The rise of BP

Just one month before the Exxon-Valdez oil spill plagued the Prince William Sound in 1989, angering activists everywhere, BP unveiled a reworked logo. It had been in the shape of a shield since the 1930s, but the new logo used a more vibrant green and yellow palette than its predecessor. It remained in use until 2000.

The current Gulf Coast oil disaster and gaffe-prone CEO cast shadows on the Helios logo that has represented the company for the past ten years. BP sought to emphasize increased environmental awareness with the new logo, which refers to the Greek sun god, and the slogan "Beyond Petroleum." In 2001, the company formally became BP plc.

With the Gulf Coast of Mexico oil spill considered the worst in history, maintaining that environmental association in the future will be a challenge for BP.

For current photos of the BP oil spill, click here.

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