Last month at the African Business Awards, an awards ceremony organised by African Business magazine, to celebrate excellence in African business by recognising the individuals and companies that are driving Africa's rapidly transforming economy, and creating new economic opportunities for citizens and communities all over the continent, Brand Africa awarded MTN and Coca Cola the prize for the best brands in Africa.
For the first time the full findings of a survey conducted by Brand Africa in partnership with Brand Finance Africa and TNS are exclusively listed by category and country.
Africa's most valuable brands are dominated by South African brands, MTN, and three retailers: Woolworths, Shoprite and Pick 'n Pay. Nigeria's Glob comes in at number five with two drinks companies taking the next two spots, Castle beer and Tusker.
The survey was conducted in two parts - one to identify the most admired brands on the continent, and the other to determine the most valuable brands operating in Africa.
One surprising finding is that brands originating in Africa are not only holding their own against international household names, but in some instances outperforming international brands. While brands such as Nike and MTN rule the roost, the high placing of expensive brands such as Rolex reflects the growing trend in Africa towards the high-end of the luxury market.
The rankings published by African Business have major implications as they demonstrate why some brands are regarded more highly than others by consumers. The information has been welcomed not only by the brands and brand architects but also by shareholders, investors, marketers, advertising agencies, consumer groups and the media as they provide an easily navigable chart of the current state of the consumer market in Africa.
Access the latest edition of African Business and view the full listings and the report online.
