John Pace Case Studies
The John Pace Case Studies showcase real projects that demonstrate our expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to delivering exceptional results. Each case study highlights the client’s brief, the challenges faced, and the tailored solutions implemented — from premium wine retail and curated collections to personalised service experiences.
Through these examples, we illustrate how John Pace combines industry knowledge, refined sourcing, and a customer-focused approach to consistently exceed expectations. Our case studies not only reflect the quality of our work but also the long-term relationships we build with our clients.
Klein Constantia Wine Estate
A 23-year partnership across three winemakers and three managing directors. Our work spans the entire brand — from Vin de Constance to Anwilka — including packaging, displays, timelines, and marketing collateral. Long-term collaboration allowed us to honour heritage while keeping the brand contemporary.
This enduring relationship reflects our deep understanding of premium wine branding, retail presentation, and strategic marketing within the South African wine industry. By aligning creative execution with commercial objectives, we have consistently strengthened brand visibility, improved in-store engagement, and supported sustainable growth across multiple product ranges.
Ataraxia Wines
When Kevin Grant left Hamilton Russell to start his own winery, the name Ataraxia spoke of calm and balance. We developed the “sleeping angel” motif, inspired by Picasso and Matisse, alongside refined typography and premium finishes. The result remains instantly recognisable.
Our branding approach focused on creating a distinctive visual identity that reflects the philosophy of the winery while positioning Ataraxia as a premium South African wine brand. Through carefully considered label design, packaging detail, and cohesive marketing elements, we helped establish a strong presence in both local and international wine markets.
Heineken Brands (Africa)
What began as a Primus Lager label upgrade turned into an eight-year partnership across ten African countries. Our work included pack redesigns, brand books, POS, photography direction, and regional adaptations — and a lot of friendships along the way.
This long-term collaboration strengthened brand consistency across multiple markets while allowing for culturally relevant adaptations within each region. By aligning packaging design, retail visibility, and strategic brand management, we supported sustained growth and enhanced consumer recognition throughout the African beverage market.
I&J (Frozen Foods)
We challenged category norms by replacing raw product imagery with beautifully styled, finished dishes. Though the client ultimately chose a more conservative route, the work demonstrated how bold art direction can reshape category perception.
The concept highlighted the power of premium food photography, thoughtful brand positioning, and elevated visual storytelling within a competitive retail environment. By exploring a more lifestyle-led approach to packaging and marketing, we showcased how strategic creative direction can enhance shelf appeal, strengthen brand differentiation, and drive stronger consumer engagement.
Coronation Fund Managers
Designing for a financial institution demands clarity, credibility, and consistency. Our work focused on legibility, tone of voice, and trust — across brochures, reports, events, email, radio, TV, and even Coronation’s first publication on Vincent van Gogh. Designing for Coronation requires honesty and precision. Credibility is everything — and every detail counts. In the highly regulated financial services sector, every communication must reinforce brand integrity while remaining accessible and engaging to diverse audiences.
Through disciplined design systems, carefully crafted messaging, and consistent brand application across all media channels, we helped strengthen stakeholder confidence and support long-term brand reputation in the investment and asset management industry.