The Meaning Behind the Panthers New Logo Design

The Florida Panthers unveiled a new logo at the BBT Center during a special event last week. This is the first major logo change since the fierce cat graced the NHL hockey team’s jerseys in the 1993 inaugural season in 1993.  

Why the logo change?  

At a special event last week, Panthers Chairman, Owner & Governor Vincent Viola explained that the idea for the new logo came in 2013 when he took over stewardship of the franchise. At that time, Viola said, “I believe strongly in family, work-ethic, loyalty, relentless effort and a positive attitude, and we hope to build an organization based on those principles.”

Looking to create traditions, the new logo puts an emphasis on the new era with a more mature and stoic panther inside a shield with “Florida” above the cat. According to some, the shield is a nod to army’s 101st Airborne, the “Screaming Eagles,” which was Viola’s old division.

In keeping with the old brand, the mascot still sports the familiar fierce red eyes. The team uniforms retain the recognizable Panthers Red, Panthers Blue and the yellow has been replaced by the toned down Panthers Flat Gold.

Viola said. “I think the logo harkens to the vanguard of courage; the idea that you put a shield on the hockey uniform. It’s something to protect, but you also protect it. We wanted something that began a new tradition of winning and demonstrated courage and selfless dedication to a team pursuit of victory.”

John Viola, Vincent’s son, took the lead for his family in working with Reebok on the  new uniforms. He said, “It’s not necessarily a new direction, but a new evolution, a new maturity for the franchise.”  Three versions of the new logo will be used in various contexts.

There are certainly critics but then again you can’t please everyone. Some things in design are just a matter of opinion. Personally, I like the new branding and what it stands for. It will also solve some of the reproduction challenges that the older logo presented in the past.

Does your current logo reflect your company’s core values? Is it time for an update? You should not underestimate what your logo communicates. If you are looking for professional feedback, feel free to take advantage of my complimentary 30-minute, no-obligation consultation. 

For more on the Panthers logo update, read the release on Panther’s news webpage.