It's The Looks Stupid
While inner values often take precedence over physical appearance—especially in the long run—it’s not a question of either-or. Both are crucial, and their interplay determines lasting success.
What holds true for human relationships applies equally to products. A product’s inner values—its taste, functional benefits, comfort, or performance—are essential for building long-term relationships like brand loyalty. However, without an appealing physical representation, there may never be a relationship to begin with. In many categories, the willingness to try or reuse a product depends on its appearance. After all, who wants to drive an unattractive car or operate a clunky coffee machine?