How we repositioned Shakespeare’s local market…

Bell Court, Stratford-upon-Avon has always had great ingredients. The challenge wasn’t the offer, it was the perception.

Working with our friends at aletheia, we were commissioned to create a new brand identity and marketing platform for this retail and leisure destination.

We started by understanding the audience. Research showed Bell Court’s current spend came mainly from loyal older locals and tourists, but with new homes planned nearby and The Ivy Brasserie opening later this year, a younger, more affluent audience is emerging.

The opportunity wasn’t to replace the existing audience, but to broaden it.
Inspired by Bell Court’s history as Stratford’s original market square, we developed the brand platform “Time Well Spent.”

It positions Bell Court as a destination for experiences rather than transactions – a place to meet friends, eat, watch a film, browse independent retailers or simply spend quality time.

From there, we created a bold new visual identity designed to appeal to this evolving audience while remaining welcoming to existing visitors.

• Our work included:
• Brand strategy and messaging
• Visual identity and brand guidelines
• Graphic assets and campaign toolkit
• Website design and build
• Social media templates
• Wayfinding and signage
• Hoardings and empty unit vinyls

Every touchpoint was designed to strengthen place, improve navigation, increase dwell time and help turn an underused part of Stratford-upon-Avon into a destination people actively seek out.

It’s exactly the kind of challenge we love solving—using strategy, storytelling and design to unlock the commercial potential of places.