Simplifying Wine Sales for a Small Producer
Problem
Ulf Barthel, a small wine producer in southern Germany, wanted to expand his sales but lacked the time, knowledge, and resources to create an online shop. He envisioned selling to Nordic countries, specifically Sweden, but struggled to navigate the legal complexities and technical requirements.
Solution
Given Ulf's limited digital experience, I guided him through the process of selecting the right platform for his webshop. I presented different options and their associated costs, ensuring he understood the decision-making process and could choose a platform that would suit his needs. After discussing his requirements, we decided that Squarespace would be the most user-friendly option.
Challenges
The project wasn’t just about creating a website; it required overcoming several hurdles before we could even start. One of the primary challenges was helping Ulf meet the legal requirements for selling wine in Sweden, which I addressed by acting as a translator and working through the necessary paperwork. Once we cleared the legal obstacles, we could focus on building the webshop.
Differentiation
The Swedish wine market is dominated by bulk purchases, with most competitors focusing on mass distribution. Ulf’s unique selling point was his story as an eco-conscious producer who sells directly to customers, without middlemen. This was a key aspect of the website design and messaging, ensuring the website communicated his values and the quality of his products.
Design Approach
I focused on creating a simple, clean design that highlighted Ulf's unique story and the ecological aspects of his wine production. Since Ulf chose Squarespace for its ease of use, I ensured that the platform’s backend was intuitive and manageable for him. My goal was to empower him to update the site and maintain his inventory without needing ongoing technical support.
Results
A fully functional website built on Squarespace that Ulf can easily manage.
He now has control over his inventory and can update his webshop independently.
The website not only helps him sell directly to customers but also effectively communicates his unique brand story.
Roles
UX/UI
Research
Concept
Tools
Figma / Figjam
Illustrator
Lyssna
Google Form
Method
Design Thinking Process