Reopening an abandoned pub is no easy project! And designing a brand for a pub is a creative and strategic process that involves more than just picking a logo. It's about creating an identity that resonates with the pub’s target audience and reflects the unique atmosphere of the establishment.

https://www.thebarleymowbuilth.co.uk

New new owners wanted a fresh start and a new brand. I designed a logo using barley and hops and stuck to a warm barley colour palette for their branding and website.

Here are some of things we had to research as part of the branding:

Understanding the pub’s audience:

Before anything else, we had to work out know who the locals were going to be when the pub reopened. Most pubs have a few regulars - potentially students, sports enthusiasts or families. Understanding the audience helps us to tailor the brand to appeal directly to the preferences and lifestyles of the ideal clients. In this instance farmers coming to the livestock market over the road and fans of live music are the main audiences.

Create a Unique Identity:

The pub's name, logo, and design should stand out on the high street, particularly in a town or city with other pubs nearby. Looking at what makes this pub different - the regularly changing craft beer selection and live music nights - helped to shape the brand identity.

Develop a Consistent Theme:

The theme should reflect in every aspect of the pub – so in this instance barley is used in the interior decor, table decorations and in decals on the staff uniforms. It’s also used on the menu design. Whether it’s a classic Irish pub feel or a modern, industrial vibe; consistency is key to making pub branding memorable.

Storytelling:

Every pub has a story, whether it’s a rich (read spooky) history or a modern-day refurb. Sharing the story on the website, social media, and in-pub branding. Storytelling helps to connect with customers on a deeper level to build a community around the pub’s brand.

Gather Feedback and Evolve:

The proof is in the pudding though - customers can be fiercely loyal to their local - so whilst trends change, staying attuned to what the pub’s customers want is key. It's about creating an experience that customers want to return to time and again.

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