Lessons from the World’s Top Brands

What does it take to become a household name — and why does it matter?In this episode of Retail Remix, host Nicole Silberstein is joined by James May and Barry Thomas from global data and analytics firm Kantar to unpack the findings from the 20th annual BrandZ Report, which ranks the top 100 most valuable global brands. They dive into the forces shaping brand value today, why retail brands are on the rise and what lessons others can learn from this year’s leaders. Together, they explore:Why brand is a company’s most valuable asset and the common traits of the world’s most valuable brands;Whether the era of U.S. economic exceptionalism is nearing an end;Why disruption is such a powerful brand-builder, as evidenced by brands like Amazon and ChatGPT; andHow retailers can follow the playbook of brands like Walmart and Costco to build stronger, more meaningful connections with consumers.RELATED LINKSExplore key takeaways from Kantar’s 2025 BrandZ Report Check out the full 2025 BrandZ ReportLearn more about KantarExplore the latest marketing insights from Retail TouchPointsCheck out past episodes of Retail Remix