Why Branding Is Still the Most Overlooked Element of Product Design (and How to Fix It in 2025)

Product launches today move at record speed. Teams pour resources into sourcing premium materials, refining product functions and meeting ambitious deadlines - all to ensure innovation reaches the market faster than ever. Yet despite this intense focus on performance and production, one critical element is still too often left behind: on-product branding. When branding is not integrated early, even the most advanced product can feel disconnected, generic, or unfinished. In 2025, where consumers expect design, function, and identity to work seamlessly together, overlooking branding is not just a small miss – it is a costly mistake. 

MODERN DESIGN PITFALLS
We've all seen it: products with excellent technology but uninspired or mismatched branding. Details matter: a premium interior with a flimsy badge sends the wrong signal; a premium interior with a flimsy badge sends the wrong signal. A sleek electronic with a poorly integrated logo looks out of place. Not only do aesthetics suffer, but customer reviews, trust, and long-term loyalty are also impacted.  

BRANDING THAT WORKS AS HARD AS YOUR PRODUCT
Today’s on-product branding can serve as more than identity: 

• Decorative + Functional Components: Badges and trims double as protective surfaces or ergonomic touchpoints. 
• Mechatronics Integration: Branding elements can house sensors, buttons, or connectivity features without compromising design flow. 
• Durability: Materials and finishes engineered to withstand real-world use elevate both brand image and product performance. 

A FRAMEWORK FOR 2025 SUCCESS (AND BEYOND)
To avoid costly missteps: 

• Start Early – Bring branding into concept sketches, not final reviews. 

• Collaborate Across Teams – Marketing and engineering should align before CAD is locked. 

• Think Functionally – Use branding to add utility, not just decoration. 

• Invest in Quality – High-grade finishes and sustainable materials reflect the integrity of your product. 

In fast-moving markets, overlooked branding is a wasted opportunity. The most successful companies are those who design branding as thoughtfully as they do product performance and technology innovations. At LaFrance, we specialize in creating on-product branding solutions that are as innovative and functional as the products they represent. Don't let your next launch fall victim to “afterthought branding.” Fill out our form below and let’s bring your vision to life.