Wilton Adjustable Cupcake Tower
Background
Consumer insights at Wilton Brands shows that bakers like to customize their treats based on the celebration. This new dessert display product allows party hostesses to easily personalize their treat display for any occasion and party size.
Research and ideations
Modularity is extremely important to consumers. Concepts were sketched around the product being able to collapse very easily for storage and stack for a grand display. The arms held 4 cupcakes each since cupcakes are often baked in multiples of 12 or 24 (dozen/2 dozen) and 4 provides adequate height while providing enough open space between the layers for taller cupcake decorations. A rough mockup was created to explore scale.
Development and Challenges
Lots of exploration was done around the stacking feature. After much exploration in SolidWorks and 3D printing and testing, I developed a clover-shaped opening in the center of each arm piece allowing the arms to stack or nest with a quarter turn. Having the same arm piece for each layer saved the company on tooling costs as well as making assembly a breeze for the consumer.
Material Exploration
Material options were presented to our Product Development team comparing finish, cost, and durability.
Final Outcome
The Display Your Way Adjustable Cupcake Tower is modular treat display allowing the party host to assemble and serve as many guests as needed. With a quarter turn, each arm piece is offset to the stack position. Display 4-24 cupcakes. Center is cored and can be filled with candies or other decorations. Topper can be placed to hold additional cupcake. When the arm pieces are aligned, the unit collapses for space saving storage.
Sold at Amazon.com, Wilton.com, and craft retailers like Michaels and JoAnns.
