A UK building society has been met with a barrage of angry customers accusing it of ‘going woke’ and ‘cancelling Robin Hood’ after it unveiled a dramatic new logo and branding.
The Nottingham Building Society has for year used Robin Hood in its logo, a legendary figure of English folklore who is said to hail from the Nottinghamshire or South Yorkshire area (which is also why Doncaster Sheffield Airport called itself Robin Hood Airport).
But today, The Nottingham announced a ‘brand new look’ which they said reflects the business’ ‘commitment to inclusivity’ – and Robin Hood is no more.
The company said: “We’re excited to introduce our new brand look, reflecting our commitment to inclusivity, progress and community. For 175+ years, we’ve supported unique financial journeys and now we’re evolving to better meet your needs. Welcome to a different kind of society! #FinancialDiversity”
The new logo shows a twisty N shape on a sharp lime green background.
Customers met the change with outrage.
@icehockeyu said: “What a joke! What has Robin Hood done? Please explain”
@pop_hill said: “Robin Hood’s been cancelled then in the name of diversity.
I note the Nottingham Guy Fawkes night bonfire has also been cancelled.”
@kellie136642 said: “This logo is ridiculous. Means nothing about Nottingham or the building society. It doesn’t stand out, doesn’t mean anything… waste of money in my eyes! Ruined a well known brand and what is wrong with celebrating/using a well known English legend!”
@heyblondie said: “What on earth is this logo???!!! It looks like something you see under a microscope. Absolutely awful. Nottingham and Robin Hood go together. All around the world if you say you’re from Nottingham people reply with Robin Hood. Terrible decision.”
@starwars522 said: “I’m so glad that I don’t have any money in a woke bank.”
@lin_dies said: “Go woke go broke I will be pulling my money out asap”
@stecornes said: “Please explain why a silly black squiggle on a green dot is inclusive? More woke nonsense!”
But a few hit out at the outcry too, as @an_dy_moo_dy said: “People threatening to withdraw their money because a financial business changed it’s logo from a fictional thief and robber to their initial in a fancy font is the only ‘woke’ thing happening here. Hilarious.”