Gratifii

Gratifii provides innovative loyalty and rewards solutions via their Mosaic platform, supporting over 60 major brands globally. Listed on ASX, they operate across Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, and the UAE.

August 29, 2024

A photo of the author - Simon Rowles
Simon Rowles
Founder, CEO

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Global
New Zealand
Australia

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Retail
Loyalty Foundation

Research Report

Gratifii is changing the landscape of loyalty and rewards through innovative technological solutions. Beginning as a software development company in 2011, Gratifii has grown into a robust platform known for customer engagement. With its head office in Australia, the company also has operations in New Zealand, Singapore, and the UAE.

Gratifii provides a comprehensive loyalty platform called Mosaic, which offers tools to create and manage customised loyalty programmes efficiently. Over 60 top brands, including partners like Stripe and EML, rely on Gratifii for their customer engagement and loyalty needs, highlighting its credibility and reach.

Gratifii is also listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX: GTI), bringing legitimacy and transparency to its operations. This detail reflects Gratifii's success and future potential in the growing market of digital loyalty and rewards.

Key Takeaways

  • Gratifii began as a software development company in 2011.
  • The Mosaic platform offers tools for customised loyalty programmes.
  • Gratifii is listed on the ASX, highlighting its credibility.

History of Graffiti

Graffiti has a rich and varied history, spanning from ancient times to modern-day expressions of art and culture. This section explores three key periods in graffiti's evolution: its origins in ancient civilizations, its rise in the United States, and the transition from World War II to contemporary graffiti.

Ancient Graffiti

Ancient graffiti dates back to the times of Ancient Egypt and Rome. People often used graffiti to record daily life, love notes, and even political expressions. One famous example is the graffiti found in the Cave of Hands in Argentina, which dates from 13,000 to 9,000 BCE. These early instances of graffiti used symbols and drawings to convey messages long before written language existed.

In Ancient Egypt, graffiti appeared on monuments and tombs, serving both decorative and informative purposes. Meanwhile, in Rome, graffiti often included crude inscriptions on walls, offering historians valuable insights into daily Roman life. These early forms of graffiti set the stage for its later development as both an art form and a means of communication.

Rise in the United States

In the United States, graffiti took on new dimensions in the late 20th century. The movement began in New York City and Philadelphia during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Pioneers like Taki 183 and Cornbread used tags to mark their presence across city spaces. Taki 183's tags on subway cars became iconic, sparking widespread interest and imitation.

By the 1970s, graffiti had become a vibrant subculture, often associated with urban youth. Writers used spray paint and markers to create tags, throw-ups, and pieces, transforming public spaces into canvases. This period also saw an increase in the aesthetic and technical sophistication of graffiti, driving its recognition as a legitimate art form.

World War II to Modern Era

During World War II, the phrase Kilroy Was Here became a widespread form of graffiti among American soldiers. This simple doodle of a bald-headed man peeking over a wall, often inscribed with the phrase, symbolised soldiers' presence across various battlefronts.

Post-war, graffiti continued to evolve, influenced by social and political changes. The 1980s and 1990s saw the emergence of street artists who pushed the boundaries of graffiti. The art form gained more acceptance in the mainstream, often featured in galleries and museums. Today, graffiti is both a cherished art form and a medium for political and social commentary, reflecting its long and diverse history.

Types of Graffiti

Graffiti comes in various forms, each with its unique techniques and purposes. Some of the most recognised styles include Tags, Throw-Ups, Wildstyle, Pieces, Street Art, and Murals.

Tags and Throw-Ups

Tags are the simplest and most common form of graffiti. Artists use stylised signatures or monikers, often created with spray paint or markers. Tags are quick to execute and serve as a way for graffiti artists to establish their identity and presence.

Throw-Ups are a step up from tags. They involve more complex shapes and multiple colours but are still executed quickly. These are often bubble letters or simple block forms, aimed at making a more significant visual impact than a tag.

Both tags and throw-ups are found in abundance in urban areas. They can be controversial due to their often illegal placements, but they are a fundamental part of the graffiti culture and provide a canvas for artists to hone their skills.

Wildstyle and Pieces

Wildstyle is known for its intricate and abstract letters. It can be challenging to read for those not familiar with graffiti culture. The style includes arrows, curves, and interwoven layers, making the artwork appear highly complex.

Pieces, short for masterpieces, are large and elaborate graffiti works. These involve a more extended time commitment and often showcase an artist's best effort. Pieces incorporate multiple colours and detailed shading, making them stand out as significant works of public art.

Both Wildstyle and pieces show the technical skills of graffiti artists. These styles require a deep understanding of letters and composition, and they often command respect within the graffiti community.

Street Art and Murals

Street Art blends traditional graffiti techniques with other art forms. Unlike tags and throw-ups, street art can include stencils, stickers, and posters. Artists aim to communicate powerful messages or beautify public spaces. This makes street art more acceptable in broader public opinions compared to other types of graffiti.

Murals are large-scale paintings that often carry social or political meanings. They can take days or even weeks to complete and usually involve detailed planning and execution. Murals transform urban landscapes and are considered significant contributions to public art.

Both street art and murals are about more than just individual identity. They engage the public and often aim to enhance community spaces while conveying deeper societal messages.

Graffiti in Society

Graffiti has a diverse impact on society, influencing public spaces, community engagement, and legal concerns. This section explores its role in social engagement, its association with vandalism, and its aesthetic value and public appreciation.

Social Engagement

Graffiti often acts as a form of social commentary. Artists like Banksy use it to make powerful statements on political or social issues, engaging the public in conversation. These pieces can transform neglected areas into engaging public art spaces, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Graffiti also serves as a voice for the voiceless, allowing marginalised groups to express their struggles and opinions openly. This form of engagement can lead to greater community cohesion as people come together to appreciate or debate the artwork. Creative projects involving local communities, including youth, can also reduce antisocial behaviour by channelling energy into positive outlets.

Vandalism and Illegality

On the downside, graffiti is often viewed as vandalism. Unauthorized works on public or private property can lead to significant costs for abatement and police intervention. Many cities have strict laws against graffiti, with punishments ranging from fines to more severe actions like caning in certain jurisdictions.

The perception of graffiti as vandalism can create tension between artists and authorities. While some see it as a valid form of expression, others view it as an illegal act that defaces public spaces. This discrepancy often results in continuous efforts by law enforcement to curb graffiti through strict regulations and community awareness programmes.

Graffiti Aesthetic and Appreciation

Despite its controversial nature, graffiti has gained mainstream acceptance. Famous artists like Keith Haring and Jean-Michel Basquiat started their careers with graffiti before being celebrated in galleries worldwide. Graffiti's vibrant and bold aesthetics can make urban spaces visually appealing, turning grey, uninspiring walls into colourful canvases.

Public murals and legal graffiti zones have also helped shift perceptions, allowing people to appreciate the creativity and skill involved. Cities now boast of art districts where street art is a tourist attraction. This growing acceptance has introduced graffiti to a wider audience, changing it from an illegal activity to a celebrated art form.

Graffiti around the World

Graffiti is a vibrant form of street art that spans continents, reflecting local culture and social issues. From the subways of New York to the walls in Melbourne, graffiti has become a crucial part of the urban landscape.

Graffiti in the United States

Graffiti in the United States has deep roots, especially in cities like New York City and Philadelphia. In the 1970s, graffiti exploded in popularity with artists tagging subway trains. This era produced iconic figures like TAKI 183 and Keith Haring.

New York City is famously known for its subway art. The influence of NYC graffiti spread far beyond the city, impacting the global scene. Philadelphia also played a significant role, beginning the "throw-up" style where simple and quick letters became popular.

Today, major cities continue to thrive with street art festivals and legal graffiti zones, reinforcing graffiti as part of American culture.

Graffiti in Australia and New Zealand

In Australia, graffiti has gained respect and recognition over the years. Artists like Adnate have become influential figures, blending street art with social messages, especially focusing on Indigenous themes. Melbourne is a hotspot with districts like Hosier Lane attracting tourists and street art enthusiasts.

New Zealand also showcases vibrant street art scenes. Cities like Auckland and Wellington offer legal walls and organised events to celebrate graffiti culture. The integration of Māori motifs and cultural elements makes New Zealand's graffiti scene unique and distinct.

Graffiti in Europe and Beyond

Europe has a rich history of graffiti that varies significantly by region. In the United Kingdom, artists like D*Face merge urban graffiti with pop culture, creating pieces that are both iconic and thought-provoking.

Spain is known for its colourful murals and politically charged messages, particularly in cities like Barcelona and Madrid. Throughout the continent, cities like Berlin and Paris offer numerous legal spots and festivals, allowing public expression through street art.

Beyond Europe, places like the United Arab Emirates are also embracing graffiti. Initiatives and events have brought attention to street art, promoting it as a form of cultural dialogue and creative expression.

Graffiti's Influence on Branding and Marketing

Graffiti has significantly impacted branding and marketing, transforming from a symbol of rebellion to a powerful commercial tool. Brands are now using graffiti to capture attention, build loyalty, and create memorable campaigns.

Commercialisation of Graffiti

Graffiti has moved from street corners to commercial spaces. Originally seen as a rebellious act, it now features prominently in branding strategies. Companies have learned that incorporating graffiti can evoke a sense of authenticity. This raw and genuine aesthetic contrasts with the polished nature of traditional marketing, which can sometimes seem impersonal and out of touch.

Brands like Adidas have worked with street artists to turn their stores into art spaces, merging the artists' visions with the brands' ethos. Graffiti’s commercialisation is a testament to its powerful visual impact and ability to connect with urban audiences.

Graffiti in Advertising Campaigns

Graffiti’s bold and edgy style has made it a favourite in advertising campaigns. Companies often use graffiti to attract attention and create a buzz. It offers a unique way to stand out in crowded markets and can enhance a brand’s urban and contemporary image.

Iconic brands such as Nike have featured graffiti prominently in their marketing materials, using artwork from renowned graffiti artists to resonate with younger, trend-conscious audiences. Placing graffiti in high-traffic areas like billboards allows brands to implement creative storytelling, providing an effective visual impact that differentiates them from competitors.

Graffiti and Loyalty Programmes

Adding graffiti to loyalty programmes is an emerging trend. Brands are leveraging graffiti's unique and eye-catching style to make loyalty and rewards content more engaging. This approach helps create a stronger connection with customers by offering visually stimulating rewards that align with a brand’s artistic and urban image.

Creating graffiti-style membership cards, rewards app interfaces, or even exclusive street art merchandise can boost customer engagement significantly. These elements encourage customers to participate more actively in loyalty programmes while also enhancing brand identity. By integrating graffiti into their loyalty services, brands can create memorable experiences that drive long-term customer loyalty.

Graffiti as a Business: Gratifii

Gratifii empowers brands by transforming how loyalty and rewards are managed. They offer comprehensive solutions that enhance client engagement and loyalty experiences.

Gratifii Overview

Gratifii Limited, listed on the ASX as GTI, is a renowned loyalty and rewards provider. They serve a wide array of clients across Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, and the UAE. Since their inception, Gratifii has focused on creating scalable and configurable loyalty services. They don't just provide loyalty solutions; they ensure these are adaptable to various business needs.

Gratifii's acquisition of Neat Ideas in 2021 and Hachiko in 2022 has expanded their market reach. These acquisitions allow them to offer full-spectrum loyalty-led marketing services and market-leading functionality.

Client Engagement and Experiences

Gratifii prioritises client satisfaction and engagement. They have a portfolio of over 60 top brands. These brands rely on Gratifii to deliver rewarding and memorable customer experiences.

Their loyalty programmes are designed to boost customer retention by offering personalised rewards. This approach helps Gratifii clients better understand their customer base and drive lasting loyalty. The company uses advanced data analytics to provide insights that enhance customer experiences and engagement.

The Future of Brand Loyalty and Public Art

Gratifii aims to remain a leader in the loyalty services industry. They are committed to innovation and sustainability. By embracing new technologies and sustainable practices, they hope to shape the future of brand loyalty.

They are particularly focused on creating strategies that connect brands with customers in meaningful ways. This includes integrating public art elements to create unique, engaging experiences. These efforts not only promote brand loyalty but also contribute to community enrichment and engagement.

Graffiti Techniques and Media

Graffiti artists employ various techniques and media to create their artwork, each with unique characteristics and tools. These methods enable diverse forms of expression, from vibrant wall art to digital displays.

Spray Paint and Inks

Spray paint is the most recognisable tool in graffiti art. Artists use it to create tags, throw-ups, and large murals. The cans come in a variety of colours and nozzle sizes, allowing for different spray patterns and line widths. This versatility makes spray paint ideal for creating detailed and vibrant images on various surfaces.

Inks are also popular, especially for tagging. They are often used in markers with replaceable tips, providing a consistent ink flow. Inks can be blended with other colours or used to outline pieces created with spray paint. Because inks can be more permanent and harder to remove than spray paint, they are often favoured for street tagging and marking territories.

Stickers, Posters, and Other Media

Stickers, often referred to as "slaps," are another medium favoured by graffiti artists. They allow for quick application in hard-to-reach places. Artists can pre-design these stickers and place them on any surface, making it easy to spread their work. Stickers can carry intricate designs or simple tags, offering flexibility in their use.

Posters are a traditional medium that allows graffiti artists to work on their designs beforehand. They can be mass-produced and pasted in various locations, making it easy for artists to create large-scale displays rapidly. Posters often feature more detailed and complex artwork that may take longer to create than typical graffiti tags.

Other unconventional media include stencils and etching tools. Stencils are used to reproduce the same design repeatedly, ensuring consistency and speed. Etching tools can carve graffiti into surfaces like glass and metal, creating permanent marks that resist cleaning.

Digital Graffiti and Projection

Digital graffiti is a modern interpretation of traditional street art. Artists use software to create graffiti that can be projected onto surfaces or displayed on digital screens. This form of graffiti is particularly popular at events and exhibitions where real painting is impractical.

Projection mapping allows artists to turn entire buildings into dynamic canvases, with moving images and animations. This technique uses powerful projectors to cast images onto surfaces, transforming urban landscapes without applying any physical paint. It offers an interactive element, making the artwork more engaging for viewers.

Another aspect of digital graffiti involves virtual reality (VR). Artists can use VR platforms to create 3D graffiti in digital environments. This method allows them to experiment with designs that would be impossible to execute in the real world and share their work globally through online platforms.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

The topic of legal and ethical considerations includes issues related to property rights, public space ethics, and strategies for graffiti removal and prevention. Each of these areas presents its own challenges and solutions.

Graffiti Law and Property Rights

Graffiti can be considered a form of vandalism, which is illegal under many local and national laws. Property rights are crucial, as owners have the legal right to control what occurs on their property. When graffiti is applied without permission, it violates these rights.

Laws are in place to protect property owners from unauthorised markings. Violators can face fines, community service, or even jail time. Property owners have the legal backing to remove graffiti and pursue charges against offenders.

Authorities often work with community groups to create public murals in designated areas, balancing property rights with creative expression.

Ethics and Public Space

Ethics play a significant role in discussions about graffiti in public spaces. While some view graffiti as an artistic expression or a form of social commentary, others see it as unwanted vandalism. The ethical debate often hinges on consent and the impact on the community.

Graffiti on public property, like parks and transit systems, raises questions about the use of shared spaces. Ethical considerations involve respect for public property and the broader community's views. Some cities have designated legal graffiti walls to provide a space for street art while protecting other areas from unwanted markings.

Balancing artist expression with community standards is key to addressing the ethical aspects of graffiti.

Graffiti Removal and Prevention

Graffiti removal and prevention are essential for maintaining clean and welcoming public and private spaces. Several methods exist for removing graffiti, including chemical solvents, pressure washing, and repainting. Quick removal can deter repeat incidents, as it sends a message that graffiti will not be tolerated.

Prevention strategies include installing surveillance cameras, using anti-graffiti coatings, and creating community watch groups. Education and outreach programmes can also raise awareness about the negative impacts of illegal graffiti and encourage alternative forms of expression.

Working with local artists to create legal murals can help reduce unwanted graffiti while enriching the community's cultural landscape. These combined efforts ensure spaces are respected and well-maintained.

Frequently Asked Questions

Gratifii is a company offering loyalty services and carbon offset solutions. They are listed on the Australian Securities Exchange and have partnerships with various companies.

What are users saying about their experience with the loyalty programmes?

Users appreciate the easy-to-use platform and the variety of rewards available. Many find the functionality and configurability useful for their loyalty needs, praising the seamless integration with different brands and services.

How can businesses benefit from integrating reward systems?

Businesses can enhance customer retention by using reward systems, leading to increased loyalty and sales. Gratifii’s solutions are built to be flexible and customisable, helping companies create engaging and effective loyalty programmes.

Where can I find detailed financial information from the latest company report?

Detailed financial information for Gratifii can be found on Gratifii Limited's website, where they publish their latest reports. This includes revenue, growth statistics, and other financial details.

What professional profiles should one look for when seeking to connect with the company on LinkedIn?

One should look for profiles related to loyalty and rewards management, marketing, and business development. Relevant job titles may include Loyalty Programme Manager, Marketing Specialist, and Business Development Executive. Visit Gratifii's LinkedIn page for more information.

How does the Mosaic platform enhance customer engagement?

The Mosaic platform offers market-leading functionality that helps businesses tailor their loyalty programmes to fit their customer base. The platform’s flexibility allows for customized rewards and targeted marketing efforts, boosting overall customer engagement.

What is the significance of the company's presence on the Australian Securities Exchange?

Gratifii’s listing on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) signifies its credibility and stability as a publicly-traded company. It offers transparency and confidence to investors and partners about the company’s performance and governance.