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Rolandsbogen – Branding for a landmark on the Rhine
Roland Arch

Branding for a landmark on the Rhine

doctima – Clear design for comprehensible communication
doctima

Clear design for effective communication

Frauenbranchenbuch – B2B platform for female founders
Women's business directory

B2B platform for female entrepreneurs

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2bu Illustration: Growing Sustainably
The 2bu system

Strategy, design, communication and service, all from a single source

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2bu Illustration: Vegan Brands
Vegan brands

Branding and marketing for vegan brands

2bu Illustration: Sustainable Products
Sustainable products

Green marketing for sustainable products

2bu Illustration Coaches & Therapists
Coaches & Therapists

Corporate identity for coaches and therapists

2bu Illustration: NGOs & Animal Welfare
NGOs & Animal Welfare

Marketing for NGOs and animal welfare organisations

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Magazine

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Rolandsbogen – Branding for a landmark on the Rhine
Roland Arch

Branding for a landmark on the Rhine

doctima – Clear design for comprehensible communication
doctima

Clear design for effective communication

Frauenbranchenbuch – B2B platform for female founders
Women's business directory

B2B platform for female entrepreneurs

2bu Illustration: Growing Sustainably
The 2bu system

Strategy, design, communication and service, all from a single source

2bu Illustration: Vegan Brands
Vegan brands

Branding and marketing for vegan brands

2bu Illustration: Sustainable Products
Sustainable products

Green marketing for sustainable products

2bu Illustration Coaches & Therapists
Coaches & Therapists

Corporate identity for coaches and therapists

2bu Illustration: NGOs & Animal Welfare
NGOs & Animal Welfare

Marketing for NGOs and animal welfare organisations

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Which file formats does my branding need?

Which file formats does my branding need?

Why there is not just one correct file

Your logo may be the same everywhere – but the file requirements are not. After all, a social media post needs different specifications than a T-shirt print or a business card.

Important to understand:

  • Not every file format is suitable for every purpose

  • Colour modes such as RGB and CMYK determine whether your design looks good on screen or in print

  • The resolution (dpi) determines whether the image will look pixelated or crisp and sharp

That might sound like nerdy stuff, but it’s absolutely essential for a consistent brand image – and it’ll save you a lot of hassle when you’re working with printers, service providers or online shops.

File formats: Which for what – an overview

In design, we generally distinguish between two file formats: raster graphics, which consist of individual pixels, and vector graphics, which can be scaled without any loss of quality.

Raster formats – for photos & web graphics

These formats consist of pixels and are not infinitely scalable:

  • JPG / JPEG

    • Most common format for photos

    • Compressed, therefore smaller file size

    • No transparency possible

    • Good for: Web, social media, newsletter

  • PNG

    • Supports transparency (e.g. for logos without background)

    • Compressed without loss

    • Larger than JPG

    • Good for: Websites, presentations, small printed matter

  • TIFF

    • High-quality image format without loss of quality

    • Very large file size

    • Good for: professional printing, archiving

Vector formats – for logos, icons & printing

These formats consist of mathematical expressions and are scalable to any size – without any loss of quality:

  • SVG

    • Ideal for web and responsive designs

    • Small file size, but not printable everywhere

    • Good for: Websites, online icons, illustrations

  • EPS

    • Classic vector format for printing

    • Often required by printers

    • Good for: Posters, banners, advertising material

  • PDF

    • Universal format for print data

    • Can contain both raster and vector data

    • Good for: Print approvals, proofs, flyers, brochures

Our tip: Always ask your agency to provide you with a selection of formats. That way, you’ll be prepared for all applications – from the website to the exhibition stand.

Colour mode: RGB vs. CMYK – Screen or print?

Not all colours are the same – at least not in the digital world. The question is: Is the colour displayed on screen (RGB) or printed (CMYK)?

RGB – for digital applications

  • Stands for Red, Green, Blue

  • Colour mode for monitors, smartphones and websites

  • Bright, powerful, lively

  • The colour space is larger, but not printable

CMYK – for printing

  • Stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key (Black)

  • Colour mode for all types of printed products

  • Colours often appear duller than on the screen

  • Important for: Business cards, posters, brochures, packaging

Important: RGB files look great on screen, but can be disappointing in print. Therefore, all print files must always be converted to CMYK – ideally before the design process begins, to avoid any nasty surprises.

Resolution: What does dpi actually mean?

dpi = dots per inch – that is, the number of pixels displayed per inch. The higher the number, the sharper the result will be. However: Not everything needs 300 dpi.

The most important dpi values at a glance:

  • 72 dpi

    • For: Web, screen, social media

    • Completely sufficient for digital display

    • Fast loading, small file size

  • 150 dpi

    • For: simple office printouts, presentations

  • 300 dpi

    • For: professional printing

    • Business cards, flyers, brochures, packaging

  • 600+ dpi

    • For: very fine prints, e.g. art prints or labels

Fun fact: An image with 72 dpi looks good on screen, but appears pixelated and blurry when printed. Conversely, a 300 dpi image is too large for the web and results in long loading times.

What does this mean for sustainable companies?

Sustainability doesn’t stop at eco-friendly paper – it starts with clear communication of your brand. If you:

  • uses the right formats for each channel,

  • colour profiles consistently and

  • work with a smart resolution,

…you’ll not only avoid mistakes, but also unnecessary reprints, returns or hours spent clarifying matters with the printers. This saves resources, stress and CO₂.

It's all a question of form(at)s

Whether it’s a website, a business card or a gift box – the file must be suitable for its intended use. And that’s exactly why it’s so important to understand the differences between JPG, PNG, EPS and the like. RGB vs. CMYK? dpi? It sounds technical, but it’s essential for working professionally, efficiently and sustainably.

Do you want a Corporate Design that not only looks good, but is also practical?

We can help you with:

  • Business & product photography that makes an impact – both digitally and in print

  • A colour palette for your brand that looks great in print too

  • Logos that look great in any format

Professional, sustainable & with an eye for detail. Design that lasts – and makes an impact.

The 5 phases of the customer lifecycle – explained for sustainable companies

The 5 phases of the customer lifecycle – explained for sustainable companies

What is the customer lifecycle?

Small businesses that operate with passion, integrity and purpose face a balancing act: they want to sell – but not by persuasion. They want to grow – but not at the expense of people or the environment. They want to be visible – but not to shout from the rooftops. This is precisely why the Customer Lifecycle is such a valuable model. Not as a marketing gimmick, but as a guide to building relationships. From initial interest to loyal fan – this is how sustainable brands support their customers with integrity rather than pressure. The Customer Lifecycle describes the entire journey a person takes with your company – from first contact to repeat purchase (and ideally beyond).

Unlike the customer journey, which extends only as far as the point of purchase, the lifecycle begins precisely there. This is ideal for conscious brands: rather than relying on aggressive conversion strategies, this approach focuses on sustainable customer loyalty. It is a particularly valuable model for conscientious founders, vegan brands and social enterprises.

There are 5 phases:

  • Phases 1–3 often bring the fastest visible success.

  • Phase 4 shows how sustainable your business really is.

Taken together, all these steps make up the Customer Experience – in other words, your customers’ overall experience with your brand. Along this journey, there are numerous so-called touchpoints – points of contact between the customer and the brand.

These touchpoints can be roughly divided into two categories:

  • Managed touchpoints: contact points specifically controlled by the company, such as online adverts, newsletters, product pages or POS displays.

  • Earned touchpoints: uncontrollable but hugely influential touchpoints such as reviews, recommendations, social media mentions or viral trends from the community.

Furthermore, a distinction is often made between digital and physical touchpoints – from Instagram adverts and product packaging to conversations with customers at trade fair stands. Both types are crucial for brand perception – and should be strategically aligned with one another.

1. attention (awareness) – Consciousness

At this stage, a person encounters your brand for the first time – whether through an Instagram post, a recommendation, a Google search or a visit to a trade fair. Now, one thing matters above all else: relevance. Your content must address a genuine need – honest, informative, engaging. Users scroll quickly and make decisions intuitively. This makes it all the more important to have a striking presence that inspires trust.

Around 90 % of users read online reviews before engaging with a brand. This shows that even during the awareness phase, your existing customers have an influence. Make use of authentic testimonials, strong SEO content and social media reach. Ensure you use clear language and a consistent design – it’s your digital handshake.

What does your target group need now?

  • Orientation in the chaos of offers

  • Trust that you really understand their issues

  • No empty marketing promises, but substance

Here you should shine with:

  • Divi websites that provide clarity, not confusion.
  • Storytelling that showcases your values – not your sales targets.

  • Social media content that doesn’t try to sell, but touches people’s hearts.

  • Blog posts offering genuine added value (not just SEO drivel with 27 keywords crammed into 400 words)

  • Google & Facebook Ads that don’t come across as clickbait

  • Corporate Design tailored to the target audience for a clear brand identity

But be careful: At this stage, you don't want to come across as a puffery, but as someone who is solving a real problem. Informative, honest, helpful – is not a polished sales pitch. Your buyer persona has a need, you (hopefully) have the solution.

2nd comparison phase (Consideration) – Consideration

Now things are getting serious: prospective customers are comparing offers, checking prices and clicking through product details. Perhaps your product is already on a wish list or has been added to the shopping basket – but hasn’t been bought yet. Now is the time to build trust and demonstrate expertise. Your website should have a logical structure, load quickly and present relevant information clearly.

With real case studies, product reviews or, for example, a checklist along the lines of „What to look out for when buying“, you can strengthen your position in buyers’ minds. This is where it is decided whether your company is perceived as professional and likeable – or as interchangeable.

What do they need now?

  • Evidence. Clarity. Real insights.

  • No high gloss, but approachability

  • The feeling: „They’ve really thought this through.“

What works here:

  • Clearly structured information on your website (product descriptions, testimonials, value catalogues)

  • Testimonials, case studies, real people instead of stock photos

  • Transparency: Where do the materials come from? Who does the work?

  • CD manuals & visual clarity, which show: „We know who we are.“

  • Product pages that answer all your questions before you even ask them

Practical tip: A „Have you forgotten something?“ reminder by email is often the final nudge towards a purchase. (It also works in real life, only more subtly).

3rd purchase phase (Purchase) – Conversion

The decision has been made – now nothing must go wrong. A cumbersome checkout process, a lack of payment methods or a confusing shopping basket can lead to customers abandoning their purchase. Make the purchasing process as simple as possible: this includes guest checkout, clear information on discounts, helpful tips and a barrier-free process.

The same applies here: communicate smartly! For example, use notices such as „Only 3 items left in stock“ or „€10 discount for newsletter subscriptions“. Make sure that customers are not overwhelmed by pop-ups – Authenticity comes first.

What do they need?

  • Clarity. Overview. Options.

  • A process that feels easy – not like an obstacle course

  • A little appreciation is also welcome

Don't mess this up:

  • WooCommerce shops that not only work, but also look professionally run

  • Mobile-optimised design, particularly for users who prefer to shop whilst on the move

  • References to sustainable benefits (e.g. carbon-neutral delivery, plastic-free packaging)

  • Newsletter incentives, but not too pushy: „If you’d like, stay in touch with us.“

  • A clear checkout process with no hidden pitfalls, supporting all standard payment methods (including Klarna, Apple Pay and others) and a clearly visible discount code field

  • Can I place a guest order? Yes, please!

  • Standardised product images in XXL and with zoom

Bonus: Offer an optional subscription model or club memberships – this creates loyalty and recurring revenue.

    4. product experience (retention) – Retention

    Now the product arrives – and this moment determines whether a one-off purchase will turn into a long-term relationship. Packaging, delivery details, extra materials: everything counts. Has the parcel been packed with care and in an environmentally friendly way? Is there a nice message, a small gift or a discount for the next order? These little touches turn a delivery into an experience.

    Customer service now plays a key role too. Are enquiries answered quickly and politely? Is the returns process straightforward? All of this shows that you take your customers seriously – and that pays off.

    What do customers need right now?

    • Orientation (parcel information, returns, contact options)

    • The feeling of not being alone with the product

    • And in the best case: small, loving surprises

    What they really appreciate here:

    • Automated but human-written emails: dispatch, thank you, welcome, updates + tracking number

    • Short guides or tutorials on how to get the most out of the product

    • Giveaways or discount codes that feel like a token of appreciation, not a bait-and-switch offer (stickers, discount cards, love letters)

    • Sustainable packaging that makes a statement – no plastic cringe

    • Return form included directly in the parcel (please do NOT print it out!)

    This is where the stories your customers tell – or don’t tell – come from.

      5. brand loyalty (advocacy) – Fans

      Was the customer satisfied? Then now’s your chance to build long-term loyalty. Surprise them with promotions for existing customers, send smart emails reminding them of items in their shopping basket, or offer exclusive content for club members. Particularly effective: personalised communication – e.g. a birthday greeting or a seasonal discount promotion.

      Make sure you don't come across as overbearing in this phase either. People can sense whether you are really building a relationship – or whether you just want to force the next purchase. Fans don't stay because of discounts, but because of emotions.

      What do your customers want?

      • Not to be forgotten

      • Inspiring impulses

      • Appreciation for their loyalty

      What seems like a love letter:

      • Personalised newsletters, not just „Hello {first name}“, but genuinely relevant

      • Reactivate inactive contacts with a personal touch, not pressure („It’s been a while since you were last here. Have a look at what we’ve changed.“)

      • Birthday emails, holiday greetings, promotions for regular customers

      • Social media formats in which customers themselves feature (e.g. reposts, community campaigns, feedback highlights)

      • A long-term content strategy that supports rather than sells

      And the best bit is: if your product really impresses, your customers will do the marketing for you – of their own accord. Whether it’s on TikTok, Instagram, in reviews or in real life: enthusiastic people spread the word.


      The lifecycle is not a tool – but an attitude

      And that’s exactly why it’s such a good fit for sustainable entrepreneurs, purpose-driven projects, vegan brands, creative mavericks and anyone who’d rather grow organically than scale aggressively.

      Those who understand what makes customers tick, when they need attention and where they drop out, will come out on top in the long run. Not through price wars, but through well-thought-out, human touchpoints.

      The lifecycle is a relationship model. If you realise that your brand doesn't stand for products, but for values and attitude, then you will automatically attract people who are looking for exactly that. Not louder, but clearer. Not broader, but deeper.


      Here at 2bu design, we help you shape every stage of this lifecycle – visually, strategically and with empathy – through clear communication, well-thought-out design and a holistic brand identity that makes an impact.

      What we can do for you, for example:

      • Strategy consultancy for discerning start-up founders & sustainable brands
      • Emotional, well-thought-out Corporate Design including CD manuals

      • Social media marketing that communicates honestly – rather than trying to persuade

      • SEO-optimised Divi websites with heart and structure

      • Bespoke WooCommerce shops that sell without being pushy

      • Newsletter campaigns and lifecycle email sequences

        Images for websites – between aesthetics and loading time

        Images for websites – between aesthetics and loading time

        The file format – jpeg, png or gif

        For convincing web performance, it is crucial to keep image data as slim as possible without losing impact. If you ignore this, you risk high bounce rates and wasting valuable SEO potential. But don't worry: with a few targeted measures, loading times can be minimised – without sacrificing good design.

        Images are far more than just visual decoration. They contribute to branding, control emotions – and are (correctly integrated) real conversion boosters. This makes it all the more important to understand which image formats are suitable for what and which technical settings make sense.

        The most common image formats on the web

        • JPEG: Ideal for photos, offering a good balance between quality and file size.

        • PNG: Supports transparency; better suited to graphics with few colours.

        • GIF: Outdated, but still relevant for animations (e.g. in newsletters).

        JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) is arguably the best-known image format on the web – and for good reason: it offers high compression whilst maintaining high image quality. Colours are rendered realistically, and even with a reduced file size, the image usually remains clear and rich in detail. That is why JPEG is ideal for photos and images with lots of colour gradients.

        PNG (Portable Network Graphics) also compresses effectively, albeit in a different way: it reduces the number of colours used, which shrinks the file size. The more compression there is, the smaller the colour palette becomes. The big advantage is that, unlike JPEG, PNG can display transparency – ideal for logos or icons that need to blend seamlessly into a background. This is why PNG is particularly popular for graphics with few colours and transparent backgrounds.

        GIF (Graphics Interchange Format) is no longer quite up to scratch from a technical point of view, but is still used for simple purposes. It can also display transparency, but is limited to just 256 colours – which can look unnatural in photos. The big advantage is that GIFs can be animated. That is why they remain popular today for small animations, e.g. in newsletters, chats or as reaction graphics.

        Resolution, image size & compression – what really counts?

        Distinguishing between file format, image size and file size is essential for web optimisation. Whilst the format describes the type of file (JPEG, PNG, etc.), the image size provides information on the number of pixels (e.g. 1920x1080 px) – in other words, how large the image appears on the screen. The file size, on the other hand, shows how much storage space an image actually takes up.

        Many images that come directly from a camera are oversized. This may look stylish, but is of little technical benefit. For most websites, a maximum width of 1920 px is completely sufficient. Anyone with a higher resolution risks slow loading times – a real problem, especially on mobile devices.

        Important: Images should never be uploaded large and then scaled in the CMS. This not only has a negative effect on the display, but also unnecessarily inflates the amount of data. It is better to crop the images beforehand and optimise them specifically for the web – so that the quality remains good and the loading time short.

        Best practices for image sizes

        • Images for full-screen headers: max. 1920 x 1280 px

        • Thumbnails: 300 x 300 px

        • Blog images: 1200 x 800 px

        • Always: same aspect ratio (e.g. 3:2 or 4:3)

        Compression – Preserve quality, save weight

        The aim is to achieve a smart compromise between file size and image quality. The more compressed an image is, the faster the page loads – but also the higher the risk of loss of quality. Especially with small images, too much compression can quickly lead to blurring.

        With tools such as Photoshop, Squoosh or TinyJPG, you can reduce image quality in a targeted manner without it being immediately noticeable. In Photoshop, this is done quite simply via „Export for Web“. Here, you can adjust the quality (e.g. to 60 %), select the format and define the final image size.

        Important: When resizing images, make sure to maintain the aspect ratio – otherwise they’ll quickly become distorted. Also: consistency is key! If you’re constantly switching between formats and aspect ratios, you’ll quickly come across as unprofessional.

        Tools & tips for compression

        • Photoshop: Export „Save for Web“

        • TinyJPG / TinyPNG: further compression without any visible loss of quality

        • Aspect ratio: it is best to maintain a ratio of 3:2 or 16:9

        • Beware of scaling in the CMS – better adapt beforehand!

        File names & alt text – The SEO boost

        Search engines cannot (yet) see what is depicted in images. They rely on meta information – primarily the file name and the so-called alt attribute. If you approach this wisely, you will not only improve your ranking but also make your website more accessible.

        The rules for SEO-compliant file names are simple, but are often ignored: no spaces, no umlauts, no special characters. Instead: short, clear terms with hyphens that precisely describe the image content. The alt attribute should also be filled sensibly – not only for SEO reasons, but also for users with screen readers.

        So „IMG_4589.jpg“ becomes „vegan-brunch-düsseldorf.jpg“. Sounds completely different, doesn't it?

        SEO tips for image data

        • File name: lower case, with hyphens, without umlauts or special characters

        • Alt tag: short, descriptive text („Breakfast plate with avocado“)

        • Avoid: cryptic camera names or empty alt fields

        • Also think about accessibility – Pictures are more than decoration

        Good images, short loading times – no contradiction

        If you want to be visually convincing, you don't necessarily have to put up with huge amounts of data. With the right combination of image format, resolution, compression and SEO, images can unfold their full charm – without Google or the user bouncing off. Stay flexible, keep your content technically clean and make your web presence as light as it is convincing.

        Are you unsure and want a professional website?

        Then 2bu design is at your side.

        Whether it’s image optimisation, Divi websites, WooCommerce, Corporate Design or social media – we help brands convey their message clearly and powerfully.

        10 ways to increase the shopping basket value of your customers

        10 ways to increase the shopping basket value of your customers

        These 10 methods will help you

        Attracting new customers isn’t the only way to generate more revenue. The best way is to encourage existing customers to spend more when shopping in your shop.

        The following methods help – some help quickly (1–3), others need a little setup – but then have a lasting effect (4–6) or an emotional effect (7–10):

        • 1–3: Ready to implement & effective

        • 4–6: Combinations for medium-term success

        • 7–10: Emotion, trust & ingenuity with a sustainable impact

        Those who follow these methods not only generate more turnover overall, but also achieve it in a shorter time. Furthermore, the costs of acquiring new customers are recouped more quickly and the lifetime value – that is, the total value of purchases made by a customer over the course of their relationship with the shop – is increased.

        1. free shipping from a minimum order value

        Free shipping is one of the strongest levers for increasing the shopping basket value. Anyone who is only a few euros away from the minimum order value is happy to add an additional product to their shopping basket. A psychological hurdle is removed: „Then it's worth it.“ This works particularly well if the threshold value is slightly higher than the previous average order value.

        It is important that you actively communicate this benefit – in the header area, at checkout and in the shipping overview. This makes the incentive immediately visible. Many shops set €50 as the shipping limit – This threshold is high enough to increase sales, but low enough to seem realistic.

        Exemplary realisation:

        • Note in the shopping basket: „Only €6 until free shipping!“

        • Place the dispatch border visibly above the navigation

        • Reminder for subtotals just under the limit

        2. cross-selling: complementing matching products

        Cross-selling is about offering customers products that go well with the main product. These can be accessories, care products or stylistically appropriate additions. This method is particularly effective directly on the product page or in the checkout process – if the attention is already on the purchase.

        A prime example is net-a-porter.com: even on the product page, the entire outfit is displayed as a single product – including individual product suggestions that have been stylishly combined. Technical retailers also use this method – for example, with cameras that are complemented by matching memory cards or mounts.

        Concrete cross-selling examples:

        • „Goes with“ – for fashion: shoes with trousers

        • „You might also like“ – at Technik: Show accessories

        • „Often bought together“ – as a package suggestion

        3. upselling: offer higher-value variants

        Upselling means that you suggest a more expensive product with added value to your customers. This could be a premium version, a larger set or a more durable variant. It is important that the additional benefit is clearly recognisable – otherwise the offer comes across as a clumsy sales pitch.

        Many customers are happy to opt for an upgrade when it is communicated clearly. For example: instead of the standard brush, the professional version is offered with more attachments. Or: a device with a larger battery, a longer warranty or more sustainable materials. A higher price, clear benefits – this builds trust and drives sales.

        Upselling in practice:

        • Product comparison on the page: Basic vs Premium

        • „Recommended for frequent users“ or „Most frequently selected“

        • Colour highlighting of the upgrade at checkout

        4. combine bundles & quantity discount

        Bundles make products more attractive – especially if they are put together cleverly. Anyone who buys a combined package has the feeling of getting more for their money. In addition, the perceived benefit increases. A bulk discount is particularly worthwhile for recurring purchases, such as care products or food.

        For example, offer a % deal on a pack of three rather than on a single item. Or offer seasonal sets – such as skincare routines or thematically coordinated products. Customers like to stock up when they can save money – especially if it helps them reach the free delivery threshold at the same time.

        Examples of effective bundles:

        • Care set (cleansing, serum, cream) instead of individual products

        • „2+1 free“ for frequently used products

        • Gift boxes with a price advantage and emotional added value

        5. Reward loyal customers

        Loyalty programmes not only increase the average order value, but also strengthen customer loyalty. Customers who shop more often should feel the benefits – whether through exclusive discounts, early access or small gifts. According to studies, turnover from loyal customers increases by around 14 % when they are part of a loyalty programme.

        Personal examples are particularly effective: at The Outnet, I get early access to sales. Rewe rewards me with a voucher from my third online purchase of the month onwards. And Payback points at dm.de or rewe.de now mean more to me than the discount itself: they keep me coming back to the shop.

        Typical loyalty bonuses:

        • Exclusive discounts from the 3rd order

        • Points that can be redeemed for products or vouchers

        • Advance access to limited promotions

        6. personalisation in the shop experience

        A personalised shopping experience can significantly increase the shopping basket value. People who feel recognised and understood are more likely to click on recommendations and make more targeted purchases. Email reminders („You've forgotten something“) or product recommendations based on browsing behaviour work particularly well.

        Shops such as yoox.com or veepee.com make effective use of personalisation: On Yoox, I can see my most recent searches straight away on the homepage. Veepee sends me emails about promotions for my favourite brands – with a direct link to the calendar. This makes me feel that I’m being addressed personally, rather than just being one of many.

        Examples of personalisation:

        • Emails with reference to saved shopping baskets

        • Home page shows relevant brands or products

        • Personal recommendations in the footer or as a pop-up

        7. take advantage of limited discount campaigns

        Limited offers generate pressure – but in the best case positively. The appeal of „strike now“ is activated, especially with discount scales or exclusive promotions. The effect: higher-priced products are more likely to end up in the shopping basket. The purchase is planned, but emotionally charged.

        A good example is Yoox: they regularly run discount promotions with decreasing percentages – for example, 40% off today, 30% off tomorrow, 10% off on the final day. This countdown ensures that many people snap up the deals quickly – and often buy more than they planned in order to make the most of the offer.

        Action types with boost potential:

        • „Today only: 20 % to your wish list“

        • Countdown banner on the homepage

        • „Only 2 hours left – shop now and save“

        8. use reviews as a sales booster

        Reviews have a massive influence on purchasing decisions. 90 % of customers look at reviews before making a purchase. 72 % only buy products with positive reviews. Social proof is therefore not a „nice to have“, but a real sales driver – and can also increase the shopping basket value.

        People invest more when they feel secure. Studies also show this: 31 % spend more if the company has been rated as „excellent“. And 88 % trust online reviews almost as much as the advice of a friend. Reviews provide orientation – and the necessary security for larger orders.

        Tactics for review utilisation:

        • Rating with photo or comment visible on the product

        • „Verified purchase“ for more credibility

        • Note: „This product has 4.9 out of 5 stars“

        9. enclose small gifts or vouchers

        An unexpected gift will be remembered. Whether it's a personalised voucher or a little extra – such gestures have a strong emotional impact. People who feel valued are more likely to return and spend more next time. The important thing is: it shouldn't feel like a mass discount.

        At matchesfashion.com, for example, the parcel always comes with a high-quality, subtly branded box – I’ve ordered from them several times for that reason alone. Vouchers with an expiry date included in the parcel are also effective: they boost the repeat purchase rate and encourage customers to pass the voucher on to friends.

        Favourite extras in the package:

        • 10 % voucher with expiry date

        • Free sample or mini product

        • High-quality packaging that is reused

        10. make returns simple and fair

        Customers are more likely to make a purchase if they know that returning an item is no problem. A straightforward returns policy lowers the barrier to purchase – particularly when it comes to clothing, technology or higher-priced products. 73 % of people say that their returns experience influences whether they buy again.

        I personally avoid shops where I have to go to the trouble of printing out return forms or go to great lengths to return products in their original packaging. At Veepee, for example, I’ve already decided against making purchases because of experiences like that. Making returns easy increases the likelihood of customers making bolder and larger purchases.

        Tips for easy returns:

        • Enclose the return label in the parcel

        • Clear communication in the footer and checkout

        • „Visibly place “No risk – 30 days free return"

        Increasing shopping basket value does not mean persuading

        With relevant recommendations, clear benefits and honest communication, trust is created. And this is exactly what makes people willing to invest more – in products, in relationships and in your shop. Now it's up to you to combine the right strategies and implement them in your style.

        Do you want to sell your products without being pushy?

        If you want to increase your basket value in the long term, you don’t need flashy sales gimmicks, but rather a clear strategy, honest communication and strong branding. That’s exactly where we come in.

        Let’s work out together which upselling and cross-selling strategies really suit your brand – and feel right for your customers.

        KPIs – what are they and what do I need them for?

        KPIs – what are they and what do I need them for?

        KPI – what is that please?

        KPI stands for Key Performance Indicator, i.e. a key metric that helps you measure whether you’re achieving your business objectives. It sounds a bit dry, but it’s actually quite useful. That’s because KPIs not only give you an overview of the current situation, but also show you where your business is heading – or where it’s currently going round in circles. Entrepreneurs should know their KPIs as well as they know their own bank balance.

        These numbers help you make informed decisions – and not just based on gut feeling. For example, if you know that 1 in 100 website visitors buys, you can calculate how many visitors you need to achieve your desired revenue. And that in turn determines your marketing budget – and not your goodwill.

        KPIs briefly explained:

        • KPI = Key Performance Indicator

        • Shows you how well (or badly) you are achieving your goals

        • Makes your growth measurable – and controllable

        Why KPIs make your team more focused

        Many entrepreneurs make the mistake of setting goals – but failing to measure them. It’s a bit like saying: „I want to grow!“ – but where to, how quickly, with whom and why? This is exactly where KPIs come in. They ensure that everyone in the team is pulling in the same direction. Whether it’s the next social media campaign or a website relaunch: KPIs show what really matters.

        When everyone knows what matters – for example, a lower bounce rate or more newsletter sign-ups – resources are no longer wasted, but put to good use. KPIs are therefore not tools for control freaks, but genuine efficiency boosters. And yes: they also help with setting priorities – without getting bogged down.

        KPIs bring focus because they ...

        • ... set clear priorities in the team

        • ... quickly visualise weak points

        • ... show what works well – and what doesn't

        Goals and the associated KPIs

        A target without a KPI is like a compass without a needle. To help you understand the principle, here are a few typical targets with corresponding KPIs. Important: Every KPI must be measurable, relevant and reviewed regularly – otherwise it’s of no use to you.

        1. Target: 20 % more website visitors in six months
          → KPIs: Daily visitor numbers, traffic sources, ad CTR, bounce rate

        2. Target: 10 % more sales in the next quarter
          → KPIs: number of daily orders, conversion rate, basket size

        3. Objective: Increase the conversion rate by 4 %
          → KPIs: Shopping basket abandonment, checkout time, conversion rate per landing page

        Typical KPI types at a glance:

        • Sales KPIs: Turnover, average basket value, repeat purchase rate

        • Marketing KPIs: click-through rate, reach, engagement rate

        • Website KPIs: bounce rate, time on site, conversion rate

        Why KPIs make growth visible and controllable

        Growth does not happen by chance – but through strategy. And KPIs are your strategic torch in the digital tunnel. Whether you want to increase your turnover or simply work more efficiently: With the right KPIs, you can recognise where things are going wrong at an early stage. And you can take immediate countermeasures. This saves you nerves – and money.

        If, for example, after a website relaunch you notice that the dwell time decreases and the bounce rate increases, you know: Something is wrong here. Maybe it takes too long to load or the texts are not to the point. Without KPIs, you would have noticed this much later – or not at all.

        Typical use cases for KPIs:

        • New landing page? → How does it perform compared to the old one?

        • Social ads running? → How high is the return on ad spend?

        • Shop restructured? → Does the conversion rate change?


        Conclusion

        KPIs are not a trend, they are your navigation system. Whether you want to scale your vegan food start-up or set up your coaching business more efficiently – with the right KPIs, you can plan, analyse and optimise on a sound basis. And you'll immediately realise whether your measures are paying off or not. So: set KPIs, check them regularly – and move your business forward step by step.


        Sustainable growth – the 5 most important KPIs in e-commerce

        Sustainable growth – the 5 most important KPIs in e-commerce

        KPIs – Overview with impact

        Of course, figures aren’t everyone’s cup of tea. But if you want to hold your own in e-commerce, you shouldn’t ignore your Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). These metrics provide you with measurable insights: where are things going well – and where do you need to make improvements? They’re like a sat-nav for your business. With them, you can optimise processes, identify weaknesses and target your investments more effectively.

        Particularly exciting: some KPIs show you with just a few clicks whether your marketing measures are working. And the best thing? Most tools such as Google Analytics, HubSpot or Shopify also provide these figures. The five most important KPIs you should know are

        • Acquisition costs (CAC)

        • Customer value (CLV)

        • Conversion rate (CR)

        • Average order value (AOV)

        • Return rate (RR)

        1. acquisition costs (Customer Acquisition Cost – CAC)

        Acquiring customers costs money – that’s no secret. But exactly how much? This is where CAC comes into play. It shows how much you spend on marketing for each new customer you acquire.

        The formula is simple:

        Marketing costs : Number of new customers = CAC

        Online channels in particular offer you the chance to analyse exactly where your customers are coming from – Facebook Ads, Google Ads or perhaps influencer marketing? Not every click leads to a purchase, and not every channel is equally effective. So: measure, compare, optimise.

        A Facebook campaign example:

        You spend €1000 and gain 125 new buyers. The result? 8 € CAC

        This is your key figure. And this is exactly what helps you make smart budget decisions. But be careful: target group and product influence performance. What works for vegan cosmetics may flop for sustainable furniture. The CAC is not a universal solution – it is a tool that you should interpret individually.

        Tip: Set up a simple spreadsheet where you can record your monthly CAC per channel. This will help you spot trends – and quickly identify where you can use your budget most effectively.

        2. customer value (Customer Lifetime Value – CLV)

        Returning customers are worth their weight in gold – especially if they’re truly connected to your brand. The Customer Lifetime Value (CLV) shows you how much revenue a customer generates over the course of their entire relationship with your shop – minus the acquisition costs.

        Whilst the CLV isn’t exactly easy to calculate, every approximation helps. It’s particularly important to note that the better your brand is perceived, the more likely customers are to return – rather than switching to the competition. Good design builds trust. Good images stick in the mind.

        Formula:

        Turnover per customer – CAC = CLV.

        If you know the CLV, you can also invest more in the initial approach. Because even if the first purchase is not yet a win – in the long term, the connection pays off. A bit like a good first date with potential.

        A common mistake: Many people place ads, expect immediate sales and stop everything if it doesn't work right away. Those who keep an eye on CLV, on the other hand, recognise the long-term effect and can invest more courageously.

        Tip: When it comes to customer acquisition, it’s advisable to plan for the long term rather than just looking at the short term. Calculate your CLV on a quarterly basis. This will help you get a feel for how quickly marketing initiatives pay off – rather than having to guess all over again every week.

        3. conversion rate (Conversion Rate – CR)

        Your shop has 1,000 visitors, but only 16 make a purchase? Welcome to reality – the average conversion rate in e-commerce is 1.6 %, whilst top shops achieve around 3.6 %. The question is: how many of those visitors actually become real customers?

        Everything counts here: shop speed, intuitive navigation, trust seal, product presentation and, of course, the visual language. If your products are visually convincing, the probability of purchase increases immediately. UX (user experience) is not a bonus, but a must.

        Tools such as Google Analytics or HubSpot show you where users are dropping off. Perhaps the checkout form is too complicated, or the product images are too bland. Or maybe it’s just missing a bit of heart.

        Also exciting: Conversion often differs significantly between desktop and mobile. Many shops perform less well on mobile – yet more and more people are buying on the move.

        Tip: Take a look at your conversion rate (CR) per device (desktop vs. mobile). Start by improving the mobile user journey – test whether image sizes, text and CTAs work properly on mobile devices. And make sure your key metrics are immediately recognisable.

        4. average shopping basket value (Average Order Value – AOV)

        The higher the AOV, the better for your sales.

        Quite simply:

        Total sales : number of orders = AOV.

        Example:

        If your shop generates €100,000 in sales with 500 orders, the average shopping basket is €200.

        But how do you increase this figure? Two strategies: upselling and cross-selling. Recommend suitable products or higher-value alternatives – but do so subtly and stylishly. A visually well-presented bundle is more persuasive than a clumsy "Why not buy this as well?" message.

        Well-designed product pages also help. Beautiful photos, comprehensible texts and a clearly structured presentation not only increase trust – they also invite you to browse. This often leads to more items in the shopping basket without being intrusive.

        Your design therefore plays a key role in determining how „valuable“ your shop appears. Customers are more likely to buy three products if they feel emotionally engaged – and visual storytelling is your best friend here.

        Tip: Try adding a prompt at checkout: “You’ve got the lip balm – why not try it with our organic hand cream too?”. A small addition with a big impact on average order value – without coming across as pushy.

        5. return rate (Return Rate – RR)

        Now things are getting tricky. The online returns rate in Germany stands at 4 %, and for fashion it’s as high as 28.5–70 %. That’s hardly surprising, as there are additional reasons here, such as the product being different from expected (approx. 50 %), the product being damaged (approx. 25 %), an alternative having been ordered (approx. 20 %) or even impulse purchases (5 %). Particularly critical: amongst the 14–29 age group, an above-average number return items – often because the product doesn’t fit or doesn’t meet expectations.

        What is often forgotten: Every return is not only a cost factor, but also an environmental problem. Packaging, transport, storage – all consume resources. If you want to sell more sustainably, you have to take countermeasures here.

        There are many reasons for returns: unclear sizes, bad photos, damaged products or simply impulse purchases. The solution? Honest, high-quality product presentation, good packaging, clear information. Say how the shoe really turns out – and show how it looks when worn.

        Psychological tricks also help: Returns are more frequent with purchase on account than with prepayment. Small incentives such as discounts or give-aways can help to minimise returns – without preventing the purchase.

        Tip: Collect specific reasons for returns (e.g. via stickers attached to items or return forms). This will help you prioritise your actions – and achieve more with fewer returns.


        KPIs are more than just numbers

        At first glance, key figures seem sober, but they are extremely valuable. They show you where you are losing money, where you should invest wisely and how you can become more successful in the long term. Instead of just acting on instinct, KPIs give you a solid foundation for strategic decisions.

        Be careful not to optimise all KPIs at the same time. Set priorities, try things out, compare channels and keep an eye on long-term developments. Remember: success in e-commerce is not a sprint, but a sustainable marathon – and KPIs are your compass.


        You don't just want to optimise KPIs, you want to make your brand really shine?

        Then start with what really excites your target audience: product photos that build trust, a corporate identity that creates brand recognition, and giveaways that build customer loyalty, even before the shopping basket is filled.

        Here at 2bu design, we’ll help you to visual clarity, find your style and build a brand identity that doesn’t rely on loud marketing – yet still makes an impact. Fewer returns thanks to better product presentation, more sales through emotional imagery, and a design strategy that aligns with your values.

        Sounds good? Then let’s work together to see how we can position your brand in a way that will make your KPIs happy too – sustainably, efficiently and with substance.

        Branding or marketing – what matters

        Branding or marketing – what matters

        Why this is not an „either-or“ situation

        Do you want to make a difference with your business? To connect with people, rather than just marketing to them? Then you need a clear stance and equally clear communication. This is precisely where the difference lies between branding and marketing. Whilst one is your inner voice, the other is the megaphone. Branding is the „why“ behind everything; marketing is the „how“. It sounds simple, but in practice it often gets watered down. This is particularly true of small, passionate businesses that want (and are expected to) do everything at once. Time for clarity!

        What is branding?

        Branding isn’t your logo. It isn’t your colour palette. Nor is it your name – at least, not just that. Branding is your entire brand identity, based on your identity, your values and your ethos. It’s what remains when everything else changes. It gives your business direction, backbone and resonance. It’s the reason why people trust you – or don’t.

        Typical pain points in brand development:

        • „I don't know what makes me unique.“

        • „I don't want to exclude anyone, but I don't want to appear arbitrary either.“

        • „How do I bring my personality into my business?“

        • „I don't have time to deal with brand strategy.“

        What you can actually do:

        • Clearly define your values and vision – in writing.

        • Develop a Brand Manual setting out the brand’s tone, visual language and stance.

        • Ask your environment: How do others see you – and does that fit in with your idea?

        • Get support: Branding is a process, not a one-man job.

        • Think long-term: A strong brand is not a whim, but a promise.

        What is marketing?

        If branding is your core, marketing is your outward movement. Marketing encompasses all measures that make your brand visible and build relationships with your target groups. Whether SEO, social media, newsletters or adverts – you communicate what you are. Important: Marketing only works sustainably if it is based on clear branding. Otherwise it will seem arbitrary. Or worse: like greenwashing in a pretty design coat.

        Typical pain points in everyday marketing:

        • „I don't know which channel is the right one.“

        • „My content seems arbitrary, even though my business is unique.“

        • „I get lost in the tools overload.“

        • „I feel like I'm chasing trends.“

        What you can actually do:

        • Develop a content strategy that reflects your values.

        • Use tools (e.g. SEO, social media, email marketing) in a targeted manner instead of inflationary.

        • Plan regular rear-view mirror times: What works? What doesn't?

        • Avoid hectic marketing: authenticity beats volume.

        • Make your offer measurable – but only where it makes sense.

        Branding vs. marketing – Similarities & differences

        Branding is strategic, emotional and long-term – marketing is tactical, operational and situational. You can’t just „do branding quickly on the side“, but you can with marketing. Branding is the foundation for trust; marketing is the channel for reach. Without branding, you lack direction. Without marketing, nobody will find you.

        Branding is:

        • Your positioning & attitude

        • your brand identity & tonality

        • your visual appearance

        • your promise to customers

        Marketing is:

        • Your content strategy

        • your SEO measures

        • Your advertising & social media presence

        • your sales promotion & communication

        And together they are:

        • the basis for sustainable corporate success

        • the interplay of authenticity and visibility

        • Your path from desire to effect

        Measurability: Marketing loves numbers – Branding loves impact

        A common misconception: „If I can't measure it, it's useless.“ Marketing can often be summarised in KPIs: Clicks, leads, conversion rates. Branding, on the other hand, unfolds its power more subtly. You can't show brand love in Google Analytics, but you can tell when it's missing.

        What you can measure (marketing):

        • Mail open rates

        • Reach in social media

        • Sales figures & lead quality

        What you can feel (branding):

        • Customer satisfaction & loyalty

        • Recognition value of your brand

        • Emotional connection of your community to you

        And yes: Branding, too, is becoming increasingly tangible and assessable through factors such as reviews, recommendations and brand studies.


        Branding is your why – Marketing is your how

        If you run a business that approaches the market with awareness, the right attitude and a genuine enthusiasm for change, you need both: strong branding and the right marketing. One without the other is like an organic apple with no flavour or a megaphone with nothing to say. 2bu design helps you precisely at this juncture: we think strategically, design authentically and communicate with a human touch, so that your business makes an impact without being overly flashy.


        Do you want to strengthen your brand from the inside out? Or finally fill your marketing with meaning? Then let's talk.