Rossiya invites bids for makeover

Russian web looks to Europe, US for new image

By NICK HOLDSWORTH

Russia’s second-biggest state broadcaster, Rossiya, is planning a $500,000 redesign of its brand and image.

International design companies reported to have been invited to bid for the makeover include U.S. firms Belief and Freedom Active, the U.K.’s Lambie Nairn (responsible for the BBC News revamp), Bruce Dunlop, Kemistry and Red Bee and French firm View.

Rossiya, part of VGTRK (All Russian State Television and Radio Co.), sports a logo based on its name and a simplified version of the Russian Federation tricolor flag that was devised by Russia’s Shakhrai Design House.

A spokeswoman for the channel declined to comment Tuesday on details of the contract but it is expected to be awarded soon to give the successful bidder time to complete the rebranding before the fall TV season opens in September.