AR GROCERY
GUIDE
A Pop-Up Shop & Exhibition
THE PROBLEM
This project involved an in-depth analysis of the Trader Joe’s website, focusing on the brand’s identity, customer experience, and visual design.
The goal was to explore opportunities to enhance the customer, brand, and product experience through an interactive design that reflects and strengthens Trader Joe’s core values.
Insights from prior precedent studies informed the design approach, providing context and direction for developing a more engaging and aligned digital experience.
OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT
Many shoppers at Trader Joe's find themselves overwhelmed by the variety of unique, often unfamiliar products, making it difficult to efficiently accumulate ingredients and plan balanced meals.
There is an opportunity to design an intuitive shopping and meal-planning experience that helps customers navigate the store more effectively, curate meal ideas based on available ingredients, and streamline the process of making easy, nutritious meals at home.
By simplifying meal selection, ingredient coordination, and recipe discovery, we can empower customers to save time, reduce food waste, and make the most of their shopping experience.
SKETCHES / LOW-FIDELITY
THE SOLUTION
A shopper scans a QR code on a product.
Instantly, they’re shown information of not just ingredients and nutrition, but how the item fits into a recipe—paired with visual illustrations and animations for further engagement and an enhanced user experience.
IT’S DESIGNED TO MEET THE USER WHERE THEY ARE: LOOKING FOR IDEAS, NOT JUST INFORMATION
THE EXHIBTION
As part of the class Pop-Up Shop exhibit, this AR prototype was one of several installations that asked: how might we elevate the Trader Joe’s experience without losing its charm?
A more playful, less pressured experience. An easier path from product to plate. And, ideally, a new way for Trader Joe’s to connect with customers—not just through clever packaging, but through immersive, educational touch-points.
This project isn’t just about tech in the store.
It’s about bringing joy back into a task we all do every week.
Professional Photo Credits to Shae Schouest
