The Brand

Saint-Gobain has always known how to renew itself while remaining true to its values. Now the Group has revealed a new identity, linking its historical logo (the arches of the Pont-à-Mousson bridge are still identifiable) with its strategy based on the construction markets. The new logo is full of motion: a skyline unfolds in an explosion of color, reflecting a Saint-Gobain that, after more than three centuries of existence, is more dynamic than ever.

SAINT-GOBAIN UNVEILS ITS NEW LOGO

The logo is the expression of a brand strategy tuned to today’s communication challenges.

“Digital technology is changing how we engage with our customers. Until now, we have emphasized the decentralized nature of the Group, based on the extensive recognition our subsidiary brands enjoy among professional customers. Today, the Group wants to connect more closely with end users, the people who occupy the buildings around the world where our solutions are used. Whether people are at home, at work or on the move, Saint-Gobain materials contribute to individual wellbeing and to our collective future. Our mission? To create great living places and improve daily life.” Pierre-André de Chalendar, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Saint-Gobain

Testimonial from the Creative Director

"It was a major challenge to meet Saint-Gobain’s requirement: rejuvenate the brand and the logo by conserving the bridge and placing more emphasis on habitat and innovative materials. The design we proposed at Terre de Sienne was widely supported for its colored “skyline” and for being faithful to the bridge symbol. The bright colors express the Group’s component parts (green for the environment, blue for innovation, and red for energy) but also the joy that united employees throughout the 350th anniversary celebrations.

They also reflected the plurality of the Group’s businesses and employees in a changing world in which Saint-Gobain is clearly proud of its brand. The typeface used for the Saint-Gobain name has been rounded to make it more fluid and flexible. Lastly, I hope that everyone will find the commitment and enthusiasm in this new logo that represent the Group’s employees.” Laurent Borderie, Creative Director

THE BACKGROUND TO THE PROJECT

Saint-Gobain’s new positioning is the result of reflections dating from 2010 and intensive work on the brand over the past year. A far-reaching project that will impact all Saint-Gobain’s brands in 66 countries, it concerns the brand’s story as well as its identity.This evolution covers everything from the brand strategy itself, to the creation of a stronger identity, and communicating them inside and outside the Group.

To enrich the brand content, focus groups were held with consumers and professionals in six countries: the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy and Denmark. Quantitative and qualitative studies concerning the visual identity were conducted in France, Asia and North America. A series of marketing workshops involving Saint-Gobain businesses completed the process. In short, it was a deep reflection supported by in-depth analyses of Saint-Gobain’s business, its markets, its customers, and end users.

This approach reflects Saint-Gobain’s desire to bring together all its corporate messages and to speak with one voice to all stakeholders. Many departments have been involved, in addition to senior management and business leaders. The brand positioning must become part of day-to-day operations. Agencies Terre de Sienne for the logo and BETC for the brand story have contributed significantly to creating this clear long-term vision aimed at making Saint-Gobain a more visible and more attractive.