The Magazine of the German Design Council
Katrin Menne: Wie gelingt Transformation in einem traditionsreichen Konzern? Katrin Menne | Foto: © Commerzbank
Katrin Menne (Merck)

How Does Transformation Succeed in a Traditional Company?

Following a comprehensive rebranding, Merck is positioning itself as a modern, innovative science and technology company. In an interview with host Moritz Marder, Katrin Menne, Head of Brand & Content Marketing at the company, explains how the traditional brand and its fascination for research and development have been brought to life in a new way. This involved not only a visual reorientation, but also adapting the internal culture and corporate structure to the dynamic market requirements. Today, Merck is clearly positioned in the Healthcare, Life Science & Electronics business sectors and remains committed to driving innovation and science worldwide.

Chapter

(00:03:48) 3D printing in drug development 

(00:06:05) Restructuring in corporate communications 

(00:09:50) Brand rebranding of Merck 2015

(00:20:30) Cultural change and brand transformation 

(00:24:05) Colour scheme and variability in Merck's corporate design 

>> The podcast is held in German.

Key Learnings

Communication the ‘eureka moment’ of science 

The question ‘If science is so exciting, why does it always look so dull?’ is the key. Merck reflects the ‘eureka moment’ of research in its brand: explosive, energetic, full of joy. Away from the classic, sterile image of a pharmaceutical company, towards a lively, colourful and diverse brand.  

Brand ad a driver of transformation 

The great strength of brand and brand management is that it can make transformation visible that would otherwise not be recognisable from the outside. Brands have the potential to make things tangible and send a signal effect that cannot be achieved with any other corporate management tool. Merck has made use of this with great success and used it to bring about a transformation both externally and internally, from being perceived as a brand by international markets to the organisational level.  

establishing the brand as a ‘Branch of Choice’

Merck has successfully established itself as a ‘Brand of Choice’ - with a vibrant brand identity that embodies innovation and scientific excellence. By transforming itself into a modern, inspiring science and technology company, Merck creates trust and attracts talent, partners and customers alike.

The Podcast of the German Design Council

Design Perspectives Podcast

How can we use design as a lever for transformation and economic success? We talk about this with personalities from the fields of design, brand management and architecture. They give us insights into how transformation, sustainability and economic success can go hand in hand in a company. Interesting, informative, inspiring.

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