Sprout teamed up with Sparx, an at-home, ice skate sharpening system, to develop a structural and visual packaging system and in-store merchandiser for the retail debut in Pro Hockey Life (Canada’s largest hockey retailer) this fall. Originally launched on kickstarter in 2013, the Boston-based company has developed and manufactured a direct-to-consumer line of skate sharpening products and related accessories that allow hockey players to customize their skate sharpening experience. The project required an expedited timeline to get from design brief to production-ready packaging and Sprout had the additional challenge to bring Sparx to brick & mortar retail for the very first time.
Our design team’s core goal was to develop a modern, clean, and minimal system that allows customers to easily understand and differentiate accessories. The result pushes 3D product renderings to the forefront of each package front with clear product distinction. With multiple accessory options such as the 16 different grinding rings (each one applies a unique edge to the skates blade suitable for different skating needs and styles), integrating consumer education played an important role in the packaging and merchandising systems. Every package is accompanied with custom illustrated demonstrations, iconography, and product benefits.
Each carton was designed for maximum efficiency in assembly and to minimize the use of plastic packaging without compromising structural integrity. The overall aesthetic blends a high-end experience with a utilitarian approach.
We continued supporting the project from the design, refine, and print phases, through to retail launch. We also helped with scouring the packaging production, ultimately selecting Shawmut Communication Group, one of our favorite Boston-area printers.The Shawmut team was instrumental in propelling the packaging through the production and print phases, supporting the expedited timing through to retail launch. The Sprout process of continuous communication and collaboration enabled Sparx to meet their aggressive schedule, delivering on time and on budget.