The Challenge

Continual consumer focus on clean labeling presented an opportunity where a Manufacturer had the opportunity to remove an ingredient with an undesirable name (sounded too much like a chemical) from its process and ingredient listing. Since the removal of this ingredient changed the overall color and texture of the product, Senior Management wanted reassurances that the removal of this ingredient would not have a negative impact on sales. 

The Solution

Production samples were generated with and without this ingredient and targeted consumer testing was conducted to identify the impact to the proposed changes. Testing included both qualitative and quantitative testing using targeted, pre-screen consumers.

The Challenge

Recently, we had multiple projects (products) where our clients had concepts but needed assistance to commercialize their product. The target co-packers would not enter into negotiation with them since the product was not at a stage for commercialization. Our clients had an idea of what they wanted but did not have the experience or contacts to drive their concept into a finished product.

The Solution

In all cases we had to take “kitchen samples” and develop commercial formulations.  Ingredients specifications were created and suppliers were identified to meet the end product specification (Fair Trade, Organic, Non GMO, Vegan, Gluten Free, Major Allergen Free).  Product specifications, batching/handling instructions were created.  Ingredients were selected based on quality, performance, availability and pricing.

We took the active lead role in negotiating favorable acceptance from the co-packers eliminating or mitigating all of their initial concerns. We attended all pilot runs and the commissioning runs for each of the products. We became the Quality and R&D representative for each of these clients. We basically became the “specialized” employee that the client did not have on their staff.

The Challenge

Develop a Brand and an alcoholic beverage targeting young consumers (21 – 26 males).

The Brand and the product targets males with the focus of removing the negative perception of consuming a “cooler beverage” typically identified as a female beverage.

The Solution

Gather trend information about the target beverage market and develop products that meet the needs of the target male audience without alienating potential female consumers.

An iterative innovation process of casting a wide net of ideas which were then narrowed and refined using qualitative followed by quantitative approaches. This consumer focused process drove the prototype development, formula and concept refinement and ultimately, validated that the product met an unfilled need of the targeted consumer.

The Challenge

Due to growing market pressure from competitors, a leading player in an industrial market wanted to update and simplify its product offerings in the hopes of regaining market leadership.

The Solution

Working with qualified product users and key decision makers, prototypes of potential new designs were shared to gain insight for further refinement.

Regional CLT sites were used to gain informative customer input and design direction on prototypes. The testing identified key product attributes, critical design characteristics and product features for inclusion in the final product.