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5 examples of successful logo redesigns

October 23rd 2024

By Emily

From small, thoughtful updates to bold reimaginings, a successful logo redesign can breathe new life into a brand, making it feel more relevant, accessible, and impactful. We’ve pulled together some standout examples of brands that have nailed the art of logo evolution—let’s dive into what makes them work.

1. PayPal

PayPal’s latest logo update might seem subtle, but it’s exactly what a brand like this needed. It’s about improving clarity while ensuring it’s spot-on for digital environments. PayPal has stayed true to its roots but modernised things a touch to keep up with its ever-growing, global audience.

What’s changed?

  • Cleaned-up typography: The typeface has been refined—bolder, more legible, and perfect for small screens and quick glances.
  • Unified blue shades: PayPal’s shades of blue have been updated for a fresh, trustworthy look—making sure it feels cohesive, no matter where you spot it.

Why it works: They didn’t reinvent the wheel here, and that’s precisely why it’s so effective. It’s about making small changes that make a big impact, ensuring PayPal’s logo remains instantly recognisable while modernising it just enough for today’s digital-first world.

Curious about the full story? Read more on Creative Bloq.

2. Figma

Figma’s latest revamp captures the creative, collaborative spirit at the heart of its platform, moving beyond a simple logo update to an entire visual evolution. Their previous design focused on simple geometry, with static shapes, fine black lines, and block colours. Their new identity, however, leans into a more diverse and dynamic visual style. With softer forms, a wider colour palette, and integrated motion, the refreshed look reflects the platform’s evolution and the collaborative, creative nature of its community. It’s a thoughtful transformation that reflects Figma’s growth from a tool for designers to an ecosystem supporting developers, product managers, and entire teams—all working together to bring ideas to life.

What’s changed?

  • Expanded colour palette: Figma has broadened its colour range, incorporating dynamic shades that can be easily adapted across different contexts. This flexibility reflects the platform’s diverse and evolving community.
  • Custom typefaces: Figma collaborated with Grilli Type to develop a unique set of typefaces, including Figma Sans and its variations. Each typeface adds character and versatility, mirroring the multifaceted ways users collaborate on the platform.
  • Integrated motion: Motion principles are now woven into Figma’s visual language, animating actions and flows that guide users through their creative process. This dynamic touch not only enhances usability but also brings the brand to life in a way that feels engaging and interactive.

Why it works:

Figma’s refreshed identity is more than a visual update; it’s an expression of the brand’s inclusive and dynamic nature. By blending warmth, creativity, and motion, Figma manages to feel both fresh and familiar—showing that as the brand grows, it stays true to its collaborative roots and the creative energy of its community.

Discover more about their evolution on Figma’s blog.

3. Lloyds Bank

Lloyds Bank has an icon—the black horse—that’s been around forever. So, when it came to modernising their logo, they knew they needed to tread carefully. The result? A subtle update that respects their heritage while giving the logo a sleeker, more contemporary look.

What’s changed?

  • Refined horse illustration: The horse has been given a subtle makeover, with cleaner lines that make it look sharp on digital screens without losing its timeless quality.
  • Modernised typeface: The updated font feels more contemporary while retaining that sense of reliability Lloyds is known for.
  • Brightened colour palette: The green tones have been tweaked for a fresher, more inviting look.

Why It works: Lloyds shows that you don’t have to go big to make an impact. It’s about respecting tradition while moving forward—a delicate balance they’ve pulled off brilliantly.

4. Burger King

Burger King went retro with their recent rebrand, and we’re here for it. Ditching the glossy, 3D look of the early 2000s, they’ve embraced a flat, minimalist design inspired by their 1969 logo. It’s a nod to nostalgia but with a contemporary twist that keeps it relevant.

What’s changed?

  • Flat design: The logo has shed all its 3D elements, opting for a sleek, flat style that feels classic but modern.
  • Chunky, playful typography: The bold new typeface feels friendly and approachable, perfect for a fast-food brand.
  • Warm colour scheme: They’ve stuck to the classic red, yellow, and brown tones, making the logo feel familiar and comforting.

Why it works: Burger King proves that sometimes, the best move is to go back to your roots. By merging nostalgia with today’s design trends, they’ve created a logo that feels both fresh and timeless.

5. Pringles

Pringles took a simple but smart approach with their latest logo update. Their well-known mascot Mr.P has been given a dashing haircut, simplifying the design and making it more adaptable for digital use. It’s still playful, still Pringles—but just a bit sleeker.

What’s changed?

  • Simplified mascot: The moustachioed character is now cleaner and more refined, making him look fabulous on everything from packaging to mobile screens.
  • Flat colour approach: The new flat colours give it a crisp, modern edge, perfectly suited for today’s platforms.
  • Adaptable design: The new look ensures Pringles is just as recognisable on your phone as it is on a snack aisle.

Why It works: Pringles knows that a little bit of streamlining goes a long way. They’ve kept the essence of the brand intact while making it feel fresh and modern for today’s digital-first audience.

Key takeaways

These logo redesigns are masterclasses in brand evolution:

  1. Embrace subtle tweaks: Sometimes, it’s not about starting from scratch but refining what’s already there. PayPal and Lloyds show how effective small updates can be.
  2. Adapt for digital: In a digital-first world, brands need logos that work across various platforms. PayPal and Pringles prove that simplifying elements can help make logos more versatile.
  3. Stay true to your roots: Whether you’re embracing nostalgia like Burger King or refreshing a classic like Lloyds, it’s all about staying authentic while evolving for your audience.

Ready to refresh your brand?

A well-executed logo redesign is like a fine-tuned upgrade—it keeps a brand’s identity intact while making it feel current and engaging. These examples show how thoughtful tweaks, nods to nostalgia, or a fresh spin can all effectively modernise a brand’s visual identity. It’s not about reinventing the wheel but making sure your brand feels like it belongs, no matter the platform or audience. So, whether you’re thinking of a subtle refresh or a total revamp, remember: it’s about finding that balance between staying true to your roots and embracing where you’re headed next.

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