Changing the face of a community icon
Client:East of England Co-operative Society
Project:Retail store branding
Role:System design, build and installation
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There's a big difference between consistent and identical.
It would be a simple task to fit out every store with the same branding materials. The same panels, the same signs, same materials, same size, same, same, same.
But even the Co-op, that embodiment of consistency, isn't given to boring its customers the length and breadth of the nation.
The Co-op approached NES with the idea of a regional roll-out for supermarket rebranding. Critical factors, were quality, timing and consistency.
The Co-op saw the quality refurbishment of its stores as a minor investment in the community. Why should local people, they argued, have to put up with cheap-looking, identikit storefronts?
Through a collaborative design process, and using unusual materials and processes, NES and Co-op created a series of illumintated exterior signs and indoor panels each set designed to suit a different store but to reinforce the brand across the region.
Attention to detail is essential when fitting ultrathin LED low energy lighting panels for outdoor use. A far cry from fluoresescent tubes and a whole lot easier to maintain, LED panels, if correctly designed and fitted give you a completely even illumination.
Making the most of the illuminations, NES also suggested an aluminium composite material (ACM) cladding as a backing. The design idea makes the fascias stand out and provides a consistent background to the illumination.
Throughout the roll-out, a team of fitters with different skills work on site together. The advantage is in ensuring the quality of the finish. Quality is achieved with a Quality Circle - a bit like 360 degree feedback - one's workmanship is judged by one's peers.
Different people, different materials, different processes... but a consistent result.
That's different.