Brand strategy, identity & packaging design

Positive Design for the Wellness Era

How are today's most exciting start-up brands promoting wellness in a more inclusive, empowering, and expert way.

by Emma Davies on 12/08/2024

It felt like we came so far progressing a ‘healthier’, more holistic and body-positive narrative surrounding health, and then… we didn’t. The sad truth is that diet culture appears to have gone full circle. From the Ozempic craze to misleading TikTok trends, we’re seeing a resurgence of guilt-inducing messaging and ‘skinny talk’ that we thought we’d left behind.

So, as ever, it’s tricky for brands in the space to tread the right path. But here’s the thing: there is a role for genuine wellness brands – and with shelves still packed with ultra-processed [foods] and concern for mental well-being at an all-time high – you could argue we need them more than ever. The right brands can help people on their journey to taking a more preventative approach to health.

At B&B, we’ve launched several pioneering brands in the wellness space. Using strategy, design, and voice, we’ve created a positive narrative around healthy lifestyles, backed by credible products. These brands demonstrate how to promote wellness in a more inclusive, empowering, and expert way, veering away from toxic diet language, value judgements, and physical benefits. Instead, they look inwards to tell authentic product and brand stories.

 

Superkeen cereal packaging on cloudy sky background designed by B and B studio

1.     SUPERKEEN: Building Inclusive Communities Superkeen, the allergen-free cereal, is a celebration of inclusivity and joy in eating. With its vibrant packaging and playful cloud mascot, Superkeen turns the often-isolating experience of food allergies into a fun, shared experience. Messaging such as “No nuts, no grains, no dairy, no problem” flips the script on restrictive diets, focusing instead on what you can enjoy.

2.     THE HERBTENDER: Expert Mindful Supplements The Herbtender, a range of adaptogenic supplements, encourages consumers to see wellness as a journey of holistic self-empowerment rather than a quick fix. Not compensating for deficiencies, but nurturing your innate strength and vitality through targeted emotional states. With its highly considered, crafted design world with artistic ingredient photography, the brand demonstrates a deep understanding and passion for these powerful natural ingredients.

Hand holding a jar of Uplift and Revitalise supplements from The Herbtender designed by B and B studio
Citizen Spritz with grapefruit lifestyle image designed by B and B studio

3.     CITIZEN SPRITZ: Accessible Alternatives Citizen Spritz, a down-to-earth non-alcoholic beverage, aims to democratise the world of sophisticated non-alcoholic drinks. The brand’s clean, vibrant, and straightforward design reflects its mission to strip away the pretension often associated with the category. With a convenient “just add sparkling water” format and affordable price point, Citizen Spritz encourages a more laid-back approach to midweek drinking.

As brand guardians, we have a responsibility to shape the narrative around health and wellness. It’s not about quick fixes, guilt-tripping, or preaching ideals. Instead, it’s about allowing people to make choices that feel good for them, creating communities around shared values, and making taking care of ourselves feel easy. Through thoughtful design and truthful storytelling, we can contribute to a wellness landscape that’s inclusive, positive, and supportive of health.