Feature story

Merch with a mission

by Nathan Rothfield

Bupa engaged us to reimagine their branded merchandise—creating a collection that felt elevated, purposeful, and aligned with their values. The goal was to move beyond generic giveaways and develop a thoughtful range for their clients that reflected Bupa’s commitment to holistic health, mental wellbeing, and sustainability.

Curated with purpose

With the market flooded by low-quality, throwaway merch, we saw an opportunity to position Bupa’s collection as something truly meaningful. We curated a considered range of products designed to reflect Bupa’s core themes—holistic health, nutrition, and mental wellbeing. From heat packs and essential oil to socks and peppermint tea, each item was chosen to inspire healthier habits and leave a lasting impression.

Thoughtful design

Once we refined the product selection, we moved into the design phase, ensuring every item reflected Bupa’s brand identity. A standout piece was a custom-designed tote bag, crafted to be a hero item in the collection. Every product was carefully considered to maintain visual consistency and premium appeal.

The collection

The final result is a sophisticated, highly sought-after merchandise collection that not only looks exceptional but also resonates with end users. Sustainability remained at the forefront, reinforcing Bupa’s values while delivering a premium experience.

Signature pieces include custom bamboo socks—eco-friendly, breathable, and luxuriously soft—alongside a bespoke cotton-canvas amenity bag stocked with a bamboo comb, loofah, and a curated selection of Mr. Smith products.

Everyday rituals were elevated through practical yet refined items such as a bamboo lunchbox with matching eco cutlery set, paired with the Melbourne water bottle.

Lavender essential oil and soothing peppermint tea further emphasised wellness, while a handcrafted cedarwood body bar introduced a sensorial note.

A Rothfield-exclusive innovation—the versatile hot-and-cold gel pack—proved both functional and memorable, while the custom gym towel balanced utility with polish. Even the notebook, crafted entirely from recycled milk cartons, served as a quiet statement of eco-responsibility.

Anchoring the range, the custom Bupa tote—crafted from cotton canvas and finished with signature Bupa-blue detailing and a woven brand tag—became the hero piece, uniting the collection in both form and function.

And the end result?

A cohesive, premium collection that brings Bupa’s values to life—blending wellness, sustainability, and thoughtful design. From self-care essentials to everyday must-haves, each item was carefully curated to resonate with recipients and elevate the perception of corporate merchandise.
The range has been met with overwhelmingly positive feedback and has quickly become a standout example of how branded merch can be both purposeful and desirable.

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