Twitter Now X List Of 12 Companies That Changed Their Names
In the ever-evolving world of business, companies often find themselves at crossroads where a change in identity becomes necessary to adapt to new market trends, rebrand, or even distance themselves from a negative image. Twitter Now X has compiled a list of twelve iconic companies that have undergone significant name changes over the years. Let’s take a closer look at how these companies transformed their identities and the reasons behind it.
1. Backrub became Google
Back in 1996, two Stanford University PhD students, Larry Page and Sergey Brin, developed a search engine called Backrub. However, they decided to change the name to Google in 1997, deriving it from the mathematical term “googol” – representing the immense amount of information the search engine could organize.
2. Brad’s Drink to Pepsi-Cola
Pepsi-Cola started as a simple concoction called “Brad’s Drink” in 1893 by a pharmacist named Caleb Bradham. However, in 1898, Bradham rebranded his creation as “Pepsi-Cola,” combining the digestive enzyme pepsin and kola nuts used in the beverage.
3. Tokyo Tsushin Kogyo rebranded to Sony
Originally founded in 1946 as Tokyo Tsushin Kogyo, the Japanese electronics company decided to adopt a simpler name in 1958. The founders settled on “Sony,” a combination of the Latin word “sonus” (sound) and “sonny,” which was the American slang term for a young boy at the time.
4. Scientific Toolworks to Motorola
Scientific Toolworks was founded in Chicago in 1928, specializing in making automotive radios. The company transitioned into producing two-way radios and later renamed itself Motorola in 1930. The new name derived from “motor” (for motorcar) and “ola” (which was commonly associated with sound).
5. Blue Ribbon Sports to Nike
Originally established as Blue Ribbon Sports in 1964, the company primarily acted as a distributor for Japanese shoe company Onitsuka Tiger. However, in 1971, the founders decided to rebrand, opting for the name Nike, inspired by the Greek goddess of victory.
6. Jerry’s Guide to the World Wide Web became Yahoo!
In 1994, Stanford University students Jerry Yang and David Filo created a website called “Jerry’s Guide to the World Wide Web.” Recognizing the need for a simpler name, they settled on Yahoo!, an acronym for “Yet Another Hierarchical Officious Oracle.”
7. Marafuku Company changed to Nintendo
Nintendo, the gaming giant we know today, initially started as the Marafuku Company in 1889, producing handmade hanafuda playing cards. In 1963, the company changed its name to Nintendo Co., Ltd., which can be translated to “Leave luck to heaven” in English.
8. Brad’s Drink to Coca-Cola
Coca-Cola makes another appearance on this list, but this time it is about its own name change. The soda beverage was initially formulated by a pharmacist named John Pemberton in 1886 and was sold as “Brad’s Drink.” However, the inventor’s partner, Frank Robinson, renamed it Coca-Cola, combining two of the beverage’s key ingredients.
9. AuctionWeb to eBay
In 1995, Pierre Omidyar created a simple online auction platform called AuctionWeb. As the platform grew, the name no longer reflected its expanding services. So, in 1997, Omidyar changed the name to eBay, symbolizing the broadening global reach of the platform.
10. Confinity into PayPal
Originally founded as Confinity in 1998, the company focused on developing security software for handheld devices. However, in 1999, they launched an online payment system, which rapidly gained popularity. Recognizing its potential, Confinity rebranded itself as PayPal in 2001.
11. Sound of Music into Best Buy
Starting in 1966 as a simple audio equipment store called Sound of Music, the company expanded to sell a wider range of electronics. In 1983, they adopted the name Best Buy, reflecting their commitment to providing the best consumer electronics buying experience.
12. DrivUrSelf to Hertz
Hertz, one of the most prominent car rental companies globally, had quite a different name when it started in 1918. Originally called DrivUrSelf, the name was later changed to Hertz, after the founder’s partner and landlord, John D. Hertz.
Change is an inevitable part of progress, and these companies recognized the importance of adapting to new circumstances and audiences. Their successful rebranding efforts have not only allowed them to thrive in ever-changing markets but have also solidified their positions as household names. So, the next time you come across any of these businesses, take a moment to appreciate the journey they took to become the brands we know and love today.
