We began by engaging their leadership team in our Discovery Workshop to uncover the unique values, emotional drivers, and ownable positioning behind the brand. Paired with deep market research and customer interviews, we developed a distinct brand platform that guided every decision moving forward, including brand narrative, store environment design, merchandising, and corporate social responsibility initiatives.

As the only locally-owned and operated cannabis retail store in Coburg, we sought to develop a tone for the brand that was knowledgeable and trustworthy, while also being approachable with a distinct local flare. Our ultimate goal was to demystify cannabis shopping and make it feel accessible to all.

Taking cues from the storied history of the region and named in honour of Cobourg’s official birthday, we designed Circa 1818 to be an unmistakably homegrown brand that embodies deep community pride, and the familiar warmth of a neighbour you’ve known for years. The foundation of the Circa 1818 brand is the distinctive logo mark and icon, drawn from elements found in the the historical Cobourg coat of arms, and a nod to the elements of nature found in a small beach town such as this. The brand’s personality and messaging was crafted to be lighthearted and witty, playing off Cobourg’s own tagline — Ontario’s feel good town.

Working with building and construction teams, we created a warm and inviting retail space where the brand ethos comes alive in every corner. Local contractors were selected to build the store, locally sourced materials were used wherever possible, and there’s special shelf space reserved for spotlighting and uplifting other local brands and businesses. Everything about Circa 1818 is a reminder that they take care of their community with pride.

To create a memorable focal point and photo-op moment within the space we commissioned a local fabricator to custom-build a living wall structure supported by a steel laser-cut map of Cobourg with star marking the stores location within the city. Standing tall right near the entrance, this feature wall creates a moment that could only exist within a store like Circa 1818.

The reception has been resoundingly positive, earning them significant local news coverage at their opening event. Circa 1818 has experienced incredible success since opening their doors and remains the premier cannabis retailer in the region today.