Tag Archives: branding

Peter Arnell Shares Branding Insights on Our Way Podcast with Paul Anka and Skip Bronson

Peter Arnell, the legendary branding and design expert, recently joined Paul Anka and Skip Bronson on their podcast, Our Way, for an engaging discussion on the evolution of branding, creativity, and storytelling in today’s competitive market. The episode provides a deep dive into Arnell’s extensive career, revealing the strategies and philosophies that have positioned him as one of the most influential figures in branding and design.

Peter Arnell’s Background and Impact

For over 40 years, Peter Arnell has been a pioneering force in graphic design and marketing, reshaping the visual identities of some of the world’s most recognizable brands. His ability to merge art with commerce has made him a leader in the advertising and branding space, setting new industry standards with his innovative approach to design. His work has been instrumental in transforming brand identities in media and advertising, and his unique vision has helped bridge the gap between traditional marketing and cutting-edge digital branding strategies. Some of the high profile campaigns that he has directed have included those for Chanel, Pepsi, Apple and DKNY (among many others).

Podcast Details

  • Show: “Our Way”
  • Episode: Season 1, Episode 34
  • Duration: 1 hour and 21 minutes
  • Release Date: February 12, 2025

During the episode, the podcast hosts—Paul Anka and Skip Bronson—conduct an in-depth interview, providing listeners with insights into Arnell’s career, his influence on the design and marketing world, and the philosophies that have driven his success. Listeners will gain an understanding of how creativity, strategic branding, and marketing ingenuity have come together to shape some of the most recognizable brands in the world. The episode can be enjoyed on Apple Podcasts and Omny.fm.

To explore more about Peter Arnell’s work and professional journey, visit his official website: peterarnell.com.

Mountain Dew Joins the Retro Revolution

A wave of nostalgia is sweeping through corporate America as major brands return to their roots, with Mountain Dew becoming the latest to embrace retro-inspired design. The beverage giant announced its first major brand refresh since 2009, planning to “reclaim the mountain” with a visual identity that harkens back to its 76-year heritage.

This strategic pivot to vintage-inspired branding reflects a broader industry trend. Pepsi recently ditched its modern logo for a simplified design that echoes its past, while Burger King recently made headlines by eliminating the blue swoop it added in 1999 in favor of a more classic look. Coca-Cola has been consistently leveraging its heritage, featuring its iconic script logo and vintage-inspired packaging across campaigns. Even in the fashion sector, Levi’s has amplified its historical appeal, while sportswear giants Adidas and Nike regularly release retro-inspired collections that capitalize on decades-old designs.

The attraction to vintage aesthetics isn’t just about looking backward. According to Umi Patel, VP of consumer insights and analytics at PepsiCo Beverages North America, the nostalgic approach has tested particularly well with Generation Z and millennial consumers. Mountain Dew’s new design incorporates elements from its past, including the reintegration of the word “mountain” and a nod to its founding date of 1948, when it was created as a mixer in the Tennessee Smoky Mountains. The updated logo also hints at this and utilizes vintage travel poster-inspired mountain imagery, and citrus-themed colors evocative of the brand’s outdoor heritage.

This trend toward heritage-inspired branding reflects consumers’ desire for authenticity and familiarity in an increasingly digital world. As brands compete for attention in a crowded marketplace, the strategic use of nostalgia has emerged as a powerful tool for creating emotional connections with consumers while maintaining brand relevance for future generations.