The Hidden Power of Logos [Infographic]

Logos are not just random doodles splashed with the designer’s (or company owner’s) favorite color. They are well studied and follow a set of time-tested design and psychological principles to toy with our subconscious. At least as far as iconic logos go.

Take color meanings, for instance. Ever wonder why McDonald’s is yellow and Red Bull is red? Yellow means happiness, while red evokes intensity. Both colors fit the brands to a tee.

But sometimes the color meaning is not obvious as in the case of Starbucks. Green is strongly associated with nature, while roasted coffee beans are, of course, brown. So why didn’t Starbucks use green? Probably because nature also suggests sustainability, and the coffee chain projects a fair trade position. Subconsciously, the logo color works seamlessly in your brain, reminding you that you’re drinking a feel-good cup of Joe.

That’s how logos are powerful. They talk to your subconscious to influence your buying decisions. Some companies will pay millions of dollars to have their logos created. At one million dollars, the re-branded Pepsi logo back in 2008 is one of the top most expensive logos ever, which include the much publicized 2012 London Summer Olympics. On the other hand, the Coca-Cola logo didn’t cost a cent when it was originally designed by its co-founder, a fact shared by the iconic candy-colored Google logo.

This infographic published by FinancesOnline provides a quick review on the most iconic logos and their color meanings, as well as their costs and evolution.

In the end, logos are not measured by how much they cost or how beautifully they look on a business card or door hanger. The true test of an iconic logo is how long it lasts. And some of the most iconic American brand logos have been around with hardly any change since before grandpa and grandma were born.

Designed by | Author: David Adelman

Courtesy of: | Author: David Adelman

Cindy Berrier

Cindy is the Customer Care and Operations Manager at 123Print. A native New Englander, Cindy now resides in Pennsylvania. She enjoys helping our customers and ensuring that the website runs smoothly. When she has downtime, she likes to spend time with her grandchildren and ride horses. Any questions, please contact her at cberrier@123print.com. [Check out Cindy on Google+]

View Comments

  • Hi, I am a design teacher in an Iinternational School. Is there anyway of getting a copy of this for inspiration for my pupils?
    This is very cool.

    Thank you

Share
Published by
Cindy Berrier

Recent Posts

11 Easy and Helpful Techniques to Annihilate Holiday Stress in 2024

Learn effective stress management techniques to keep you sane during the holiday season, so you…

1 week ago

Harvest the Power of Print: 10 Clever Fall Marketing Ideas for Your Business

Looking for effective fall marketing ideas to help your business stand out? From eye-catching direct…

2 months ago

Fascinating Tips From Experts On How to Build Your Brand Universe in 2024

Learn from experts like Disney, Marvel, and more how to create an entire universe around…

5 months ago

Professional Nature Photographers Share Tips on How to Stay Relevant in 2024

We’ve gathered insights from professional photographers who reveal their secrets to getting inspired and staying…

6 months ago

7 Crucial Strategies to Add to Your Marketing Playbook for a Successful Season

In the ever-evolving marketing landscape, staying ahead requires a strategic approach throughout each season. Having…

8 months ago

5 Strategic Customer Service Moves to Make Everyone Feel Like a Winner

Have you ever had WINNING customer service? Customer service that doesn’t just meet your expectations…

9 months ago