Sri Lanka’s energy drink market is one of the most competitive in FMCG. Every supermarket aisle and fuel station fridge is crowded with bold cans, each fighting for attention. When RIDE Energy decided it was time for a new look, we partnered with them to reimagine how their product showed up on the shelf.
From Another Can to a Shelf Icon
Before the redesign, RIDE blended in with the crowd. It had the energy, but not the presence. Our task was to take what was already a strong brand and elevate it visually so that it stood out across every retail environment.
A key part of this was the horse — RIDE’s long-standing brand symbol. The old illustration lacked movement, so we rebuilt it with more dynamic lines and energy. The result was a horse that finally looked as powerful and alive as the brand itself.
Building Presence Through Color & Consistency
Beyond the icon, we built a strong system. Each flavor was given a bold, instantly recognizable palette. Glow Apple, Classic and Red Berry while still tying back to the master brand.
On the shelf, that created what we call color blocking — a wall of impact that makes consumers stop and look. Combined with the energized horse, the cans no longer just sat there — they radiated motion, power, and attitude.
Why This Matters in Sri Lanka
Too often, local brands underplay packaging’s role. But when shoppers make snap decisions, design is everything.
With its sharper look, RIDE went from blending in to becoming a brand that now holds its own against international giants. And the results speak for themselves: shortly after the rebrand, RIDE became the Official Energy Drink Partner of Sri Lanka Cricket — a milestone that cemented its position as a true national brand.
Our Reflection
For us at Brandkind, this project was about more than updating a can. It was about giving RIDE the visual confidence to match its product strength and market ambitions. The re-energized horse, the bold flavors, and the unified system showed how design, when done right, can unlock growth and credibility.
Today, RIDE isn’t just another energy drink. It’s a brand that commands presence — on shelves, in gyms, and even on the cricket field. Proof that the right packaging can transform not just perception, but partnerships and market position too.
