Fnac Logo

Fnac LogoFnac Logo PNG

The visual sign carries the message of a good mood and entertainment. The treats are given out in the form of a compact package that depicts the Fnac logo. It is enough to open the package, and warm, pleasant emotions are guaranteed.

Fnac: Brand overview

Founded:1954
Founder:André Essel Max Théret
Headquarters:
Ivry-sur-Seine, France
Website:fnac.com
Fnac is a direct competitor to Virgin Megastores. Both brands represent retail networks that sell entertainment products: media players, DVDs, books, games, CDs, TVs. But Fnac puts itself above the regular discounted retailers because its stores contain high-end consumer goods, and retail outlets combine core business with value-added services. The company is owned by the French corporation Kering, which specializes in luxury goods and owns brands such as Alexander McQueen, Yves Saint Laurent, and Gucci.

Meaning and History

Fnac Logo History

The first Fnac store was opened in 1954. At first, it was a club for a limited number of customers: its members purchased membership discounts through Contact magazine. This sales scheme was organized by Max Théret, the bodyguard of the Russian Marxist revolutionary Leon Trotsky. Based on his socialist principles, he wanted to improve the working class’s life by lowering prices.

In 1966, the store opened its doors to everyone, after which the network began to expand actively. Fnac now has retail outlets in Spain, Portugal, France, and more exotic countries, including Congo and Qatar. They share a common visual style that underpins successful branding. It was revised several times during the leadership change, but it has always remained simple and minimalistic.

What is Fnac?

Fnac is a French retail chain known for its cultural events. It sells books, music, games, tablets, phones, computers, movies, and other similar products and also organizes autograph sessions with celebrities, concerts, and discussions. Its name comes from the phrase “Fédération nationale d’achats.”

1969 – 1985

Fnac Logo 1969-1985

When the company opened its second store, it began using a wordmark with black “Fnac” on a white background. The spacing between the letters was minimal – especially between the “f” and “n,” which connected at the top. A round font with smooth curves was used for the design.

1985 – 1997

Fnac Logo 1985-1997

In 1985, the insurance company Garantie Mutuelle des Fonctionnaires acquired a portion of Fnac’s shares. Simultaneously, the chain of stores carried out a small redesign, making the inscription white and placing it inside a bright orange square. In this version, the word was placed diagonally, but the typography style remained the same.

1997 – today

Fnac Logo 1997-present

After François-Henri Pinault became chairman of the board, the logo changed again. The designers raised the square a little, placing it on edge. This was enough to prevent it from turning into a diamond. Conversely, the lettering has been horizontally aligned. The orange color has taken on a mustard hue.

Fnac: Interesting Facts

Fnac, short for “Fédération Nationale d’Achats des Cadres,” is a French retail giant founded in 1954, known for selling cultural and electronic products.

  1. Beginnings: André Essel and Max Théret created Fnac as a discount club for managers, aiming to make cultural and tech products more accessible.
  2. Retail Innovation: Fnac introduced a new retail concept by offering a broad range of products, from books to electronics, under one roof.
  3. Cultural Hub: Besides selling products, Fnac hosts cultural events like debates and concerts, making it a key player in promoting the arts and culture.
  4. Global Expansion: Starting in France, Fnac has grown internationally with stores in countries like Spain, Brazil, and Qatar, spreading its unique blend of culture and tech retail.
  5. Fnac Darty Merger: In 2016, Fnac merged with electronics retailer Darty, enhancing its product range and strengthening its market position.
  6. Eco-Friendly Practices: Fnac is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and promoting recycling and sustainable products.
  7. Membership Benefits: The Fnac membership program offers discounts, exclusive deals, and access to cultural events, fostering customer loyalty.
  8. Awards: Fnac has earned recognition for its retail excellence and dedication to cultural enrichment.
  9. Online Presence: With a robust online store, Fnac meets consumer needs digitally and keeps up with the shift to online shopping.
  10. Supporting New Talent: Through the “Fnac Talent” program, Fnac helps emerging artists in music and literature, demonstrating its commitment to nurturing cultural growth.

Fnac has evolved from a manager’s discount retail store to an international chain at the crossroads of culture, technology, and commerce, adapting to changing consumer preferences and promoting cultural engagement.

Font and Colors

Fnac Emblem

The abbreviation, derived from the words Fédération Nationale d’Achats des Cadres, is the main distinguishing mark of the stores’ chain. The colored rectangle only complements it and creates a suitable background against which the white letters are visible. The square lettering is a popular motif for many companies. For example, a similar symbol is used by the international retailer Virgin Megastores and the French telecommunications operator Orange.

The typeface featured in the logo resembles the Molde Expanded Semi Bold, but the match isn’t 100% accurate. Judging by the letters’ appearance, Fnac designers have slightly changed the design, making the curves smoother. The original font belongs to the neo-grotesque Molde family. It was created in 2017 for the Letritas foundry. The inspiration comes from the post-Bauhaus style that originated in Switzerland.

Fnac Symbol

The orange square acts as a counterweight to the white lettering. The shade chosen by the designers is close to mustard yellow (# EBB300). The vibrant color draws attention and emphasizes the entertainment focus of the stores.

Fnac color codes

Mustard YellowHex color:#ebb300
RGB:235 179 0
CMYK:0 24 100 8
Pantone:PMS 124 C