Project 1: Eataly Brand Audit

What I Did

I worked on a semester-long team brand audit project, applying course concepts to evaluate Eataly’s branding and consumer experience. We Identified specific branding problems through research and analysis, including misalignments between brand identity and brand image. We then generated actionable recommendations to strengthen brand positioning and presented findings in a professional, client-ready format.

I conducted a brand audit of Eataly, analyzing its industry context, competitors, and consumer behavior.

By collecting survey data and in-store observations, we were able to evaluate customer path-to-purchase, perceptions, and barriers.

I compared Eataly’s brand identity (premium, immersive Italian experience) with brand image (cluttered, crowded, and expensive).

Our strategic recommendations included enhancing experiential events, improving in-store layout, introducing sampling stations, and launching referral/ambassador programs.

What I learned:

How to identify misalignments between brand strategy and customer experience
Saw the value of combining qualitative and quantitative research to build actionable insights
Gained experience making recommendations that align with brand values while improving customer satisfaction
Understood how brands can use experiences and storytelling to justify premium positioning

What I Did

For a brand extension, I proposed Aftercore, a recovery-focused brand extension for [solidcore], addressing the lack of post-class recovery options. The recovery offerings I designed (infrared saunas, compression boots, cold plunges, guided stretches) seamlessly integrated with the [solidcore] ecosystem. I then showed how Aftercore would elevate brand equity through functional improvement, emotional connection, and consistent aesthetics. With this, I built out a strategic plan highlighting community-building, new revenue streams, and competitive differentiation in the boutique fitness market.