The BFF

Project Description

We partnered with MaCher, a certified B-corp, to redesign one of their signature items – a luggage tag – according to their eco-friendly parameters, and additionally created a digital companion for the item.

Problem

The luggage tag has had the same design for hundreds of years, so how do we update it? Furthermore, how can we create additional use cases so that it doesn’t just sit in the closet most of the time? Finally, how can we make sure to make the production of the product as eco-friendly and cost-friendly as possible?

Insights

Our initial product ideation sketches were broad as we experimented with form factor, branding choices, and a variety of use cases. We quickly shied away from the traditional luggage tag, opting for more creative solutions that had potential for additional functionality beyond luggage identification. Our mentor Jamila was drawn to similar items that she felt promoted circularity and re-use: the “bracelet” design was something she was interested in as an item that could be worn “off luggage.” This concept, “off luggage,” was what primarily inspired our final idea. If an item is unique and well made, consumers will hold onto it for longer, and potentially share it with family/turn it into an heirloom. Instead of a luggage tag, we could create a different kind of luggage ID system that potentially has other use cases as well.

Solutions

To create a set of luggage straps that can be used on luggage or shared between two people/bags using recycled PET and upcycled billboard. For the digital companion, each bag is linked to its own unique digital album, allowing people to add photos and collect stamps during their travels tying into a brand’s travel offerings.