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This article explores the most controversial rebrands and logo redesigns of 2025, highlighting reactions from the public and media. It covers cases like Cracker Barrel's quick reversal of its new logo and the backlash against networks like MSNBC and CNBC. Other notable examples include HBO Max's identity crisis and the contentious renaming of the Kennedy Center.
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Rebranding has become a risky endeavor, especially in 2025, where any logo change can spark widespread outrage. The article highlights several controversial rebrands, starting with Cracker Barrel. Its attempt to modernize by removing an old man from its logo was met with significant backlash, including criticism from high-profile figures like Donald Trump. The uproar led the brand to scrap the redesign within a week, illustrating how sensitive public perception can be.
NBCUniversal's MSNBC and CNBC faced similar fates. MSNBC rebranded as MS NOW, a name that many found confusing, while CNBC's logo redesign drew mockery for its resemblance to a sinking ship. HBO's rebrand to "Max" also created chaos, with multiple name and logo changes leading to an identity crisis. PepsiCo's new logo aimed to reflect its diverse brand portfolio but was critiqued for lacking a clear identity and perceived as un-American by some.
Texas Tech's sports logo redesign was criticized for being overly simplistic, eliciting comparisons to a basic car model. Range Rover's new logo, their first in 55 years, was seen as more suited for fashion than automotive branding. Finally, the launch of Great British Railways was met with hostility for its heavy use of the union flag, with critics arguing it lacked a strong design identity. These examples showcase how rebranding efforts can easily backfire in today's polarized and opinion-driven environment.
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