The Nissan Design & Layout Award recognizes the best print publication and online outlet in Canadian automotive journalism which manage to combine a strong visual appeal with the effective presentation of information. The Nissan Design & Layout Award judging team is comprised of senior executives possessing extensive experience in the fields of digital marketing, concept development, strategic branding and design layout and illustration.
The autoTRADER Buyer's Guide was a clear favourite among the judges. "The templated content as well as their clean editorial was incredibly appealing. I also liked the use of infographics which helps readers to quickly digest information," says judge Lex Perry, Director, Marketing and Communications at Colliers International.
The digital winner of the Nissan Design & Layout Award, by unanimous decision, is website TractionLife.com, which is managed and published by Amee Reehal. "I was immediately struck by the high-contrast images, and red colour scheme," says judge Bennett Klein, Creative Planner at Capital C. "TractionLife.com's typography is elegant and simple. The pyramid-scheme of information is well-organized, consistent and sets it apart from the rest."
First runner-up in the Nissan Design & Layout Awards for print was awarded to Shaun Keenan for PRN Motorsport Magazine. The judges cited PRN Motorsport Magazine as having a dynamic, contemporary, feel, and they liked the square format and coded pages which they felt added organization and cohesiveness to the publication's look.
The Nissan Design & Layout Award, first runner-up for online was presented to Justin Pritchard for his site, JustinPritchard.ca. Judge Hugues Choquette, Vice President, Creative Director, at Tam-Tam\TBWA says, "Justin Pritchard's site has a very attractive layout that is well organized. Overall, the site looks professional and credible, while being user-friendly and relevant to car enthusiasts."
"At Nissan, we're entering our most aggressive product offensive yet – starting with the Nissan Altima, we're launching five new products in 15 months, offering consumers some of the best examples of dynamic design and innovation in the automotive industry," says Allen Childs President of Nissan Canada. "It's therefore very appropriate for Nissan to recognize Canadian automotive media outlets which effectively excite and engage their readers; balancing creativity, form and function to set new benchmarks in the areas of design and layout."