Today it’s perhaps the most recognized corporate symbols around the world. However the first time a drawing of a red, white and blue hot air balloon was proposed to be the RE/MAX logo by two franchisees in 1977, it was actually rejected. They were allowed, however, to purchase a balloon for special occasions.
The RE/MAX Balloon – Then & Now
The following year, the franchisees made their case again at a regional meeting – this time around with footage of the balloon flying in the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.
The response was unanimous: “No.”
It wasn’t until the balloon starred within an 8-week TV commercial campaign (with footage shot by RE/MAX founder Dave Liniger, who is also a Cessna pilot) that the company embraced the balloon as being the visual representation of the RE/MAX network’s “Above the Crowd” commitment to quality.
Subsequently, the company’s number of balloons has increased to 120 aircraft that fly over 26 countries around the globe. Agents and brokers utilize the balloons at fundraisers, open houses, grand opening and community events. Some RE/MAX balloon pilots conduct educational events for schools as well as other community gatherings where they teach people about hot air ballooning and give rides. In logo form, the balloon has graced millions of business cards, advertisements and “SOLD” signs.
Earlier this August, RE/MAX debuted a refreshed brand for the first time in over 40 years. The balloon, needless to say, continues to be the star. The brand evolution took 24 months and included input from over 20,000 consumers. The new look is brighter, modern-day and more consistent with today’s real estate trends which include younger consumers. All things considered, at 34%, Millennials composed the most significant group of homebuyers for the fourth straight year.
In a nod to history, the first balloon together with the new RE/MAX logo will debut at this year’s Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta on October 7 when it will fly alongside a balloon with the old logo. Eventually, the complete fleet will carry the new art, however the change won’t occur overnight. The RE/MAX fleet is the largest fleet of hot air balloons on the planet. Each holds about 90,000 cubic feet of air, weighs 750 pounds and can reach an altitude of 12,500 feet without oxygen.
Have a look at maiden voyage of the new RE/MAX balloon at the 2017 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta via #BalloonFiesta and #changeisintheair.
Are you planning on buying or selling a home here in the Tampa Bay or surrounding areas? Get in touch with Nick, Cindy & Nicholas Davis with RE/MAX Premier Group, we will help you. We are always a just a click here away or call to 813-300-7116