Last Thursday was the first day of the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show in Queensland, Australasia's most significant marine lifestyle event.
One of my clients, 12 Volt Outlet Pty Ltd, used that opportunity to launch it's most recent product 'Ozefridge', a smart and efficient refrigeration system for yachts, powerboats and recreational vehicles. Developed and manufactured in Australia, Ozefridge already had some great media response over the last months, but what was still missing, was a proper 'face', a brand.
While not all designers like to work on technical products, I enjoy it. Should developing brochures and catalogues for chain saws, drills and other power tools during my very first employment have started that interest in all things not really self-explanatory?
The first element I developed together with 12 Volt Outlet was the product logo. It needed to have a technical touch and feel and had to look professional and fine in colour, in black or even engraved.
Out of a selection of 3, this was the winner. The grill on top of each refrigeration unit, resembling a target, was an ideal subject for the icon within the logo.
I developed the tagline together with the client, which was actually a straightforward and easy process.
It was pretty clear from the beginning that the accompanying brochure would have to contain a lot of copy and technical information. A smart structure, bright colours and an eyecatching cover photo makes it easier for customers to read through the text and to pick up all information relevant to them.
The format - A4, folded to DL size, with general information on the outside and all technical information on the inside – proved to be an ideal size to go into product boxes and especially for a mail out.
Right now I am developing additional material. Advertising campaigns in special interest magazines, POS material, packaging and digital marketing will help to grow this brand. Stay tuned.

