Sample Pots with Mecca Cosmetics
Vert was commissioned to design a bespoke sample pot for MECCA that reflects the brand's values, strong visual identity, and commitment to sustainability. The design aims to better connect MECCA with their customers, offering an optimal user experience that mirrors the in-store experience and encourages return customers.
The sample pots have been specified and developed to accommodate 2 ml of sample product. They were designed to embody MECCA's high perceived value and iconic aesthetics, while maintaining a neutral and universal appeal suitable for sampling their diverse range of iconic brands and products.
In conjunction with market research, Vert undertook several visits to MECCA stores to review the in-person sampling experience. While MECCA had an existing sample pot range, they faced technical challenges related to labeling and sealing, and lacked solid brand touchpoints.
Concepts were developed to explore various forms, guided by a visual design criteria aimed at achieving a harmonious balance between structured and methodical forms, with expressive designs. The primary goal was to create a positive first impression in-store while ensuring the pots offered both functional utility and aesthetic appeal in customers' homes.
Eight concepts were introduced, each motivated by practicality and design, guiding user interactions and drawing inspiration from the makeup industry, architecture, and beauty. Three main directions were explored: Method, a meticulous and structured approach, guaranteeing reliable and effective outcomes; Flair, daring, imaginative, and experimental, promoting playful and artistic expression; and Establishment, seasoned and professional, reflecting authority with robust forms and profiles.
Initial concept designs focused on stack-ability, ease of filling and labeling, with additional considerations such as custom cotton pads to enhance usability.
The chosen concept adopted a teardrop design with natural contours. Meticulously crafted for symmetry, it includes a stopper detail for precise alignment and an internal lip to prevent spills. Vert conducted rigorous rapid prototyping to test the screwing mechanism, ensuring optimal functionality for sealing. Additionally, a tactile ‘bump-stop’ detail was implemented to provide haptic feedback, indicating whether the pot is securely closed or open.
Further refinements involved creating variations in pot sizing, logo placement, and matching MECCA's iconic colour schemes. Concepts for labeling enhancements included options for paper stickers and detachable tags, aimed at improving the experience for both Mecca representatives and end-users.
Multiple rounds of off-tool samples were manufactured to ensure the highest quality and alignment with MECCA's quality assurance and brand guidelines. This iterative process aimed to achieve the ideal balance of functionality, aesthetic appeal, and brand consistency for MECCA's product line.
Vert is proud to have developed a circular system for MECCA sample pots, harnessing recycled plastics. This system enables the pots to be curbside recycled, repurposed into one’s own sample kit, or returned to MECCA for reintegration into the system and made into future sample pot collections.
MECCA recently conducted a trial pilot program with sample pots in their HQ state of Victoria, to gain feedback and consumer insights prior to mass adoption.
You can view MECCA’s website here and instagram here.
Stay tuned for further sample range developments.