GradCycle: Marketplace Branding & Webdesign

Background

GradCycle is launching an innovative marketplace for students in the United Kingdom where they can buy and sell reusable goods. The concept is similar to platforms like Vinted, but specifically tailored for a younger, educational audience. The project involved designing the web UX and UI – including both low- and high-fidelity wireframes – as well as developing a unique startup branding. In addition, we closely collaborated with the developers for the seamless integration of the designs.

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Strategy

Our approach for GradCycle was focused on creating a fresh, modern, and functional digital environment that:

• Resonates with the target audience: UK students are looking for an intuitive, reliable, and visually appealing way to trade secondhand, sustainable products.
• Clearly communicates the brand’s meaning: We positioned GradCycle as the marketplace where sustainability and smart deals come together.
• Delivers an e-commerce experience: Leveraging our experience with marketplaces and e-commerce, we ensured that both the user interface and navigation are smooth and effective.

For more on our approach to marketplaces and e-commerce, please visit our corporate positioning page.

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Concept

The concept for GradCycle revolves around a modern, user-friendly marketplace that:

1. Puts clarity and functionality first, ensuring that students can quickly find what they need.
2. Emphasizes sustainability and reuse as core values, aligning with the needs of the target audience.
3. Exudes a fresh look that reflects GradCycle's innovative and forward-thinking vision.

We developed the initial concepts using both low- and high-fidelity wireframes to clearly visualize the user experience and interface, while sharply defining the brand identity. By launching the first version as a minimum viable product, we were able to validate the user experience and integrate valuable feedback into further platform development.

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Design & Implementation

Visual Identity and Website

For GradCycle, we developed a design that:

• Combines sleek, modern UX/UI elements with intuitive navigation, ensuring the marketplace is user-friendly for students.
• Utilizes a fresh color palette and contemporary typography, emphasizing the energy and sustainability of the brand.
• Is built on solid wireframes, laying a strong foundation for both the website and further development by the developers.

In addition, we handled the startup branding by creating a unique visual identity that perfectly reflects the brand values of sustainability, innovation, and reliability.

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Results & Impact

Thanks to our strategic approach and creative execution, GradCycle now has:

• A clear and modern digital identity that resonates with the target audience.
• A user-friendly and attractive website, built on robust wireframes and a sleek design.
• A strong market positioning, enabling the startup to stand out in the competitive e-commerce and sustainability sectors.

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Ready to Elevate Your Digital Brand?

Are you looking for a partner who combines strategic insight with creative design for your e-commerce or marketplace project? Studio Erwin Sala is here to help you turn your vision into reality.

Contact us or book a digital consultation and discover how we can work together to elevate your brand.