# Retro Penny Matchbooks The Packaging for Benjo's Pennies is Wonderfully Chic and Counterintuitive By Alexander Lam | Published 2013-06-03 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/retro-penny References: [thedieline](http://www.thedieline.com/blog/2013/5/31/benjos-brand.html) & [knockinc](http://knockinc.com/work/) In order to package Benjo's new loafer pennies, design firm KNOCK Inc. created a series of clean and elegant [retro penny matchbooks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/moneylighter). Originally a shoelace retailer, Benjo decided to proceed with a line extension and begin producing [colored penny loafer coins](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/eroded-coin). The matchbooks were created to match Benjo's strong aesthetic sense and stylish brand while remaining functional. KNOCK based the design of the packaging from matchbook found in "a favorite Rome restaurant." Each of KNOCK's beautifully designed packages features Benjo's logo and a stamp imprint that indicates the penny's color. The matchbooks fold out to reveal two colored pennies where matches should be. Since few people place pennies in their loafers anymore, the matchbooks include instructions. On the back of the packaging is a retro illustration that cheekily shows how to use the pennies. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 2.2/10 - Popularity: 36% | Activity: 21% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/design) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Retro Packaging Design:** Designers can create modern twists on classic packaging to appeal to nostalgia-seeking consumers. - **Line Extension:** Companies can expand their product offerings by adding complementary items to their existing lines. - **Functionality of Packaging:** Innovative packaging can enhance the customer experience by providing clear instructions and added value. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Fashion Accessories:** Accessories brands can use retro-inspired designs to create unique packaging for their products. - **Shoe Retail:** Retailers can leverage packaging and branding to differentiate their products and add value to their customers. - **Design and Advertising:** Design and advertising agencies can offer retro packaging design services to clients looking to stand out in a crowded market. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Literature-Inspired Packaging Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/good-to-read.md) - [Technically Crafted Joint Loafers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/1906-penny-loafer.md) - [Sophisticated Penny Loafer Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ellis-penny-loafers.md) - [Re-Designed Holiday Tins](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/neoms-reimagined-packaging.md) - [Collectible Mint Tins](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/altoids-x-bad-roman.md) - [Wisdom-Focused Skincare Packaging](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wise-personal-grooming.md) - [Money-Inspired Footwear Collabs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-concepts-x-new-balance-1000.md) - [Miniature Elastic Paper-Turning Aids](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mercricco.md) - [Artfully Designed Boxed Wines](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ami-ami-1.md)