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The Canadian National (CN) Railway Company’s vast scale and strong brand identity have led to the continuous creation of practical products and branded memorabilia over the years. Following the company’s highly successful visual overhaul in 1960 — spearheaded by James Valkus Associates in New York, with Allan Fleming designing the iconic logo at Cooper & Beatty in Toronto, and Gagnon/Valkus in Montréal overseeing much of its implementation — CN firmly positioned itself as a forward-thinking, modern organization. This transformation reinforced its progressive image, both internally and in the public eye, through strategic and consistent branding.

This unassuming CN-branded envelope (No. 9 size) reflects the care and attention given to even the most ordinary office supplies. It features a red CN logo, prominently displayed top left, accompanied by bilingual versions of the company name (in English and French of course). The envelope reinforces CN’s commitment to consistency in branding — even in the smallest of items. Subtly, the envelope’s utilitarian yet refined aesthetic mirrors the efficiency and reliability of CN’s freight and communication networks, making it more than just stationery — it’s a continuation of the brand’s legacy.

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