Arax is an Armenian vodka infused with Tarragon, an aromatic herb that is combined with local natural mineral waters to form the key element of this distillate, giving it an intense yet harmonious character. Thanks to its taste, Arax is the perfect vodka for every occasion. This versatility, together with its widespread distribution, has allowed the brand to make inroads into the hearts of many consumers, and it now boasts a very broad target audience. With increasing competition in the spirits sector, and the desire to enter international markets, the brand produced by F54 has implemented a complete restyling of its image, creating a distinctive packaging shape and design in line with its premium positioning. For such a makeover, Gentlebrand-Packaging Tailors proved to be the ideal strategic partner.
The new Arax
A project created completely from scratch, for which F54 relied on Gentlebrand’s expertise in branding and packaging design, setting no limitations other than showcasing Arax as a premium vodka. A thorough market analysis and target audience study allowed Gentlebrand to define the new Arax brand strategy, adopting the right positioning and identifying the elements to enhance the product’s packaging.
The frosted glass bottle appears to have been carved from ice, conveying the feeling of a fresh, ready-to-serve spirit. Distinct volumes emphasize a shape that is minimal yet refined, in a design that aims to communicate the premiumness desired by the brand. A pattern of tarragon leaves is the only decorative element that not only enriches the base but also recalls the natural component of the distillate. The same detail also appears on the body of the bottle and on the cap, designed especially for the customer. The large logo is visible, while the stylistic choice of using the colour white as opposed to the satin finish of the glass, gives the whole a sophisticated look and feel.
Not just branding and design, but also technical feasibility
Gentlebrand’s primary aim is to provide its customers with feasible packaging solutions. Often a design that seems perfect on paper is imperfect in production, requiring interventions that result in a complete change of concept when the project is completed. Thanks to a wealth of technical know-how and an established network of partners, Gentlebrand adopts an integrated development process from the design to the engineering stages, a process that allows packaging to be created simultaneously from both a creative and technical standpoint. In addition, unique prototyping and quality checks allow clients to assess and validate the output of the project as it will be brought to market.
Gentlebrand’s methodology and approach were fundamental in the development of Arax. Once the brand strategy had been defined and the design concept selected, the packaging tailors liaised directly with the glassworks supplying F54, ensuring that the design and all modifications were feasible.
The support provided in the search for missing suppliers was essential, guiding the various teams so that the concept validated by the client could actually be put into production. The challenges of the project were diverse; one among many was balancing the green colour of the distillate with the Satinato glass, but each challenge found a clear solution, leading the client to complete satisfaction, so much so that the Italian agency was entrusted with new projects.
Arax marks an important result for Gentlebrand, making a new contribution to the international wine and spirits market.
