Why Purple?

It’s one of the questions we get asked most often at Inc Dot.

“Why purple?”

And honestly, I love that people ask, because it shows they’re already thinking like a brand. They’ve noticed something consistent, something intentional, something that feels like us. That is exactly what colour is supposed to do.

After 40 years in print and design (and with ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 to back up the quality and process behind what we do), we’ve seen first-hand how colour can turn a business from “just another local company” into something recognisable, trusted, and memorable.

Colour is not decoration… it’s communication

When someone sees your logo, leaflet, signage, or even a social post, colour is usually the very first thing their brain registers. Before they read your headline. Before they process your message. Before they even decide if they like the design.

Colour sets the tone.

It can feel confident, calming, premium, playful, earthy, bold, elegant, modern, traditional… all without saying a single word. That’s why, in graphic design, colour is never just a “nice finishing touch”. It’s one of the most powerful tools we have.

So, why did we choose purple?

Purple has a fascinating history. It has long been associated with creativity, craftsmanship, imagination and quality. It’s bold without being aggressive, confident without being cold, and it has a sense of personality that feels perfect for who we are as Team Purple.

It also stands out.

In a world where so many brands default to blues, greys, blacks, and reds, purple is distinctive. It’s memorable. And for a business like ours, where our work is all about helping clients stand out through print and design, it’s fitting that we practise what we preach.

The ultimate goal of branding: becoming intangible

This is where branding gets really exciting.

The ultimate aim isn’t just to have a nice logo or a tidy colour palette. The real goal is for your brand to become so familiar that it becomes almost intangible. Something people recognise instantly, even without your name attached.

Think about it:

• A particular colour

• A shape or icon

• A typeface

• A piece of music

• Even a scent

When your target demographic sees that colour, hears that sound, or experiences that fragrance, they think of you. That’s branding at its highest level.

And that’s what we’re aiming for with purple. We want people to see that tone and instantly think: Inc Dot. Quality print. Friendly experts. Creative problem-solvers.

Colour psychology (and why it matters to local businesses)

Colour psychology isn’t magic, but it is real. Research consistently shows that colour plays a major role in how people feel about a brand, and how quickly they form an impression.

That matters hugely for local businesses here in York and across Yorkshire, because you’re often competing for attention in busy, real-world spaces: shop windows, menus, event banners, A-boards, business cards, flyers through the door.

Colour can be the difference between:

• “That looks professional, I trust them”

• “That feels cheap, I’ll pass”

Great colour choices are strategic (and inclusive)

At Inc Dot, we don’t pick colours randomly. We help clients choose palettes based on what they want customers to feel, and what they want to be remembered for.

We also consider accessibility, contrast, and clarity. Great design should be for everyone, and good colour choices help more people engage with your message easily, whether in print or on screen.

Purple is our signature… but your colour should be yours

Purple is our anchor. It’s our identity. It’s part of our story.

But your brand deserves the same thoughtful approach. Whether you’re a café, a trades business, a charity, a retailer, or a professional service, the right colour palette can help you feel consistent, confident, and instantly recognisable.

Because when your branding works properly, your customers don’t just remember what you do.

They remember you.

And if we’ve done our job right… sometimes all it takes is a flash of purple.