Objective


Age UK, a leading charity dedicated to improving the lives of elderly people, approached us with a challenge: they needed a practical, sustainable, and visually compelling solution to encourage public donations across their retail locations in Northamptonshire.

Age UK was looking for a partner that could deliver a solution that was not only functional but also reflected their brand and sustainability goals. With years of experience in creating bespoke packaging and display solutions, we were ready to bring their vision to life.

Project Challenges

  • Durability & Reusability : The donation bins had to withstand frequent handling and high traffic areas within stores, maintaining both form and functionality over time.
  • Eco-Friendly Materials : Age UK places a strong emphasis on sustainability, so it was essential to use recyclable and environmentally responsible materials for the bins.
  • Brand Identity : The bins needed to be instantly recognisable to reflect Age UK’s branding, messaging, and mission.
  • Ease of Use : Accessibility was crucial, as these bins would be used by all age groups for clothing and item donations. They needed to be easy to spot, reach, and use, even in crowded store environments.
Fefco completely custom

Our Approach


After a series of consultations with Age UK, we aligned on a design that incorporated high-quality recycled cardboard as the primary material.

We worked closely with their team to ensure that the bins would be both durable and sustainable while meeting the charity’s specifications for size and usability.

1. Material Selection and Prototyping


We proposed recycled corrugated cardboard, which provided an ideal balance between sustainability and durability.

This choice was also economically viable, aligning with Age UK’s budget considerations. We created a prototype and invited Age UK to review and provide feedback.

2. Design and Branding Integration


The bin design featured Age UK’s colours and logo prominently, with clear messaging on how and what to donate.

To further encourage donations, we included quick and easy instructions in bold text with visuals.

3. Production and Quality Control


Each bin was crafted with high precision to meet rigorous quality standards. Before final production, we conducted tests to ensure the bins could withstand regular use without losing stability.

With Age UK’s support, we produced a first batch and delivered bins for them to distribute across their selected store locations.

Results and Client Impact


Since the introduction of the bins, Age UK has seen a notable increase in in-store donations. The bins’ eye-catching design attracted attention, and their placement in high-traffic areas within the stores maximized visibility.

Feedback from both staff and patrons has been overwhelmingly positive, with users appreciating the bins’ accessibility and clear branding.

Conclusion


Through close collaboration, sustainable materials, and a clear understanding of Age UK’s vision, we were able to produce an impactful solution that aligned with Age UK’s mission and enhanced their retail spaces.

We’re proud to support Age UK Northamptonshire in their ongoing efforts to improve the lives of older people in the UK and to contribute to their mission through sustainable, practical solutions.