The Avis logo features bold red letters that embody the “We Try Harder” spirit that defined the number-two car rental company for decades.
Meaning and Symbolism
- Vibrant red conveys energy, urgency, and the competitive determination captured in Avis’s famous advertising campaign
- The clean, sans-serif wordmark projects modern efficiency and customer service focus
- The color suggests speed and automotive passion, essential attributes for car rental services
- The straightforward design reflects transparency in pricing and service, differentiating Avis from competitors
- The red color creates high visibility at major airports where business travelers make rental decisions
History and Evolution
Avis was founded in 1946 by Warren Avis at Willow Run Airport in Detroit, Michigan, pioneering the concept of airport-based car rental services. The company became the first car rental business located at an airport, revolutionizing the industry by positioning vehicles where travelers needed them most. Avis expanded nationally, establishing a network serving business and leisure travelers.
The brand gained cultural prominence through its legendary “We Try Harder” advertising campaign launched in 1962, which candidly acknowledged Avis’s position as the second-largest rental car company behind Hertz while turning this into a competitive advantage. The campaign became one of the most successful in advertising history. Avis has undergone various corporate ownership changes, ultimately becoming part of Avis Budget Group alongside Budget Rent a Car, Budget Truck Rental, and Zipcar. In 2011, Avis acquired Avis Europe plc, consolidating global operations. The 2012 logo redesign modernized the brand identity while maintaining the distinctive red color. Avis primarily features General Motors vehicles including Chevrolet and Cadillac, but also offers popular Ford and Toyota models. The company operates both company-owned airport locations and franchised off-airport sites.
Typography and Design
The Avis wordmark uses bold, contemporary sans-serif letterforms that project efficiency and professional service. The typography is designed for high legibility at airport rental counters, vehicle signage, and digital booking platforms. The clean design reflects the streamlined rental experience Avis promises to business travelers and leisure customers navigating the complexities of modern travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who designed the Avis logo? The 2012 Avis logo redesign was developed by brand consultants specializing in transportation and service industries, though specific agency attribution has not been widely publicized.
When was the Avis logo last updated? The logo was redesigned in 2012 to modernize the brand identity for digital platforms while maintaining the iconic red color associated with “We Try Harder” positioning.
What do the colors in the Avis logo represent? The red color represents competitive determination, energy, and the tireless customer service ethic captured in Avis’s legendary “We Try Harder” campaign that defined the brand for decades.