Out with the old, in with the new

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

I’ve noticed several brand/logo changes lately. I wanted to share some with you and get some feedback!

The first is from Dairy Queen. I didn’t know about this change until I passed the one back home and noticed a new sign.

Here’s the old:

And the new:

Personally, I like the old better. I think it’s classic and looks great as a bright neon sign. It’s recognizable, but now these swooshes get in the way of that. What do they add to the idea of Diary Queen? Thoughts?

Next up is Pizza Hut, or now is SOMETIMES going to be labeled as The Hut according to their press release.

The old:

The new:

I think “Pizza” in the name really helped the brand recognition, so now I’m not sure about this new one. When people see "The Hut" they may be wondering what in the world they sell and choose not to go there. Compared to before, when the answer was obvious. I also do not like that they are using this logo at some locations and the old in others. I think that could be a confusing disastor for consumers. Like? Dislike?


The last I have for you is Pepsi. It’s not so recent and got a lot of talk in a lot of my classes.

The old:

The new:

The new logo was presented with a lengthy scientific report complete with graphs on the energy fields within the logo showing how it would pull buyers towards it. Well, it may have worked on me. I started buying Pepsi products and found a new love for Diet Pepsi (I blame the energy fields). The logo is American, modern yet still classic, and somehow has a friendly feeling. If you google image search "New Pepsi logo" you'll see all kinds of things: a variety of smiling faces within the logo, an overweight man within the new logo and Obama's campaign logo. Who has fallen for the energy fields??

Building a strong brand is a very lengthy process. So rebranding and changing the face of your brand is a big decision. It could change how consumers feel about the brand at first glance, good and bad, and it may cause a decrease in recognition or recall of the brand. Companies just have to decide if it’s worth it in the long run. So, who thinks these companies made a good decision?

Apple, You're so Cool.

Thursday, May 28, 2009

Today I made a quick stop at SouthPark mall right after work. I parked near Macy’s and as I was about to walk out the door to head home, this caught my eye:


Yes. An iPod vending machine. Let’s just dismiss the fact that there is an Apple store in SouthPark mall for the moment and focus on the thought that there is a vending machine full of iPod products ready to dispense at the touch of a button.

I can’t imagine what type of impulse buys this machine creates.

I found the placement of the machine at this particular Macy’s pretty interesting. It was at an exit right in between men’s suits and children’s clothing. Hmmm…wonder who they are targeting? Businessmen and busy moms have many good reasons for purchasing an iPod.

I’m not sure how long these machines have been around, but I did find out that they are in Macy’s and various airports. I suppose this would make good money in an airport…all those times you’re sitting in a terminal looking at others waiting for your flight too, only to notice a loud person you hope isn’t forced to sit next to you for the next few hours.

The machines look pretty fun. I’d buy something just to touch the bright touch screen and see how the machine works. Once again, Apple marketers seem to catch onto some new/crazy/inventive/unpredictable idea to get you to buy their oh-so-wonderful products.

What do yall think? Stupid or Useful? Would you even consider making such a large purchase through a machine like this?