Key Takeaways:
- The rebranding process involves several key steps, including thorough research and analysis, strategy design, development of brand voice and messaging, visual identity update or creation, implementation across touchpoints, and monitoring and feedback.
- Rebranding is a strategic decision driven by various factors such as market evolution, stagnant brand growth, company expansion, and alignment with core values.
- Neglecting core audiences, inadequate market research, poor implementation or rollout, and failure to communicate the why behind the rebrand are common pitfalls that companies should avoid.
Company Rebranding: Purpose, Process, Pitfalls & Best Practices
Today’s markets move at the speed of light. Customer’s needs and desires can change on a dime based on everything from a social media post gone viral, to a shift in the political or economic landscape. As a result, companies need to move in concert with the market, or even their own internal shifts. Rebranding your business is an essential and ever-evolving strategy that helps a business remain relevant, fresh, and competitive.
By refreshing a brand, companies can rejuvenate their brand identity, attract new customers, and maintain relevance in the market. This article delves into the purpose, process, pitfalls, and best practices for achieving a company rebrand that packs a punch.
Defining Company Rebranding
Before I dive into the depths of why and how to embark on rebranding of a company, let’s take a moment to understand what it really means to rebrand a company.
As a start, rebranding is more than just a brand identity face-lift resulting in a new logo, color scheme or website design. David Aaker, in his book “Building Strong Brands”, underlines that rebranding dives deep into the core of a brand, altering how it provides value, distinguishes itself, and nurtures customer loyalty. In today’s dynamic business landscape, rebranding isn’t merely an option—it’s often an imperative.
For example, consider Apple during the late 90s. Before it embarked on its iconic “Think Different” campaign, Apple was a competent, albeit indistinguishable, computer manufacturer. Post-rebranding, it transformed into a harbinger of innovation and creativity.
In the simplest terms, rebranding your business is the process of changing the company’s overall brand identity and positioning. It may include an update of the business logo, visual elements, messaging, website, marketing materials, and anything else that communicates to the customer (and the world) who the business is, what they do, and why. The strategic decision to engage in a business rebrand is often driven by the desire to align the company with its current and future objectives, and to better resonate with its target audience.
Another important aspect of company rebranding is the opportunity to redefine the company’s mission, values, and overall purpose. A rebranding exercise often involves revisiting the company’s core values and identifying how they can be better communicated. This process not only helps the company clarify its identity, but also enables it to connect with customers and employees on a deeper level by appealing to their values and aspirations.
Furthermore, rebranding of a company can be a strategic move to expand into new markets or attract a different customer base. By repositioning the brand and tailoring its messaging to a specific audience, companies can tap into previously untapped market segments and unlock new growth opportunities.
It’s important to note that despite the value company rebranding creates, it is not without its challenges and should not be taken lightly. An impactful rebrand requires research, a roadmap, and the commitment of time and money it takes to achieve the outcome. In addition, employees must be aligned with the new brand identity and understand the reasons behind the rebranding. Customers and other external stakeholders need to be informed about the changes and reassured that the company’s values and commitment to quality remain intact.
In conclusion, the rebranding of a company is a strategic decision that involves changing a company’s brand identity to better align with its objectives and resonate with its target audience. It offers an opportunity to stay relevant in a changing market, redefine the company’s mission and values, and expand into new markets. However, it also comes with its challenges and requires careful planning and effective communication. In the following sections, we will explore the various aspects of company rebranding in more detail.
Purpose of Rebranding Your Business
A company’s reputation has been damaged by a crisis. A business has not updated their website for a decade. An organization realizes it is leaving money on the table by not reaching out to a specific segment of the market. From start up to Fortune 500, there are a myriad of reasons why a company may decide to embark on the rebranding journey, and in some cases, the reasons may be multi-faceted. Below are some of the most common reasons why a company may want to undertake a rebranding.
1. Adapt to Market Evolution
Philip Kotler & Kevin Lane Keller, in “Marketing Management,” emphasize the continuous tug and pull brands experience due to shifting consumer needs and preferences. For example: As generations evolve, so do their priorities. Michael Solomon explores, in “Consumer Behavior”, how global culture and societal shifts mold these evolving tastes. For example, the surge in sustainable products coincided with millennials and Gen Z becoming dominant market players.
In addition, market saturation can become a factor. With a myriad of options available, standing out is vital. Baker’s insights on differentiation underscore this challenge. For example, amidst countless soda varieties, organic and artisanal sodas have carved a niche.
New Technologies and Digital Landscapes play a role in why a company may need to rebrand as a response to market changes. Labrecque et al.’s (2013) research in Consumer Power: Evolution in the Digital Age highlights the sea change the digital age has brought about, emphasizing the consumer’s newfound power. For example, the dichotomy of Blockbuster’s downfall and Netflix’s ascendancy elucidates the transformative power of streaming technology.
2. Revitalize a Stagnant Brand
Brands, just like bread, can become stale and experience periods of stagnation. As detailed by Keller, Apéria, & Georgson (2008) in “Strategic brand management”, comprehensive strategies can infuse them with new life. As Keller et al. point out, rebranding your business and revitalizing a brand requires a deep understanding of its current position in the market and the factors contributing to its stagnation. For example, remember when Old Spice was pigeonholed as your dad’s cologne? Their innovative “The Man Your Man Could Smell Like” campaign turned that narrative on its head.
3. Company Growth or Evolution
In 2015, Google determined that it wanted to move beyond merely being a search engine and transformed itself into Alphabet. As the parent company, Alphabet allowed Google to expand into domains outside of internet search and advertising to become a technology conglomerate. Brands are living entities; they grow and evolve. In Strategies for Diversification (Ansoff, H. I., 1957), the author points out that companies need to assess the fit between their current brand and new markets or product categories before diversification. That being said, there are three main growth and evolutionary paths that lead a business to engage in a company rebrand process, including:
Increasing brand relevancy:
As consumer preferences change, a brand must transform to remain pertinent in their eyes.
Reaching a new audience:
Brands can tap into new market segments through rebranding, ensuring they appeal to a broader audience.
Differentiating from competitors:
To avoid blending in, brands must differentiate themselves from competitors. Rebranding offers a chance to underscore those differences.
New product/service offerings:
Companies expanding their offerings often require a rebrand to communicate these new facets of their business.
Mergers and acquisitions:
When companies merge or acquire another brand, rebranding helps in creating a unified identity.
International expansion:
Entering global markets might necessitate a rebrand to resonate with international audiences and cultures.
4. Align with Current Brand Values and Mission
A brand’s values are not necessarily fixed in time forever. They can shift based on internal growth, external changes, or a combination of both. A company can evolve in their core beliefs, as well as feel a need to update their company culture to attract new talent and customers. Consider how McDonald’s, when facing criticisms about health concerns, rebranded by introducing healthier menu options and began emphasizing transparency in its food sourcing. In Measuring brand image effects on brand equity, Bruhn (2012) states that brand image plays a pivotal role in driving brand equity, and that positive brand associations can lead to increased consumer loyalty, willingness to pay a premium, and favorable word-of-mouth.
5. Overcome Negative Publicity
In 1982, Johnson & Johnson was embroiled in a crisis that could have brought down the company. A series of tampering incidents with their Tylenol capsules had resulted in multiple deaths. The company’s adept handling of this situation is still a masterclass in crisis rebranding. Johnson & Johnson responded to the tampering incidents with immediacy— issuing a mass recall of 31 million bottles. The company then developed an industry-leading triple tamper-evident seal, and then returned the popular product to the market. Dawar & Pillutla (2000) in Impact of Product-Harm Crises on Brand Equity found that negative events associated with a brand (like product recalls) can significantly damage brand equity and that brands with high equity tend to recover faster from negative events than brands with lower equity.
The bottom line is that rebranding of a company can help revive a business’s reputation, especially after a period of decline or negative press. In particular:
Addressing PR disasters:
Companies facing public relations challenges can use rebranding as a tool to redirect the narrative and show commitment to change.
Rebuilding trust:
For brands that have faced scandals or have lost public trust, rebranding provides a fresh start and an opportunity to mend relationships with their audience.
We’ve all seen companies face public scrutiny and backlash due to various reasons, such as product recalls, ethical controversies, or poor customer service. In such cases, rebranding offers a fresh start and an opportunity to rebuild trust with consumers. By presenting a new face to the world, companies can redefine themselves and shape public perception.
The Process of Company Rebranding
Rebranding is a complex and multifaceted process that requires careful planning and execution. While each company rebranding effort is unique, there are general steps involved in the process that can help guide a company towards success.
Step One: Research and Analysis
The first step in the rebranding process is research which aims to understand the company’s current brand perception, market position, and target audience. By gaining valuable insight into these aspects, companies can develop a solid foundation for their rebranding strategy. During the research phase, companies may engage in various activities including:
- Market research: The first step is to understand the current market landscape. This involves examining industry trends, consumer preferences, and competitor positioning.
- SWOT analysis: This analytical tool assesses a company’s Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats. It provides a comprehensive look at where the company currently stands.
- Brand audits: This involves a thorough review of all existing brand materials to identify inconsistencies and areas for improvement.
- Focus groups: In person or by video conference, this tool facilitates gathering qualitative data from a select group of participants, offering a deeper understanding of consumer perceptions, attitudes, and reactions.
Regardless of the methods employed, it’s important that the feedback gathered represent the various stakeholders including customers, and employees. By listening to the perspective of the different stakeholder groups, the company goes a long way to ensuring that the rebranding efforts undertaken align with needs and expectations. For example: Frito-Lay leaned into consumer insights to pivot Sun Chips towards its eco-friendly compostable bag.
Step Two: Strategy Design
In “The New Strategic Brand Management”, the author Kapferer reminds us that rebranding isn’t about reinvention—it’s strategic evolution, always respecting the brand’s foundational equity. Some of the key elements to be included in the strategic design include:
- Setting clear objectives: What do you hope to achieve with the rebrand? Whether it’s reaching a new demographic or changing a particular perception, objectives should be clear and measurable.
- Identifying target audience: Recognize and understand the primary audience you aim to appeal to with the new branding.
- Positioning and differentiation: Establish how the brand should be perceived in the marketplace and how it stands out from competitors.
Step Three: Brand Voice and Messaging
Central to the company rebranding process is the brand voice and messaging, a multifaceted effort encompassing several elements. Taglines and slogans, with their concise and pithy prose, distill the essence of a brand into memorable phrases. Brand stories, intricately weaving the past, mission, and vision, evoke emotions and forge deep connections with consumers. Equally vital is the brand content tone and style; a consistent voice, be it formal, casual, humorous, or inspirational, offers a harmonized brand experience, ensuring that every interaction resonates with its core identity. A brand’s voice can resonate profoundly with consumers. In his book Consumer Behavior: Buying, Having, and Being (2014), Solomon says that consumer behavior is influenced by a myriad of factors including culture, social conditions, and personal preferences. Successful brands often resonate with deeper consumer values and aspirations. For example, Dove’s shift towards championing “Real Beauty” and empowering self-confidence has struck a chord globally.
Step Four: Visual Identity Update or Creation
Once the brand voice and messaging phase is complete, rebranding your business can require crafting a new brand identity. This involves brainstorming ideas for a new name, logo, and visual elements that align with the company’s values and resonate with the target audience. A brand’s visual identity is its frontline. Bruhn, in his research on Measuring Brand Image Effects on Brand Equity (2012,) emphasizes the tangible impact visual elements such as logos and color palettes have on brand perception. Brand image plays a pivotal role in driving brand equity. Positive brand associations can lead to increased consumer loyalty, willingness to pay a premium, and favorable word-of-mouth. For example, Instagram’s logo evolution, from a vintage camera to a modern gradient, signifies its broader multimedia aspirations.
Collaboration and open communication are crucial during the brand identity development phase. Companies may organize workshops or design sprints to encourage creativity and generate innovative ideas. By involving a diverse group of individuals, companies can benefit from different perspectives and ensure that the new brand identity reflects the company’s vision and values. Specific aspects of this page may include:
- Logo redesign: The logo is often the most recognizable element of a brand. Consider modernizing or completely redesigning it to reflect the new brand direction.
- Color palette: Colors evoke emotions and play a significant role in brand recognition. Choose a palette that aligns with the brand’s desired perception.
- Typography: Fonts convey subtle messages about a brand. Choose typefaces that match the brand’s personality and values.
- Imagery and icons: Visual elements can strengthen brand recognition and convey complex messages quickly.
Step Five: Implementation
After the new brand identity is developed, companies must implement it across all touchpoints. This includes websites, social media platforms, physical stores, and marketing materials. Consistency is key during this phase, as companies need to ensure that the new brand identity is seamlessly integrated into all aspects of their business. Even an impeccable strategy can stumble and fail with shoddy execution. For example, Gap’s 2010 rebranding misstep saw them revert to their original logo within a week due to overwhelming negative feedback. Finally, companies need to inform all stakeholders about the rebranding effort and emphasize the reasons behind it. This can be done through various channels including:
- Internal brand training and alignment: Before introducing the new brand to the public, ensure that all internal stakeholders understand, embrace, and reflect the brand’s new direction.
- External launch strategies: Strategize how the rebrand will be announced to the public. This can include events, PR campaigns, or influencer partnerships.
- Integrating the new brand across touchpoints: Ensure every point of customer interaction, from websites to print materials, reflects the new branding.
Step Six: Monitoring and Feedback
Lastly, companies must evaluate the success of the rebranding by measuring key performance indicators. This analysis helps companies understand the impact of their rebranding efforts and adjust if necessary. Key performance indicators may include customer engagement, brand perception, and revenue growth.
Companies can use various tools and methods to measure these indicators, such as surveys, analytics software, and market research. By continuously monitoring and analyzing the results, companies can gain valuable insights into the effectiveness for a rebranding strategy and identify areas for improvement.
- Gathering consumer feedback: Once the rebrand is live, actively seek feedback from consumers to gauge their response.
- Analyzing market response: Monitor sales, web traffic, and other relevant metrics to measure the rebrands immediate impact.
- Refining and iterating as necessary: Based on feedback and analysis, adjust the branding elements if needed.
Common Rebranding Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Embarking on a rebranding journey is a challenging endeavor, filled with potential pitfalls. While rebranding can lead to heightened visibility and renewed customer loyalty, missteps can damage a company’s reputation. Recognizing these pitfalls and knowing how to avoid them is essential.
1. Neglecting Core Audiences
Pitfall: In the pursuit of attracting a new demographic or reflecting modern trends, companies sometimes alienate their existing, loyal customer base. For example, Yahoo’s inconsistent rebranding ventures, which seemingly alienated its core user base.
Solution: While it’s important to evolve, always consider the sentiments of your core audience. Their loyalty was hard-earned, and they should feel valued and included in any major shift.
2. Inadequate Market Research
Pitfall: Companies may rely too heavily on assumptions or outdated data, leading to a rebrand that misses the mark. For example, Coca-Cola’s ill-fated launch of a “New Coke” in 1985 ignored the deep-rooted brand nostalgia cherished by many of their loyal consumer base.
Solution: Invest time and resources in comprehensive market research. Engage with your audience directly, utilize focus groups, and stay updated with industry trends.
3. Poor Implementation or Rollout
Pitfall: Even with a stellar rebrand strategy, poor execution can diminish all efforts. This can manifest as inconsistent branding materials or a launch that lacks impact. For example, Tropicana’s 2009 redesign, which eschewed its iconic orange imagery, bewildered consumers and culminated in a 20% sales drop over two months.
Solution: Plan the rollout meticulously. Ensure all brand touchpoints, from digital platforms to physical materials, are consistent and updated simultaneously. Moreover, consider a phased approach or a significant event to mark the rebrand.
4. Failure to Communicate the Why Behind the Rebrand
Pitfall: Without understanding the reason for change, both internal teams and external audiences might resist or feel confused by the rebrand. For example, Microsoft, in launching Windows 10, ensured they actively engaged their user base, explaining the reasoning behind the leap.
Solution: Transparency is key. Communicate the reasons, objectives, and expected benefits of the rebrand openly. This not only garners support but also strengthens brand trust.
Transparent and authentic communication is essential. Stuart & Muzellec’s findings affirm that brands must elucidate the rationale behind significant changes.
Examples of Successful Company Rebranding
Now that we have explored the purpose and process of rebranding your business, let’s dive into some inspiring examples of companies that successfully reinvented themselves.
Apple: In the late 1990s, Apple was on the verge of bankruptcy. However, with the return of Steve Jobs, the company underwent a complete rebranding, focusing on innovation, simplicity, and elegance. This transformation helped Apple become the tech giant we know today.
Apple’s rebranding efforts not only saved the company from financial ruin but also revolutionized the entire technology industry. With the introduction of iconic products like the iMac, iPod, iPhone, and iPad, Apple changed the way people interact with technology. The sleek and minimalist design philosophy became synonymous with the brand, attracting a loyal customer base that values both style and functionality.
Furthermore, Apple’s commitment to innovation and user experience has propelled them to the forefront of technological advancements. Their rebranding efforts not only focused on the products themselves but also on creating a seamless ecosystem that integrates hardware, software, and services. This holistic approach has solidified Apple’s position as a leader in the industry and continues to drive their success.
Starbucks: Originally a small coffee shop serving only coffee beans and equipment, Starbucks rebranded itself as a global coffeehouse chain, synonymous with quality, community, and the “third place” concept. This strategic shift resonated with consumers and allowed Starbucks to expand worldwide.
Starbucks’ rebranding was not just about selling coffee; it was about creating an experience. By transforming their stores into cozy and inviting spaces, Starbucks positioned itself as a “third place” between home and work, where people could relax, socialize, and enjoy their favorite beverages. This concept struck a chord with consumers who were seeking a sense of community and a break from their daily routines.
In addition to their physical spaces, Starbucks also focused on sourcing high-quality coffee beans from around the world and promoting sustainable practices. This commitment to ethical sourcing and environmental responsibility further enhanced their brand image, attracting socially conscious consumers who value both taste and values.
Netflix: From a DVD rental service to a leading streaming platform, Netflix underwent a major rebranding to adapt to the digital age. By focusing on convenience, variety, and personalized recommendations, Netflix became a household name and revolutionized the way we consume entertainment.
Netflix’s rebranding journey started when they recognized the shift in consumer behavior towards online streaming. They transitioned from a traditional DVD rental service to a digital platform, offering a vast library of movies and TV shows that could be accessed anytime, anywhere.
One of the key factors that contributed to Netflix’s success was their emphasis on convenience. By eliminating the need for physical rentals and late fees, Netflix provided a hassle-free experience for its subscribers. Additionally, their algorithm-based recommendation system personalized the content selection for each user, making it easier to discover new shows and movies tailored to individual preferences.
Moreover, Netflix’s commitment to producing original content further solidified their position in the entertainment industry. By investing in critically acclaimed series like “Stranger Things”, “House of Cards”, and “The Crown”, Netflix not only attracted new subscribers but also garnered numerous awards and accolades. This strategic move allowed them to differentiate themselves from traditional media companies and establish their brand as a hub for quality and diverse content.
In an ever-evolving market landscape, rebranding is not merely a luxury; it’s often a necessity. It presents businesses with the opportunity to resonate more deeply with their audience, align with current market trends, and signal growth or evolution.
While embracing the winds of change and the prospects they bring, it’s crucial for businesses to remember their roots. The balancing act lies in evolving with the times while remaining unwaveringly true to core values. So, as you consider rebranding, keep an eye on the horizon without losing sight of the foundation that brought you here. Embrace change, let your essence shine through.
Conclusion
In conclusion, rebranding your business is a strategic tool that allows companies to adapt, differentiate, and thrive in a competitive business landscape. By understanding the purpose, process, and examples of successful rebranding, companies can embark on their own rebranding journey while avoiding common pitfalls. Remember, rebranding is not just a visual overhaul, but an opportunity to reaffirm the company’s values, connect with customers, and secure long-term success.
Rebranding of a company is a significant endeavor that requires careful planning and execution. By following a structured process, companies can ensure that their new brand resonates with their target audience and is integrated seamlessly across all touchpoints. Whether it’s to reflect company growth, address market evolution, or simply keep up with changing times, a successful rebrand can breathe new life into a business, driving it forward into its next chapter.
