Super 8 Logo PNG
The Super 8 logo, in its modern design, differs significantly from the original version. In the stylish identity introduced in 2018, three key aspects stand out, each playing an important role in creating the overall unity of the logo. The hotel chain’s name takes center stage, but the other elements are no less significant—they add informational value and emphasize the grandeur of the “Super 8” brand.
A distinctive feature of the new logo is its bright and memorable color scheme, which remains true to the traditions of the American company. Only three primary and one additional color are used, making the logo concise yet expressive. White shadows the letters and the number “8,” creating a 3D effect and adding visual depth. Thanks to this color scheme, the emblem is associated with the network, which manages over 2,900 properties.
Super 8: Brand overview
Super 8 began in 1974 in Aberdeen, South Dakota when Ron Rivett and Dennis Brown founded the company. They saw an opportunity to create a chain of affordable motels for travelers.
The idea came from Rivett’s personal experiences during his travels. He noticed a lack of clean, comfortable, and budget-friendly places to stay. This inspired him and Brown to fill the gap by launching a motel chain offering basic amenities at affordable prices.
The name “Super 8” wasn’t a random choice. “Super” highlighted the quality of service, while “8” represented the cost of a room – $8.88 per night. This was well below the rates of most competitors, which quickly caught the attention of travelers.
The first motel opened in Aberdeen in 1974 with 60 rooms. The concept was successful, and Rivett and Brown soon expanded the business. They chose a franchising model, which allowed the number of motels under the brand to grow rapidly.
In the early years, the company expanded quickly, opening new locations, primarily in small towns and along major highways. The focus was on offering clean rooms, comfortable beds, and hot showers at affordable prices. This approach attracted both travelers and potential franchisees.
By the late 1970s, the chain had grown to over 100 motels, mostly in the Midwest. Its success began to attract attention from larger players in the hotel industry.
The 1980s were a period of major growth, with the company expanding beyond the Midwest to other parts of the U.S. In 1981, it opened its 200th motel; by 1984, there were 300 locations.
In 1988, a key event in the company’s history occurred when it was acquired by Hospitality Franchise Systems (HFS), which later became part of Cendant Corporation. This acquisition gave the business more resources and hotel management expertise, fueling further growth.
In the 1990s, the company expanded internationally. In 1993, the first motel was opened in China, marking the beginning of international growth.
By the late 1990s, it had become one of the largest economy hotel chains globally, with more than 1,000 motels in North America and a growing presence in Asia.
Under Cendant’s management, the company continued to evolve in the 2000s. Investments were made in property updates and service improvements to meet the expectations of modern guests.
A major milestone came in 2006 when Cendant Corporation split into several companies, and the brand became part of Wyndham Worldwide, one of the world’s largest hotel companies.
In 2008, the company opened its 2,000th hotel, a testament to its success and ability to adapt to changing market conditions.
The 2010s saw continued growth and innovation. The company invested in modernizing its hotels, introducing new technology, and redesigning guest rooms.
In 2016, a major brand refresh called “See You on the Road Ahead” was launched, which included updated room designs, new bedding, and additional guest amenities.
A new advertising campaign launched in 2018 showcased the updated image and commitment to offering quality accommodations at affordable prices.
In 2020 and 2021, the hotel industry, including this company, faced unprecedented challenges. The company adapted by implementing enhanced cleaning and safety protocols.
By 2022, the company will continue to evolve, focusing on improving guest experiences and expanding its presence in key markets. The company also enhanced its digital platforms to make booking easier.
As of 2023, the chain remains one of the largest economy hotel networks in the world, with more than 2,800 locations across various countries. The company continues its mission to provide clean, comfortable accommodations at affordable prices while adapting to the needs of modern travelers.
Over its nearly 50-year history, the company has grown from a small motel in South Dakota to a global hotel chain. Despite changes in the industry and ownership, it has stayed true to its core concept, offering millions of travelers affordable, quality accommodations worldwide.
Meaning and History
What is Super 8?
This affordable motel chain has become a staple of road trips and budget travel in America. Recognizable by its red and yellow sign, the chain offers basic accommodations at hundreds of locations across North America. The company attracts budget-conscious travelers by offering clean rooms with free Wi-Fi and breakfast. It is preferred for truckers, drivers, and families seeking inexpensive places to stay along highways and small towns. The chain has tried to improve its services by updating breakfast menus and modernizing room decor while remaining an affordable option for budget travelers.
1973 – 2008
The “Super 8 Motel” company was founded in 1973 as a continuation of a marketing campaign created by Dennis Brown a year earlier. The logo, introduced in the same year, embodied two key aspects of the brand. At that time, symbolism dominated the identity, and the logo was designed as a sign reminiscent of an address plaque or a house entry sign. This unconventional and original form gave the logo a unique charm, but its main advantage was its ability to hold significant information. At first glance, it was clear that the logo was associated with motels.
The company name further emphasized this, enclosed in a distinctive frame. The inner background of the logo was yellow, while the letters stood out in red. This color combination relied on contrast, making the logo easy to remember. At the center of the composition was the number “8,” rendered in black. This number was not chosen randomly; it reflected the cost of room rentals in the motel chain, which was $8.88. Thus, the logo symbolizes affordable lodging at an attractive price, highlighting the value for customers.
2008 – 2018
2008, the Super 8 logo changed, becoming more elegant and refined. The bright and original design of the previous period acquired more graceful contours. The sign-like outline now resembles a vertical rectangle with rounded corners, giving the logo a sophisticated look. All elements in the new logo design were deliberately chosen. The number “8” was shifted to the bottom right corner, and the rounded addition at the lower part of the outline created a special space for it. Now, the number is rendered in red, completely contrasting to its previous version.
The logo’s background retained its brightness and sunny nature. Yellow remains a key element, symbolizing joy and pleasure, making it an ideal choice for a hotel chain. The word “motel” disappeared from the logo, and now the text element consists solely of the word “super,” emphasizing the brand name.
It is worth noting that the logo possesses a tangible sense of movement, as if it is gliding across a surface. This effect is achieved through the neat and symmetrical black semicircles with white outlines. Highlights and sharp contours give the logo depth, making it grand and majestic and underscoring its growth and stability.
2018 – today
In 2018, the traditional sign-like outline disappeared, giving way to a new design approach focused on change and innovation. A completely new element appeared instead of the familiar shapes—a horizontally placed triangle. Its outline is framed in black, and the inner space is filled with bright yellow, serving as the background for all the key elements of the emblem. The elegant letters and the familiar number “8” stand out on this smooth, uniform background.
The text is rendered in bold black italic font. The word “Super” is centered horizontally within the logo, slightly shifted to the left, creating space for the prominent number “8.” The eight appears massive and dominates the background. Its rich red color adds significance, while the white outline brings elegance and highlights its prominence.
At the bottom of the logo, the phrase “By Wyndham” shines beautifully and indicates the parent company. This phrase is written in a clean font without shadows, with capital letters standing out. It consistently draws attention and complements the overall harmony of the logo while emphasizing the brand’s connection to its originator.
