whereabouts a logo when you get more space to represent a brand, an icon has a harder time. This is because this slimmed-down version should make do with a lot less, but create the same familiarity. What's important about your icon and why do you actually need one?
An icon, logo or icon is usually (part of) the logo without text. It is used in places where a logo is too much of a good thing, or where there is not enough space. Think of the icons in tabs, which are also known as favicons. Because icons are regularly used in small formats, they need to be strong and able to represent the brand at a glance. They ensure that a brand is recognisable, distinctive and easy to remember.
Brandchef's icons for Akai, David's Hilversum, Slagerij Ten Wolde, LTB and Mister Highland
Favicon and menu
Icons are popular because of their simplicity and are being used more and more often. Tech companies in particular are fans. For example, for the image of their application. But your restaurant, hotel or beverage brand is also bathed by an icon. Not only as a favicon, but also on your label, packaging material, door hangers or your menu. You can use an icon anywhere when your guest or customer is already familiar with your brand. So once inside, or as a graphic element to support your brand name and/or logo. The strength of a good icon lies in its simplicity, color choice and design. In a world of information, they help make a brand clear and eye-catching. In short, an icon ensures:
• High recognisability
• Emotional engagement
• Broad applicability
Distinctive icon
It is important that an icon is meaningful to the target group and that it is original enough to stand out from competitors. Successful examples include those from Tripadvisor, Bacardi, Nike and Albert Heijn. The chance that your icon evokes the same familiarity and emotions may be somewhat smaller (after all, a huge marketing effort is the driving force behind enormous brand awareness and familiarity), but using an icon in your overall branding, in particular, ensures that you are everywhere in a subtle way and a more holistic brand out.
Do you not have a logo and/or icon yet or does your current design need a refresh? Feel free to contact us.