• Branding

The New Look of Pringles: Redefining its Identity

pringles


In an era where brand identity and environmental sustainability are increasingly pivotal to consumer loyalty and market differentiation, the story of Pringles’ rebranding journey emerges as a beacon of innovation and adaptability. As we delve into the intricacies of how this iconic brand navigated the challenges of modernizing its identity while committing to environmental responsibility, we uncover lessons and strategies that can enlighten and inspire businesses across the spectrum.

Since its introduction to the market in 1967, Pringles has stood out not only for its innovative tube-shaped packaging but also for its visual identity centered around the charismatic Mr. Pringles. Over the years, the brand has undergone a series of transformations, always maintaining a fresh and contemporary image that resonated with its audience.

In 2020, Pringles decided to give its iconic mascot, Julius Pringle (better known as Mr. P), a significant visual update, the first in more than two decades. For years, Mr. P maintained his iconic appearance, with no major changes reflecting design trends. However, recognizing the importance of adapting to contemporary visual preferences, which lean towards flatter and more simplified styles, Pringles embarked Mr. P on a renovation journey. This transformation was no easy task and took approximately two years to complete the transition to a more “flat” look. In this process, Mr. P underwent a radical change: he lost all his hair, now presenting himself completely bald. Despite this bold change, the reception has been positive, with many commenting that the new style suits him well. With his updated face, it is now possible to appreciate more clearly his bright eyes, expressive eyebrows, stylish mustache, and his iconic bow tie with his name engraved on it.

This redesign represents more than a simple aesthetic change; it marks Pringles’ commitment to evolution and modernization. The decision to adopt a simpler and flatter design reflects not only current trends in graphic design but also the brand’s desire to remain relevant and appealing to today’s audiences. Mr. P’s new image is a testament to the balance between preserving the heritage of an iconic brand and embracing change to connect with new generations.

Mr. Pringles’ Redesign: A Step Towards Modernity

The most recent redesign of the Pringles logo introduced a notable simplification of its mascot, Mr. Pringles. Previously characterized by more realistic details like expressive eyes, eyebrows, and a detailed mustache, the new design adopts a minimalist approach. This renovation not only seeks a more modern and stylized look but also aligns with current design trends, where simplicity and visual clarity gain ground. This change is a testament to Pringles’ desire to remain relevant and attractive to current and future generations, demonstrating that even the most traditional brands can be renewed without losing their essence.

pringles beforepringles after

The refresh of the Pringles logo ushers in an era where the packaging isn’t just a container but a canvas for expressive branding. Featuring prominently on this canvas is the revamped Mr. P, adorned with an expressive pair of eyebrows and an oversized red bow tie, bringing an animated charisma to the product. To further accentuate the can’s revamped aesthetic, Pringles refined its mustachioed mascot, enhancing his features to better highlight the variety of flavors each can holds. The sleeker Mr. P, with his dynamic mustache, sharper bow tie, and sparkling eyes, embodies a range of emotions that reflect the irresistible taste of Pringles crisps.

Della Lawrence, JKR’s creative director, emphasizes the central role of Mr. P in the brand’s new identity, aiming to invigorate him with a lively presence both on the shelf and in digital realms. Through this strategic redesign, Pringles not only revitalizes its mascot but also cements its position as a brand that infuses fun and personality into every product, ensuring that Mr. P continues to be synonymous with the unique Pringles experience.

Pringles has innovatively updated its iconic cans to embrace sustainability, replacing the non-recyclable steel base with recycled paper and a recyclable lid, initially available exclusively at Tesco. This change, rigorously tested to ensure 15 months of freshness, marks a major step in eco-friendly packaging, demonstrating the brand’s commitment to responsible manufacturing and adaptability.

The Unforgettable Super Bowl Spot for Pringles

In their latest commercial for the Super Bowl, Pringles took a creative leap by featuring Chris Pratt in an amusing and memorable narrative. As Pratt purchases a can of the beloved chips, the cashier remarks on his uncanny resemblance to Mr. P, the iconic, mustachioed brand mascot. Initially, Pratt brushes off the comparison, but soon, both he and those around him are swept up in the realization—they simply can’t ignore the similarity. The ad cleverly plays on this moment of recognition, using humor and the universally recognized figure of Pratt to refresh its brand identity. This approach not only entertains but firmly implants Pringles in the minds of viewers, making it a standout piece in the advertising blitz of the Super Bowl.

Conclusion

Pringles’ transformative journey in redefining its visual identity and embracing sustainability illustrates a pivotal moment in the brand’s history. This evolution underscores the brand’s enduring relevance and foresight in steering towards a more eco-conscious future. Through innovative solutions to modern challenges, Pringles exemplifies how legacy brands can stay ahead, resonating with new audiences while preserving their quintessential character. This strategic rebranding commitment to continual adaptation, innovation, and leadership in environmental stewardship showcases a harmonious blend of traditional values with modern practices.

Inspired by Pringles’ successful evolution, BlueTide invites you to embark on your own journey of brand transformation. We’re here to guide you through every step of embracing change without losing the essence of what makes your brand unique. Let’s work together to craft a brand identity that stands the test of time, resonating with current trends and future aspirations.