Celebrating 100 Years of Stoke-on-Trent with Titanic Brewery: A Design Journey

We’ve had the pleasure of working with some fantastic brands over the years, but this recent project with Titanic Brewery and Stoke-on-Trent City Council truly stood out. Why? Because it was more than just a design job—it was about celebrating 100 years of a city’s heritage, all while raising a glass to its future. Here’s how we helped make this centenary celebration come to life.

A Historic Collaboration

When Titanic Brewery, a staple of Stoke-on-Trent’s brewing scene for the past 40 years, partnered with the City Council to create a limited-edition ale for the city’s centenary, we were invited to design the full packaging line. The challenge was clear: Create a design that both honoured the history of the city and celebrated its bright future, all while staying true to the Titanic Brewery brand we’ve helped shape over the years.

We crafted pump clips, can designs, and bottle packaging that not only aligned with the brewery’s long-standing branding but also tied in key elements of Stoke-on-Trent’s iconic landmarks. The design featured the famous bottle kilns that define the city’s skyline, a nod to its rich industrial past. It was a careful balancing act: We wanted something that felt both timeless and modern, with a local twist. And of course, it had to be something that would stand out on a shelf or in a pub, ensuring that every pint poured felt like a celebration in itself.

Design with Purpose

The designs we created for the Century Anniversary Ale were not just about aesthetics (although we’re very proud of how they turned out). They were about creating a visual experience that would engage people, educate them about the city’s history, and raise a toast to 100 years of Stoke-on-Trent being a city. From the bold yet nostalgic pump clips to the intricately detailed can and bottle labels, every element served a purpose.

We wanted pub-goers to pick up a pint and instantly feel connected to something bigger than just the beer itself. Each bottle and can carried with it a piece of Stoke-on-Trent’s story, a story of industry, community, and celebration. And for those enjoying a pint at the local, the pump clips offered a quick glimpse into the city’s centenary festivities.

The Power of Design in Celebrating Heritage

Now, here at PHd Design, we firmly believe that great design is about more than just looking good—it’s about telling a story, building relationships, and making an impact. With Titanic Brewery, we weren’t just designing packaging; we were helping the brand tell a story of pride, history, and celebration. This project was about bringing people together—whether through a pint at the pub or by simply admiring the artwork on the packaging.

The collaboration between Titanic Brewery and Stoke-on-Trent City Council is a testament to what happens when design and purpose align. It’s not just about a product, but about creating a memorable experience that connects with the community. A portion of the proceeds from each sale will go to the Titanic Brewery Foundation, which supports charities across the region—further showing that this project wasn’t just about celebrating the past, but about giving back to the community that made it all possible.

The Design Process: From Concept to Completion

This project wasn’t a quick turnaround, but that’s where the magic happened. We took the time to understand the essence of both Titanic Brewery and Stoke-on-Trent’s heritage. We then began sketching out ideas, experimenting with different elements that could be used to represent the city—ultimately landing on the bottle kiln as the central motif. The pump clips, can designs, and labels were carefully crafted to be both recognisable and functional, ensuring that they would work seamlessly across different formats while remaining impactful and meaningful.

Every piece of the design was created with the brewery’s brand standards in mind, something we’ve been closely involved with over the years. This wasn’t just a one-off project; it was about maintaining the integrity of a long-standing relationship while introducing something fresh and exciting to celebrate the city’s centenary.

The Result? A Celebratory Design that Tells a Story

The Century Anniversary Ale is now available in pubs across the county, and we couldn’t be more thrilled with how the packaging turned out. It’s not just about a product; it’s about celebrating a community, a city, and a 100-year legacy. The response from the local community, as well as from those who’ve supported Titanic Brewery over the years, has been incredible.

As we reflect on this project, we’re reminded of the power of design. It’s not just about making things look good—it’s about connecting people, sharing stories, and creating something that has lasting meaning. And when that happens, everyone wins.

If you’re thinking about your next big project and want to create something with lasting impact, give us a call. Whether you’re celebrating 100 years or looking to make your mark in a different way, we’re here to help you tell your story through design.