KUED-Channel 7 is about to change how it markets itself — as of Nov. 25, it will be known as PBS Utah, complete with a new logo, a new color palette and new graphics.
The change has been in the works for months. And it was made possible, in no small part, by KBYU-Channel 11′s decision to cut its ties to the Public Broadcasting Service, leaving KUED as the sole PBS station in the state.
(KBYU began simulcasting BYUtv programming in July 2018.)
The impending change is one of style, not substance. The station will, of course, maintain the same KUED call letters and operate as Channel 7.
(Courtesy KUED) Channel 7's old logo featured its call letters and a red number 7.
But the red number 7 that has long been a part of the station’s identity will disappear, replaced by a blue PBS logo and the words “PBS Utah.”
“Although the rebrand is a big change, PBS Utah will be the same station that everyone values and loves,” said general manager James Morgese. “We’ll have the same programs, the same people behind the scenes, and the same commitment to our mission and community.”
The change coincides with the new branding that PBS will be rolling out in the coming months — including “a refreshed logo, bold color palette, custom typeface and illustration style.” It’s not a huge change; it’s more of a tweak as PBS gets set to celebrate the 50th anniversary of its launch on Oct. 5, 1970.
(Courtesy PBS) The Public Broadcasting Service as tweaked its logo.
“Our new look and feel better represents how we are doing that in today’s digital age, while also preserving the most iconic aspects of this beloved brand,” said Ira Rubenstein, PBS’ chief digital and marketing officer.
“This is an exciting change that makes it clear who we are and what we do and aligns us closer with a trusted and respected national institution,” said Johanna Hamilton, KUED's director of marketing and communications.
The station’s website will change to pbsutah.org, and KUED Kids will change to PBS KIDS Utah.
