#food packaging design Agency

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Transforming Food Products with Exceptional Branding and Design

In the bustling world of pet products, standing out is essential. Pet owners are becoming more discerning and selective about what they feed their furry friends. This shift in consumer behavior places tremendous importance on food branding and packaging, especially when it comes to cat food. Imagine walking down a store aisle filled with vibrant colors, intriguing designs, and clever messaging. Which packages catch your eye? More often than not, it's the ones that tell a story—a tale of quality ingredients or a commitment to sustainability. Food packaging should do more than just hold the product; it needs to resonate with consumers on an emotional level. As we explore how exceptional branding can transform cat food packaging design, we'll uncover innovative strategies that make products irresistible—not just for cats but also for their conscientious humans. Let's dive into this captivating journey where creativity meets functionality!

Food Packaging That Speaks to Consumers and Their Pets

Food packaging is more than just a protective layer; it’s the first point of contact between consumers and their pets' meals. A thoughtfully designed package can evoke trust, quality, and excitement. Colors play a crucial role in this connection. Bright hues may suggest vibrant flavors, while earthy tones often imply natural ingredients. The right palette not only attracts attention but also tells a story about what’s inside. Imagery matters too. Illustrations of happy cats enjoying their food can create an emotional resonance that feels personal to pet owners. This imagery bridges the gap between product and consumer. Textured finishes add another layer of engagement. A soft touch or glossy surface encourages interaction, inviting shoppers to reach out and explore further. When done well, food branding & packaging speaks volumes without uttering a word—capturing hearts and enticing purchases at first glance.

From Concept to Shelf: Stunning Cat Food Packaging Design

Creating innovative cat food packaging design starts with understanding the target audience. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about connecting with both pet owners and their furry friends. The art of design should evoke emotion. Colors, textures, and imagery play crucial roles in forming that bond. A playful kitten on the front can spark joy while also hinting at the product's quality. Next comes functionality. Packaging must protect its contents while being easy to open and reseal for convenience. This practical aspect builds trust between consumers and brands. Sustainability is another essential factor today. Using eco-friendly materials speaks volumes about a brand's commitment to pets and the planet. Clear labeling helps buyers make informed choices quickly amidst numerous options on store shelves. Each element contributes to creating an unforgettable experience from concept through to purchase.

Creative Cat Food Packaging That Stands Out

When it comes to cat food packaging design, creativity is key. A standout package can make all the difference on crowded shelves. It’s not just about aesthetics; it's about conveying a brand's personality and values. Bold colors, unique shapes, and eye-catching graphics draw consumers in. They want something that resonates with them—and their furry friends. Packaging should evoke emotion while highlighting quality ingredients and nutritional benefits. Think outside the box—literally! Innovative designs can create memorable experiences for pet owners. Consider using eco-friendly materials or interactive elements for added engagement. To truly shine in the competitive market of food branding & packaging, brands must think creatively. The right design will not only attract attention but also foster loyalty among customers who appreciate thoughtful branding. Great cat food packaging does more than hold product; it tells a story that connects with both pets and their humans alike. Embrace your creativity to craft designs that leave a lasting impact on consumers’ minds—and shopping carts!

[saypanthepackagingdesign]

Food Packaging Design Company The Power of Visual Storytelling

Introduction:

In the realm of food packaging, where first impressions are critical and functionality is paramount, the role of packaging design companies cannot be overstated. These companies are the architects behind the captivating designs and practical solutions that grace the shelves of supermarkets and kitchens worldwide. Among these innovators, Saypan stands out as a trailblazer, setting new standards in food packaging design excellence.

Food Packaging Design Company:

Food packaging design companies are the creative powerhouses responsible for shaping the visual identity and functional efficacy of food packaging. Their expertise lies in combining aesthetics with functionality, ensuring that products not only look appealing but also maintain freshness, extend shelf life, and provide convenience to consumers.

Among the myriad of companies in this field, Saypan emerges as a leader, renowned for its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and consumer-centric design. With a diverse portfolio encompassing various food categories, Saypan has established itself as the go-to partner for brands seeking to elevate their packaging game.

Innovative Branding & Packaging by Saypan - Learn More @ https://saypan.in/our-services/

Saypan Approach to Design:

At the heart of Saypan success lies its unique approach to design, which prioritizes both form and function. The company understands that effective food packaging must not only capture attention on the shelf but also enhance the overall user experience. To achieve this, Saypan employs a multidisciplinary team of designers, engineers, and packaging experts who collaborate seamlessly to bring concepts to life.

One of Saypan key strengths is its ability to tailor solutions to meet the specific needs of each client. Whether it's designing sustainable packaging for organic products or creating eye-catching designs for luxury goods, Saypan goes above and beyond to deliver results that exceed expectations.

Sustainability Initiatives:

In an era marked by growing environmental concerns, sustainability has become a central focus for food packaging design companies. Saypan is at the forefront of this movement, pioneering eco-friendly solutions that minimize environmental impact without compromising on quality.

From utilizing recyclable materials to optimizing packaging dimensions for efficient transportation, Saypan incorporates sustainability into every stage of the design process. The company is committed to reducing waste, conserving resources, and promoting a circular economy within the food packaging industry.

Target Audience:

Saypan innovative approach to food packaging design appeals to a diverse range of clients, including:

Food manufacturers seeking to differentiate their products in a competitive market.

Retailers looking to enhance the visual appeal of their store shelves and drive sales.

Start-ups aiming to establish a strong brand presence from the outset.

Sustainable brands committed to minimizing their environmental footprint.

Established brands seeking to revitalize their packaging strategies and stay ahead of emerging trends.

By catering to such a broad spectrum of clients, Saypan has solidified its position as a versatile partner capable of meeting the evolving needs of the food industry.

Important Notes:

Saypan commitment to innovation and sustainability sets it apart from competitors.

The company multidisciplinary team enables it to deliver holistic solutions that address both creative and technical challenges.

Saypan client-centric approach ensures that each project is tailored to meet the specific goals and objectives of the client.

Sustainability is a core value embedded in Saypan design philosophy, driving the development of eco-friendly packaging solutions.

Through its innovative designs and commitment to sustainability, Saypan is shaping the future of food packaging and setting new industry standards.

Conclusion:

In the dynamic world of food packaging design, Saypan stands out as a beacon of innovation, creativity, and sustainability. By combining cutting-edge design with a commitment to environmental stewardship, Saypan continues to redefine the possibilities of food packaging, inspiring brands and consumers alike. As the industry evolves, Saypan remains at the forefront, driving positive change and shaping a more sustainable future for food packaging design.

Contact us

Phone : +91 96657 20007,​ +91 87672 11111​

Email : info@saypan.in​

Website: https://saypan.in/

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Food Packaging Design Agency FOR A NUTRITIONAL PRODUCT

The packaging design for a nutritional product is a crucial part of its success. It can be used to convey the brand's message, create an emotional connection with the consumer, or simply to make it easier for them to purchase your product.

 A good food packaging design agency in india should reflect the nature of the product itself and help consumers understand what they are getting when they buy it. It can also provide information on how to use or consume the product and add value to your brand by visually representing some aspect of the product.

 Here are five tips to help you create a great packaging design:

 1. Be creative

 The best food packaging design agency are the ones that stand out, and they do so by being interesting, innovative and different. If your product is boring, difficult to identify and forgettable then you need to think about what makes it unique or special.

 2. Consider the packaging format

 Your brand will have its own unique shape, colour scheme and style when it comes to packaging design. Consider the best way to present your product in an appealing manner when designing your packaging layout. You may want to consider using some of your brand's imagery as part of the design or even placing an image of your product on top of the box itself for extra branding impact.

 3. Make sure everything fits together correctly

 The last thing you want is for something inside your package to fall out or break during shipping because it was packaged incorrectly! This could result in damaged goods which will make people reluctant to buy from you again and put off future customers from shopping with you too! Ensure all components of your package (such as bubble wrap, tape etc) are securely attached before sealing up your box so that nothing can come loose later on down the line

  SCOPE OF WORK

 The scope of work for this project is to develop and design a comprehensive packaging design for the new product line. The product will be a fresh water softener that can be used in both residential and commercial settings. The packaging will be designed in such a way that it will be easy to use, safe and effective.

 OUTCOME AND DELIVERABLES

 OUTCOME:

We will design and produce the packaging solution that is market ready. We will also provide all the necessary supporting documentation, including safety data sheets and labels.

 DELIVERABLES:

The following deliverables are included in this project:

- The design of packaging solution (including all branding elements and labeling)

- Production drawings for injection moulding (plastic or metal) and assembly instructions

- Safety data sheets (SDS), product specification and technical instructions for use with each type of packaging material.

[tilbageidanmark]

[designlabpune]

Creative Packaging Design Ideas to Make Your Products Stand Out

In today's competitive market, packaging plays a crucial role in shaping consumer perception and influencing purchasing decisions. The days when packaging solely provided protection are no longer existent. Now, it is an influential instrument that assesses the quality, characteristics, and worth of your product. If you are in the food packaging, packaging, or industrial packaging industry, an innovative packaging design can truly help your products grab attention on the shelves.

In this blog post, we will delve into a variety of innovative packaging concepts that can enhance the appeal of your products. If you need packaging solutions in Pune or anywhere in the world, these suggestions can help you find top-notch packaging options.

Why Packaging Design Matters

Understanding why packaging design is not solely concerned with aesthetics is crucial before delving into specific considerations. Packaging is frequently the initial interaction your product has with potential customers. A product that is well-designed not only grabs attention, but also impacts the brand's promise, enhances efficiency, and boosts sales. In sectors like pharmaceutical packaging and food packaging, design plays a crucial role in enhancing consumer confidence, particularly in areas prioritizing functionality and safety.

Innovative Packaging Design Ideas

Here are some creative approaches to packaging design that can give your products an edge:

1. Minimalist Design

Less is often more when it comes to packaging. A minimalist design with clean lines, neutral colours, and simple fonts can give your product a sophisticated, modern look. Minimalist packaging is ideal for luxury items and products that want to exude quality through simplicity. For instance, pharmaceutical packaging often benefits from this approach, focusing on clarity and functionality while maintaining a sleek design.

2. Sustainable Packaging

As environmental concerns grow, customers are increasingly leaning towards eco-friendly options. Using sustainable packaging solutions not only shows that your brand is committed to the environment, but it also resonates with consumers who are looking to reduce their carbon footprint. Using recyclable materials, compostable packaging, and minimal plastic are great steps toward achieving sustainable packaging.

3. Interactive Packaging

Interactive packaging engages the customer beyond the traditional box or bag. This can include elements like QR codes that direct users to more information, augmented reality features, or even packaging that transforms into something useful after its primary use. Such designs not only create a memorable experience but also add value to your product.

4. Bold and Vibrant Colors

Colour plays a significant role in how consumers perceive products. Bold, vibrant colours can make your product pop on the shelf, attracting attention instantly. For food packaging, bright colours that resonate with the flavours or the ingredients of the product can further reinforce the brand message. In contrast, engineering packaging or industrial packaging might benefit from more muted, technical colours that convey reliability and durability.

5. Functional packaging

In addition to aesthetics, packaging should also be practical. Functional packaging design focuses on user convenience and product protection. For example, resealable bottles or easy-to-open containers are particularly useful in agricultural packaging and processing, where ease of use is essential Functionality can dramatically increase customer satisfaction and productivity.

6. Special design and design

One of the easiest ways to differentiate your products is by the size and layout of your packaging. Consider moving away from traditional box designs and having more unique, creative layouts that align with your brand. For example, cosmetic packaging may use graceful curves, while industrial packaging may incorporate additional structural elements that indicate the hardness of the product around

7. Storytelling through packaging

Your packaging can make a statement. Whether it’s your brand’s story, the journey of the product, or even the values ​​you embody, storytelling creates an emotional connection with consumers. Label design plays a big part in this. For example, food packaging can depict ingredients and farmers involved in production, increasing your brand authenticity.

Packaging Design Trends in Pune

When looking for packaging design in Pune, it is important to stay ahead of local trends to ensure your brand remains relevant in the market. Manufacturing in Pune is booming and businesses are increasingly looking for innovative packaging solutions to stand out. Major industries in Pune such as chemical packaging, industrial packaging and food packaging are adopting eco-friendly, compact and highly efficient systems to consume modern customer preferences.

At DesignLab, we offer specialized packaging solutions to cater to the needs of various industries in Pune. From label design to comprehensive packaging solutions, our team can help your product shine in any market.

How to Choose the Right Packaging Solution

Choosing the right packaging solution depends on many factors, including your product type, target audience, and industry. Here is a quick guide:

Food Packaging: Prioritize food freshness and safety. Use materials that preserve the quality of the product with images that appeal to the customer’s emotions.

Pharmaceutical Packaging: Focus on clarity and safety. Packaging solutions for this category must ensure product consistency by making critical information easily accessible.

Industrial Packaging: Durability is key. Strong and functional packaging that can withstand transportation and handling is critical for applications such as construction packaging and industrial packaging.

Agricultural Packaging: Packaging should protect the product from the environment while facilitating handling and storage.

Conclusion

The right packaging design can make all the difference in whether a consumer chooses your product over a competitor's. Whether you need innovative food packaging, durable industrial packaging, or eco-friendly pharmaceutical packaging, focusing on creativity and functionality will help your brand stand out. At DesignLab, we specialize in creating custom packaging solutions that align with your brand’s vision and product requirements. Whether you need packaging design in Pune or anywhere else, our team is ready to bring your ideas to life.

Visit us at DesignLab to explore how we can elevate your product's packaging and make a lasting impression on your customers.

[relaxdesign09]

Innovative Packaging Design Trends in the Australian Food Sector

The Australian food industry is undergoing a significant shift in packaging design, driven by changing consumer preferences, environmental concerns, and technology. As brands compete for attention, innovative and sustainable packaging has become essential. Below are some key trends shaping the particular landscape in Australia.

1. Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Packaging

Sustainability is at the forefront of innovation in Australia. Consumers are increasingly eco-conscious, leading brands to adopt greener options like recycled materials, biodegradable plastics, and compostable films. Supermarkets and retailers are phasing out single-use plastics in favour of more environmentally friendly designs. Plant-based packaging and zero-waste initiatives have become popular, reducing environmental impact and aligning with Australia's commitment to sustainability.

2. Minimalist and Transparent Design Packaging

Minimalist packaging is gaining traction as brands move toward clean, simple aesthetics that convey transparency and honesty. This approach is especially popular among health-conscious consumers seeking organic or artisanal products. Transparent packaging, which showcases the product inside, helps build trust in quality. The simplicity of minimalist design also stands out in cluttered supermarket aisles, making it easier for shoppers to quickly identify products.

3. Smart and Interactive Packaging

With advances in technology, smart packaging is gaining ground in the Australian market. Brands are incorporating QR codes, NFC, and augmented reality to enhance consumer engagement. Scanning QR codes provide product details, recipes, and even interactive experiences. These technologies create added value and foster brand loyalty while helping consumers stay informed about product origins and freshness.

4. Customizable and Personalized Packaging

It is a growing trend in Australia, where consumers are seeking tailored experiences. Brands are offering custom designs to appeal to specific demographics, regions, or even individuals. This trend helps create a deeper connection between brands and their customers by delivering a more personal touch.

In conclusion, innovative packaging in Australia is not just about aesthetics; it’s about functionality, sustainability, and engaging the modern consumer. As these trends evolve, every food marketing agency in Sydney that embraces them will continue to capture attention and loyalty in an increasingly competitive market.

[inbrandso]

Branding and designs agency -

We are an Interdisciplinary Design Consultancy offering holistic and integrated solutions, for strong and Sustainable Brand Building. Our focus is to translate our client’s business objectives into effective and future ready design solutions that meet critical scalability requirements.

With over 34 years of rich experience and diverse domain expertise, we collaborate with businesses large and small, to create powerful experiences across platforms.

[octopus-and-jam123]

Welcome to Octopus & Jam’s Packaging Design Hub, where creativity meets functionality to bring your brand’s vision to life through innovative packaging solutions. Our Noida-based creative agency specializes in crafting captivating packaging experiences that resonate with your audience and elevate your brand presence.

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The Best Logo Designing Company Australia

As the top logo design company in Australia, C9 ADS stands out for providing innovative ideas that effectively represent the personality of our company. With a passion for design and a commitment to quality, C9 ADS develops unique logos that are special.

Our creative team combines knowledge and creativity to generate logos that reflect your goals and connect with your target market. Place your trust in C9 ADS for our outstanding logo design services as we are the best logo designing company australia that will improve your company's identity.

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Leading Food & Drink Creative Agency | AD Creative London

Is your food and drink brand ready to stand out? Partner with AD Creative London, a leading food & drink creative agency, for innovative packaging and branding. We specialize in creating unique and impactful designs that resonate with your audience and elevate your product's market presence. Whether you're launching a new product or refreshing an existing one, our food & drink brand agency is here to help you succeed. Trust us to bring your brand to life. For more information contact us now!

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Why DN Designs Reigns is the Best Logo Design Company in Delhi

In the computerized time, a very much created logo is the foundation of brand personality, filling in as a visual portrayal of an organization's qualities and ethos. As organizations endeavor to establish a long-term connection in the serious market, the interest in first-rate logo configuration administrations has flooded. Among the horde of choices accessible, DN Designs stands apart as the exemplification of greatness in the domain of logo design. This blog dives into the justifications for why DN Designs is broadly viewed as the best logo design company in Delhi, underlining the ability in conveying unrivaled imagination and quality.

Inventive Way to deal with Logo Design:

At the centre of DN Designs prosperity lies an enduring obligation to advancement. Their group of prepared originators has a sharp comprehension of designing patterns and a propensity for out-of-the-case thinking. By mixing imagination with market bits of knowledge, DN Designs reliably makes logos that mirror the pith of a brand as well as separate it from the opposition. In the powerful scene of logo plan, development is the key, and DN Designs has become the best at remaining on the ball.

Commendable Arrangement of Best Logo Designs:

A look at DN Designs portfolio uncovers a mosaic of dazzling logos that have made a permanent imprint on the brands they address. Every logo is a demonstration of the organization's commitment to conveying greatness. From new businesses to laid out endeavours, DN Designs has effectively made an interpretation of assorted brand stories into outwardly convincing logos. Their capacity to fit plans to meet the one of a kind necessities of every client highlights their flexibility and capability in the specialty.

Client-Driven Approach:

What separates DN Designs is their unfaltering obligation to client fulfillment. The organization comprehends that a logo design is something beyond a plan; an essential resource assumes a critical part in brand situating. DN Designs teams up intimately with clients, finding opportunity to grasp their vision, values, and ideal interest group. This client-driven approach guarantees that the last logo meets as well as surpasses assumptions, encouraging durable connections based on trust and results.

Innovatively Progressed Logo Design:

DN Designs uses state-of-the-art configuration instruments and advancements to rejuvenate ideas. By keeping up to date with the most recent progressions in the plan scene, the organization guarantees that their plan cycle is effective, consistent, and yields outstanding outcomes. This obligation to remaining mechanically ahead adds to the quick circle back of ventures without settling on the nature of the eventual outcome.

Tender loving care and Accuracy:

Creating a vital logo is a fastidious cycle that requires an intense tender loving care. DN Designs highly esteems the accuracy with which its architects execute each task. From the determination of varieties to the selection of textual styles, each component is painstakingly considered to make an amicable and significant visual character. This meticulousness is a sign of DN Designs obligation to conveying logos that rise above tasteful enticement for impart a brand's special story successfully.

Positive Client Tributes:

A look at the tributes from DN Designs fulfilled clients highlights the organization's standing for greatness. Clients reliably acclaim the organization's amazing skill, imagination, and capacity to make an interpretation of thoughts into outwardly dazzling logos. These positive tributes act as a demonstration of the substantial effect DN Designs has had on the marking endeavors of different organizations in Delhi and then some.

Cutthroat Evaluating and An incentive for Cash:

While DN Designs reliably conveys top-level logo plans, they likewise grasp the significance of moderateness. The company offers competitive pricing without compromising on the quality of its services. This obligation to offer some benefit for cash pursues DN Designs an appealing decision for organizations of all sizes, from new businesses with spending plan imperatives to laid-out undertakings searching for a profit from interest in their marking tries.

End:

In the steadily advancing scene of logo design, DN Designs stands tall as the embodiment of imagination, development, and client fulfillment. The organization's obligation to greatness, client-driven approach, and mechanically progressed plan process make it the go-to logo configuration organization in Delhi. With a portfolio that says a lot and a standing for conveying results, DN Designs has legitimately procured its place as the best logo design company in Delhi. For organizations looking for a visual character that rises above the standard, DN Designs arises as the signal of excellent logo design craftsmanship.

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How Does A Food Packaging Design Company Impact Product Presentation And Sales?

In the competitive world of the food industry, product presentation and sales are intricately linked. A well-thought-out packaging design can significantly influence how your product is perceived by consumers and ultimately impact your sales. In this blog, we’ll explore the crucial role that a food packaging design company plays in shaping product presentation and driving sales. Visit us at - https://theomnibuzz.com/how-does-a-food-packaging-design-company-impact-product-presentation-and-sales/

[ozzgin]

Yandere! Yakuza x Reader (III)

A whole lot of confusion as to whether Reader and her yakuza friend are actually dating. After much back and forth and a coworker being threatened, the awaited confession might finally take place.

Bonus part: Kazuya tells Reader about his and Daitou's past and how they ended up working for the yakuza.

Content: female reader, obsessive behavior, violence

Tags: @vinivave @ansy-tea @evvie8 @angelicbunnee @jingerbreadoutofstock @azukoya @randomlyblues @alien-consummation @neverlandlostchild @mimiemie @toji-whore @cloudie-skay @lilkittenmitten

[Part 2] | [Part 4] | [Yakuza Masterlist]

The items are scanned and Kazuya finishes paying. He looks back, searching for Daitou, and finds him wandering among the narrow aisles of magazines and manga. They'd stopped by the konbini at the train station after their job.

"Here's your bentou." The blonde man extends a small box, eyeing his friend suspiciously. "Say, do you have an upset stomach or something? You're uglier than usual." 

Daitou thanks him with a nod, but doesn't take the neatly packaged food. He's idly playing with the cover of a romance volume, bending and straightening its corner.

"Nah, nothing like that. Just, ya know, feels a bit like (Y/N)'s been avoiding me. She hurries straight home after work and barely waves hi. I thought we'd do more things together now that we're dating."

Kazuya nearly spits out the soda he opened while listening to Daitou's troubles. He snorts and quickly wipes his mouth. 

"Wait, are you serious? You actually asked her out? And she said yes??"

Daitou thinks back to the time he gifted you your stalker's finger and teeth, the way you defended him, and the way you quietly walked home and almost held hands. That pretty much made it official, didn't it? So he confidently nods to his utterly baffled partner in crime.

"You little rascal, you! Who would've thought you had it in you?!" He cheerfully slaps Daitou's back and wraps his arm around his neck. The dark haired man blushes and scratches his cheek awkwardly. "You should've told me earlier!"

True. Between the two of them, Kazuya has always been extremely charismatic and popular with women. His perfectly combed blonde hair, his sparkling designer suits, his luxuriously elegant cologne. The handsome features and assertive smile. More than once he'd been approached by modeling agencies, and he likes to joke his lust for violence stopped him from living the glamorous life. In comparison, Daitou has the opposite effect on people. The room will empty if he steps inside. He's unnervingly tall, with bulging muscles, has multiple scars crossing his face, and his prosthetic eye always ends up twisted in the strangest position, causing him to look like he's only missing the straight jacket. Everyone is shocked upon hearing about their friendship. 

So it makes sense that Kazuya would have the required experience to offer him decent advice when it comes to (Y/N).

"Listen here, if there's one thing you should know, it's that women like a guy that fights for them. You gotta show them you care. What can you offer that other guys can't?"

The tall man listens intently, with a concentrated frown as if taking mental notes. He's not entirely sure who he should fight in this ordeal, but he doesn't want to embarrass himself in front of Kazuya, so he nods vehemently to his words.

"That's the short preview. If you have any more questions, just come over later. I'm piss tired, so I'll go home and have the nap of a lifetime." He yawns deeply to showcase his exhaustion and slowly walks away, throwing his hand in a lazy wave. 

The yakuza remains standing, still ruminating over the words of wisdom generously offered by the expert himself. Is he to randomly beat up people on the street as you watch? Won't Boss be angry if he attacks civilians? He gasps in realization. Perhaps this is what Kazuya meant. What kind of man is he if he can't even go against his Boss? So what if Boss won't like it? He has to prove himself to you. 

With newfound determination, he clenches his fists and gazes out of the window. 

That's when he notices you. You seem to be returning from work. Even more - and this causes his jaw to tighten in anger - some unknown man is walking next to you, cheerfully chitchatting and gesturing. 

That settles it. 

"You really didn't have to walk me home." You laugh clumsily to the man at your side.

A new coworker recently joined your company, and you've been asked to show him the ropes. You gradually discovered you had quite a lot in common, throughout your ample opportunities to gossip and talk leisurely. Your schedule isn't as packed nowadays, given you'll show up earlier and leave later.

Normally you'd prefer to be in your warm bed as soon as possible, but you've been feeling rather tense since the incident with Daitou. During his heated exchange with Kazuya, you've heard mentions of 'being liked by women' and 'having a crush on someone'. You thought it involved you and you nervously awaited further explanations from Daitou himself, but on the way back he was completely silent. You didn't have the courage to bring it up, so you assumed there must've been a misunderstanding somewhere along the way. 

Which, after all, would make plenty of sense. What business would a yakuza have with you? He's already shown much more courtesy than it was required of him. Hoping he'd also confess his feelings on top of everything was downright ridiculous and you're embarrassed to admit you'd harbored such cheesy fantasies to begin with. 

"Don't sweat it. You might not know", the coworker warns with lowered voice, "but this area is reeking of gangsters. I'm surprised you've been fine so far, but you should be more careful."

"O-oh...I see..." You glance at him and hold back a smirk. You doubt he could protect you from Daitou or Kazuya, but you appreciate his chivalry nonetheless. 

There's an uncomfortable pause as you stand in your doorframe, having reached the intended destination. The man hasn't left yet, waiting expectantly. He lowers his head towards yours and you swiftly slam the door, muttering something about an emergency. 

"Cute." He thinks to himself as he chuckles and steps away.

There's always a next time.

The coworker heads towards the train station in a relaxed strut. At the first intersection, however, he feels his clothes being pulled and he finds himself abruptly shoved in an empty room by an unknown assailant. 

Daitou easily lifts him up by his collar and nonchalantly throws him in a chair. It seems to be a small storage unit, possibly belonging to one of the shops. 

"What's your business with (Y/N)?" He barks.

"Huh? I should be the one asking-" The man pauses for a second, going over his conversations with you. "Could it be that you're the stalker she mentioned?"

Naturally, you had left out the part where your stalker was carefully packaged and dumped in a place unknown. To your coworker, he was very much still alive and a potential threat.

The yakuza is taken aback. 

"I'm her boyfriend!" He retorts angrily. 

"Bullshit. She doesn't have a boyfriend."

Another slap to the face. Daitou's cheeks are becoming increasingly red and he runs his fingers through his hair, attempting to calm down. Why, this son of a...

He marches to one of the metal shelves behind, grabbing his tool belt. Simultaneously, the door opens and Kazuya sheepishly peeks his head in. His blonde locks are ruffled and one can tell he's freshly woken up. 

"Yo, I just realized I might've been too metaphorical with you back at the store so I've been texting you, but you didn't-...Wait, why is there a guy handcuffed to the chair?"

He crosses his arms, with a habitual scolding glare towards his friend. 

"I just caught this cockroach flirting with (Y/N)! Went all the way to her place!" Daitou whines, his face full of indignation.

"Of course you know where she lives, you fucking stalker." The coworker exclaims bitterly. 

"Watch your mouth buddy, he ain't no stalker!" Kazuya straightens his back and approaches the mysterious man. "If he's right, and you've been messing with his woman...We ain't letting that go. Today you learn why no one fucks with the yakuza." 

The two men exchange a knowing look.

You drop yourself on the sofa and groan. Tomorrow will certainly be strange. Was the coworker trying to kiss you just now? You'll have to think of a polite way to turn him down next shift. Is it because you're not interested, or because you're still hoping to have a chance with Daitou? You slap your cheeks vigorously, trying to pull yourself out of such thoughts. 

You suddenly notice the foreign wallet sticking out of your bag. Your  coworker had dropped it earlier today while running for the train, and you offered to throw it in your bag to save time. Except you forgot to return it.

You check your phone. It hasn't been that long, so maybe you can still reach him if you hurry. Without much contemplation, you pluck the wallet and sprint out.

As you dash past the buildings, you have the idea of calling the man and asking him to wait instead. Why run like a madman? You stop and rest a hand against the wall, trying to catch your breath. Ugh, you've been so scattered today. This should've been the obvious choice, instead you sprang out. Silly. 

From around the corner you can make out the familiar wails you've learned to ignore. Whoever the yakuza tortures is not your problem. You are about to scurry away, yet something about these whimpers feels odd. No...Could it be?

You tiptoe down the vacant alleyway and try to catch a glimpse inside through the small, dirty window. As a matter of fact, it is your beloved coworker. Kazuya is holding his arm against a table, with the fingers forcefully fanned out, and Daitou has a blade secured over the pinky finger. 

You elbow yourself against the door in a theatrical entry. 

"What the hell are you guys doing?! That's my coworker!" You yell.

Daitou freezes, and Kazuya instantly releases his grasp. They turn to you, shocked.

"Stay out of it, (Y/N), this is to be settled among men. This bastard insulted your boyfriend, we can't let it slide!" Kazuya regains his composure and defends his cause fervently, pointing to the man that's now sobbing and crying uncontrollably. 

"Boyfriend?" You question, mouth agape. 

The blonde man stares at you. 

"You're...You're dating, aren't you?"

"Since when?" You demand, confused and upset.

Both you and Kazuya turn to Daitou for answers.

"I'm going to ask you one more time. Did you actually ask her out, Daitou? Did you say it out loud?" Kazuya's voice breaks in exasperation.

"W-well, I didn't...I didn't say it, but I thought..." the man's eyes dart between you and his friend. He gulps. "W-we almost held hands, didn't we?"

Overwhelmed with anger, the blonde stomps over to the shelves and kicks one to make his point, loudly bemoaning his friend's lack of social awareness. He can't believe he went along with his nonsense. Him, of all people! He should've anticipated it. 

As the coworker weeps and Kazuya continues his foul monologue, you can't help the blush that's now burning across your face. You fidget anxiously next to the tattooed man.

"Y-you thought we were dating?"

"Sorry for not making it clear." Daitou is once again twiddling with his prosthetic eye, dejected. "Is it too late to ask you out now? Because I do like you a lot..."

"Since you put it so nicely...I can't really say no~" Your ears are bright red and you're twirling your hair. Is it truly happening? Are you dreaming? Everything feels snug and fuzzy and the butterflies are swarming your stomach. 

You don't have time to enjoy your romantic encounter, as Kazuya is now behind you, clearing his throat.

"Alright, you lovebirds, what about this one here, then?" 

You suddenly remember your coworker and an icy cold flashes through your body. 

"Oh God, how will I explain this at work? I'll get fired!" You bite your nails in terror. You can already visualize the slip of unemployment. The long lines at the Job Center, you and the homeless. Panic begins to build up. 

Until Daitou's large hands rest on your shoulders. He's unexpectedly warm. 

"Don't worry about it, (Y/N). I'll have a word with Boss, and we can get you a job here. This way we can spend more time together", he suggests with childish enthusiasm. 

You glance up at him, moved by his soothing words.

"I wouldn't want to bother you like that."

"Hey, it's my fault you ended up in this situation. You can leave everything to me." He reassures you proudly.

"That didn't answer my damn question." Kazuya points out, annoyed.

"Can't we just kill him or something? He did call me a stalker, and I'm still upset about that..."

Daitou stretches and sighs in boredom, pondering the options. Once he's decided on the outcome, he shoos you away lovingly. You don't need to see this part. 

Bonus: Daitou's backstory 

"Oh, right, how did it go with your tickets?"

Kazuya is walking beside you, hands in pockets. Every now and then he removes the cigarette from his mouth to tap away the piling ash.

"Well, I still have both kidneys, but I won't be swimming in cash for the next months at least." You respond, slouching your shoulders dramatically for the effect. 

"Flying abroad is always expensive. Unless, I don't know, you book years in advance."

"Yeah. I should've looked earlier, but I wasn't sure about my work schedule. At least I get to see my family and friends for Christmas." 

After a few more steps in silence, you glance up at the blonde man. He notices your curious stare and raises his eyebrows, as if encouraging you to speak up. 

"What about you? Will you be going home for the holidays?"

He grins at your question and proudly places a hand on his chest.

"This is my home, actually! I was born and raised in this very neighborhood."

"Really? Was it not a yakuza quarter before?" Your eyes widen at his statement. 

"It was." Kazuya blows some of his smoke in your direction and you cough lightly. "You know the soapland further down the street?"

You nod.

"Mom used to work there. One of the clients got her pregnant and she found out too late. She had a room upstairs, and I just kind of tagged along. The other girls looked after me, too."

You recall one instance when Kazuya received a phone call about some drunkard causing a ruckus at the brothel, and he shot up without a word, rushed out and returned with bloodied knuckles. At the time, you'd assumed he's a client himself and maybe got attached to one of the girls. Now it makes sense. You're a little embarrassed of your obvious prejudice. If he grew up there, it must be his way of showing gratitude to the workers who loved him despite the circumstances. 

"Oh, what about Daitou, then? Is he from the area, too?"

The man frowns and purses his lips thoughtfully. After a moment, his features soften up again and he sighs.

"I suppose you're his girlfriend, after all. It's also not a secret per se..."

Your ears perk up at the strange reaction to your inquiry. 

"I mean, it's just a bit of a grim topic. No one knows for sure. Boss found him on the streets years ago, when he was a wee kid." 

He presses his thumb and index finger together, emphasizing the small size to you. 

"I don't know all the details, just what the Seniors told me - I was a kid myself back then - but it was pretty bad. Had no shoes on, scratches and cuts all over. His left eye was swollen and terribly infected, that's how he lost it, actually. Boss felt sorry for him, so he took him in.

They did try to ask him for parents or relatives, but apparently he wouldn't speak at all. Took him like a year to finally open his mouth. Even now, if you ask him anything about his past, he just pretends he didn't hear you. So maybe don't bring it up to him."

You shake your head along, urging him to continue with more details. Kazuya seems to warm up to the memories and slows down, indulging in the recollection. 

"Anyways, one day Boss' car is followed and he gets shot in the shoulder. Some snot-nosed trainees from the rival gang. They hadn't even gotten their pins yet, wanted to impress their older brothers I guess.

Daitou heard about it and went after them. One of our Seniors - he's a tough guy alright, been with the Family for decades - he told me he was sweating like mad when they found him. Daitou was just a teen at the time, but he butchered those guys up so bad they couldn't tell them apart anymore. Even bit a few bullets, and still kept going, like a crazed animal. The adults were freaking out. They didn't expect him to be this strong.

I suspect they were pretty afraid of him, you know? They were probably thinking, "if one day he has it out for us, we're done for!", so they told Boss they should kick him out. But at this point Daitou was like his own son, so he laughed and said, "What's the matter with ya, he does your dirty work and you wanna get rid of him?! If the boy wants to fight, let him!", and he arranged for Daitou to join the Family officially. I was recruited around the same time.

We didn't get along at first, I mean, they warned me to stay away because he's crazy and also Boss' favorite. He didn't hang out with anyone. He had his own jobs, the mercenary stuff no one else wanted to deal with.

You might not believe it, but back then I was an angry, stubborn asshole. It didn't sit well with me that this guy was out there, doing his own thing. I had a reputation myself, before I dropped out of high school I was pretty much undefeated. I thought I'd see it with my own eyes, this all-powerful jackass even the Seniors avoided."

You smile faintly, trying to imagine a young Kazuya without the expensive, flashy suit and polished appearance.

"So one evening I just walked up to him and told him to join me outside. Didn't even give him a speech, just rammed my fist into his face. This was my signature move, you know, I can't even count how many guys I knocked out with this punch. Straight into the jaw, sends your brain spinning. Whew, and this guy? He didn't even flinch! Just stood there and looked at me like I was dumb. I was pissed off at this point, you can imagine, it felt like he was mocking me. So I yelled we ain't done until one of us gives up. 

He understood what I wanted and finally fought me earnestly. Hell, he even knocked some of my teeth out. This one here's an implant. Mad expensive. Anyhow, as much as it hurt my pride, I'd lost fair and square. So I got up, wiped the blood, and asked him to come grab a drink with me. My treat. 

You should've seen his face, (Y/N). I think it was the first time I've witnessed him smile. 'Really? Can I? Are you sure?' He was like a stray dog after you've thrown him some leftovers. Kept that dumb grin the whole night. You could've given him a clown hat and people would've paid to see the circus. 

That's when I realized this poor bastard probably just wanted a friend. The next day I went to pick him up again and he was beaming like a princess. Heh. Afterwards he started following me around and eventually Boss called me in. I thought I got into trouble or something, even brought a bunch of gauze pads in case I needed to slice off my finger. Turns out he'd heard of us becoming pals, and he asked me to maybe attend Daitou every now and then because he always leaves a mess and everyone's too scared to deal with him. We've been teamed together ever since."

You realize you've been standing in the same spot ever since Kazuya begun talking, completely entranced by his story. He chuckles upon seeing your expression and ruffles your hair. 

"Man, I sure rambled a lot. Sorry about that. In any case, that was my piece about Daitou. I'm sure you already know this, but he's not a bad guy. Just has a twisted sense of loyalty. Once he finds someone to serve, he doesn't see anything else.

Hell, I'm his closest friend and I'm convinced he wouldn't hesitate to kill me if it was for Boss."

Upon further consideration, he smiles and winks at you.

"Or for you. Especially you."

[claudioventurini]

Disegniamo le forze attrattive dei brand e sviluppiamo sistemi di identità aziendali, accompagnando la loro trasformazione digitale, con una competenza specifica nel brand design, nel packaging design e nel web design.

Apprezziamo quello che facciamo e ci piace lavorare con clienti e team che condividono questa filosofia cruciale ma semplice:

se hai intenzione di farlo, fallo bene!

www.keybusiness.com

[boombox-fuckboy]

Hey, @t0tally-n0t-3m0, figured this might be easier to read as a post. Here's 24 pods with nonbinary lead characters to get you started. There's more out there, so if anyone wants to add on, go for it.

Additional Postage Required: (Sci-Fi) Adventures of an interstellar courier who starts to get glimpses of the past from their packages.

Anamnesis (on the Tin Can Audio feed): (Mystery, Weird Fiction) Someone wakes in a temple in an empty town with no memory. Short, really nice sound design.

Badlands Cola: (Mystery, Supernatural & Horror elements) big city PI Sunny is hired to find information on a rural cult leader, and is drawn into a world of strange radio, horse enthusiasts, and dinosaur bones.

The Dead Letter Office of Somewhere, Ohio (one of two leads, you'll meet them halfway in): (Supernatural, Weird) Two workers for an Ohio dead letter office read the strange confiscated mail their organisation collects, and do some follow up investigation.

either: (Weird Fiction, Sci-Fi, Romance) An explosion at a duck factory sends a pet robot to another reality, connecting two very different (but both lonely) people.

Hello From The Hallowoods: (Supernatural Horror) A dramatic entity beyond your comprehension visits your nightmares to tell stories of the people (in varying degrees of human and alive) that inhabit the strange, deadly, and beautiful Hallowoods.

Inn Between: (Fantasy, Adventure) Ever wondered what the party gets up to at the tavern between D&D sessions? (Not a tabletop).

Jar of Rebuke: (Supernatural, Horror elements) An unkillable amnesiac scientist (they die, just have a hard time staying dead) investigates weird entities, makes friends, and eats a lot of tasty food in the strange town he lives in.

Khôra Podcast: (Sci-Fi, Adventure) Somewhere between inspired by and adapted from greek mythology, a space adventure following four mythological figures on their search for the golden fleece.

Less is Morgue: (Comedy, Horror elements) A ghoul and a ghost host a podcast about whatever they please in the ghoul's mom's basement, and manage to get off topic anyway.

Light Hearts: (Slice-of-Life, Supernatural elements) Three friends run a lightly haunted queer café. Upbeat and wholesome.

The Mistholme Museum of Mystery, Morbidity, and Mortality: (Weird Fiction, Supernatural, Horror elements) A friendly AI tour guide leads you on a tour of the Mistholme Museum, explaining the strange and often alternatural story behind each item. (To be clear, the nb lead is an AI with no concept of gender, but the creator is NB also and it is far from the only nb character.)

Monstrous Agonies: (Advice, Supernatural) An interpersonal advice show for supernatural entities and other people living liminally in the modern world.

ROGUEMAKER: (Sci-fi, Whodunnit) A commercial space flight explodes and passengers are left isolated in the escape pods, only connected for minutes at a time and unsure what happened, or why.

Second Star to the Left: (Sci-Fi) Audio logs of a colonist sent to a new world and her communications with the minder in charge of keeping her alive.

Sidequesting: (Fantasy) A wholesome podcast following Rion, an adventurer with a difference: they only do sidequests.

SINKHOLE: (Sci-fi, Weird Fiction) Forum posts from a data restoration community in a near future where the human brain is its own computer and one city hosts a massive void.

Skyjacks: Courier's Call: (Tabletop, Fantasy) Three young postal workers aboard a skyship go on various adventures. Kid-friendly but enjoyable for all ages.

The Starport Inn: (Supernatural, Mystery) An FBI agent sent to a rural town to solve a disappearance finds they've walked into something much stranger.

The Supernatural Protection Agency: (Supernatural) Call logs for a helpline that aims to solve the supernatural problems plaguing your life.

Tell No Tales: (Supernatural, Horror elements) Leo Quinn, secretary to the man in charge of the world's leading ghost removal service, interviews various ghosts in an attempt to create a device capable of actually recording them, in the hopes of taking down the company they work for.

Trial and Error: (Sci-Fi) Interviews with various AI as a scientist attempts to make sense of spontaneous machine sentience.

Under the Electric Stars: (Sci-Fi) A courier's failed heist to help their AI friend/navigator pulls them into a world of crime organisations and unethical science.

The Weird: (Tabletop, Supernatural, Comedy, Horror elements) The two staff members at The Department of the Weird travel America in their shitty Ford Fiesta to investigate various strange happenings

[ukrfeminism]

Some period pants sold by high street retailers contain high levels of silver that could have health and environmental implications for consumers, an investigation has found.

Silver is used as an antimicrobial agent and is typically added to period pants to combat user concerns about smell and hygiene.

However, scientists have increasingly warned about the potential health effects. The US Food and Drug Administration found that nanosilver can kill lactobacillus, the healthy bacteria in the vagina that help fight off infection. This can put period pant users more at risk of harmful bacteria, potentially leading to an increased risk of bacterial infections and pregnancy complications.

Natalie Hitchins, the head of home products and services at Which?, said: “Consumers should be cautious buying period pants which contain silver as experts have concerns about the health implications.

“Which? believes brands should also clearly state which products contain silver so shoppers can make informed decisions about what they are buying and the possible risks.”

The consumer rights group worked with an Italian consumer organisation, Altroconsumo, to independently test popular brands and check if they contained any chemicals of concern. They were worried to find that some products contained significant levels of silver, and this was not always made clear on the packaging.

Intima by Bodyform and pants by Marks & Spencer in particular contained notably more silver than other brands, at 126.7mg/kg and 57.8mg/kg respectively. Other brands contained 8.3mg/kg, 7.4mg/kg, and 0.9mg/kg.

Essity, the owner of Bodyform and Modibodi, said silver copper zeolite was used to “prevent odour when wearing the pants for up to 12 hours”. It added that all of its “washable underwear is certified according to Oeko-Tex Standard 100, which means that every single component has been tested for harmful substances” and “that the underwear has been designated as harmless for human health”. An M&S Spokesperson said: “We do not use either nano silver or silver zeolite and, like many brands, use a small amount of silver chloride in the middle part of the gusset – away from the skin – which is perfectly safe, approved by the UK and EU, and designed to combat odour.”

Which? said it believed the use of silver was unnecessary and that previous testing by Altroconsumo had shown that textile items treated in this way did not have the promised antimicrobial properties.

The European Chemicals Agency says silver treatments, such as nanosilver and silver zeolite, are toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects.

The tests Which? carried out can detect any silver above 0.1mg/kg, and it found none in Primark, Repeat, Wuka, Lovable and Sloggi pants. Sloggi’s website says it does use a silver-based antimicrobial, and Primark says it uses Micro-Fresh, which contains silver chloride.

A Primark spokesperson said: “The nature of period pants means there is a potential for odour to develop during wear (in the same way that bacteria can cause socks and shoes to develop odours during wear) and our antimicrobial finish minimises such odours.”

Sloggi did not reply to Which? at the time of publication.

There are no legal limits in the UK about how much silver can be added to period pants. Manufacturers do not have to declare the presence of silver on their packaging or website.