Blog

The Starbucks logo story
Branding

The Starbucks logo story

The Starbucks logo is one of the most recognizable worldwide, thanks to its green color and the siren that is automatically associated with Starbucks coffee. Although the siren has been in the logo since the very beginning, the Starbucks logo has evolved since its first release in 1971. Here is the Starbucks logo timeline!

1971

Starbucks was founded in 1971 in Seattle by 3 partners Jerry Baldwin, Zev Siegl, and Gordon Bowker. Originally called Pequod, they quickly changed the name to Starbucks thanks to the advice of their designer Terry Heckler. The original logo, consisting of a mermaid with two tails, was imagined by Heckler. In Greek mythology, this mermaid attracted sailors to the coast of an island named Starbuck. So they used the image of the siren to attract coffee lovers to come and drink theirs.

First Starbucks Logo

1987

The logo drastically changed in 1987 when the company moved from Starbucks Coffee Tea and Spice to Starbucks Coffee. The logo was changed to an uncluttered design and the green color was introduced to represent freshness as well as prosperity while the company was acquired by Howard Schultz.

Starbucks Logo 1987

1992

Reworked in 1992, the third version of the logo was even more refined. The navel of the siren disappears while it is closer to the frame.

Starbucks Logo 1992

2011

It is in 2011 that the current version was adopted. Even more refined, the words Starbucks and Coffee were completely removed, as well as the black color. While retaining the legacy of the company, the new logo provides more flexibility to think beyond the coffee.

New Starbucks Logo

What do you think about the Starbucks logo story?

More tips and tricks on the blog

The Origin and Evolution of the Harley-Davidson Logo
The Origin and Evolution of the Harley-Davidson Logo
Read more
The Origin and Evolution of the Harley-Davidson Logo
Different Types of Typography and Fonts for Logo Design
Different Types of Typography and Fonts for Logo Design
Read more
Different Types of Typography and Fonts for Logo Design
How FreeLogoDesign Can Help You Build Your Brand
How FreeLogoDesign Can Help You Build Your Brand
Read more
How FreeLogoDesign Can Help You Build Your Brand

Don't wait! Create your own logo now!

Get the tools you need to improve your online presence. Design your own logo today with our free online logo maker. Try our free logo generator to make your own custom logo.
Create my logo