Grey Matter pours ideas into Thermos

Product group Grey Matter is considering how Thermos can widen its product range. The project may also lead to a redesign of the Thermos flask, first designed in 1892 by Sir James Dewar.

And Thermos marketing controller Frances Laing reveals that a graphics review may also be in the pipeline. This would not include the company’s logo, last redesigned by London consultancy Akel Minott Elia.

Grey Matter has been appointed to join in a “complete examination of the Thermos brand in all markets, which could lead to significant new product development”, according to Laing.

“We want to see how far the brand can stretch. We may look at the design of existing products such as flasks, barbecues and cool boxes. We’ll certainly look at areas we could be moving into,” she adds.

There was no pitch. Grey Matter has previously designed the Mondial cup range for Thermos, a Design Effectiveness Awards finalist in 1994. Product design decisions are expected to be taken next year.