October 10, 2024, 3:30 pm | Updated: 10/10/2024 at 17:55
Nottingham Building Society has rebranded in the name of ‘financial diversity’.
Photo: Google
Growing up in Nottingham, it was impossible to escape the legend surrounding its most famous folk hero.
From the Maid Marian Way to the brewery’s logo and the world-famous statue that stands proudly outside the town’s castle. Robin Hood was inevitable.
Yes, other towns (notably Wakefield) would try to claim him, but he was a son of Nottingham. A heroic outlaw who, along with the merry men, took on the evil sheriff… and won.
Charismatic and defiant defender of the poor, Robin Hood inspires and entertains new generations to this day.
But not Nottingham Building Society bosses. Instead of using him as an inspiration, they seem determined to ignore the legacy because someone who “robbed from the rich to give to the poor” doesn’t reflect the company’s “financial diversity.”
And what have they chosen instead of the image of the world famous folk hero?
Clever with an N. I won’t rush you. Scary to think what it cost.
Nottingham Building Society says this is a “comprehensive” rebrand.
Nonsense.
This logo means absolutely nothing. It doesn’t stand out or say anything about Nottingham.
It seems Hollywood appreciates the legendary outlaw more than some people in Nottingham.
Take Sherwood Forest for example, a few years ago I went with my young son in the frustrated hope of a fun day in the forest learning about the legend and stories of Robin Hood.
There was no mention of folk legends, nothing was built on Major Oak, and the store was largely stocked with sustainable stuff.
He thought it was boring and frankly so did I. Now he connects Sherwood Forest with mostly horse poo bridles!
But back to Nottingham Building Society.
I urge them to reconsider. Robin Hood is a folk legend.
You could argue that his gang, which included Maid Marian, Friar Tuck and Little John, were trying to help the less fortunate.
Isn’t it a good thing that a financial institution follows that.