Germany (154)
Swap box
Neighbourhood swapping pop-up ‘shops’ have made a recent appearance in Germany. Anybody can leave or take objects in good condition left by the previous owners in these spaces called ‘give boxes’. Users can also leave their acknowledgements in a diary that tracks the transactions.
Why it matters
In a time when most things can be ‘ebay-ed’ and monetized, people are seeking out ways to swap goods and do good on a very local level. By encouraging exchanges via the give box, the project turns out to be a sustainable project too. If brands would talk less about sustainability and do more about it – maybe they could start sponsoring such spaces and show they are getting involved in a credible way?
Neon surfing
A video, created by Strongbow Australia, shows a group of surfers riding waves with neon boards and wetsuits. The modified outfits allow the group to surf in the darkness and at night.
Why it matters
The video highlights the variety of uses that can be done with technologies like EL wires or LED lamps. Besides allowing for nightly activities, these kind of lights prove their reliability in action and undeniably add a stylish element to the outfits. The benefits are manyfold, especially considering the relative ease of handling and usage. How could other industries use this idea to add a new gloss to old products?
Pillow talk
Willcom, a Japanese mobile provider, offers star-shaped pillows to its new customers as a welcome present. The cosy pillow is integrated with a microphone and speaker that connects to your mobile phone so you can talk and relax at the same time.
Why it matters
Besides offering technical or service related novelties, this brand is trying to lure consumers via a flashy gadget. Will we see more telecommunication brands trying to own specific emotional mood states?
