As we approach Elevate’s 15th year in business, we’re reflecting on some of our most impactful and enduring partnerships. One of these standout collaborations has been with Kerry Group, a global leader in taste and nutrition, and a client with whom we’ve built a relationship over the past 10+ years. This partnership has been a journey of digital transformation, creative problem-solving, and strategic growth across multiple Kerry brands. Here’s a closer look at how Elevate and Kerry Group have evolved together since our first project in 2013.
Beginning of a Partnership
In 2013, Kerry Group approached Elevate with a clear vision: they needed a stronger digital presence that would reflect their leadership in taste and nutrition innovation. Their initial objective was to shift to a WordPress content management system (CMS) for greater flexibility and control over brand websites. Our first project was for the Cheestrings brand (now known as Strings & Things). This initial success laid the groundwork for what would become a decade-long partnership, expanding our collaboration to additional brands under the Kerry Group umbrella, including Cheestrings EU, Ficello, Ravifruit, and SMUG Dairy.
Over the years, as Kerry’s digital needs grew, so did our scope of work, ultimately covering a broad array of services tailored to their evolving goals and challenges.
Key Areas of Collaboration
1. Brand-Centric Web Design
Our design philosophy with Kerry Group has always been to create websites that align with each brand’s unique identity while maintaining a cohesive look across the portfolio. This brand-centric approach helps to differentiate products and ensure that visitors immediately understand the value and personality of each brand. Working closely with Kerry’s teams, we’ve developed visually aligned websites that not only look appealing but also deliver the functionality that enhances user experience.
For brands like Strings & Things and SMUG Dairy, we crafted experiences that resonate with their specific target audiences, from parents and families to culinary professionals. Every element, from layout to imagery, was designed to embody each brand’s unique story and values.
2. WordPress Optimisation and Scalability
As Kerry Group’s digital portfolio expanded, so did the demands on their WordPress platform. Our WordPress development went beyond simple site-building to create a scalable, flexible architecture capable of supporting the group’s diverse brands and growing content needs. We customised themes and site functionality to ensure brand consistency while meeting the technical needs of a global FMCG leader.
A close collaboration with Kerry’s internal WebOps and ICT teams was instrumental in this process. By working in tandem, we optimized workflows and annual updates, ensuring a seamless transition as Kerry’s portfolio expanded and new features were introduced. The result? A scalable system that supports smooth content management across all Kerry’s digital assets, making it easy for their teams to manage content, updates, and promotions efficiently.
3. Development of Innovative Plugins
In the competitive FMCG landscape, engaging users is essential. Elevate developed custom plugins to allow Kerry Group to run dynamic, seasonal on-pack promotions directly on their websites. These plugins enabled Kerry to offer interactive experiences, capturing user attention and driving engagement during key promotional periods.
In addition to seasonal promotions, we implemented content management tools that allowed Kerry’s in-house teams to update and showcase products effortlessly. This capability has been vital in helping Kerry keep their digital assets current and aligned with market trends, enabling them to respond quickly to changing consumer demands.
4. Strategic Consulting for Long-Term Growth
Beyond design and development, Elevate has provided Kerry Group with ongoing strategic consulting tailored to their unique challenges in the food and beverage industry. Our consulting work included crafting digital strategies that covered everything from SEO and content marketing to targeted advertising.
Working closely with Kerry’s internal teams, we provided insights and recommendations that empowered their brands to maximise reach, improve engagement, and achieve sustainable growth.
Results of the Partnership
Our 10+ year collaboration with Kerry Group has delivered measurable impact, not only enhancing each brand’s digital presence but also supporting sustainable growth for Kerry’s portfolio. Here are some of the key outcomes:
- Enhanced Digital Reach: Our brand-centric web designs and strategic content have significantly increased visibility and reach for each Kerry brand, attracting diverse audiences from families to culinary professionals.
- Seamless User Experience: Thanks to WordPress optimisation and custom plugins, Kerry’s websites now offer a streamlined, engaging user experience that keeps visitors engaged and informed.
- Increased Engagement through Promotions: The seasonal promotional plugins developed by Elevate have driven substantial user engagement, translating into successful campaigns and memorable brand interactions.
- Sustainable Growth: With ongoing strategic consulting, Kerry’s sub-brands have continued to evolve and grow in the competitive FMCG landscape, guided by data-driven insights and agile digital strategies.
Looking Ahead
As we close out the year and celebrate 15 years in business, we look forward to new chapters with Kerry Group and other partners. Our partnership with Kerry stands as a testament to the power of long-term collaboration, strategic digital transformation, and shared commitment to growth and excellence.
If you’re interested in exploring a similar digital transformation for your brand, we’d love to connect and discuss how we can support your goals. Get in touch, and let’s build something extraordinary together.