McDonald’s introduced its modern red-and-yellow “M” logo, designed by Jim Schindler, in 1968.
The design retained the two Golden Arches but joined them visually into a single, instantly recognizable letter M. This version became more suitable for national and international use than the earlier freestanding arches displayed on restaurant buildings.
Jim Schindler, a McDonald’s construction and design executive, created the joined form while working on the company’s visual identity. The logo’s strong geometry allowed it to work on signs, packaging, uniforms, and advertising at many sizes.
The date is sometimes confused with 1962, when the arches became an important part of McDonald’s identity and the company adopted a more standardized logo treatment. The joined Golden Arches, however, are generally dated to 1968.