Lyle’s Golden Syrup has given its historic biblical logo a makeover, in a move that’s disappointed some Christians.
For almost 150 years, the syrup’s green packaging has donned a logo of a dead lion being swarmed by bees, referencing the biblical story of Samson killing a lion. Under the image, is the quote: “Out of the strong came forth sweetness”, which is a reference to Judges 14:14 in the Bible.
Now, in the first rebrand since 1888, the logo showcases a more modern look, ridding it of its Christian origin.
Tate & Lyle Sugars, which owns Lyle’s Golden Syrup, said it’s been “revitalised for the modern UK family” in a move to “refresh the brand’s legacy to appeal to a 21st century audience”.
The move has caused controversy, with some Christians accusing the company of trying to erase the product’s connection to its Christian founder, Abraham Lyle.
Graham Nicholls, director of the church network Affinity, told Premier Christian News "even those who are not anti-christian are so afraid to offend... that I think anything that suggets 'we're going to be less exclusive now' would be embraced".
He added that he believes the symbol has changed primarily because it is a "Christian product" and the company wants their product to be "used by the widest number of people".
Sam Margrave, a member of General Synod, told The Telegraph: “There is nothing modern about ditching tradition or sidelining Christian messaging. I enjoy Golden Syrup with my pancakes on Shrove Tuesday every year.
“I am sure the Lyle business doesn’t mind benefiting from sales and Christian branding every Easter, so why do they feel the need to eradicate their connection with their Christian founder’s iconic logo which tells a story that works for every generation? Did they ask anyone if they were offended by Christian messages?”
The company has apologised for causing any offence and maintains that the modernisation of the logo had nothing to do with wanting to get rid of the historic Christian element.
Gerald Mason, Senior Vice President of Tate & Lyle Sugars said: “Religion played absolutely no part in our decision to try something different on our syrup bottles - a product format where we regularly use different approaches to our brands.
“It makes me sad that we might have unwittingly upset people today, and I want to apologise for that. But please be assured the story of Samson and the tin isn’t going anywhere.”
