MECCA Product Sample Pots

The design challenge stemmed from the failures present in MECCA’s existing sample pots - an off-the-shelf acrylic container, lacking a cohesive customer experience. Key issues included leakage, label smudging, and a difficult to fill container, making it unsuitable for the diverse cosmetic formats within MECCA’s product ranges. Recognising the sample pot as a critical customer touchpoint to test and try new products, the brief called for a solution that addressed these functional and aesthetic needs while aligning with MECCA’s sustainability goals.

The sample pots are durable and reusable, made from 100% recycled materials. The solution addresses key issues of the previous design, improving functionality and ease of use. The pot is designed to fit MECCA's bold brand identity while remaining neutral enough to complement diverse product ranges. The sample pots improve the customer experience in-store and at-home, creating a cohesive brand experience and an easy system for identifying samples. The collaboration supports MECCA’s sustainability goals and has launched as a pilot to test impact and customer experience before wider rollout.

MECCA’s sample pots enhance the customer experience while driving sustainability outcomes. Its minimalist, brand-aligned design improves the customer experience, and seamlessly fits into stores and customers homes. Made from 100% recycled polypropylene, the pots operate within a circular system, and can be curbside recycled, repurposed, or returned to MECCA for reintegration into future Sample Pot production. Locally produced in Sydney with Best Practice Plastics, this reduces emissions, supports local manufacturing, and improves quality control. Beyond function, it educates consumers on responsible consumption, with refillable pots that extend product life. This initiative proves sustainability and luxury can coexist in beauty packaging.

Key features include a precise stopper detail integrated into the thread design for alignment, an internal wedge seal and lip to prevent spills, and a refined screwing mechanism tested through rapid prototyping. The teardrop shape applies ergonomic principles to enhance grip and ease of use, particularly for those with limited mobility. It functions as a lever for effortless opening and closing while adding a refined, balanced aesthetic. An integrated stopper ensures correct orientation, and a tactile ‘bump-stop’ provides haptic feedback for secure closure and intuitive use. The design considers various cosmetic formats, from liquids to creams, ensuring versatility. For liquids, an internal step provides an ideal surface for placing a cotton pad, effectively capturing and using the low viscosity product. Unlike the current pots, the design has been optimised for stacking to improve storage, while a debossed logo and high-polish interior reinforce MECCA’s premium feel. MECCA team members handwrite labels, so the design offers a new solution for labelling, providing ample space for clear, detailed brand and product information. This labelling feature can be added or removed as needed. The MECCA sample pot strikes a balance between aesthetics and functionality, with every detail carefully crafted to enhance user experience.