of Tucson without having to rely on the details. Someone buys a tamale in the Northeast will know of Tucson and probably the Sonoran Desert, but they aren't going to know about their original location on Broadway or their restaurant on Oracle. If you're a place-anchored brand, convey the feelings of the place. That'll give you more room to roam, as it were. (I don't work with Tucson Tamale, just a huge fan of what Todd and Sherry Martin are doing. Here's a good article on their packaging change below) https://lnkd.in/g5DD4nrm

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Factories, Brands & Product Development Folks; how do you handle minimums with your suppliers (MOQs)?! We're small, and we're stretching to meet these minimums at launch. We've been asking suppliers for creative solutions ... these are the ones I've been thinking about: - do we use de@d stock fabrics? - can we pay a surcharge to reduce the MOQ? - can they lower their MOQs for the first order if we have a growth plan? - maybe we could do material sourcing on our own? I'm excited to hear your ideas! #brandlaunch #outdoorindustry #helpmeoutplease #friendlyfounders #moqs #manufacturing #productdevelopment

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