It's a question that echoes across the Internet, on blogs and message boards, and in the content of a specialty wiki called Brickipedia: "Why are Legos so expensive?" Our search for an answer starts in Denmark, and ends in the playrooms of countless children around the world.
J.C. Penney hasn't even launched its new logo yet, but the critics aren't wasting any time in trashing it. Why do companies repackage themselves -- and what happens when customers don't like the new look? Just ask Gap or Tropicana, both of which quickly reverted to what they had previously.
Struggling department store operator JCPenney, which last month said it would shutter five department stores, 19 outlet stores and two call centers, unveiled the most substantial change to its logo in four decades as it tries to boost sales by pitching itself as a more modern retailer.
When people donate money to a politician, all they usually get is a letter of thanks. Supporters of New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie can now get something more: a selection of branded merchandise.
Colonel Sanders pulled it off, and so has Steve Jobs. Yet few companies allow one individual to represent their brand. Why not? The risks are large, and, well, few CEOs are actually good at it.
A fake oil tycoon. The biggest sports event in the world. A Formula One racing team. What do they have in common? They're all part of branding initiatives by solar panel makers seeking to make their names in a fast-growing industry.
Tesla Motors has plenty of skeptics. But make no mistake: Its sleek sports car has fired up the imagination of Silicon Valley's wealthy trend-setters. This excitement bodes very well for Elon Musk's auto start-up.
Vudu. JooJoo. Boorah. It almost seems as if companies randomly pick names out of a hat. But you would be surprised at how much actual thought (and money) goes into the process of dubbing a tobacco maker 'Altria' or an instant coffee 'Via.'
In a move that could start the drive to rehabilitate his flailing brand, Tiger Woods has announced plans to return to golf next month at the Masters Tournament. Will he be able to hit his brand out of the rough?
