60 Years of Research
IFF Research | Branding a workspace with purpose
“From the off Motive came up with some great ideas for how to reflect our culture and identity in our space.
Our team are absolutely loving the end result which helped the office to feel like home from day one.”
— Jan Shury – Managing Director
IFF is a market research agency known for shining a light on stories that demand attention, from examining government policies to gathering insights on domestic abuse. They work with organisations to make the world a better place.
For 60 years, IFF has moved across London, always carrying an identity rooted in heritage, purpose and people. Their latest move took them from an office overlooking the Thames to a pre-fitted Cat A+ space in Borough.
With this change, they worried about how it might impact morale, so they asked Motive to help celebrate what makes them who they are. At only 25% occupancy, it was time to reignite excitement about coming into the office.
Bringing brand values to life
Through collaborative workshops with the wider IFF team, Motive uncovered a simple truth: people drive this brand forward – both the IFF team and the individuals across the UK they serve.
Every installation was designed to honour that.
Authentic London bricks engraved with IFF’s values became literal building blocks of their legacy.
Street photography showcased the people of London.
A vintage telephone wall art piece paid tribute to the remote interviewers who gather vital insights every day.
Heritage, human first
IFF’s hand-painted timeline, gold-leaf values, and pearl-detailed boardroom lettering each reflect the company’s “Human First” ethos. No two letters are the same, just like no two IFF cases are alike.
Even their much-loved table football now features IFF’s ‘Rules of the Game,’ weaving their way of life into the everyday.
A love letter to London (and pubs)
From portable neon signage ready for events and shoots to framed historic research papers in the hallway, every detail has purpose.
In the breakout area, bespoke artwork of IFF’s three favourite London pubs celebrates both their well-travelled history and team spirit.
What once felt like a step away from London’s landmarks – and a risk of losing cultural connection – has become a vivid expression of IFF’s purpose. It’s a love letter to London, brought to life through thoughtful office branding.
Since the transformation, occupancy has climbed to 95%, and the sense of belonging is unmistakable.
