Corona has been named the world’s most valuable beer brand for the second consecutive year, according to Kantar’s BrandZ 2025 Most Valuable Global Brands report. The annual study, now in its 20th year, evaluates global brands based on a combination of consumer perception and financial data, providing a comprehensive view of brand value.
Produced by AB InBev, Corona secured the top position by leveraging a brand identity that transcends product features and taps into emotional themes of freedom, relaxation, and escapism. One key to its success, Kantar notes, is the iconic lime ritual associated with the beer, which enhances the consumer experience and reinforces the brand’s distinctiveness.
In 2024, Corona experienced significant global momentum. The brand recorded double-digit growth outside of its home market in Mexico, and its alcohol-free variant, Corona Cero, achieved triple-digit growth. Notably, Corona Cero became the first beer brand to sponsor the Olympic Games, marking its debut at Paris 2024. Looking ahead, Corona is celebrating its centennial year with a global campaign under the “Corona 100” platform.
“Corona’s success is rooted in its ability to build a brand that is meaningfully different,” said Martin Guerrieria, Global Head of Kantar BrandZ. “Its visual identity, heritage, and consistent emotional messaging have allowed it to resonate deeply with consumers. This approach supports premium pricing and strengthens brand resilience in a competitive marketplace.”
Guerrieria also highlighted Corona’s environmental initiatives, including achieving a net-zero plastic footprint and its alignment with nature-centric values, which increasingly resonate with modern consumers.
AB InBev dominated the BrandZ beer rankings, with eight of the top ten brands under its portfolio. Budweiser ranked second globally, while Modelo and Michelob Ultra secured the fourth and fifth spots, respectively. Stella Artois also advanced to ninth place.
Michelob Ultra saw notable gains this year, ascending into the top five, reflecting the growing consumer preference for lighter, health-conscious options. Budweiser, meanwhile, continued to perform strongly, particularly in China, where culturally relevant campaigns have bolstered its position.
Heineken and Guinness were the only two brands in the top ten not owned by AB InBev, ranking third and tenth respectively. Heineken’s growth in markets like Brazil and Guinness’s expanding footprint in Africa underscore the potential for non-AB InBev brands to gain ground.
“Corona’s leadership stems from its ability to occupy a distinct emotional space in the category,” Guerrieria noted. “However, the data also shows rising momentum from competitors like Budweiser and Heineken. The brands best positioned for future growth will be those that define a clear emotional identity and deliver it consistently across markets.”
Kantar’s findings underscore a broader trend in brand building: long-term investment in consumer trust, consistency in messaging, and alignment with evolving values are key drivers of brand value in the global beer industry.
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