We’ve blogged before about the ways that design has helped in the pandemic – from guidance for the public and the data-sharing to creative ways to thank our incredible key workers. We’ve also emphasized the importance of businesses sending clear messages to their customers, even when things are uncertain. But this recent article in Design Week made us think about the ways that graphic design can help to heal both businesses and communities.
“A lost year”
As cities around the world effectively closed during the pandemic, they tragically lost thousands of residents to COVID-19, leaving a lasting sadness that will take time to come back from. As things begin to reopen, graphic designers are helping cities, their residents and tourists remember happier times before the pandemic as well as hope for the future. From Los Angeles to London, designers are recapturing and reimagining the buzz of local life.
Commercial and the community
Now more than ever it is vital that the public and commercial sectors work together to promote local areas as independent shopping, eating and business hubs. Staffordshire borough council has recently done just that, zoning local towns into food and shopping destinations, the same way an indoor shopping centre might be traditionally mapped out and acknowledging that people may be less likely to use indoor shopping centres. Now is the time for local authorities, creatives and independent businesses to reimagine and re-market local areas for a vibrant future. We have a long history of working with both the public and business sector as well as championing our own local businesses.
Championing local businesses
Whether it’s through an established networking group (we are members of both Chigwell Business Group and Newham Chamber of Commerce) or just through getting to know them as a customer or fellow-business, referring, recommending or just generally shouting about your local businesses can make an unimaginable impact on them and the local economy. And anyone can do it – do a social media post about your favourite shops, eateries or suppliers, blog about them as we have done, or simply recommend them!
New beginnings?
Although at the time of writing there is still uncertainty – the fact that people, businesses and science have adapted to the pandemic means that this is likely to be a new beginning whatever happens in the coming months. It’s a chance for brands to rethink their image and their messages and come back stronger – and the most impactful way to do that is with a vibrant new look. As a fellow brand that’s made it through this, we’d love to help you!
Whether you want design, print or web creations for a new campaign or a complete rebrand, call us on 0208 590 0922 or email us at info@marcomedia.co.uk We’re here for you throughout lockdown and beyond…