UCSL is sharing information announced by GSTC regarding upcoming changes to the GSTC-Certified logo and the transition process with certified entities and partners.

The updated logo retains the recognizable GSTC design, with the addition of the word "CERTIFIED" beneath the GSTC text to further highlight the certified status of the organization or property. Starting in 2025, all newly issued logos will adopt the updated format. For entities certified up until 2024, GSTC will re-issue the updated GSTC-Certified logos. UCSL will provide certified entities with the updated logo as soon as it is received from GSTC.

The updated logo will be included on certificates during their renewal process. There is no requirement to update or replace existing certificates before their renewal date, as both the old and new logos will be valid during the transition period.

Certified entities are required to update digital materials, including websites, to reflect the new logo. The transition period for digital updates extends until December 31, 2025. Wherever practicable, certified entities should prioritize updating digital assets promptly upon receiving the updated logo to ensure consistent branding across online platforms.

For printed materials already in use, immediate replacement is not required. We recommend transitioning to the updated logo during reprints or updates to printed materials, ideally aligning with the certification renewal period.

We would also like to remind you that the GSTC-Certified logo may only be used when it has been issued to the tourism hotel, or tour operator by a GSTC-Accredited Certification Body; and may be used only as a supplement to the CB’s logo and not alone without the presence of the CB’s logo.

For complete details, please refer to the “GSTC Logo Usage Guidelines for Certified Entities”. If you have any questions or need further clarification, please don’t hesitate to contact us at a.zavadskaya@ucsl.eu.