SYNC
“Young Talents” showcases visionary food and packaging concepts developed as part of the Packaging Design project workshop at the Media University Frankfurt. Under the guidance of guest lecturer Andreas Milk, students develop brands and products for the food industry of tomorrow—strategically sound, creatively conceived, and consistently designed with packaging in mind.
Today, productivity means much more than just maximum performance. If you want to stay productive over the long term, you need not only focus during the day but also conscious recovery in the evening.
This project was developed by:
Chantal Schilling
This is exactly where Chantal’s SYNC concept comes in: a functional beverage that supports the natural cycle of activity and recovery—rather than simply providing short-term energy. The idea is based on the realization that sustained performance always results from the interplay of concentration, recovery, and sleep quality.
That’s why SYNC is reimagining functional drinks. The concept includes two complementary variants: DAY supports concentration and performance with caffeine, electrolytes, fiber, and antioxidants, while NIGHT specifically promotes relaxation and recovery with L-theanine, magnesium, and ashwagandha. The result is not a traditional energy drink, but rather a functional routine that accompanies the entire daily cycle. The target audience consists of young, active people who consciously structure their daily lives around work, sports, and creativity and want to maintain their performance over the long term.
The design translates this brand promise into packaging that is both consistent and distinctive. Black and white serve as the visual link between day and night, while an uncompromisingly minimalist color palette underscores the brand’s functional character. The dominant design element is large-scale, striking typography that immediately makes the respective active ingredients the central design focus. Rather than relying on illustrative imagery, the packaging communicates through clarity and information—confident, honest, and functional.
The clear distinction between DAY and NIGHT provides guidance on the shelf while also strengthening the brand’s recognition value. Small graphic elements such as “100% Focus at Day” or “100% Reset at Night” complement the functional message without overloading the minimalist design. The design draws inspiration from the visual styles of modern performance and lifestyle brands, yet develops its own distinct visual language that combines functionality with a premium aesthetic.
SYNC impressively demonstrates how packaging design today can do more than just attract attention. The project combines product strategy, nutritional science, and brand communication into a consistent overall concept. A functional beverage is transformed into a brand for conscious performance—with a clear message: If you want to achieve peak performance, you must also understand regeneration as part of your daily routine.
Young Talents – Packaging Design Project Workshop.
How are the food brands of tomorrow created? The Packaging Design project workshopat the Media University Frankfurt is dedicated to exploring this question. Under the guidance of guest lecturer Andreas Milk, managing director of the packaging design agency MILK., students are developing forward-looking food and beverage concepts—ranging from trend and target audience analysis to brand strategy, visual identity, and market-ready packaging design.
The results are intentionally speculative, yet at the same time closely reflect real-world market opportunities. In our “Young Talents” section, we showcase selected projects that use creative ideas and strategic depth to offer a glimpse into the food industry of tomorrow.
