Members of Mica were introduced to the new, updated Mica branding at the co-operative group's autumn round of regional meetings.
Mica says the new logo received universal approval from retailers for its modern, attractive look. It retains a similar shape and colour and is easily recognisable, and yet is distinct.

Said marketing manager Michael Ball: "Whilst there had been some tweaking round the edges, the letters of the Mica logo had basically remained unchanged since their conception in the 1990s. Indeed, all previous amendments (the last of which in 2005) to our brand had come from our sister member-owned organisation, Mica South Africa.

"The Mica membership in the UK, as an increasingly confident co-operative group with its own identity, felt it was time for us to display this in our branding."

The Mica logo - the 'i' in which now takes the shape of a classic DIY tool - has been designed to take account of members' store names. The new shape allows for it to be used in fascias or standalone signs with the store name and key departments included. The size of the store's name next to the Mica logo will now be around 90% of the height.

Mica marketing material will progressively move to the new style in the New Year.

Chief executive Steve Ball added: "This is evolution, rather than revolution, and members will not be put under any pressure to update to the new branding. As a co-operative it's key that we help the members, rather than forcing anything on them. Stores looking to update uniforms, fascias, department signs etc will be able to move across to the new design as they look to renew them."

Long-standing Mica member David Neill Mica Home & DIY of Ashbourne, Derbyshire, is one of three stores which are early adopters of the new look.