The Xerox Effect – a bold trend for charities in 2026
Design trends swing between polish and personality, and of course, who your audience is and what message you are conveying will often determine where you sit on this scale. For 2026, we’re seeing a shift toward the latter with the Xerox Effect. A graphic design trend rooted in raw textures, high contrast layouts and that […]
Move over Gen Z, there are some new kids in town.
Generation Alpha (Gen A) may be one of the youngest generations, but they have brand influence and purchase power well beyond their years. So understanding who they are and what motivates them could help you engage with a powerful new group of supporters for your organisation.
6 common charity brand mistakes
Six common mistake charities are making when branding or rebranding their organisation.
Charity shops: More than a bargain bin for preloved clothes
There are over 11,000 charity shops across the UK. That’s a lot of jumpers, slightly scuffed jigsaws and unloved DVDs. And yes those shops raise much-needed funds for some amazing causes. But it’s not just about sales. Here’s why your local charity shop isn’t just good for raising donations, but are also brand-building powerhouses.
Communication: The glue that holds your project together
Good communication can make or break any project. Without it, things get missed, feedback gets muddled, and frustration builds on both sides. That’s why at Northern Bear, we take communication seriously. Whether we’re working on a new website, branding project, or fundraising campaign, keeping everyone in the loop is key to delivering great results. Choosing […]
The psychology of colour in your charity branding
When you think of your favourite brands, what comes to mind? Colour plays a big part in how you feel about them. It isn’t just decoration, it’s a silent communicator that shapes perceptions, builds trust, and even drives decisions.