Introduction
As you embark on a journey to the Rocky Mountains, you can almost taste the breeze from the mountains and the scent of the prairies. But what if you could truly experience it?
Using the finest ingredients and flavours sourced from the Alberta Prairies, Prairie Chocolate Co. creates exceptional chocolate for all seasons.
To capture the essence of the Alberta Prairies and the Rockies, we crafted a unique brand identity that distinguishes them from other chocolate brands through their ethos and individuality.
As part of the full brand identity, the logo, colors, and typography were designed along with brand guidelines to reflect the sweetness of the prairies.
Tools
Client Overview
Prairie Chocolate Co., a distinguished chocolate manufacturer based in Alberta, Canada, is renowned for its high-quality artisan chocolates that embody the essence of the region. With a strong local heritage, the company decided to undertake a comprehensive rebranding to enhance its market presence and align its visual identity with its brand values and regional roots.
The Challenge
The original branding of Prairie Chocolate Co., while familiar to its loyal customer base, lacked the contemporary edge and cohesion needed to compete in an increasingly sophisticated market. The goal was to develop a visual identity that not only represented the quality and richness of the chocolates but also paid homage to the unique landscapes of Alberta—namely, the Rocky Mountains and the Alberta Prairies.
Logo Concept
The logo concept for Prairie Chocolate Co. consists of a stylized triangular shape which cleverly represents two key geographical features of Alberta: the top half depicts the rugged peaks of the Rocky Mountains, while the bottom half suggests the expansive, flat landscape of the Alberta Prairies. This shape is possibly indicative of a mountain of chocolate or a piece of a chocolate bar, subtly tying back to the product itself.
Typography Choice
The company's name "Prairie" is written in a simple yet elegant font, aiming to balance modern aesthetics with a sense of approachability and quality.
The descriptor "Chocolate Co." is straightforward, reinforcing the product focus while the name "Prairie" directly ties the brand to its geographical inspiration.
The overall design was seeking to express clean, easily recognizable, and effectively communication both the nature of the product and its regional inspiration.
Brand Application
The redesigned logo was applied across a range of materials to ensure consistent branding:
Packaging: From chocolate bars to luxury gift boxes, the new logo and color scheme were applied to all packaging. The designs utilize a pattern inspired by cocoa beans, enhancing the tactile and visual appeal.
Marketing Materials: Business cards, promotional posters, and digital assets were redesigned to align with the new brand identity, ensuring a cohesive look and feel across all touchpoints.
Merchandise: Reusable shopping bags featuring the logo offer a practical application that promotes the brand sustainably.
Impact
The rebranding initiative has significantly enhanced Prairie Chocolate Co.'s brand visibility and market appeal.
The modern yet timeless design has been well-received by both new and existing customers, leading to increased sales and expanded market penetration. The brand now proudly represents Alberta's heritage and its premium chocolate products with a fresh, cohesive look.
Conclusion
Prairie Chocolate Co.'s successful rebranding demonstrates the power of thoughtful design in articulating a company's story while appealing to both aesthetic sensibilities and regional pride. This case study exemplifies how strategic branding can transform the perception of a brand, fostering growth and strengthening customer loyalty.