How strict are VMC logo requirements for trademarked logos with off-center text?
Summary
What email marketers say8Marketer opinions
Marketer from Email Geeks asks if a CMC was requested instead of a VMC as the modifications might qualify as a modified trademarked logo.
Email marketer from EmailGeeks explains to ask the certification authority, prior to changing it, whether or not the logo deviations are OK.
Email marketer from Reddit shares that small adjustments to the logo, such as centering text, might be acceptable as long as the core branding remains recognizable. However, it's recommended to consult with the VMC provider beforehand.
Marketer from Email Geeks explains to alter the logo to appear the way you want, and ask Digicert. They'll tell you if it's deviated too much.
Marketer from Email Geeks explains that because the MUA crops the outer portion with a circular viewport you can make your outer edges a little larger to move the important bits to the center of the logo.
Email marketer from StackOverflow explains that one should consider adding padding to the logo so that it isn't cropped unexpectedly due to the viewing circle.
Email marketer from Entrust.com explains that a CMC can provide more flexibility and is more forgiving with logo variations.
Email marketer from Valimail.com explains that your logo must be a visual representation of your brand, typically a square format, and should accurately reflect your trademarked logo. Slight variations might be acceptable, but drastic alterations could lead to rejection.
What the experts say5Expert opinions
Expert from Spamresource explains that you should check the VMC CA's guidelines but you should stick with what you've got. Only make very small changes and check it out before doing it.
Expert from Email Geeks explains that a CMC exists as an option in these circumstances.
Expert from Email Geeks suggests getting an authoritative answer from your Digicert sales representative about their internal policy before modifying the logo for VMC.
Expert from Word to the Wise explains that it's better to stick with a CMC, so you have more flexibility in the logo that you present.
Expert from Email Geeks explains that the decision about VMC logo compliance is made by humans and as long as the logo is obviously the same as the trademark, rather than pixel identical, it should be fine.
What the documentation says3Technical articles
Documentation from BIMI Group explains that the VMC requires that you use a SVG file and the logo must be a visual representation of the trademark.
Documentation from DigiCert.com explains that your logo must format your logo so it matches your registered trademark.
Documentation from Sectigo.com explains that the logo used for VMC must be a valid SVG file and closely resemble your trademarked logo. Modifications should be minimal and not significantly alter the overall appearance.