AKIRA

Behind the Scenes: Crafting Our New Japanese Range with Passion and Precision

As we embarked on our rebrand and prepared to launch our exciting new range of Japanese ambient products, we knew this wasn’t just about developing delicious dishes; it was about creating an entire brand experience that could bring authentic Japanese flavours to kitchens everywhere.

From concept to creation, every step has been driven by passion, expertise, and a deep respect for Japanese cuisine.

This journey has taken our team from intense flavour testing to three whirlwind days in the studio, crafting visuals that showcase the essence of each product—and now, we’re thrilled to share the story with you.

From Tradition to Trend: Finding the Right Flavours

Our journey began with a question that set the tone for everything: How can we bring the authentic flavours of Japan to everyday meals, in ways that are simple, exciting, and accessible?

Our team knew that we wanted each product to be rooted in tradition while also fitting seamlessly into modern lifestyles. We weren’t just looking for dishes that taste good; we wanted to create a range that captures the depth of Japanese cuisine, from umami-rich soy flavours to refreshing yuzu notes and the comforting warmth of miso.

We drew inspiration from iconic Japanese ingredients and flavours that have a universal appeal, from the savoury complexity of miso pastes to the freshness of pickled ginger. After rounds of tasting, tweaking, and refining, we knew we had a range that not only tastes great but also reflects the culinary traditions we admire so much.

Building the Brand: Strong, Bold, and Unmistakably Japanese

With our new product range decided, it was time to give it a visual identity that would stand out on the shelves and create a memorable experience online.

Our creative team dived into exploring vibrant designs, minimalist Japanese-inspired elements, and striking colour palettes that would evoke the depth and energy of Japanese culture. We wanted every aspect of the brand—from the packaging to the website—to feel fresh, modern, and unmistakably tied to the authenticity of Japanese food.

The goal was to create a brand that could connect with both seasoned lovers of Japanese food and newcomers alike. Every design decision, from typography to colour choices, was made to reflect the balance of tradition and trend. And soon, our branding vision was ready to become a reality in front of the camera.

The Studio Days: A Whirlwind of Flavour, Colour, and Creativity

With products ready to go and branding locked in, we headed into the studio for three days of immersive, high-energy photoshoots. The studio was buzzing with excitement, filled with a creative team ready to make each dish shine.

Our photographer, food stylist, NPD team and social media creatives, worked hand-in-hand,, making sure that every shot conveyed the textures, colours, and freshness of each product.

Our goal? Capture the essence of Japanese cuisine in every frame. We wanted each image to be a feast for the eyes, showcasing not just the products themselves but also the emotions they bring to the table. The studio was a hive of activity, with plates artfully styled to look like they’d just come from a bustling izakaya, or carefully arranged to evoke the simplicity of a Japanese home-cooked meal. We were all invested in making every shot better than the last, capturing that perfect balance of flavours and visual appeal.

The creative process was just as much fun as it was intense. The energy was contagious, with ideas flowing and everyone pitching in to make the final shots as strong as possible. We had minimal props inspired by traditional Japanese utensils, and plenty of laughter to keep things lively. It was an unforgettable experience and a true testament to the talent and dedication of our team.

A Team Effort, a Brand We’re Proud Of

Reflecting on the entire journey, from the first flavour concepts to the final shots,
I couldn’t be prouder of the team that made this happen. Every person involved brought a piece of their passion and creativity to the table, creating a brand identity that’s both strong and uniquely us. This new range isn’t just about products—it’s about sharing the flavours and culture of Japan in a way that’s accessible, modern, and authentic.

So, here’s to the team, to Japanese food lovers everywhere, and to the amazing flavours waiting to be enjoyed.

With this new range, we’re excited to bring a little taste of Japan to your kitchen
— an experience that’s as delicious as it is meaningful.

VB
XX

Thanks to the team
Vicky Batchelor
Ashish Amin
Neel Amin
Ben Miller
Jayne Cross
Emily Ranson