How do I implement BIMI for multiple brands with subdomains?
Summary
What email marketers say10Marketer opinions
Marketer from Email Geeks shares that the selector is an option, but at this point I don’t believe it is widely used, so I would go with the default selector and focus on BIMI records for subdomains.
Email marketer from Reddit explains that if each subdomain represents a distinct brand, then each subdomain needs its own BIMI record. However, a single organizational-level DMARC policy can apply if configured correctly.
Marketer from Email Geeks explains that BIMI can be published at the Org Domain, or a specific sub-domain, and you do not need to apply BIMI at the Org, but your Org (and sub-domains thereof) must have quarantine/reject.
Marketer from Email Geeks shares that one step that was omitted is getting a VMC from a VMA - i.e. a cert which validates the trademark image to be used.
Marketer from Email Geeks shares that for brands, BIMI has a _selector_ header which allows different logos to be displayed, presumably for different sending sub-domains.
Email marketer from Mailhardener Blog shares that implementing BIMI for multiple brands, especially with subdomains, can become complex due to the need for unique SVG logos and potentially Verified Mark Certificates (VMCs) for each brand. They recommend organizing BIMI records carefully to avoid conflicts and ensure proper display across different email clients.
Email marketer from ZeroBounce Blog shares that BIMI enhances brand recognition in the inbox. For companies with multiple brands, implementing BIMI across all subdomains can lead to a consistent and trustworthy brand image.
Email marketer from LinkedIn explains that consistent branding across all subdomains helps in establishing a strong brand presence. Use BIMI to ensure all brands that the company owns, internal or external, have that brand consistency in their logo.
Email marketer from GlockApps Blog recommends using BIMI testing tools to ensure correct implementation. These tools can check for DNS record errors, logo display issues, and VMC validation problems. This is important when managing multiple brands.
Email marketer from EmailGeek Forum shares that using a structured approach to managing BIMI records, especially for multiple brands with subdomains, is crucial. They recommend using a spreadsheet or database to track each brand's DMARC policy, SVG logo location, and VMC status.
What the experts say3Expert opinions
Expert from Email Geeks explains that BIMI is all about the domain name. If by brand they mean subdomains, that’s one thing. If they mean different domains then each one will need to do BIMI independently.
Expert from Email Geeks explains that BIMI should be published at the base domain level, and some ISPs may not support it if it’s only implemented at the subdomain. Also, DMARC-for-BIMI should be published at the organizational domain level.
Expert from Word to the Wise explains that if a company has many different domains, or brands using their own subdomains, they would need to ensure BIMI records are individually set up for each one. It is important to check organizational guidelines as organizational-level BIMI is preferred.
What the documentation says4Technical articles
Documentation from DMARC Analyzer explains that BIMI requires a strict DMARC policy of 'quarantine' or 'reject'. This policy must be in place for the domain or subdomain where BIMI is implemented. For multiple brands, ensure each has a DMARC policy meeting this requirement.
Documentation from DigiCert Website explains that to implement BIMI fully, a Verified Mark Certificate (VMC) is required to validate the trademarked logo. This is essential for BIMI to work in major email clients like Gmail and Apple Mail. For multiple brands, each logo requires its own VMC.
Documentation from Entrust explains the process of acquiring a VMC. This involves validating the trademark with an authorized agency and submitting the SVG logo for verification. Each brand will need to independently go through this process.
Documentation from BIMI Group Website explains that BIMI is implemented at the domain level. Each domain (or subdomain treated as a separate brand) requires its own BIMI record. For multiple brands with distinct domains, each needs independent BIMI setup. Subdomains can leverage organizational DMARC policies but still need individual BIMI records.