Challenge

As a final, weighted deliverable for my Retail Strategy and Analytics MBA core course at NYU Stern, I was challenged to identify a real-world retailer and design a new, high-impact strategic initiative, such as a new retail format, product line, or operating model. The objective was to synthesize core learnings across finance, strategy, operations, analytics, and consumer behavior to propose an opportunity that was both commercially viable and strategically differentiated. The final concept was required to be presented in a concise, executive-ready format, tailored for a C-suite audience and grounded in realistic market, financial, and operational constraints.

Solution

I approached this assignment as a tribute to one of my greatest creative inspirations; Issey Miyake, and his enduring legacy. I incepted and designed a novel closed-loop residency retail concept that reimagines how a brand can integrate sustainability, human-centered design, and long-term value creation into its core business model. By aligning environmental responsibility with brand differentiation and financial performance, the concept positions sustainability as a driver of growth, resilience, and relevance rather than a cost center.

Brand Identity Development

I developed a visually compelling logo and brand concept that embodies circularity, innovation, and movement. I conducted extensive research on typography, shapes, and cross-cultural considerations, including English and Japanese language nuances. The brand name, EKO, not only references “eco” in Japanese but also aligns with kanji meanings for “world,” “older brother,” and “complete” when rotated, reinforcing the brand’s holistic and culturally aware positioning. Visual identity decisions were informed by Issey Miyake’s legacy, signature color palettes, and historical projects to ensure authenticity, alignment with brand heritage, and resonance in both local and global markets.

I curated a cohesive narrative across moodboards, imagery, and presentations that bridges past innovations with forward-looking design concepts. Integrated archival visuals from ISSEY MIYAKE collections alongside new design explorations to demonstrate continuity with the brand’s ethos while proposing novel approaches for the EKO residency concept. Each visual decision from color palettes to layout and imagery selection was intentionally aligned to communicate sustainability, creativity, and brand legacy, transforming abstract strategy into an immersive and poignant experience for stakeholders.

Extensive Market Research

I conducted comprehensive market, operational, and financial analysis to validate the strategic initiative. Research included raw material sourcing, sustainability strategy, impact categories, revenue models, potential funding and partnership opportunities, internal and external feasibility, KPIs, average selling price, projected results, and overall ROI.

This initiative is designed as a long-term innovation strategy rather than a short-term revenue driver. It positions ISSEY MIYAKE as a leader in regenerative materials and next-generation textiles. While CLV increases through deeper brand loyalty, patent licensing provides recurring, high-margin revenue independent of SKU production or demand. This IP income compounds over time and strengthens the brand’s competitive advantage and legacy, and sets a new standard for sustainable textiles production while nurturing the next generation of creative and STEM talent. The proposal balances creative experimentation with operational rigor, demonstrating how circularity, localized production, and consumer participation can function not as abstract ideals, but as scalable strategic levers.