MUMBAI: Mastercard has announced the dropping of its name from the brand mark in select contexts. It has shared that the Mastercard Symbol, of interlocking red and yellow circles, will now stand on its own across cards. The mark will be accepted at all retail locations both in the physical and digital worlds, and major sponsorship properties.

The decision has been taken keeping in mind the continuous evolvement of the consumer and commerce landscape. The brand believes that  the Mastercard symbol, which has been the hallmark of for more than 50 years, represents it better than one word ever could, and the flexible modern design will allow it to work seamlessly across the digital landscape.

Mastercard chief marketing and communication officer Raja Rajamannar said, “Reinvention in the digital age calls for modern simplicity and with more than 80 per cent of people spontaneously recognising the Mastercard symbol without the word 'MasterCard,' we felt ready to take this next step in our brand evolution. We are proud of our rich brand heritage and are excited to see the iconic circles standing on their own."

Partner at Pentagram Michael Bierut said, “We live in a time where, increasingly, we communicate not through words but through icons and symbols. Mastercard has had the great fortune of being represented by two interlocking circles, one red, one yellow, since its founding in 1966. Now, by allowing this symbol to shine on its own, Mastercard enters an elite cadre of brands that are represented not by name, but by the symbol: an apple, a target, a swoosh. Mastercard's two interlocking circles have always represented their commitment to connecting people. Now, that commitment is given greater presence by Mastercard's status as a symbol brand."