Wayne Area Economic Development, Inc. (WAED) recently announced the launch of its new corporate identity and comprehensive branding initiative, which embraces the silhouette of an iconic landmark and a phrase that has become synonymous with the community.
The launch of Wayne America, Inc. is the culmination of over six months of work by employees, stakeholders, and volunteers, and marks a transformative moment in the organization's history.
Luke Virgil, Director of Economic Development, shared information on the changes that have taken place within the economic development department.
1. Transition to Wayne America, Inc.
On Jan. 1, 2024, WAED began doing business as Wayne America Inc. Over 30 years ago, a simple phrase added to an iconic Wayne landmark began nurturing a community identity. Wayne America, Inc. pays homage to that community identity, which has developed organically thanks to residents, businesses, institutions, visitors, stakeholders, and patrons. Thanks to its visibility on the Wayne skyline and its distinctive inscription, the water tower invokes feelings of functionality and stability but with a degree of uniqueness and wit. By incorporating this iconic reference into the organization's new corporate identity, Wayne America, Inc. has created a brand that should resonate with patrons and will communicate the organization's shared vision of progress, unique opportunities, and community stability.
2. Logo
To design a new logo, Wayne America, Inc. worked with Mandy Parker, owner at Total Graphics in Wayne. The focal point of the new logo is a silhouette of the water tower representing the City of Wayne's position as the County seat and a hub of commerce and culture for the area. A circular swirl supports and is woven around the silhouette serving as a reminder that the organization represents all of Wayne County and is made stronger by its partnerships and patrons throughout Wayne County.
3. Updated Online Presence
As part of the new branding, Wayne America, Inc. has launched a new website (www.WayneAmerica.org) and a new unified social media handle (@WayneAmerica) for Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube. The new website and four social media platforms will house content, information, opportunities, and resources, to provide patrons a multi-faceted and user-friendly hub for all things Wayne America.
"We are incredibly excited to introduce Wayne America, Inc. to our stakeholders, patrons, and the general public," Virgil said. "Our new corporate identity, branding, and logo, along with our new website and updated social media presence are the bleeding edge of our efforts to foster economic growth and sustain the vibrancy of our community."
During the launch event, Virgil also thanked all those, including city of Wayne staff and members of the Marketing Committee for providing input as the new identity was developed.
Offices for Wayne America, Inc. will continue to be located at 108 West Third Street in Wayne. Patrons may contact Wayne America, Inc. by dialing (402) 375-2240 or emailing info@WayneAmerica.org. To learn more, please visit www.WayneAmerica.org.
