Chosen, not entered.
Brands cannot enter. Brands cannot influence. Brands can only be chosen.
CoolBrands Status, 2026
Food & Drink
Assessed by an independent Expert Council.
Relevance Perpetually evolves and sense checks the market, reflecting and relating to its audience’s lifestyle and values.
Cultural relevance Speaks to the communities and cultures around it, and knows how to engage them.
Emotional connection Understands its audience and uses storytelling to evoke emotion and build deeper connections.
Social responsibility Rooted in its values, with messaging clearly aligned to social and environmental impact.
Original Exudes unique qualities and distinctive features that outshine competitors. Constantly adapts and evolves, leading rather than following.
Authentic It acts, looks and behaves true to its identity and marketplace profile.
Desirable Brings excitement, passion and profound appeal, giving audiences a strong sense of ownership and affinity.
Innovation At the forefront of innovation in its field. Challenges norms and offers breakthroughs competitors can only strive to achieve.
Design aesthetic Passion and resoluteness for design radiates through contemporary, heritage and cutting edge creativity.
Exclusivity Creates distinctiveness and uniqueness, with an aura of exclusivity that permeates its merchandise and brand essence.
Every brand in the field was scored against these ten criteria by the Expert Council.