New Hi-Chew Packages Start Hitting Store Shelves

Online, August 25, 2012 (Newswire.com) - Morinaga America, Inc., marketing and distribution channel for Hi-Chew in the U.S., is proud to showcase its new stick packaging for Hi-Chew in the United States. These new packages are just now hitting store shelves across the country. The new designs place emphasis on the Hi-Chew logo, bold colors, and fresh fruit.

"There were multiple design issues with the old packaging. We all knew it. So, we took our time and developed a look that would not throw loyal consumers for a loop, but would also allow us to emphasize key aspects of the new brand image," said Clayton Perkins, Marketing Manager for Morinaga America. "We also had some new guidelines from Morinaga headquarters in Tokyo, so we had to make adjustments that fit into the global brand strategy as well."

Under the direction of Clayton a design team from Saxton|Horne in Salt Lake City, Utah shifted the Hi-Chew logo to the middle of the front panel, altered the color scheme of each flavor, photographed new fruit images, re-designed the "Fruit Chews" mark, and edited all the industry required labeling. "It was a lot of work, but we are excited to see the response," said Clayton. "We have a ton of other ideas to make the brand pop of the shelf, this is just the first step."

"As we reposition Hi-Chew as a lifestyle brand there are many changes we have to make to the brand image," said Toshiya Yasuda, President and CEO of Morinaga America. "The packaging is just the beginning. The Hi-Chew Mobile Tour is another important piece in this transition. And, needless to say, there will be more changes in the future."

About Hi-Chew

First created in 1975, Hi-Chew is now a cultural icon in Japan. It is especially know for its unique chewy texture and its catalog of over 100 different flavors. It has been the #1 selling soft candy in Japan for more than two decades, and is poised to become a favorite in the United States as well.

www.hi-chew.com - www.facebook.com/HiChew