2015-09-06
Lauren Rodriguez
Design Dispatch, New York
A global campaign for the beloved British children's television show The Wombles features colorful visuals and an upbeat soundtrack. The rebrand aims to introduce the iconic characters to a new generation while retaining their nostalgic charm.
The Wombles Get a Modern Makeover: A Conversation with How&How's Cat How
In recent years, the world of advertising has seen a surge in creative agencies specializing in sustainable branding. Among them is How&How, a studio that has made a name for itself by crafting visually stunning worlds for eco-conscious brands like Freetree and Biozeroc. The latest project to join their portfolio is none other than the beloved British TV series, Wombles. With their charming rebranding courtesy of How&How, it's clear that this is the dream project for the agency.
For those unfamiliar with the original Wombles, they were a group of small, furry creatures living in a 1970s-era English village, dedicated to recycling and conserving resources. The show was designed to educate children about environmentalism and sustainability, making it a staple of British popular culture. When How&How approached the agency with the task of rebranding the Wombles for modern audiences, they knew it was an opportunity to revisit this classic IP while injecting new life into its timeless message.
"A Fresh Perspective on a Timeless Concept"
According to Cat How, founder and creative director of How&How, "The Wombles were always meant to be more than just a show about recycling. They represented a way of living, a philosophy that's still relevant today." To update the brand for contemporary audiences, the agency drew upon their extensive back catalogue to create a visual identity that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking. By revisiting iconic characters like Orinoco, Bungo, and Madam Cholet, How&How aimed to evoke the same sense of wonder and curiosity that defined the original series.
"We wanted to keep the essence of what made the Wombles special in the first place," explains Cat How. "At the same time, we needed to make it relatable to modern audiences who may not have grown up with the show." To achieve this balance, the agency employed a range of creative strategies, from bespoke illustration to carefully curated typography. The result is a fresh, yet unmistakably Womble-like aesthetic that feels both old and new at the same time.
"Bringing Sustainability to Life through Storytelling"
One of the key takeaways from How&How's work on the Wombles rebranding project is the importance of storytelling in sustainability. By crafting narratives around the Wombles' adventures, the agency aimed to make environmentalism feel more accessible and engaging for younger audiences. "We believe that stories have the power to inspire change," says Cat How. "By sharing the Wombles' mission to protect their home and the world beyond it, we hope to encourage a new generation of eco-warriors to take action."
This approach to sustainability is one that aligns closely with How&How's own values as an agency. With projects like Freetree and Biozeroc already under their belt, they've demonstrated a proven track record of creating engaging, environmentally conscious campaigns that inspire audiences to make a difference. As such, the Wombles rebranding serves as both a testament to their expertise and a reflection of their commitment to storytelling as a tool for driving positive change.
"The Wombles Reimagined: A New Era of Environmentalism"
In conclusion, How&How's charming rebranding of the Wombles marks a significant milestone in the agency's mission to create visually stunning worlds for sustainable brands. By updating this beloved IP for modern audiences, they've not only preserved its timeless message but also injected new life into its classic characters and narrative structures. As we move forward in an era marked by climate change and environmental activism, it's clear that How&How's work on the Wombles serves as a beacon of hope – a reminder that even the smallest actions can add up to make a difference.
With their rebranding complete, the Wombles are now poised to embark on a new journey – one that combines nostalgia with innovation, creativity with sustainability. As we look to the future, it's clear that this iconic IP is ready for its closest step into the spotlight once more, thanks in large part to the creative vision of How&How.
