WORLD – Coca-Cola has once again been ranked as the world’s most valuable non-alcoholic drinks brand with a brand value of US$35 billion.
According to a report by Brand Finance, the brand achieved the only AAA+ brand strength rating in the category, with its Brand Strength Index (BSI) score increasing by 0.8 points to 90.4 out of 100.
Coca-Cola’s success is attributed to its effective marketing strategies, including the memorable 2023 Christmas campaign, “The World Needs More Santas,” which strengthened its emotional connection with consumers. Brand Finance notes that Coca-Cola’s dynamic marketing investments in the 2023 financial year have driven growth and addressed various consumer needs, further solidifying its position at the top.
Savio D’Souza, Valuation Director at Brand Finance, stated, “The non-alcoholic beverage industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, driven by a confluence of factors including health consciousness, changing consumer preferences, and a desire for innovative and exciting taste experiences.
As consumers continue to seek out functional beverages, sustainable practices, and unique flavour profiles, the sector is poised for an exciting era of expansion.”
Pepsi ranked second in the report, with its brand value increasing by 10 percent to us$202.2 billion.
Nongfu Spring, a major player in China’s beverage industry, recorded the largest brand value growth by percentage among non-alcoholic drinks brands, with a 102 percent increase to US$8.3 billion.
This growth was driven by the brand’s expansion in the ready-to-drink (RTD) tea market, particularly through its Oriental Leaf product, which has gained significant popularity on social media platforms like Weibo.
Coca-Cola also achieved the highest Sustainability Perceptions Value (SPV) at US$5.2 billion, while Pepsi recorded the highest positive gap value of $212 million among brands in the rankings.
Wine and Champagne sector
In the wine and champagne sector, Moët & Chandon maintained its position as the top brand, with a brand value of US$1.4 billion.
Other notable brands in the top four include Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, and Dom Pérignon, all produced by luxury conglomerate LVMH.
Henry Farr, Director at Brand Finance, remarked: “Companies adopting practices like reducing pesticide use, recycling water, and ensuring fair treatment for vineyard workers are becoming increasingly appealing to consumers.”
Food Brands category
In the food brands category, Nestle SA continues to hold the top spot as the world’s most valuable food brand, despite a 7 percent decrease in brand value from US$22.4 billion to US$20.8 billion.
Brand Finance attributes Nestle’s strong brand equity and resilience as key factors in maintaining its leadership position in the global food industry, a position it has held since the first report was published in 2015.
Meanwhile, PepsiCo’s Lay’s brand ranked as the second most valuable food brand, with a 9 percent increase in brand value to US$12 billion.
The report attributes Lay’s growth to strong financial performance and innovative product offerings, such as the Flavour Swap and MAX lineups.
Overall, the food and beverage sector experienced a 4 percent decrease in brand value from the previous year, totalling approximately US$268 billion.
Despite this decline, D’Souza emphasized the opportunities for innovation within the industry, noting that brands that adapt to emerging trends and demonstrate strong brand purpose will thrive in the evolving market landscape.
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