GRACE

MCNICHOLAS

PROJECTS

IMO Car Wash Rebranding Project 2023

Overview

As a key player in the car wash industry, IMO Car Wash has established a global presence, particularly in the UK, by offering exceptional car cleaning services. To enhance their brand identity and improve customer engagement, IMO Car Wash embarked on an ambitious rebranding initiative that required innovative and effective signage solutions.

The Challenge

IMO Car Wash faced a significant challenge: rebranding their entire estate of over 120 locations within a year. This tight schedule demanded not only prompt execution but also a high level of quality and safety. They needed a signage partner who could manage the rebranding process efficiently while maintaining clear communication throughout.

Objectives

- Complete the signage installation across 120+ sites within one year.

- Replace all existing external and internal signage.

- Ensure effective project management and communication to meet tight deadlines.

My Role

As part of the Blaze Signs team, I played a critical role in driving the rebranding project forward. We took on the challenge of implementing a streamlined process that would allow us to meet the project’s aggressive timeline without sacrificing quality.

Innovative Solutions

To facilitate efficient communication and project management, I helped implement several key strategies:

1. Creative Communication Tools:

We leveraged cloud-based file sharing systems, enabling seamless collaboration between our teams and the client. This platform allowed us to upload and share critical documents, including site run plans, survey details, design schemes, technical drawings, and site plans, all in a secure digital environment.

2. Meticulous Project Management:

I worked closely with our team to establish advanced project management methods tailored specifically for this large-scale operation. We developed a fully numbered signage catalogue, which streamlined the approval process for each site, speeding up the overall timeline.

3. Enhanced Productivity:

By reorganizing our workflow, we were able to increase productivity and ensure effective collaboration within our team. This involved setting clear timelines, responsibilities, and communication protocols that helped maintain momentum throughout the project.

Results

Through careful planning and innovative strategies, we successfully completed the installation of new signage at an average of five sites per week, ultimately achieving our goal of rebranding over 120 locations within the designated timeframe. The project not only met but exceeded expectations with its efficiency, marking it as one of the most successful projects undertaken by the Blaze Projects Team. It set a new standard for our processes and will inform future projects, enhancing our offerings to other customers.

Conclusion

The IMO Car Wash rebranding project exemplifies the power of thoughtful project management and innovation in overcoming challenges. This experience honed my skills in communication, efficiency, and strategic planning, reinforcing my commitment to delivering high-quality results in every project I undertake.

Waitrose - John Barnes Store Refurbishment

Overview

In this project, we undertook a comprehensive refurbishment of the Waitrose store located at John Barnes, Finchley. The refurbishment involved a significant upgrade to both the interior and exterior of the store, necessitating a six-week closure to complete all works efficiently.

Background

The Waitrose store stands in a historic building that has been an integral part of the Finchley community since its establishment. Named after John Barnes, one of the founders who sadly passed away before the store opened in 1900, the site holds both historical and sentimental value. Our aim was to honor this legacy while modernising the store to align with Waitrose’s updated vision.

Objectives

- Replace all existing external and internal signage with eco-friendly materials and new concept designs.

- Agree new designs with the local town planning

- Complete the signage installation within the six week closure.

My Role

During the refurbishment, I encountered challenges coordinating our installation teams with the main contractors, facing unexpected hurdles along the way, and finalising new designs with the Waitrose concept design team.

Strategic Solutions

To achieve our refurbishment goals effectively, we employed cost-effective materials without compromising on aesthetics or quality. Key components of the refurbishment included:

Interior Enhancements:

We used internally illuminated letters and PVC free graphics throughout the store to create a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. These elements help to guide customers while also promoting the Waitrose brand and being economically friendly.

Exterior Signage:

The store’s exterior signage was meticulously crafted to feature illuminated letter sets. We strategically positioned one set along the curve of the building to optimize visibility, creating a prominent visual impact that attracts customers from a distance.

Results

The refurbishment not only modernised the Waitrose store at John Barnes, but also revitalised its historic charm. Through thoughtful design and strategic implementation, we ensured that the store remains a key player in the community while aligning with Waitrose's vision for a contemporary retail experience. This project stands as a testament to our commitment to balancing heritage with innovation, and I am proud to have contributed to enhancing the shopping experience for both new and loyal customers.

Vision Express within Tesco - Project Purple

Overview

The Vision Express - Tesco Project aimed to rebrand over 200 Vision Express stores located within Tesco facilities across the UK. The key objective was to update all existing stores to align with the new 'purple' branding, ensuring a consistent and modern appearance throughout.

Main Challenges

One of the significant hurdles was coordinating updates with both Tesco and Vision Express. This involved extensive collaboration with individual store managers to ensure that each location adhered to the new branding guidelines.

Managing the timelines and resource allocation for over 200 store updates required meticulous planning and execution to minimize disruption to store operations.

Goals

- Transform all old branded Vision Express stores to reflect the new 'purple' branding standard.

- Establish a uniform look and feel across all stores to enhance brand recognition and customer experience.

My Role

Execution Strategy

1. Stakeholder Engagement:

Engaged early and often with both Tesco and Vision Express leadership to ensure alignment on project goals.

2. Store Manager Collaboration:

Established consistent communication channels with individual store managers, providing them with a clear understanding of the rebranding process and timelines.

3. Documentation Management:

Utilized cloud-based technology to store all relevant project documentation, enabling easy access for all stakeholders involved. This also facilitated real-time updates on the status of each store's rebranding process.

4. Sign Off Process:

Implemented a structured sign-off process for store completion, ensuring that each store met the new branding standards before officially reopening.

Results

- Successfully completed rebranding for over 200 Vision Express stores within a one-year timeframe.

- Enhanced brand visibility and consistency across all locations, which contributed to improved customer satisfaction and loyalty.

- Streamlined processes and documentation management through the use of cloud technology, leading to more efficient project execution.

Conclusion

The Vision Express - Tesco Project showcases the importance of effective communication and collaboration between multiple stakeholders in achieving large-scale branding initiatives. By leveraging technology and maintaining a focus on relationships with store managers, the project was completed successfully and on time, marking a significant milestone in the rebranding of Vision Express in the UK retail space.

Waitrose - Sudbury New Concept Store

Overview

The Waitrose Sudbury project aimed to develop a new concept store that not only refreshed the brand's aesthetic but also incorporated environmentally friendly practices. This initiative was designed to enhance customer experience while ensuring sustainability and efficiency throughout the construction process.

Goals

The primary goal was to upgrade the store's interior signage to align with the latest Waitrose branding. This involved creating a modern and inviting atmosphere that appealed to a diverse customer base.

We committed to using economically friendly materials without compromising the quality or exceeding budget constraints. The objective was to find alternatives that maintained the same or better performance as previous specifications while supporting the company's sustainability agenda.

The project required careful scheduling and coordination, with works executed during store hours. Night shifts were necessary for more intrusive tasks, minimizing disruption to daily operations and ensuring customer safety.

My Role

A significant aspect of my role was ensuring that all snagging works were meticulously carried out prior to practical completion. By conducting thorough inspections and collaborating closely with contractors, I was able to identify and rectify issues promptly, ensuring that the final output was aligned with quality standards and project objectives.

Challenges

Logistical Coordination:

Balancing ongoing store operations while implementing construction activities posed a significant challenge. Effective communication among the team, staff, and management was crucial to ensuring smooth transitions throughout the project phases.

Material Sourcing:

Finding environmentally friendly materials that met design and budget specifications required extensive research and negotiation with suppliers.

Results

The completed Waitrose Sudbury store not only met the initial goals but also received positive feedback from both customers and management. The new signage and refreshed aesthetic contributed to a modern shopping environment, while the use of sustainable materials highlighted Waitrose's commitment to environmental responsibility. Overall, the project exemplified successful planning, coordination, and execution, showcasing my ability to manage complex tasks within a live retail environment while achieving significant improvements in both aesthetics and sustainability. This experience has further equipped me with the skills and knowledge to tackle future projects with confidence and expertise.