Omnichannel experiences: bridging online and offline touchpoints

For any activation to deliver truly successful results, brand messaging needs to align across all channels. In-person displays, products, print, 3D design, touchscreen displays, social media and websites all need to maintain a consistent brand identity. At B_RD, we specialise in providing omnichannel experiences that bridge online and offline touchpoints to create cohesion and reinforce messaging. 

In this helpful guide, we’ll further delve into the importance, benefits and how omnichannel experience works.

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What is an omnichannel experience

An omnichannel experience brings together branding, service, personalisation and support through fully connected channels and shared data. It ensures customers can move seamlessly between online and offline touchpoints, whether browsing your website or visiting a physical store, without disruption or repetition. It involves integrating branding, touchpoints, inventory systems and social media channels to ensure customers experience a seamless journey at every stage.

The key difference is that multichannel experiences are more self-contained than omnichannel ones. In a multichannel approach, each channel operates independently. An online store, for example, may function entirely separately from a physical retail location, with no shared data or continuity between the two.

Customers enquiring can become frustrated when channels are disconnected, as is often the case with a multichannel approach. An omnichannel experience removes that disconnect by linking online and physical interactions. With shared data and continuity between channels, businesses are better equipped to deliver a smoother customer journey.

boutiqe shop for cusotmer journey

Key touchpoints to integrate

An omnichannel experience needs to prioritise a consistent journey. During an activation, each interaction with your core touchpoints should feel like part of the same journey. Whether a potential customer is interacting through digital displays or exploring your store, consistency is a must.

Key touchpoints such as your physical store, website and social media should all feel connected. For example, in-store QR codes, live social media content or shareable moments extend the activation back online, providing a sense of connectivity and synergy. 

Temporary spaces and live activations should also align with wider campaign messaging. From pre-event digital promotion to post-event follow up, every touchpoint should reinforce the same narrative and objectives.

Window displays, in store design and physical storytelling should reflect the same themes communicated across websites, email and social platforms. Otherwise, this could be jarring and disjointed for consumers. When visual merchandising echoes digital messaging, it strengthens brand recognition and impact, providing a successful omnichannel experience.

A pop up store in a shopping centre focusing on River Island

How experiential design bridges the gap

Experiential design is a powerful way to encourage consumers to interact with your brand, while reinforcing consistency across physical and digital channels when aligned with a wider omnichannel strategy. It can create an immersive experience with the incorporation of 3D production, designs, print, digital screens and window displays, all while remaining true to your brand’s identity. 

Interactive installations, such as touchscreen displays, QR integrations or online product demos, allow consumers to engage a genuine curiosity about your brand without feeling like they’re being pressured into making a purchase. 

In-store displays that mirror current digital campaigns is another aspect that bridges the gap between online and offline touchpoints. Customers can quickly recognise the same themes, reinforcing brand consistency across different platforms. 

The experts at B_RD provide a range of integrated services such as design, production, print and installation to help you bring your vision to life and create a cohesive omnichannel experience that connects every touchpoint and delivers measurable impact. 

creative print window display with stripes in black and white with mannequins for fashion

Benefits of a strong omnichannel strategy

A strong omnichannel strategy goes beyond organisation and cohesion; it can instil trust within your customer base. Along with a smoother consumer experience, other benefits include:

  • Increased customer engagement — customers are more inclined to learn about your brand.
  • Improved brand loyalty — a seamless experience means customers are more likely to purchase from your shop again.
  • Higher conversion rates — connected touchpoints reduce friction in the buying journey, making it easier for customers to move from interest to purchase.
  • Stronger brand consistency — it provides a uniform and cohesive image of your company.
  • More memorable brand experiences — integrated physical and digital interactions create lasting impressions that strengthen recall and encourage word of mouth recommendations and potential sharing on social media.
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How brands can successfully implement omnichannel

Implementing an omnichannel approach isn’t as imposing as it might sound. The most important thing is to prioritise communication across marketing, retail and sales teams to maintain a consistent brand identity. Connect digital campaigns with physical installations to create a unified experience that simplifies processes for your customers.

Invest in experiential retail as part of a wider omnichannel strategy, creating immersive brand moments that connect seamlessly with digital campaigns and drive deeper engagement. This can be accomplished by partnering with an award-winning integrated design agency, such as B_RD, who can help ensure every stage aligns across all touchpoints.

How B_RD can help your brand implement omnichannel

Omnichannel success depends on seamless integration between physical and digital touchpoints. Experiential retail can be a major advantage in providing a cohesive and connected experience that customers remember. Contact the specialists at B_RD to help your company implement a seamless omnichannel experience. Fill out our contact form, email us at hello@wearebrd.com or call us on +44 (0) 1664 494 750.

Sensory retail: Engage shoppers through the senses

Sensory retail focuses on creating immersive shopping environments that engage the five senses to trigger emotional responses. Sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste can all be activated through visual design, music, curated scents, tactile surfaces, and, in some cases, product sampling that leaves a lasting impression.

By understanding how these senses interact, retailers can shape experiences that build positive associations, strengthen emotional connections and ultimately drive sales. This article explores the key elements of sensory retail, alongside its benefits and its role in successful campaigns.

Bicester Village Summer Gardens Sensory display at shopping outlet centre

What is sensory retail?

Sensory retail is an approach that creates lasting impressions by engaging all five senses in shopping environments. Every sensory cue is designed to influence emotion, shape perception, and strengthen the connection between customers and a brand. Rather than relying on visual design alone, sensory retail enhances the overall shopping journey by creating an atmosphere that feels engaging.

Sensory engagement plays a key role in how customers perceive value and form connections with a brand. The deeper level of engagement turns a transactional visit into a meaningful experience.

The five senses in sensory retail

 

Sight

Perhaps the most immediate interaction a customer has with your brand is through the sense of sight. Visual elements such as colour, lighting, scale and spatial composition, shape first impressions and set expectations instantly.

For example, warm tones can feel energising and inviting, while cooler colours create a sense of tranquillity.

Lighting, LEDs and window displays can highlight products and create focal points that reinforce brand identity. It’s through the sense of sight that customers can form an instant connection with your brand.

 

Sound

Sounds set the tone, both literally and figuratively. Music, ambient noise and acoustics influence mood within a retail space. Upbeat soundscapes can energise customers, while softer audio promotes longer dwell time. Even popular music creates a sense of familiarity within a retail space. The music you play in your store should match your brand.

 

Touch

Being able to physically touch a product allows customers to familiarise themselves with its quality, texture and weight. This tactile interaction helps a customer build confidence in their purchase. By being able to touch or interact with an item, customers feel more self-assured in their shopping experience.

 

Smell

Scent is a powerful sense that is closely linked to memory and emotion. A subtle fragrance can influence a customer’s mood as well as create a more inviting atmosphere. This does not mean a retail space needs to be overpowering; even gentle scents introduced through diffusers or candles can reinforce ambience and leave a lasting impression.

 

Taste

Whilst this may not be applicable for every retail environment, taste can be a powerful tool when used selectively. Offering samples or refreshments creates moments of engagement that feel personal and memorable, helping to strengthen emotional connections.

Kurt Geiger window display with cactus design

The psychology behind sensory retail

Catering to the senses can unlock a positive consumer experience. Retail businesses can create a positive association by appealing to these senses. It allows customers to feel they’re in an environment that, no pun intended, makes sense.

Sensory retail can be utilised to curate a luxurious environment that positions a brand as premium and high-end. It’s important to understand how each sense contributes to the overall consumer experience. This will help your business cater better to its audience, strengthen emotional connections and influence purchasing behaviour.

Get In to It event marketing girl reaching to add not to the wall fitness

Benefits of sensory retail

 

Stronger emotional connection

We’ve alluded to this before, but sensory retail can build a stronger emotional connection with consumers by shaping how they feel. When a retail environment engages sight, sound, touch, smell and taste cohesively, it creates feelings rather than just impressions. Those feelings are what cause customers to associate certain brands with more excitement, comfort and trust.

 

Deeper engagement

Sensory retail provides a more complete experience that allows customers to interact more effectively with a space. It stimulates multiple senses at once to help develop a deeper level of engagement. This translates to increased dwell time and a more immersive experience where a customer is able to fully engage with a brand.

 

Positive brand perception

When sensory elements are carefully considered, they can reinforce brand identity and values. For example, a premium fashion retailer may use soft lighting, muted colour palettes, calm music and premium materials to create a refined atmosphere. This allows customers to associate the brand with quality and exclusivity.

Customer comfort

The last thing a customer wants to feel is overwhelmed. Familiar sounds, comfortable textures and calming visual cues reduce stress, making customers feel at ease and more open to browsing and interaction.

 

Increased purchases

Sensory retail can encourage more confident purchasing decisions by allowing customers to interact with a brand and its products on a deeper level. This may involve tactile engagement, where customers can physically familiarise themselves with materials and quality, reducing uncertainty and increasing purchase confidence.

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The role of sensory retail in shopper engagement

Sensory-led environments naturally hold attention longer by guiding focus through visual cues, soundscapes and tactile moments. It presents different ways for consumers to familiarise themselves with a brand. These elements encourage hands-on interaction with products, helping customers better understand quality, function and value. When combined, sensory layers support storytelling, allowing brands to communicate identity and emotion throughout a retail space. Instead of relying on signage, sensory retail allows businesses to communicate with consumers through experiences.

Sensory retail strategies

  • Utilise Lighting to Set the Mood: Use warm lighting in premium or relaxed zones and brighter lighting for product detail areas. LED displays can be used to draw attention to new launches or key features.
  • Encourage Hands-On Interaction: Open displays, sample products and textured materials allow customers to test items and feel more assured in their purchasing decisions.
  • Design Sensory Zones: Sensory zones divide a retail space into distinct areas, each designed with its own atmosphere and purpose. Calm zones support focused shopping, while immersive zones allow for more engagement.

 

Challenges and risks

  • Overstimulation: Too many sensory elements can feel overwhelming. Subtlety is important to make sure layered cues complement each other.
  • Inconsistent Experience: Poorly aligned sensory elements can confuse brand messaging. A clear sensory strategy ensures all cues support the same brand identity and tone.
  • Accessibility: Certain sensory features may exclude some customers. Designing adjustable lighting, controlled sound levels, and clear layouts helps create inclusive environments.

Examples of successful sensory retail campaigns

  • Lush: A prime example of a sensory-heavy environment, primarily the sense of smell. Customers who visit Lush can interact with products and smell them before purchasing, resulting in a more confident purchasing experience.
  • Sephora: Another example of instilling confidence. Customers who visit Sephora can test products and view expert-led demonstrations.
  • Hollister: Known for its low lighting and beach house activation. Hollister creates a calm atmosphere that helps achieve longer dwell time.

B_RD can help with sensory retail

B_RD supports brands in delivering large-scale sensory retail environments through a fully integrated, end-to-end approach. Get in touch with our expert team to create a sensory retail experience that brings your brand to life and performs across every touchpoint. Fill out our contact form, give us a call on +44 (0) 1664 494 750 or email us at hello@wearebrd.com.

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The psychology of retail: how transforming a store can influence buying behaviour

A well-designed store layout does more than create an inviting atmosphere. It shapes perception, guides movement and delivers a curated space that directly influences how and why customers make purchasing decisions. Retail psychology goes beyond standard décor; it takes into account consumer behaviour, store layout, sensory elements and every detail that turns a store into an experience.

Joseph SS23 Campaign window displays using cardboard engineering

The connection between psychology and retail

Retail and psychology are deeply connected. Every physical retail environment, whether intentional or not, is designed to influence how people feel, move and make decisions. Through considered design, spaces can create a sophisticated and luxurious ambience that reflects brand identity, while also fostering a relaxed atmosphere that encourages consumers to linger, explore and engage more deeply with products.

Customers rarely register why a space feels intuitive, overwhelming, exciting or calm. These emotional responses are often triggered by subconscious cues such as layout, spatial flow and visual hierarchy. Different types of shoppers respond to different psychological triggers, which is why effective retail design is so important in transforming a store.

These shoppers tend to fall under the following categories:

  • Mission Shoppers: Know what they want and are goal-driven. They’re looking for clear navigation and to get in and out with ease. A store that accommodates these groups helps build trust and increases the likelihood of future visits.
  • Browsers: Are motivated by discovery. They want to easily navigate a retail store and explore. This group of shoppers responds well to immersive displays.
  • Budget Shoppers: Influenced by price and clarity. Clear pricing and visibility are ways to earn their trust.
  • Experience-Driven: Drawn to the immersive. This group of shoppers is drawn to environments that feel memorable, theatrical or immersive.

Retail psychology is all about understanding the different types of consumers and being able to cater to their needs.

The basics of store layout

A retail store’s layout directly shapes how customers move through and engage with the space.

 

Decompression zone

This is all about letting customers ease into your store without feeling overwhelmed or pressured. It allows customers to adjust to their surroundings and not feel like they’ve entered a hectic environment. A decompression zone helps set the tone for a comfortable experience.

 

Store layout types

  • The Grid: Features straight aisles and clear pathways that make it easy for customers to find what they need quickly. This organised layout appeals to mission and budget shoppers by reducing friction and creating a sense of familiarity.
  • Free-Flow: Removes rigid pathways in favour of a more organic, open design. Customers are encouraged to explore at their own pace. Experience-driven shoppers and browsers appreciate the immersive and engaging feel.
  • Racetrack: Sometimes referred to as a loop, it guides customers along a defined route through the store. Key displays and focal points are positioned along the path to maximise exposure and dwell time. Browsers, budget shoppers and experience-driven shoppers can appreciate the balance of structure with key displays.

 

Product placement

Strategic product placement influences visibility and decision-making. Eye-level positioning drives sales, lower shelves can encourage browsing, and upper shelves can convey items of premium value.

 

Aisle width and length

Aisle dimensions affect comfort and movement. Wider aisles encourage browsing, while narrower or longer aisles promote faster navigation.

 

Sensory elements

One of the most important aspects of curating a retail experience will come down to sensory elements. This includes the use of lighting, music, scent and temperature to enhance a shop’s layout. Each of these sensory elements can enhance your store’s atmosphere and help you accomplish the vibe you’re going for.

Casablanca store desifn for fahion brand

Accessibility and inclusivity

Inclusive retail design ensures spaces are usable by everyone. Wider aisles, accessible product heights, clear signage and intuitive layouts support all types of customers. When shoppers feel considered and accommodated, it builds trust, encourages longer visits and fosters stronger brand loyalty.

Neous, Paris Showroom Display

How to influence behaviours with store layout

 

Pathway to purchase

Large-scale activations guide customers through high-traffic zones using spatial design, digital screens and 3D production. These cues shape movement, create focal moments, and lead attention naturally towards the till.

 

Cross-merchandising

Cross-merchandising pairs complementary products within shared displays, making purchasing decisions easier and more intuitive by demonstrating how items work together or how an article of clothing can be styled. By placing related items together, stores prompt impulse buying by showcasing products customers may not have actively sought out.

 

Visual merchandising

Pop-ups, window displays, interactive installations and themed environments are all examples of visual merchandising. They’re pivotal for capturing attention, communicating brand identity and elevating the customer experience. Expert designers can create a memorable space for customers to have a positive interaction with your brand.

 

Comfort and convenience

Incorporating seating areas for rest, well-designed fitting rooms, and clear circulation space helps reduce fatigue, encourages longer visits and creates a more positive shopping experience.

Casablanca Visual merchandising of clothes on display stands

Real-life examples of effective layout psychology

The most popular examples of retail psychology through an effective layout come from brands such as Apple and IKEA. Drastically different from each other in terms of products and layouts, but both are highly effective in creating a tailored experience.

On one side, you have Apple, which is known for its minimalist open design. This allows customers to explore and gain a sense of familiarity with its products. An open and inviting atmosphere that encourages customer engagement.

In contrast, IKEA uses a maze-like layout designed to guide customers through a curated journey of home environments. Visitors may not initially seek out certain products, but by experiencing them within fully realised settings, they become more inclined to explore further and make additional purchases.

Strategies to implement for effective store layout

Here are our top tips for creating an effective store layout.

  • Design with Clear Zoning: Organise the space into defined zones based on product category, purpose or customer intent. Clear zoning helps customers navigate intuitively without feeling lost.
  • Lead with Focal Points: Use bold visual moments such as feature displays, digital screens or large-scale installations to draw attention and set the tone on entry.
  • Control Flow Through Layout Cues: Guide movement using flooring changes, lighting, ceiling height or display orientation. This allows for seamless exploration without relying solely on signage.

 

Measuring success

The success of a store layout can be measured through a mix of data and insight. Retail heatmaps show customer movement, dwell time and engagement. Customer feedback is another tried and tested method to understand how your consumer base really feels. While sales KPIs can show you exact figures on how your store layout impacts your sales. Adjusting your store layout can improve flow and boost sales, so it’s important to continually test, refine and optimise based on real customer behaviour.

B_RD can help with store layout

Now that you have a better understanding of retail psychology and its importance in creating an optimised store layout, you can get started on your retail transformation. Whether you are rethinking a store layout or launching a large-scale activation, our dedicated project directors can deliver end-to-end production with consistency and care.

Fill out our contact form, give us a call on +44 (0) 1664 494 750 or email us at hello@wearebrd.com to get started on your store transformation.

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Everything you need to know about retail branding

Retail branding is vital to differentiating your website, shop and product range from the rest of the market. It’s so important for modern businesses to engage with branding beyond logos and product taglines, connecting with consumers in ways that build affinity and make you memorable when someone is ready to purchase later on.

Retail branding strategies are effective when they create connections, whether they help consumers remember you, relate to you or understand how you are different. Strategies involve visuals, messaging and sensory experiences both on and offline.

Hackett arched window display displaying a tailored suit worn by a mennequin

What is retail branding?

Retail branding is a discipline which creates a unique identity for a retail business. Brands give consumers something to relate to, understand and remember about your business and product range. It includes all identifiable aspects of your business: everything from your logo and shopfront design to your customer service and marketing messages.

 

Retail branding builds loyal customers

Consistent branding helps customers recognise your products, website and shops as part of the same business. It helps make the mental link between your advertising and your business. It draws in your target audience by creating an affinity for the character you project, making them choose your products over others again and again.

With consistent and quality retail branding, your products gain a higher perceived value, and your customers get an improved experience, all of which lead to more revenue for your business.

How to create a powerful retail brand

 

1. Define your brand identity

Establish your brand’s mission and values as a foundation. Deciding what your brand stands for, whether it’s family, the environment, craftsmanship, tradition or something else. Are your values linked to your USP? For example, your products may be completely sustainable, so your values might be to protect nature, find new, clean methods, or to stand with your customers on what matters. Your values will guide your decision-making as you develop your brand identity.

Think of your brand like a personality that represents these values. Apple is intelligent, creative and simple. Cadbury is a treat, an affordable luxury, a fan of the small pleasures in life. What character traits does your brand show to the world?

 

2. Understand your target audience

Commission some research to understand the values and drivers of the people you most want to sell to. If you’re trying to sell to everyone, you’re usually talking to nobody – and you won’t become a great retail brand.

Choose a segment. It could be new parents, fashionable teenagers, drivers over 30 or rock music fans. Narrow down who you want your customers to be, then find out as much as you can about that group. When do they buy your type of product? Are they trying to be healthier, have more time to spend at home, or looking for ways to save money? Think demographics, psychographics and purchasing behaviour. All these factors will impact how your retail branding appears in the world.

 

3. Design a memorable brand experience

Good retail branding is all about experience. This is the overall impression a customer receives from interacting with all touchpoints, including in-store and online. These interactions could be emotional or transactional, but they will create a subjective experience that can be projected onto your business.
Designing a brand experience means thinking from the customer’s perspective and curating every aspect of your front-facing business to give the desired impression.

  • Cognitive: Stimulate thought or curiosity, educate customers about your product, present a unique perspective in advertising
  • Emotional: Create a positive feeling, such as trust, excitement, belonging or even recognition
  • Sensory: Colour palettes, logos and typography are visual; music and sounds are aural; retail branding can even include texture
  • Behavioural: Make your customer experience smooth and confident, with easily assembled products, simple in-store interactions, or a well-built website
  • Relational: How you look after customers before and after purchase, tailor services, or respond to feedback creates a relational experience

 

4. Maintain brand consistency across channels

Develop ways to express your brand’s identity consistently at every point, from social media posting and website design to window displays and experiential marketing.

 

5. Engage and build community

Work with your consumers to create a sense of community around your products. If your brand is intellectual, create a discussion space for emerging thoughts. For creative brands, encourage people to customise or share their own creations. Think about what your customers need from you, why they will choose your products, and build infrastructure for engagement around it.

retail window display storytelling with neon lights kurt geiger

5 Types of Retail Branding

If you’re struggling to know where to start, we can point to various retail branding types and examples.

  1. Luxury Branding: Showing that your products use premium materials, long-lasting construction, and belong in a luxurious lifestyle, such as Chanel, Yves St Laurent and Ferrari
  2. Discount Branding: Showing that your customers get a good deal with your products because of your business model, such as TKMaxx or Iceland
  3. Experiential Branding: Highlighting the experience of using your brand as the main selling point, such as Apple, RedBull or Pampers
  4. Digital-First Branding: Dispensing with the brick-and-mortar retail experience and focusing efforts on digital sales, like Sonos, Supreme and Louis Vuitton’s latest strategy
  5. Sustainable or Ethical Branding: Positioning your main USP as your ethical or environmental values is a strong strategy that sets you apart from most brands in most sectors, as long as it’s legitimate, like Lush, Patagonia or Lucy & Yak
Kurt Geiger Retail branding window display

Benefits of Retail Branding

 

Your Business Stands Out

Good retail branding grabs attention. When everyone is bombarded with advertising constantly, this is hard to do. But, there are still ways to cut through the noise with branding that reflects a unique proposition, challenges consumers to think differently, or makes them feel seen.

 

Your Marketing is More Efficient

When your retail business has a strong brand, every impression on your marketing content is someone being reminded you’re there. If your marketing also highlights how your products are different, shows a lifestyle your target consumers want, or is easy to remember, your brand awareness will skyrocket.

 

Your Brand is More Recognisable

A strong brand is instantly recognisable. People can pick your products out from a crowd, which shows them that you’re established, trusted by others and easily available.

 

Your Business is More Competitive

A unique brand identity helps you stay ‘Top of Mind’ even when new players enter the field. There’s no adequate replacement for the top retail brands in the minds of loyal customers, so strong retail branding is worth the effort.

 

You Make More Sales

All these benefits add up to the main reason for running a retail business: making sales. A powerful retail brand creates interest, drawing people in to find out why it is so compelling and even purchase your products as an expression of their own personal identities.

people at an event using gym equipment with lighting and visual design

Common Challenges in Retail Branding

 

Differentiation in a Crowded Market

It’s hard to stand out when there are many similar products. Retail brands that stay true to their values and mission can find ways to show they are unique by using these as a guide.

 

Staying Consistent

When something isn’t working as well as you’d hoped, it’s tempting to keep trying new approaches. Stick with a single brand identity across all touchpoints, from physical stores to social media posts, so you can build trust and brand recognition.

 

Experiential Expectations

Whether online or offline, today’s consumers expect a retail experience to be seamless, with minimal friction or barriers to purchase.

Online, this looks like a well-designed user experience, optimised for a smooth journey to the checkout. Websites should be visually attractive and fast.

In retail shops, clear pathways to purchase are key to success, but they must be couched in a distinctive, memorable brand experience. The sounds, lighting, colour scheme, textures and even scent of your brick-and-mortar location all contribute to the vibe – curating it is a challenging balance.

Effective Retail Branding Strategies

 

Go Local

Location-based targeting in your marketing strategies can help retail brands connect with customers in their area. Use local SEO, store locator tools and social media to build visibility and foot traffic.

 

Tell a Story

Your retail brand identity can be communicated extremely well as a character across your advertising. This is why brand mascots are so compelling, whether for cereal or fried chicken. Use storytelling to highlight your uniqueness and make an emotional connection with your target audience.

 

Invest in Omnichannel Experiences

Integrate your digital and physical stores to create a unified experience. Use store locators, product catalogues and customer service channels to create a consistent experience for users at all locations. Curate your website and your shop interiors with the same care to help consumers marry the two in their minds.

 

Focus on Community

When customers engage with your product online, post about it or share feedback, respond. Create online experiences that align with your retail branding and gather your audience around something they all care about. A good social media community manager will be able to engage people, moderate communities and curate content that draws your audience in.

 

Use your USPs

You might have a commitment to sustainability, strength, or accessibility that resonates with your target audience. Turn this up to eleven, invest in making this USP dominant in all of your touchpoints, in person and online.

Build a Brand that Lasts with B_RD

Your physical location deserves quality retail branding. A plain shop-front and uninspiring interior can do nothing but blend in, so invest in designs that make your shop shout your identity throughout the high street. Whether you’re hosting a pop-up or opening a new flagship store, good design is always worthwhile.

B_RD is an experiential design agency that specialises in creating visually stunning spaces that audiences can’t help but explore. We create 360° displays, installations, props, décor, shop layouts and print products for global companies, helping retailers connect with their ideal audience in every market. Our designs are adaptable, and we apply them consistently across multiple locations and touchpoints.

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Digital transformation in retail

In many retail settings, the customer experience can feel impersonal and transactional. In today’s competitive shopping landscape, success depends on creating immersive and memorable experiences through digital transformation in retail. These technological elements can spark curiosity and make for a positive consumer journey. Let’s further explore what this can look like.

Casablanca store desifn for fahion brand

What is retail digital transformation?

A retail digital transformation simply means incorporating elements of technology into your business. This can be in the form of touchscreens to learn about a product, virtual displays or personalised interactive experiences. The digital transformation process in retail involves utilising technology to your advantage to improve the customer journey. These digital touchpoints can invite participation, spark curiosity and provide consumers with authentic engagement.

Three key elements of digital transformation

 

Customer experience

When implementing change, businesses should always put the customer experience at the heart of their decisions. It can be as simple as implementing an iPad display that informs users about a product or interactive screens that guide shoppers through features and benefits, which can make the in-store journey more engaging and increase sales.

 

Interactivity

Interactive digital tools capture attention and invite participation. Blending entertainment with engagement encourages shoppers to stay longer and connect more deeply with the brand. Digital elements allow customers to explore products more deeply and create more meaningful interactions.

 

Gamification

Introducing game-like digital features, such as reward-based challenges, quizzes or virtual try-ons, keeps customers entertained while encouraging exploration.

Hackett arched window display displaying a tailored suit worn by a mennequin

Examples of retail digital transformation

When we discuss retail digital transformation, we’re referring to the specific technologies, tools and practices that allow potential consumers to familiarise themselves with your brand.

 

Interactive displays

Touchscreens and digital displays allow customers to explore products in greater detail. Whether viewing specifications, checking stock or customising options, these interactive features turn casual shopping into a more engaging experience.

 

Immersive video and projection

Retail transformation can range from augmented reality that showcases products in action to immersive green screen experiences that place customers directly into a brand’s world. By immersing oneself in these solutions, digital transformation in retail creates a stronger emotional connection to a brand.

 

Personalised digital stations

Tablet stations offering tailored content, tutorials or product information help shoppers feel recognised and in control. This added layer of interactivity creates a more personal connection, encouraging customers to spend more time engaging with the brand.

scent garden experiential design outdoors Gucci shop signage

Why are more retailers moving to digital transformation?

Retailers are discovering that to stay competitive in a constantly changing field, they need to be a step ahead. The process of digital transformation allows retailers to cater to their customers and convert engagement into sales.

Kurt Geiger cactus window display for a store front

Benefits of digital transformation

 

Better customer experience

The goal of every retail business should always be to provide a seamless, consistent customer experience. Being able to interact with products helps potential customers build confidence in their choices.

 

Connects consumers with your brand

Digital solutions invite interaction. They allow consumers to find out more about a brand through a sense of genuine curiosity by offering immediate access to product details and brand stories.

 

Higher revenue

One of the most significant benefits of digital transformation in retail is increased revenue. When retailers utilise digital solutions, it can result in increased revenue as consumers have gained a better understanding of your brand and products.

Challenges of digital transformation

Like any major business change, digital transformation comes with a few challenges. While we believe the juice is worth the squeeze, be aware of the following challenges that your business may face.

 

Change is difficult

Any new technology is often met with hesitation and some confusion. During this period of transition, it’s important to offer support so staff can properly assist customers with navigating new systems, using interactive displays and getting the most from digital solutions.

 

Budget

The costs of digital solutions can often be a concern, but with a well-structured budget and careful planning, this investment can deliver long-term value rather than unnecessary challenges.

 

Training

Depending on the type of digital solution being introduced, some level of staff training may be required. While this can present a short-term challenge, once employees are confident in using the technology, they can guide customers more effectively.

Where to start with retail digital transformation

We understand it can feel like a massive undertaking to begin a retail digital transformation. It can be challenging to figure out which digital elements are best for your business. That’s why we recommend focusing on areas that will have the biggest impact on your customers and daily operations. Assess how customers currently interact with your store and identify any points where engagement could be improved.

 

How B_RD can help

Contact our team of specialists to help you with your retail digital transformation. Give us a call on +44 (0) 1664 494 750 or email us at hello@wearebrd.com to discuss your business and needs. Our helpful team can strategise the best digital solutions to implement and improve your business operations.

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Retail activation

There are new challenges facing the world of marketing and promotion. Consumers are exposed to ads on their phones and even outside their windows in some cases. This has created a challenge for brands to inform potential customers about a product or service, as it can easily fall on deaf ears. Now more than ever, businesses are competing for attention, so how can a retail company stand out in a world filled with advertisements? An effective solution to this challenge is a retail activation, where consumers can interact directly with a brand, build familiarity and experience its value firsthand. Instead of being told how great a product or service is, they discover it for themselves through genuine, immersive engagement.

Let’s further explore what makes retail activations so successful, how your brand can benefit, and some further steps to implementing an activation strategy of your own.

Kurt Geiger Retail Shop front

What is retail activation?

Let’s start by explaining what a retail activation is, because chances are you’ve already experienced one without even realising it. A retail activation is a temporary setup that allows consumers to directly or virtually interact with a brand. These activations provide potential consumers with a unique opportunity to test out new products, discover new clothing styles and explore the latest technology and lifestyle items in an interactive setting where it doesn’t feel like they’re being pressured into purchasing an item.

Why is retail activation important?

A retail activation is important because it provides brands with the opportunity to stand out. In a competitive marketplace where every company is looking for an advantage, nothing beats creating a direct and memorable interaction.

 

Stronger brand connection

For many consumers, seeing is believing. Often, potential customers will hear all about how great a product or service is, but without experiencing it firsthand, there tends to be a disconnect. A retail activation allows for a stronger brand connection as people interested in a product can gain familiarity with its features, quality and benefits in a way that traditional advertising can’t deliver. Consumers might develop a stronger connection with a brand when they’ve had a positive experience trying their products or services.

 

Increased product engagement

Through interactive displays, demos and hands-on experiences, retail activations provide consumers more time to gain familiarity with a product. No matter how good an advert is, there’s no substitute for experiencing a product in person. Instead of passively seeing an ad show up on your social media feed, a retail activation allows for increased product engagement by inviting potential customers to interact directly with products, ask questions and experience their benefits.

 

Immediate sales opportunity

A retail activation creates a no-pressure environment where consumers are actively engaging and learning about a product rather than just being told about it. This approach allows consumers to engage their natural curiosity as opposed to feeling obliged to make a purchase. It may even make a potential consumer feel more enticed to make a purchase once they’ve become familiar and informed.

 

Social sharing

In this day and age, nothing is more powerful than the tool of social media. An eye-catching and immersive activation will not only get attention in its location but also on social media. This can help attract even more attention and potential consumers, as the activation creates buzz on social media and sparks a sense of FOMO (fear of missing out), encouraging others to visit and experience the retail activation for themselves.

 

Valuable customer insight

Honest and direct feedback from customers is sought after in the world of business as it’s the best way to address concerns and make improvements to products and services. A retail activation opens up the opportunity to get honest customer feedback. Customers feel more inclined to share their thoughts in an environment where they are not pressured to make a purchase. Feedback can be from conversations with brand ambassadors, on-the-spot surveys or through their interactions.

Get In to It event marketing girl reaching to add not to the wall fitness

Components of retail activation

Now that we’re familiar with the benefits, what exactly goes into a retail activation? There are a few common elements in every activation, but the goal is always to create a memorable interaction, regardless of what you’re promoting.

 

Inviting and immersive experience

It all begins with drawing people to your activation. A retail activation shouldn’t feel closed off; it should be something that piques curiosity and draws people in. It should also have an immersive element, as customers will want to engage with the experience and explore products firsthand. This makes them feel less like they’re being sold something and more like they are part of an experience.

 

Digital interactive element

A digital interactive element can serve as a bridge between the in-store experience and future engagement or purchases. It can boost engagement with iPad displays, QR codes and other digital elements, as well as extend its impact beyond an event. For example, a QR code might link to exclusive offers, product information or sign-ups. This creates a pathway for continued interaction, nurturing interest that could lead to future purchases.

A pop up store in a shopping centre focusing on River Island

Incentive to purchase

Since a typical retail activation tends to be for a limited time, customers may feel more incentivised to make a purchase. Whether through exclusive discounts, product bundles or limited-edition items, this component creates a sense of urgency amongst customers and adds extra motivation for shoppers to convert their genuine interest into immediate purchases.

 

Promotional opportunity

Another common component of a retail activation is the opportunity to promote a brand, product or service memorably. This can be in the form of an eye-catching display, strategic partnerships or exclusive in-store events. The promotional component builds awareness and ensures the activation continues to make an impact after the event itself.

lululemon, Ambassador Event

Retail activation examples

At B_RD we have vast experience in retail activations that helped showcase different brands and created memorable experiences for consumers across a wide range of industries.

 

Casablanca Beach Club

We partnered with luxury fashion brand Casablanca Paris to transform a physical space into an immersive beach club activation complete with custom-built furniture, branded décor and signature design elements. Our creative team produced designs, physical components and completed installation to create an experience that allowed guests to interact with the Casablanca Paris brand in a memorable way that sparked curiosity and drew attention.

 

Kurt’s road trip windows

The creative experts at B_RD teamed with Kurt Geirger, a luxury British footwear and accessories brand, to create a summer-inspired window activation that transformed traditional store windows into an eye-catching display to promote a seasonal campaign. The finished display was set up in-store, turning ordinary windows into a vibrant scene that encouraged shoppers to engage with the brand and learn more about the seasonal campaign.

 

lululemon ambassador event

The lululemon ambassador event created a branded environment that connected customers and brand ambassadors with the lululemon brand. This event drew a buzz and inviting atmosphere with a DJ booth, custom check-in desk and interactive connection wall for customer feedback. We turned a traditional space into a lively activation that encouraged engagement beyond traditional retail shopping spaces.

How to create a retail activation strategy

 

Set a goal

This is key to implementing any strategy; it’s about identifying goals specific to your unique brand. Once that’s been decided, you can focus on the creative vision and the best way to go about achieving this goal through a retail activation. This can come in many forms, such as pop-up stores, in-store product demonstrations, immersive window displays, seasonal takeovers, or branded collaborations within another retailer’s space. Each format provides a different way to engage customers and showcase your brand identity.

 

Train your brand ambassadors

Any successful retail activation involves creative professionals, a clear goal and brand ambassadors to bring the experience to life. Brand ambassadors are important to manage customer enquiries, guide interactions and ensure any important messaging is communicated in an authentic and engaging way.

 

Choose the right location

You can have an incredible activation, but it’s of no use if it’s not in the right location. A retail activation should be in an area that’s conducive to foot traffic, attracts your target audience, and complements the overall brand experience. In some cases, it can be as simple as setting up near your storefront or an open public space. A good location can enhance your retail activation and make it more accessible to guests.

 

Plan logistics

Arguably, one of the most important aspects of any successful retail activation will involve managing logistics. This can include everything from scheduling installation to planning teardowns. Smooth logistics takes the stress out of managing different aspects of your activation. We suggest acquiring the services of a design and production agency, such as the team at B_RD, that can handle all the intricate details from concept development to installation.

 

Analyse results

The only way to measure the success of an activation is through analysing results. This is why it’s so crucial to have a clear goal in mind before starting with any planning. The best way to measure results will depend on what you’re trying to accomplish. This can include increased sales, social media engagement, sign-ups or customer feedback. A clear idea of these metrics will go a long way in measuring the success of your retail activation.

How B_RD can help with retail activation experience

The creatives at B_RD specialise in turning your vision of a retail activation into a memorable experience that resonates with customers. Our in-house team takes the stress away from planning various aspects and ensures every detail is handled seamlessly. Ready to create a retail activation that will get serious attention? Get in touch with us by filling out our contact form, giving us a call on +44 (0) 1664 494 750 or sending us an email at hello@wearebrd.com.

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Everything you need to know about brand activation

Brand activation is a key marketing buzzword that can be difficult to define, but it’s the key to turning your brand from a two-dimensional asset to something that truly resonates with your audience. Whether it’s through pop-up events, influencer collaborations or charitable work, brand activation encompasses all the activity surrounding your brand that brings it to life and gives people an all-around impression of who you are.

It can be something that builds brand loyalty, increases sales and conversions or gets your customers to form an emotional connection with your brand. This blog breaks down exactly what brand activation is, why it matters and the different types of activations you can use to connect with your audience. You’ll find influential examples of some of the best brand activations in the last few years and tips for how to make your activations stand out.

Hackett Regent Street window display with sailing boats

What is brand activation?

Brand activation is all about creating experiences that bring your brand to life and give people a full impression of who you are. Unlike digital marketing campaigns, it’s more about creating physical and emotional experiences for your audience, from retail pop-ups and influencer collaborations to attending industry events and networking opportunities.

The aim is to tell your brand story in a way that encourages conversations and collaboration, both in person and online. It includes activities like:

  • Pop-up shops, events and experiences
  • Interactive displays
  • Influencer marketing
  • Product demonstrations and trade shows
  • Brand partnerships and collaborations

Ultimately, brand activation is all about creating experiences that connect with your community and spark genuine engagement. When done well, they create moments that people will remember and can lead to increased sales and long-term customer loyalty.

Kurt Geiger cactus window display for a store front

Why is brand activation important?

Brand activation grabs the attention of your audience and turns it into a connection. In today’s digital age, it’s hard to stand out in a world bombarded by ads, which makes it even more important to create memorable brand activation experiences that cut through the noise.
When your audience creates an emotional bond with your brand, you’ll find loyalty increases and so do sales.

Here’s why brand activation matters:

  • Generates buzz: Creative campaigns get people talking and leave a lasting impression on customers. Creating viral campaigns can help your brand stand out amongst competitors.
  • Brand awareness: Rather than just focusing on digital marketing campaigns, real-life brand experiences grab your audience in new ways, ensuring your name and message stick.
  • Social media amplification: Attendees of events may share their experiences of the event on platforms like Instagram or TikTok. This increases the campaign’s reach far beyond the event itself.
  • Emotional connection: Successful brand activations tap into the customer’s emotions. Positive experiences help to build deeper connections between the brand and consumer, especially if there’s a charitable or ethical angle.
  • Data collection: In-person events give you valuable insights into your customers’ preferences, behaviours and demographics. This helps to align future campaigns with the target customer, all while boosting lead generation through email lists and social following.

4 Key elements to brand activation

 

Understanding your brand

Before you can activate your brand, you need to know it inside out. Having a clear brand personality and purpose is the first step to any successful brand campaign. If you haven’t done so already, set out a brand persona, tone of voice guidelines, mission statement, target audience and even copywriting and grammar guidelines.

 

Identifying your audience

Your brand guidelines should identify your target persona. Creating customer profiles is a great way to do this – cover the basics like age, gender, location and occupation, as well as customer values and interests. Think about what their challenges or frustrations could be, alongside purchasing behaviour and preferred channels of contact.

 

Creating engaging experiences

With your brand persona and audience profiles locked in, you can create engaging experiences for each customer, making every person feel seen and heard. This can be done through personalised content like targeted ads that suggest products based on purchase history, or tailoring offers to the pages they visit most. It can also be as simple as addressing the person by name in an email, which immediately draws them in.

 

Using social media

When using social media to connect with your community, it’s important to use their preferred channels. B2C channels often include Instagram, Facebook and TikTok, whereas B2B brands may get better results on LinkedIn. Partnering with influencers who align with your brand can also help you connect with more customers, as you can leverage their platform and following. According to an influencer marketing report from HubSpot, the most popular platforms for influencer marketing in 2025 are:

  • Instagram (26%)
  • YouTube (24%)
  • TikTok (15%)
  • LinkedIn (5%)

Types of brand activation

Brand activation comes in many forms, and the right approach depends on your goals. If you’re selling a service, face-to-face interaction is often the most effective, whereas other brands harness the power of online communities. Here are some of the most common types of activation.

 

Experiential marketing

As the name suggests, experiential marketing is all about creating hands-on experiences for consumers. It goes a step further than traditional advertising and digital marketing methods and invites the audience to interact directly with the brand through immersive and interactive experiences.

Think pop-up shops, product demonstrations and even teambuilding activities that encourage your audience to jump on a trend and get involved. This type of marketing will stick with people far longer than a social media ad, promoting loyalty and giving customers something real to interact with.

Marketing isn’t just about pushing products any more; consumers are drawn to brands that stand out, and they should give your audience something they can actually feel, rather than simply creating a transactional process.

 

Influencer marketing

Influencer marketing can work with high-profile names to more niche micro-influencers – the right choice depends on your audience. Key opinion leaders (KOLs) are high-level experts with a specific area of expertise, making them ideal if you offer a specialised product or service and are having a hard time finding your audience.

It’s not just about the number of followers the content creator has, as micro-influencers tend to have a more engaged, tight-knit community of people, which can benefit brands with a specific audience. Using influencers and KOLs is are great avenue to gain the trust of your audience and spread brand awareness.

These partnerships might involve free products in exchange for a review or discount code. The key here is to think of your objectives in terms of SMART goals – focusing on reach, relevance and resonance. Think about what success looks like for your brand and have a clear goal in mind for what you want to achieve. Influencer marketing isn’t strictly about generating revenue; it’s more about brand reach and awareness. You can measure the success of influencer activity through:

  • Direct website traffic
  • Referral website traffic
  • Social media engagement rate
  • Follower growth
  • Customer feedback
  • Social listening and share of voice
  • Discount/referral code usage

 

Industry events and trade shows

Nothing beats seeing a product in the flesh; it’s an experience you can’t replicate online or through social media. If you sell physical products, attending industry events or trade shows is a great opportunity to let customers experience them up close while engaging directly with your team.

You could be selling a product like a kitchen appliance or DIY tool, in which case events like trade shows provide a valuable opportunity to show off your products in real life. These demonstrations let customers see how products work in real time and allow them to ask questions then and there.

Customers can usually get discounts or freebies by attending in-person events, which leaves a positive, lasting impression and lets them evaluate the product before making a purchase. Real-life experiences also help brands with customer data collection, which boosts lead generation, like social following or email subscriber lists.

 

Sponsorship activation

Sponsorship activation often overlaps with cause marketing, where your brand supports a cause or community in a way that aligns with your values. Cause marketing goes beyond profit-driven motives and aims to create a positive impact on society. This can include corporate social responsibility (CSR) motivations like:

  • Charitable donations
  • Volunteering activities
  • Partnerships with non-profit organisations
  • Sponsorships for local events or communities

Examples of cause marketing include brands like Uber offering free rides to NHS workers throughout COVID, Who Gives a Crap toilet paper donating 50% of its profits to charities focusing on clean water and sanitation and Dove introducing a body positivity and self-esteem ad campaign that amplifies female empowerment.

These creative campaigns help brands build relationships with new communities and demonstrate that they take ethics and CSR seriously. Not only do these motivations create positive connotations, but they also benefit internal recruitment, showing the company as a positive and inclusive place to work.

Neous shoes display on shelves

The impact of brand activation for businesses

 

Improving brand awareness

Brand activation is one of the most effective ways to get your name out there. By engaging people memorably and interactively, you ensure your brand leaves a lasting impression long after the campaign ends.
Whether it’s a creative pop-up, sponsorship or influencer collab, you’re giving people a reason to remember you and keep the conversation going.

 

Building consumer loyalty

By providing positive and memorable experiences, brands can create emotional connections with consumers. Increased loyalty means they’re more likely to make repeat purchases and recommend the brand to other like-minded people.

At the end of the day, it’s not just about selling a product and making revenue; it’s about creating lasting relationships with people who can drive your brand growth.

 

Driving sales and revenue

While the goal of brand activation isn’t always revenue, many campaigns aim to create positive relationships that will lead to future purchases.

Discounts at events, product samples and exclusive offers get attendees in the good books and encourage buying straight away. Even if sales don’t happen during the event itself, the lasting impression brand activation leaves on customers can drive purchases later on.

Joseph Festive Window

Accelerating media presence

Innovative events can capture the attention of journalists and influencers, expanding the reach of your brand even further. Media coverage, like newspaper and magazine features as well as social media mentions, is great for brand PR and can reach audiences that wouldn’t otherwise discover your brand.
If done well, third-party mentions can also include viral TikToks, which can extend your reach far beyond your immediate audience. The best part is that this kind of exposure doesn’t require a high advertising spend – organic content can often be more effective than traditional advertising.

 

Providing audience insights

Brand activation campaigns also offer a perfect opportunity to learn more about your audience. By showcasing your brand in an interactive way, you can connect with your audience on a deeper level.
During in-person events, you can promote event sign-ups, competitions, surveys and social engagement and also gather data on audience demographics, interests, buying habits and preferred methods of contact. This helps your brand align future campaigns with your target customer, while driving lead generation, like growing email newsletter lists.

Brand activation examples

Brand activation works best when it’s bold, creative and never seen before. The most memorable campaigns don’t just sell a product; they spark an emotional reaction that people want to share. Here are some standout examples of brand activation campaigns from the past few years:

 

Coca-Cola’s ‘Share a Coke’ Campaign

By printing popular names on bottles, Coca-Cola have cleverly turned a simple product into a personalised experience. It encouraged people to find ‘their’ bottle, share it online and buy more, all while increasing brand engagement worldwide.

This is a brand that’s been going since the 19th century, yet is still one of the most influential drink brands in the world. Coca-Cola moves with the times and never fails to create unforgettable marketing experiences that spark emotional connections for its audience.

 

Patagonia’s ‘Worn Wear’ Tour

This 2017 campaign is the perfect example of bringing people together while promoting sustainability. The nationwide Worn Wear campaign encouraged customers to repair, recycle and trade in their used Patagonia clothing. The company then began buying back pre-loved Patagonia gear to repurpose items and help them find a new home instead of going to landfill. This tour also included repair workshops and swap events to promote sustainable practices.

The clothing industry is one of the most polluting industries, so this campaign helped to sell 120,000 repurposed items (as of 2020). Because of this, the brand received a huge amount of media coverage and, no doubt, a new level of respect from customers around the world.

 

Spotify Wrapped

Spotify Wrapped transforms user listening data into shareable summaries at the end of each year. Starting in 2016 and still going strong, the campaign creates a personalised listening summary for each Spotify user, detailing their top songs, artists, podcasts and genres. It’s an event that many users look forward to sharing with their friends and encourages social sharing around the globe, generating a huge organic reach.

Spotify Wrapped has become one of the most effective brand activation campaigns in recent years, blending data, design and storytelling which sparks conversations, and even debates. It’s led to other brands creating their own ‘year in review’ versions, such as YouTube Music, Apple Music, Duolingo and Fitbit.

How B_RD can help with brand activation

At B_RD, we specialise in creating attention-grabbing retail experiences for global brands. From concept design and production to logistics and installation, we handle every step of the process. Our global team combines creativity, craftsmanship and the latest industry tech to deliver activations that resonate with your audience and brand persona.

Whether you’re looking to set up creative window and in-store displays, pop-ups, visual merchandising assets, set builds, graphics or hoardings, we work with you to create unforgettable experiences. If you’re ready to activate your brand like never before, contact us to discuss your next campaign. Email us at hello@wearebrd.com or call us on 01664 494 750 to get started.

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Everything you need to know about brand experience

When you think of brand experience, your first thoughts might turn to a company’s logo or marketing. From Coca-Cola’s iconic red cans and McDonald’s golden arches to Xbox claiming green and PlayStation claiming blue. However, experienceof the brand is much more than that, and this blog will explain what it encompasses and why it’s important. We’ll delve into customer perception, participation, emotion and how to make an experience that keeps customers coming back for more.

Kurt Geiger retail brand experience shop front

What is brand experience?

Brand experience refers to the overall impression a customer has of a brand across all touchpoints. Every interaction, whether emotional, physical or digital, encompasses the brand, with consumers having a subjective impression of a business and their products, even before making a purchase.

When creating a positive brand experience, businesses must consider a host of criteria, from how a product looks and feels to how a customer service query is handled. Rather than focusing on one channel, the experience is the sum of all engagements that shape a person’s perception of a brand. It incorporates the customer experience and so much more, tapping more into the emotional side of things.

Components of brand experience

Several key components make up brand experience – sensory, emotional, cognitive, behavioural and relational.

 

Sensory experience

A sensory experience is exactly what it sounds like; it involves engaging customers through sight, sound, touch, taste and smell. Logos, colour palettes and product design evoke engagement through sight, and a brand can use in-store elements like music and scents to draw consumers in through sound and smell, for example.

Creating a consistent sensory identity helps create brand recall and makes the experience more immersive. For example, luxury brands may use high-end materials and ambient lighting to evoke quality, while fast-food chains will use colour and sound to stimulate appetite and encourage quick turnover. Appealing to the senses creates a strong connection for consumers, and can be achieved through advertising, customer communications, marketing and product launches.

 

Emotional experience

How does the brand make people feel? The public is likely to favour a brand if they can make a personal connection – maybe a bite of a chocolate bar takes someone back to their childhood, or a TV advert reminds them of a struggle they’ve previously faced; a brand experience that aligns with customer values is doing the right thing.

Again, being consistent in evoking positive emotions like trust, excitement, or belonging will lead to customers forming attachments and becoming advocates for your brand. An emotional experience should be a priority in customer service, with employees taking the time to understand and sympathise with a customer’s issue and doing the best they can to resolve the problem. Emotional brand experiences go beyond products and services and helps create meaningful, long-term relationships by tapping into human desires, needs and values.

 

Cognitive experience

Brands are always trying to stay ahead of the competition and showcase themselves as leaders of their industry. This can be achieved by implementing cognitive experiences, where a brand stimulates thought, curiosity and understanding.

Informative content channelled through advertising, websites and customer interactions can educate customers on a product, and brands that innovate their products or present unique ideas can challenge conventional thinking, leading to higher engagement. It’s important to intellectually engage customers without being condescending, so pairing the cognitive experience with the emotional one can enhance influence and credibility.

 

Behavioural experience

The behavioural experience is all about how a customer physically interacts with a brand, from using a product to navigating a website or visiting a store. This is perhaps the brand experience element most closely tied to customer experience – everything has to run smoothly, feel intuitive and be rewarding.

For digital brands, a seamless website interface and quick checkout process will help customers return to their services, as they’ll have confidence knowing their experience was positive. Take Amazon, for example, with millions of people using the website every day because it’s easy to navigate, the checkout process is simple and secure, and they have key policies in place, such as returns, that make interaction less stressful.

For physical products, it could be how easy they are to use or assemble, or how seamless the in-store experience is. Removing friction from these touchpoints will increase customer satisfaction, leading to retention and loyalty. Frustrating experiences, on the other hand, can damage a reputation quickly.

 

Relational experience

A good brand experience considers consumer needs before and after purchase – this is the relational experience. Brands need to create an ongoing relationship with their customers. They don’t want to feel like a number; they want personalised treatment to make them feel valued.

Brands often personalise their communication and create loyalty schemes to establish a sense of community, making people feel seen and heard. Offering tailored services and responding to feedback promptly contribute to a better relational experience. It’s all about building trust, and when done right, these strategies turn one-time buyers into loyal investors.

A close up of River Island's logo in a neon sign

Why is brand experience important?

Reputation for a brand means everything, so having an excellent brand experience is a must. Remember, the experience is more than the interaction the customer has with a product. It involves the entire brand, from what reviews are saying and advertising to customer service and the design, quality and functionality of products.

Through experience, consumers will garner either a positive or negative perception of your company, leading them to either buy from you or go to a competitor. Even if someone has a neutral perception of a brand, they’re still not likely to pick you out from the crowd. That’s why it’s important to get your brand experience right.

What makes a good brand experience?

To make a good brand experience, you’ve got to involve multiple elements that stay consistent. A successful experience feels intentional and emotionally engaging, from initial awareness to long-term loyalty. Here are five key elements that contribute to a positive branded experience:

 

1. Consistency across all touchpoints

Consistency is key across all elements of the brand experience, as customers expect a seamless journey whether on a website, interacting on social media or with employees, as well as visiting a store. For example, perhaps a consumer has an interest in purchasing a new product from a less-well-known brand because the product promises something different. The product arrives but is unfortunately damaged. Sure, these things happen, so the customer is expecting an easy returns and replacement procedure with clear communication. However, this touchpoint is handled poorly, with unpleasant customer service and a lack of transparency on when the replacement product will arrive.

Disjointed and inconsistent interactions with the brand will damage credibility, even if one aspect is positive. A consistent brand experience reassures customers that they know what to expect every time they connect with you. This applies to both digital and physical environments, and even down to how emails are written or how staff communicate with customers.

 

2. Emotional engagement

A brand that creates an emotional connection with its audience is more likely to build loyalty. Companies that can create feelings of nostalgia, inspiration, empowerment or joy help customers feel something meaningful. That’s why the likes of McDonald’s, KFC and Burger King often bring back old products with a revamp, or why advertisements are driven by relatable stories that align with their main customer base.

When people feel more emotionally connected to the brand, they’ll likely return, recommend the brand to others and stay engaged over time. Direct and indirect marketing also play a role in emotional engagement. Purposeful marketing needs to evoke positive emotions, interactions with employees need to be supportive, and indirect elements like customer reviews should present your brand as one that can be trusted.

 

3. Customer-centric design

Putting the customer first is key to a good brand experience. That means designing websites, stores, interactions, packaging and products, marketing campaigns and product launches as well-thought-out journeys, where every element serves the customer’s needs. For example, for digital brands, websites should be fast, feature helpful FAQs and self-service tools. When people feel like brand interaction is effortless, they’re more likely to stay and convert. A customer-centric approach shows the brand values people’s time and wants to make their lives easier.

 

4. Personalisation and relevance

Being generic in marketing can only get brands so far, and customers today expect a more personal touch. Companies are now using consumer data with permission to engage through social media, advertising and personal interactions to provide positive experiences. Whether it’s a personalised product recommendation, location-based messaging or remembering a user’s name, these seemingly small touches make a big impact.

 

5. Purpose and values

Brands need to showcase that they care more than just making money and have a purpose that aligns with sustainability, inclusivity, social impact or innovation. This helps create a deeper layer of meaning for the brand and customer experience. Individuals may be passionate about creating a healthier environment, so if they see a brand that is authentic about this cause by building trust through messaging and actions, individuals and communities will be more engaged and likely to interact and purchase products or services from the brand. Purpose and values can often be found in company slogans – Apple uses ‘think different’, L’Oreal has ‘because you’re worth it’, and people can ‘eat fresh’ with Subway.

Goldsmiths Spotlight on New Windows

Brand experience examples

Let’s look at real-life examples of these brands mentioned – Apple, L’Oreal and Subway – have employed good brand experiences, where consistency, personalisation, value, emotion and relevance have all played a part in their success.

 

Apple: Seamless innovation and premium experience

Apple is widely recognised for delivering one of the most cohesive and premium brand experiences in the tech world. Every touchpoint, from the packaging to the physical stores to the user interface, is synonymous with being sleek, intuitive and minimalist. Apple’s devices and services are designed to work in complete cohesion, creating a sense of simplicity and control for the user. The in-store experience is no different, as customers benefit from carefully curated offerings, including hands-on trials, knowledgeable staff and a clean, modern environment. Apple has positioned itself as an innovator and a company that thinks differently, and reinforces this identity through consistent visual language, product design and service.

Road trip visual display

L’Oreal: Personalisation and empowerment through beauty

L’Oreal, the French-founded and world’s largest cosmetics company, has built its brand experience around inclusivity, personal beauty and empowerment, with each new product continuing to embody these values. Customers shop their products online and in-store, and are guided with tools like virtual try-ons, personalised product recommendations and expert beauty advice.

Their messaging promotes confidence and self-expression, aligning the brand with emotional well-being and individuality. L’Oreal benefits by engaging customers across multiple platforms, including social media tutorials to skincare education, making the experience rich and interactive. The brand’s purpose-driven approach of sustainability and diversity in advertising strengthens emotional and relational experiences. Customers feel part of a broader beauty movement.

 

Subway: Customisation and everyday convenience

Subway focuses on a brand experience built around choice, speed and value. Its ‘Build Your Own’ model makes the customer the decision-maker and the one in control, empowering them to customise their meal to taste, diet or mood.

In-store experiences are functional and consistent across locations, with familiar branding, fast service and fresh ingredients on display. Subway leans heavily into sensory experiences – the smell of fresh bread baking is intentionally part of the brand experience.

Bicester Village ‘English Heritage’ FENDI visual and brand experience

How to create a brand experience strategy

 

1. Determine your goals and purpose

  • Clarify why your brand exists beyond profit
  • Align your purpose with customer values and needs
  • Use this as the foundation for all experiences

 

2. Understand your audience

  • Conduct market research to uncover behaviours, needs and expectations
  • Create customer personas to guide tone, design and delivery
  • Adapt experiences to suit different touchpoints and segments

 

3. Map the customer journey

  • Identify all touchpoints (online, in-store, post-sale, marketing, advertising, etc)
  • Assess how users currently engage with your brand
  • Spot pain points and areas to elevate the experience

 

4. Design for all senses

  • Think beyond visuals – include 3D production, sound, texture, scent and interaction
  • Ensure sensory elements reflect your brand identity
  • Keep experiences consistent across environments
Joseph SS23 Campaign window display

5. Create emotional connections

  • Use storytelling, personalised content and empathetic service
  • Inspire trust, loyalty or joy – depending on your brand positioning
  • Ensure every interaction makes customers feel something

 

6. Focus on consistency

  • Align brand voice, visuals and messaging across all platforms
  • Train staff to represent the brand experience effectively
  • Create guidelines and policies to maintain cohesion

 

7. Incorporate feedback and adapt

  • Use surveys, reviews and customer data to evaluate performance
  • Respond to feedback actively and use it to improve
  • Stay flexible and evolve with customer expectations

 

8. Measure and optimise

  • Track KPIs such as repeat purchases or customer satisfaction
  • Analyse how experiences affect brand loyalty and perception
  • Refine strategies continually to stay relevant and competitive

Common mistakes to avoid with brand experience

  • Inconsistent branding across channels: Using different tones, visuals or messaging on various platforms and channels confuses customers and weakens brand identity. This can be avoided by creating clear brand guidelines and ensuring all teams and partners adhere to them.
  • Ignoring the customer journey: Failing to map out how users interact with your brand can lead to frustrating customer experiences. You must understand every stage from discovery to post-purchase to ensure a seamless transition.
  • Prioritising design over functionality: A beautiful website or attractive product is pointless if it’s hard to use or doesn’t meet expectations. It’s important to balance aesthetics with functionality, and always test products for real user feedback.
  • Overlooking emotional engagement: When brands focus solely on product features, they miss the chance to build lasting loyalty through emotional connection. That’s why brands must craft messages and experiences that make people feel seen, heard and inspired.
  • Failing to act on feedback: Dismissing customer reviews or ignoring pain points leads to stagnation and reputational damage. Brands need to actively listen, measure satisfaction and use insights to continually improve customer experience.

How B_RD can help with brand experience

We are specialists in retail and experiential design, able to implement branding experiences with 3D production, printing, logistics and installation. Our turnkey services are paired with our goal of helping businesses succeed with their unique brand experience. We become an ambassador of your brand, supporting small to large businesses across the globe.

We get to understand what emotional connections you’re looking to achieve with your client base, ensuring customer-centric designs and consistency across all touchpoints. Get in touch with us to see how we can help support your brand, developing the experience by calling +44 (0) 1664 494 750 or emailing hello@wearebrd.com.

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