Winter Olympics in Canada a Festival of Brand Champions

I look forward to many posts over the next couple of weeks that recognize those who understand what it means to be a brand champion during the Winter Olympics in Vancouver. Today I highlight the host nation. Next to the UK, I think Canada maybe a nation that gets branding more than any other. Canadians realize that a brand is more than a logo, it is about culture and mission.

Last fall I had the pleasure of sharing a keynote podium with some of the designers for the Vancouver games. They indicated that the concept driving design for the Olympics is, "Hello, We Are Canada." How appropriate that culture would be guiding the development of all aspects of the games. You could see that last night in the Opening Ceremonies, and of course we will see more in the next two weeks.

Canada you know what it means to be a brand champion. I know that you will recruit and retain many champions of your brand this month. I am one forever!

Rex Whisman

Brand Champions Blog

BrandED Consultants Group

Comments

[Peter Routsis]

Dear Rex,
As a proud Canadian, now living in the USA, watching the Olympics from south of the border and reading all the commentary has been both emotional and inspiring.

I am also someone deeply interested in the concept of brand and I agree with your definition. The Canadian brand is a much younger brand than many other nation brands including the USA brand. As a result, our purpose/mission and culture are just now taking form. I will continue to observe with great interest to see if the Canada brand can develop brand equity in the form of goodwill and influence among their fellow nation states through their purpose/mission and culture.

[Rex Whisman]

Peter thanks for sharing your perspective. Canada gets it!