Budweiser, Corona, and Michelob Ultra Compete for the Top Spot: Which Brand Reigns as the World’s Most Valuable Beer?

According to BeverageDaily, drawing from the 2025 Kantar BrandZ report.

The Kantar BrandZ 2025 Most Valuable Global Brands ranking, released this week, lists the world’s top 10 beer brands. Now celebrating its 20th anniversary, the annual BrandZ report evaluates global brands across various sectors by combining consumer perception with financial performance, offering a comprehensive view of a brand’s corporate value.

Corona Tops the List for the Second Consecutive Year

AB InBev’s Corona has once again secured its position as the most valuable beer brand in the world, for the second year running.

One of Corona’s standout strengths is not only its branding, but the ritual it inspires. The signature lime wedge added to the bottle elevates the drinking experience into a unique and memorable moment, says Kantar.

Corona has also made significant strides in aligning its image with environmental values—achieving net-zero plastic footprint and committing to ocean and beach preservation. As the brand states, “Every sip of Corona is a celebration of nature and the beauty of the world around us.”

2024 was a strong year for the brand, with double-digit growth outside of Mexico and triple-digit growth for its alcohol-free line, Corona Cero—the first beer brand to sponsor the Olympic Games, with a prominent presence at Paris 2024.

Looking ahead, 2025 marks Corona’s 100th anniversary, celebrated globally through its “Corona 100” platform.

“Corona’s success lies in its ability to build a brand that stands for something meaningful and distinct,” said Martin Guerrieria, Global Head of Kantar BrandZ.

“Its recognizable crown logo and heritage rooted in Mexico, combined with beach-centric advertising and the iconic lime ritual, create a powerful emotional connection. In a category where many brands sound similar, Corona owns an emotional space defined by freedom, relaxation, and escape.”

Moreover, Corona’s identity is bolstered by authentic product credentials, including 100% natural ingredients and its role as the first global beverage brand to reach net-zero plastic—reinforcing its relevance to today’s values-driven consumers.

Top 10 Most Valuable Beer Brands in the World (Kantar 2025)

AB InBev dominates the beer rankings, claiming 8 out of the top 10 positions:

1. Corona (AB InBev)
2. Budweiser (AB InBev)
3. Heineken (Heineken N.V.)
4. Modelo (AB InBev)
5. Michelob Ultra (AB InBev)
6. Bud Light (AB InBev)
7. Skol (AB InBev)
8. Brahma (AB InBev)
9. Stella Artois (AB InBev)
10. Guinness (Diageo)

AB InBev’s global CMO, Marcel Marcondes, commented:

“Having eight of the world’s top ten beer brands speaks to our long-term commitment to brand building, consistency, consumer-centricity, and marketing effectiveness.”

Challengers to the Throne?

Could any brand dethrone Corona in the near future?

“Corona holds the leadership position with a distinct space in the beer category that few others can match,” Guerrieria noted. “But other brands are gaining momentum.”

Budweiser, for example, remains strong globally, especially in China, where it leverages culturally resonant campaigns and moments of national pride.

Heineken continues to grow rapidly in emerging markets like Brazil, while Guinness is expanding significantly in Africa.

“The brands best positioned for long-term growth,” Guerrieria added, “are those that create a clear emotional identity and consistently bring it to life across diverse markets.”