With a tight timeline and high expectations from Universal and Sanrio, we needed to achieve precise pattern alignment, consistent colors, and flawless installations—all while managing last-minute changes. Additionally, we had to address the challenge of applying vinyl to a textured stone surface on the exterior of the café.
- Produced and installed adhesive vinyl for various applications, including walls, POS counters, and custom license plates on a Hello Kitty Car.
- Met tight timelines and high expectations.
- Delivered flawless installations with last-minute changes.
- Addressed the challenge of applying vinyl to a textured stone surface on the exterior of the café.
Solution
-
Interior Graphics: Created and installed custom vinyl graphics and dimensional lettering throughout the interior of the store. Special attention was given to pattern alignment across the corners and ensuring color consistency.
-
Exterior Graphics: Installed adhesive vinyl on the exterior walls and a photo-op bench. A key feature to the exterior graphic, was the contour cut of the cat ears which had a critical position in order to align with the “bow” dimensional LED sign the customer had created.
-
Tight Timelines & Adjustments: With rapidly changing opening dates and urgency in completing the installation, our team was able to make necessary changes on the fly. This included having an installer on standby to execute last-minute fixes.
-
Exterior Surface Challenges: The exterior of the café presented a unique challenge due to its textured stone surface. After consulting, we selected the appropriate vinyl to ensure durability to fit the 2 year timespan. Also, coordinated with the facilities team to ensure proper upkeep.
Overview
The Hello Kitty Cafe and Sanrio Smiles Store project at Universal CityWalk is a prime example of how experiential marketing and precise execution can completely transform a space. Our team was able to meet the high demands of Universal Placemaking and Sanrio.
The success of this project reinforced our partnership with Universal and opened the door for future collaborations.
Results
The project was a tremendous success, helping to transform the CityWalk exterior and providing an engaging, vibrant retail environment for visitors. The graphics contributed to the public’s enthusiasm, resulting in an early soft opening.
The UDX team was highly satisfied with our work, leading to two additional projects immediately following the Hello Kitty Café and Sanrio Smiles Store.
The project demonstrated our ability to adapt quickly to changes, execute flawless installations, and transform spaces efficiently with custom vinyl graphics.
