10 Famous Businesses That Changed Their Names

In the world of business, a name can be a powerful asset. It can encapsulate a company’s identity, convey its values, and leave a lasting impression on customers. However, there are times when a business decides to change its name for various reasons, whether it’s to rebrand, adapt to a shifting market, or simply because the old name no longer reflects its mission. In this article, we’ll explore 10 famous businesses that made the bold decision to change their names and the impact it had on their success.

1. Google (formerly Backrub)

Before it became the household name for online search, Google was originally called “Backrub.” In 1997, Larry Page and Sergey Brin decided to rename their search engine to “Google,” a play on the mathematical term “googol.” This name change marked the beginning of a tech giant.

2. Pepsi-Cola (formerly Brad’s Drink)

In 1893, Caleb Bradham created a drink he initially called “Brad’s Drink.” It wasn’t until 1898 that he changed its name to “Pepsi-Cola.” The rebranding was aimed at emphasizing its ingredients—pepsin and cola nuts—and has since become one of the world’s most iconic soda brands.

3. IBM (formerly CTR)

International Business Machines Corporation, or IBM, started its journey in 1911 as the Computing-Tabulating-Recording Company (CTR). In 1924, a name change to IBM marked a shift towards focusing on information technology, which set the stage for its future as a technology leader.

4. Apple Inc. (formerly Apple Computer, Inc.)

When Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak founded their company in 1976, it was named “Apple Computer, Inc.” However, in 2007, as Apple expanded into various product lines beyond computers, the name was simplified to “Apple Inc.” This change reflected their evolution into a multifaceted tech giant.

5. Nike (formerly Blue Ribbon Sports)

Before it became synonymous with sportswear and footwear, Nike operated under the name “Blue Ribbon Sports” when it was founded in 1964. A name inspired by the Greek winged goddess of victory, Nike, perfectly encapsulated their brand’s ethos.

6. Twitter (formerly Twttr)

When Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey initially launched the platform in 2006, it was known as “Twttr.” The name was later changed to “Twitter” to reflect the sound of a bird’s chirping and to broaden its appeal.

7. Starbucks (formerly Starbucks Coffee, Tea, and Spices)

Starbucks, the coffeehouse chain we know today, started as a small store in Seattle selling coffee beans and equipment in 1971. Originally named “Starbucks Coffee, Tea, and Spices,” the name was shortened to “Starbucks Coffee” in 1987, simplifying the brand for a wider audience.

8. eBay (formerly AuctionWeb)

Before becoming the online marketplace juggernaut it is today, eBay was initially known as “AuctionWeb” when it launched in 1995. A simple name change in 1997 helped solidify its identity in the e-commerce world.

9. Xerox (formerly The Haloid Photographic Company)

Xerox, a pioneer in photocopying technology, was originally known as “The Haloid Photographic Company” when it was founded in 1906. The name was changed to “Xerox Corporation” in 1961, giving birth to the term “xerox” as a synonym for photocopying.

10. Nintendo (formerly Marufuku Co. Ltd.)

One of the gaming industry’s giants, Nintendo, began as “Marufuku Co. Ltd.” in 1889, operating as a playing card company. In 1963, they adopted the name “Nintendo,” a fusion of the Japanese words “nin-ten-do,” which roughly translates to “leave luck to heaven,” reflecting their journey into the gaming world.

These famous businesses demonstrate that a name change can be a strategic move to redefine a company’s identity, broaden its market appeal, or signify a shift in focus. Whether through simplification, rebranding, or the need to adapt to a changing landscape, these name changes have played a pivotal role in the success stories of these iconic companies. It goes to show that sometimes, a change of name can be the first step toward lasting success in the business world.