Collaboration Explores the Future of Retail

Fashion Marketing and Interior Design students have joined forces to tackle the 'future of retail' in a collaborative project with industry partner Richard Hartle, Creative Director of Innovation at brand activation agency Geometry Global.

Students were asked to consider the state of fashion retail; the high-street apocalypse, digital disruptions and an increasing consumer behavioural shift towards e-commerce.

Focusing their research and conceptual strategies on a fashion or beauty brand, the groups explored how retailers can design physical spaces to seamlessly integrate online convenience with the experiential aspect of bricks and mortar and ultimately increase customer engagement for a brand.

The project was judged by Richard and the winning group - Fashion Marketing students Phoebe Toups and Ellie Graham and Interior Design students Bree Smart and Cordy Kent, who created a concept for beauty brand NYX - went to Geometry Global HQ in London to present their project to a panel of professionals.

Emma Goff, Fashion Marketing Senior Lecturer, explained: "They gained a huge amount of feedback and guidance regarding their project, and were offered professional support in contacting and creating a professional pitch presentation directly to the client, NYX. The project is ongoing and will take the students towards the final year of their degree, forming a major part of their portfolio projects next year."

Ellie said:

It was really interesting to work with some of the interior designers. It is one of my favourite things about Falmouth; the opportunity to work with and get to know other courses, expanding our skill set.

"It was an honour to be chosen as the winners as there were so many amazing and creative ideas pitched. The process of working with Richard to improve and adjust our presentation and marketing pack was really insightful, and has provided us with a professional structure to set out future pieces of work similar to this. Though nerve wracking, the pitch at Geometry was an incredible, and invaluable experience. The thought of taking the pitch directly to NYX is very exciting, especially if it could open up some doors for future employment! We're still working with the team at Geometry and are so grateful for all they have, and are continuing to do for us."