Case Study : OATLY’s 1264% growth story: the power of a well-executed rebrand

case study
How Oatly’s Rebrand Revolutionized the Alternative Milk Market - And What You Can Learn From It


When it comes to brand transformations, have you ever wondered what it really takes to go from underdog to industry leader ? 

Oatly’s story offers a powerful answer. Once a small player in the alternative milk market, Oatly saw the growing consumer demand for sustainability and transparency. In 2013, they realized it was time to make a bold move - and they did just that.

The Challenge: Why Did Oatly Need a Fresh Start?

Imagine having a great product, but it’s just not resonating with the people you know would love it if they only gave it a chance. This was Oatly’s dilemma in 2013. Their product was solid, but it wasn’t catching the eye of a new generation of consumers - those who care deeply about the planet and are willing to support brands that align with their values. So, what did Oatly do? They decided to rebuild their brand entirely.

The Transformation: How Did Oatly Build Trust Through Transparency?

Let’s be real - rebranding isn’t just about slapping on a new logo. It’s about redefining who you are and what you stand for. Oatly embraced this philosophy from the heart ! They committed to 100% transparency, showing every step of their process from production to packaging. But why does transparency matter so much? Because it builds trust, and in today’s market, trust is priceless. Oatly wanted their customers to know, without a doubt, that their commitment to the planet was authentic. And they didn’t just make promises - they delivered on them.

A Bold New Visual Identity: What Made Oatly Stand Out?

Now, think about your favorite brands. What is it that makes them memorable? For Oatly, it was their bold and fun visual identity. They ditched the bland designs of the past and introduced visuals that were eye-catching, playful, and just a little bit cheeky. Whether it was their packaging or their advertising campaigns, Oatly’s new look spoke directly to their audience in a tone that was both direct and humorous. Isn’t that the kind of connection we all want with our customers?

The Results: What Impact Did Rebranding Have on Oatly?

So, did it work? Absolutely. Oatly’s rebranding led to an incredible 1264% increase in sales from 2013 to 2022. Yes, you read that right : 1264%! This wasn’t just about getting noticed ; it was about creating a brand that people could believe in, rally behind, and proudly support. Oatly went from a niche player to a global powerhouse, and it’s all thanks to their thoughtful, strategic approach to branding.

SEK in Swedish money, as OATLY is a Swedish brand.

What Does This Mean for Your Brand?

Now, let’s bring it back to you. Whether you’re in ethical fashion, cosmetics, food, or any creative field, Oatly’s journey is a powerful reminder of what’s possible.
So, ask yourself: Is your brand truly resonating with your target audience? Are you communicating your values in a way that builds trust and loyalty? What if a few strategic changes could take your brand from where it is today to where you’ve always dreamed it could be?

Reflect on Your Brand

Is it time for a refresh? Maybe your brand just needs a little fine-tuning, or perhaps it’s time for a full-blown transformation. Whatever stage you’re at, keep this in mind : A well-crafted brand strategy, aligned with your values and communicated through a strong visual identity, can drive extraordinary growth.
Are you ready to take your brand to the next level? Let’s chat about you and your project :) I’m here to help you bring your vision to life—whether it’s a fresh start or just a new perspective. Together, we can create a brand that not only stands out but also builds meaningful connections with your audience.

Contact me today, and let’s get started on crafting your brand’s next success story.

ps : if you want fo to read more about oatly, go to the full case study on this link

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Rebranding 101: when to refresh your Brand for maximum impact