Yamalube Label Redesign

The Challenge

With an extensive product portfolio across multiple markets, Yamalube – Yamaha’s official oil and maintenance brand – needed a label and packaging redesign that brought clarity, consistency, and stronger shelf presence. The visual system had to align with the high-performance promise of Yamalube products, while making it easier for dealers and customers to navigate the full range. The redesign wasn’t just about looks, it needed to drive recognition and build trust in workshops, stores, and across digital platforms.

The Brief

SMC Agency was asked to lead the full redesign of Yamalube’s label and packaging identity across Europe. This included everything from concept development to final delivery-ready artwork. The goal: modernize the brand’s packaging, elevate its premium character, and improve user experience – without losing the legacy and loyalty already built around Yamalube.

The Solution

SMC developed a clean, modular design system that brought visual hierarchy, technical clarity, and recognizability to the full Yamalube product lineup. The new design improves navigability while maintaining Yamaha’s distinctive brand DNA.

Brand-Driven Design System

  • A grid-based layout was created to clearly communicate the product type, category, and technical information at a glance.

  • Visual consistency was established across all product labels, regardless of size or sub-range.

  • Key brand elements, such as the Yamalube red and black color palette, were preserved and reinterpreted for a sharper, more premium finish.

User-Focused Labeling

  • Information was reorganized for faster recognition – especially useful for professionals working in busy workshop environments.

  • Icons and visual markers were refined to quickly differentiate between product lines (engine oils, maintenance sprays, coolants, etc.).

Collaboration with Yamaha Motor Europe

  • SMC worked closely with Yamaha’s product, marketing, and legal teams to ensure the design met technical and regulatory requirements in every region.

  • Multiple feedback rounds were built into the process to guarantee stakeholder alignment across countries.

The Outcome

The Yamalube label redesign delivered a stronger on-shelf impact, simplified navigation for dealers and users, and created a clearer, more cohesive brand experience.

Key Results

  • Improved product recognition: Thanks to consistent design language and clearer label hierarchy.

  • Dealer satisfaction: Simplified stocking, selling, and product explanation.

  • Stronger Brand Identity: A refreshed visual presence that reflects Yamalube’s high-performance promise and technical integrity.

  • Europe-wide rollout readiness: Designed with localization in mind, ready for multilingual implementation and compliant across markets.

SMC’S ROLE

From concept to execution, SMC managed the full creative development process, working in close collaboration with Yamaha Motor Europe. The project is another example of how SMC combines design expertise with brand strategy to create visual systems that work – not just look good.

Ready to elevate your brand’s shelf appeal?
Let’s talk about your next label redesign.