Corona has been named the world’s most valuable beer brand for the second consecutive year, according to Kantar’s 2025 BrandZ Global Report. The announcement coincides with Corona’s centenary celebrations and strong global performance, driven in part by the rapid growth of its non-alcoholic variant, Corona Cero.
AB InBev Dominates the Top Ten
Eight of the top ten beer brands belong to AB InBev. Budweiser ranks second, Modelo fourth, and Michelob fifth. In 2024, AB InBev reported record revenues and achieved 15% growth in underlying earnings per share. The company trades on the Brussels, Mexico City, Johannesburg, and New York stock exchanges.
Corona’s International Success and Corona Cero Surge
Corona saw double-digit growth outside Mexico in 2024. Corona Cero, its non-alcoholic beer, recorded triple-digit growth and became the first beer brand to sponsor the Olympic Games, debuting at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The brand’s “Corona 100” anniversary platform will host events across global markets through 2025.
Michelob ULTRA Rises on Health Trends
Michelob ULTRA, the fastest-growing beer brand in the U.S., moved up one place to fifth globally. Its light-beer positioning aligns with health-conscious consumer trends in North America and beyond.
Broader Beverage Market Faces Headwinds
Despite the success of leading beer brands, the overall alcohol category saw an 11% decline in brand value. Kantar attributes this drop to lower alcohol consumption—especially among younger consumers—and the rise of wellness lifestyles. The splintering of flavor-based spirits and craft-beer segments has also diluted traditional brands’ market share.
Retail and FMCG Sectors Diverge
While retail brand value has surged 48% after the pandemic—boosted by e-commerce and private labels—the food and beverage category fell 1% overall. Personal care brands declined by 5%, and the luxury sector is set to contract by 2% in 2025, due to weakening demand in China and shifts in consumer spending.
Strategic Brand Investment Is Key
Kantar CEO Chris Jansen emphasized the importance of long-term brand building. “AB InBev is a perfect example,” he said. “They stand out amid changing consumer behaviors through consistent, consumer-centric investment.”
About the BrandZ Report
Kantar’s BrandZ Global Report, now in its 20th year, combines consumer insights and financial performance to rank the world’s top brands.
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