Company annual report design

With this company annual report design we helped launch our client’s new brand vision, values and strategic framework to customers and investors.

Background

Dee Valley Water supplies drinking water to domestic and business customers across North East Wales and North West Cheshire, and the report design had to focus on this year’s theme – vulnerable customers.

Challenge

Shortly after our client’s rebrand, they approached us to create an engaging company annual report design. As one of the first high-profile publications to reflect their new brand identity, the report needed to introduce the company’s updated vision, values and strategic framework.

Building on the success of the previous year’s annual report, which we also designed, this new edition would serve as a critical communication tool for stakeholders, reinforcing the company’s direction and long-term strategy.

Solution

Our report design strikes a careful balance between data-rich content and engaging visuals, ensuring that the human impact of the company’s work is at the forefront. Across 108 pages, we combined compelling copy, striking imagery and clear data presentation to create a report that is both informative and engaging for a wide audience.

To keep readers interested and engaged, we applied varied treatments to imagery. Hero images are presented in full colour to make them stand out, while smaller images use a duo-tone effect, ensuring they support rather than overpower surrounding content.

For many stakeholders, this company report represents their first interaction with the newly rebranded identity. We incorporated fresh colourways and the new logo design, reinforcing the company’s updated image and ethos. By continuing the visual evolution from the previous year’s report, the design strengthens brand recognition and consistency, ensuring a seamless transition in stakeholder communications.

To add energy and flow to the content, we introduced graphic elements such as curved lines, which help guide the reader through the information. These elements provide a dynamic touch, drawing attention to key areas while making the report easier to navigate.

Beyond design, we also managed fulfilment on behalf of our client, ensuring timely mailing to key stakeholders and shareholders both in the UK and internationally. Additionally, we produced online versions for the client’s website, along with an abridged version tailored for internal use, ensuring the content was accessible across multiple formats.

In keeping with Dee Valley Water’s sustainability values, we carefully selected an uncoated stock that aligns with their environmental commitments while also considering budget constraints and audience expectations. The decision to avoid heavy stock not only enhanced the user experience but also helped to reduce printing and mailing costs, making the report a practical yet impactful communication tool.