News

Popeyes' brand refresh featured in graphic design exhibit

October 17, 2011

Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, a division of AFC Enterprises Inc., will be featured as one of the 15 most relevant and successful brand refreshes in the past few years at the "Graphic Design Now: In Production" exhibition opening Oct. 22 at the Walker Art Center, Minneapolis, Minn.

In 2008, Popeyes underwent a comprehensive brand transformation to emphasize its distinctive Louisiana heritage. As part of this initiative, Austin-based Pentagram Design spearheaded the transition with a more contemporary logo and brand identity.

"Prior to the design change, the brand was in need of a fresh look, with a more contemporary design that would better capture its Louisiana heritage, and appeal to a younger demographic," said Dick Lynch, Popeyes chief marketing officer. "To achieve this look, Popeyes continued the use of its well-known 'dancing letters' but gave them an updated look and feel. We are honored the changes we feel visually express Popeyes youthful brand personality have been recognized as top notch."

Popeyes will be featured on an exhibit wall dedicated to "Brand New" with 15 logos. Its logo is one of two designed by Pentagram Design, along with Bausch & Lomb.

Other brands featured include Starbucks, Nickelodeon, AOL and Hebrew National.

The exhibit will be featured at the Walker Art Center from through Jan. 22, 2012 and will make a second appearance at the Smithsonian Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum in New York City during the summer 2012. The brand's logo will also be featured in the exhibition's catalog, produced by the Walker Art Center.

Popeyes currently utilizes four brand identifying logos: horizontal Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen logo; Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen seal, a circle crest containing a "P" icon and traditional Louisiana fleurs-de-lis symbol; Popeyes dancing "P"; and Popeyes horizontal logo.

The color choices – red and orange – were chosen to emulate characteristic Louisiana seasonings featured in many of Popeyes' signature items.

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