Why Multifunctional Products Like Manteo Matter More Than Ever

In a world where the cost of living is rising and consumers are becoming more intentional with their purchases, multifunctional products are no longer a novelty—they’re a necessity. At Jasper and London, we consult with brands, athletes, and lifestyle companies across industries, and we’re seeing a consistent trend: products that serve more than one purpose consistently outperform those that don’t.

Take the Manteo poncho—a single item that acts as a poncho, a sleeping bag, and a travel pillow. It’s not just a smart product; it’s a signal of where consumer behavior is heading.

The History of Multifunctionality

Multifunctional design isn’t new. It’s been a cornerstone of innovation for centuries—think Swiss Army knives, convertible furniture, or even the ancient Roman sagum, a military cloak that doubled as a blanket. The most enduring products are those that do more than expected, especially when resources—space, money, or time—are limited.

During economic downturns or wartime, utility drives innovation. We saw this in the 1940s with modular military gear. And in more recent times, the rise of digital tools that combine multiple functions into one platform—like smartphones replacing cameras, MP3 players, and maps—is evidence of how we continually move toward convergence.

Why It Works Today

From a consulting perspective, multifunctionality builds value perception, customer loyalty, and market adaptability. The modern consumer wants products that fit a more mobile, uncertain lifestyle. With climate shifts, urban migration, and economic volatility, people want less stuff that does more. The brands that win in this environment are the ones designing for flexibility, not just function.

Products like Manteo succeed because they aren’t just "things"—they're solutions. For the traveler who packs light, the outdoor enthusiast who needs reliable gear, or the parent who needs products that work across settings, multifunctionality means fewer decisions and better utility.

Designing for the Next Generation

At Jasper and London, we advise our clients to think of products not just in terms of form and function, but context. How many settings can this live in? How does it align with changing consumer values? And most importantly—does it justify its space in someone’s life?

Manteo isn’t just a cool idea. It’s a timely product for a market that demands more meaning and less waste. As brands look ahead, designing with purpose and flexibility will no longer be optional—it will be essential.