The Vertex Awards, presented by the Velocity Institute and Global Retail Brands, are the only global competition devoted exclusively to Private Brand package design. Judged by a highly esteemed panel of industry experts from around the world, the awards have recognised innovative design solutions to consumer problems, since 2012. Here’s what we won.
Challenge
Thanksgiving biscuits often lack distinctive, celebratory packaging that ties into the festive spirit of the holiday. ALDI sought a holiday-themed packaging design while incorporating modern, festive flair. The design needed to feature two flavour variants and appeal to families. The challenge was to create a design that captured Thanksgiving’s warmth and familial essence while differentiating these biscuits on store shelves during a highly competitive period.
What we did
The new quirky packaging design embraced classic Thanksgiving elements like warm autumnal colours, subtle nods to parades and football traditions, and festive graphics, balancing traditional cues with contemporary design aesthetics which created an emotional connection with consumers.
Results
The design generated significant buzz among customers, positioning the product as a staple for holiday gatherings. The packaging enhanced the biscuits’ perceived value, driving strong in-store visibility and engagement.
Challenge
The existing packaging prioritised value messaging over quality and taste appeal. Competing against established national brands required a fresh design approach to elevate shelf impact while maintaining the product’s affordable positioning.
What we did
Drawing inspiration from classic soda aesthetics, pairing brown tones with vintage-inspired typography, minimalist accents and retro-cool elements to communicate a bold flavour. This design echoes American beverage heritage and offers more premium appeal, attractive to both traditional and younger consumers. The modular design ensures consistency across all formats to maintain strong shelf presence.
Results
The design successfully bridges nostalgia and contemporary appeal, establishing Great Value Root Beer as a credible alternative to national brands.
The Prolific North Champions Awards recognise the organisations, teams and individuals putting the North on the map across the creative, digital, marketing and technology sectors. This flagship event has been a focus of the industry calendar for over a decade. From standout agencies and pioneering tech firms to brilliant brand leaders, it showcases the North’s brightest talent.
Sun Branding has been in the graphics industry since 1893 and has evolved into an international packaging agency, with a HQ in West Yorkshire. But its strong northern roots have spread further afield, now with 5 studios across 3 continents. The brands you buy in your grocery shop are likely to be Sun clients, from Flora to Twinings and Aldi to Goodfella’s.
A very solid business creating brilliant work. Their scale is impressive and the stature of the brands they work with would make many other agencies jealous. A mix of practical and innovative rebrands with clear objectives and responses to company challenges.
Other recent acknowledgements:
