The Home Scent Experience
KUNI by Aroma Republic set out to revolutionize the home-scent diffuser market, building on Aroma Republic’s expertise in B2B scent branding and Nekuda’s deep experience in designing and launching brand-building consumer products. Nekuda’s role was to shape a product line that merges advanced technology with refined design, creating a bonding user experience and a sustainable business model.
Building an Ecosystem: The Nespresso of Scent Diffusers
The goal was to create an ecosystem for the product: machine, capsules, and app, providing a similar experience to the Nespresso machine, HP printers, and Gillette razors.
From Vision to production with Precision
Engineering and developing the diffuser presented various challenges, particularly in designing a device and capsule system that was efficient for production, easy to assemble, and aligned with a target aggressive Bill of Materials (BOM).
“Capsules that Deliver: Smart, Sustainable, and User-Friendly”
The capsules, being central to the business model, required sustainable materials, ease of filling, and compatibility with automatic assembly lines while also being rigid enough to endure the supply chain process. They needed to be IP protected and user-friendly, allowing for easy and clean placement and replacement.
Flexibility at the Core of KUNI’s Design
Additionally, the diffuser’s internal machinery and retractable, customizable sleeve enabled design flexibility for different brands and alternative channels. Throughout development, extensive prototyping and material testing were conducted, especially to create capsules capable of containing aggressive oils, leading to a refined and optimized final product.
Ensuring Quality at Every Stage
To ensure a smooth transition from development to manufacturing, a team engaged with local Chinese manufacturers and supported them throughout the DFM and NPI process, overseeing production on-site in China and ensuring quality control at every stage.
KUNI’s IoT and RFID Tech Take Center Stage
The KUNI diffuser stands out for its seamless integration of IoT and RFID technology. RFID-enabled capsules communicate with the IoT system through the app, providing real-time data on oil levels, usage, and user preferences. This connectivity allows remote control, personalized scheduling of scents based on mood, and tailored scent recommendations, transforming the diffuser into a fully connected, intelligent product. The RFID-enabled capsules also open up recurring revenue opportunities, while IoT capabilities enable efficient machine control, automated purchases, and a deep understanding of user preferences.
Launching KUNI at Toolman’s
Launched online and at Toolman’s, the leading high-end furniture and design brand housing renowned names such as Molteni&Company, Vitra, Kartell, and B&B, KUNI received praise from 50 leading architects as a bold, marketable statement piece.
KUNI’s Path to Market Leadership
With a strong focus on user experience, cutting-edge design, and technological innovation, the KUNI diffuser designed by Nekuda is setting a new benchmark in the scent diffuser industry. The project was launched successfully and raised the attention of many influencers, gaining strong traction in the market and opening strategic opportunities with leading international home decor brands.
Through the process Nekuda became a strategic founding partner in Kuni, leveraging its reputation to attract investors, assist with BD through its international network and leading future technological development and the product roadmap for the company.
