The snack industry is no stranger to innovation, but Xiao Ma Song Strategic Consulting has taken it a step further by integrating cultural heritage with modern aesthetics in the redesign of Wow Long Rice Crust packaging. The brand name itself, a playful nod to the esteemed Zhuge Liang, has been transformed to resonate with a younger demographic. By adopting a comic style depiction of this historical figure, the design team has successfully shed the serious and dated image of rice crust snacks, replacing it with a vibrant and youthful vibe.
What sets the Wow Long Rice Crust apart is the clever use of Zhuge Liang's caricature, complete with a speech bubble exclaiming "Wow" – a simple yet effective way to convey the snack's delightful taste experience. This unexpected element not only captures attention but also aligns perfectly with the product's chewy and amusing nature. The strategic rebranding is a testament to the design team's ability to harness the power of visual storytelling to forge a new identity for a traditional snack.
The packaging design, measuring 220mm by 50mm by 320mm, is a testament to the team's dedication to detail and quality. The combination of engaging illustrations, expressive character art, and mouth-watering product imagery is a recipe for success in attracting consumer interest. The design team, including Guan Zi, Bai Lu, Wang Dianhe, Shi Ruoyu, Zhu Xiaolin, and Li Sitong, with illustrations by Wang Dianhe and strategic direction from Xiao Masong and colleagues, has crafted a packaging that stands out on the shelves and speaks directly to the hearts of young consumers.
From the initial concept in October 2022 to the final product in April 2023, the Beijing-based project has overcome significant challenges. Among these was the task of appealing to a younger audience while preserving the visual essence of the traditional snack. The result is a harmonious blend of old and new, a packaging design that respects its roots while boldly stepping into the future.
The Wow Long Rice Crust packaging is not just a container for a snack; it's a statement of cultural adaptation and design innovation. It's a bridge between generations, offering a fresh take on a classic treat. This design's success is further cemented by its recognition with the Bronze A' Packaging Design Award in 2024, a prestigious accolade that celebrates the fusion of art, science, and technology in creating designs that enhance our quality of life.
In conclusion, the Wow Long Rice Crust packaging by Xiao Ma Song Strategic Consulting is a prime example of how design can breathe new life into traditional products. It's a celebration of heritage with a contemporary twist, proving that even the most time-honored snacks can be reinvented for the modern palate.
Project Designers: Guan Zi
Image Credits: Illustrator :Wang Dianhe
Project Team Members: Design:Guan Zi ,Bai Lu,Wang Dianhe,Shi Ruoyu ,Zhu Xiaolin,Li Sitong
Illustration:Wang Dianhe
Strategic:Xiao Masong,Huang Zheng,Ying Yaojie,Li Huizi,Wang Yang,Sun Nan
Project Name: Wow Long Rice Crust
Project Client: Xiao Ma Song Strategic Consulting Co., Ltd