Ferris Outfitters is a unique experience for students at Ferris State university offering a one-stop shop for spirit gear, school supplies, snacks, and student services. Previously known as the Ferris State university Bookstore, Ferris Outfitters is now a separate entity from the bookstore.

Through research and initial client discussions, we categorized a vast group of users into 3 main groups: Students, alumni, and locals. It’s these three users that we focused on when creating the brand and overall experience.

In order to determine an appropriate attitude for the store, we asked our client to particpate in a brand workshop activity. We listed out different adjectives on a spectrum and asked them to estimate where the brand stands. The results jumpstarted our ideas for brand visuals, as well as settled on values and tone of voice.

As we began to think about the brand visuals more, we had to consider the location of the store. Ferris Outfitters is in the University Center at the center of campus. We decided it would be innapropriate to stray too far away from Ferris State’s color scheme. So, we considered our options and decided on a complimentary color palette that branches off of Ferris’s primary colors.

Looking back at the values we originally established, typography was designed to exude similar feelings. We wanted it to look bold while also being accessible and legible. We also worked with a copywriter to come up with a strategy for headlines.

The photography style is intended to be fun and engaging. We worked with a student photographer who did an excellent job illuminating the cheerful nature of the brand.

The original store sign sat atop the doorway of the main store entrance, but had very limited space. As a solution, we decided on a clear acrylic sign on the large open wall. This results in a much better use of space and more attractive signage.

Since the store is loacted inside a multipurpose building, Ferris Outfitters also needed signage on the outside of the University Center.

Other signage around the store utilizes a combination of photography, color, and type to intrigue our users and invite them into the store.

Similarly, we created a system for different types of marketing materials. These easy-to-use templates help maintain consistency for those in charge of designing them.

We distributed our branding and emblem mark on other touchpoints, like an employee shirt, shopping bag, and subscription box.