By R. Larsson, Advertising Week
In a marketplace overflowing with choice, hype, and more “disruptors” than a Marvel multiverse, one thing still cuts through: what people genuinely love to use.
That’s the spirit behind Lippincott’s just-released 2025 U.S. Go-to Brands List — a ranking powered not by industry buzz or boardroom bravado, but by real customers saying, “Yep, this one makes my life better.”
And this year, consumers crowned a fascinating mix of creativity, accessibility, and financial clarity as their champions.
Meet 2025’s Standout Go-to Brands
Only 14 brands earned standout status this year — and three rose above the rest:
- Lego – The undisputed king of joyful imagination. Durable, colorful, creative chaos… and apparently still the most satisfying sound a parent can hear (until they step on one).
- Canva – The platform that turned the entire country into a design department. Simple, fast, friendly — a brand that makes everyone feel like a creator.
- Affirm – Proof that fintech can be clear, stress-free, and even kind. A transparency-first approach that consumers are loudly rewarding.
These winning brands share a common thread: they help people express themselves, build things, manage life, and feel a little more in control of the world around them.
What Makes a Brand “Go-to” in 2025?
Lippincott’s methodology zeroes in on something refreshingly human: who shows up for people when it matters?
To earn Go-to Brand status, a brand has to shine across:
- Ease & clarity – You shouldn’t need a PhD to use a product.
- Trust – Do I believe you? And do I believe you’ll show up again tomorrow?
- Emotional spark – Even small moments of delight count.
- Relevance – Are you tuned into culture or stuck in last year’s vibe?
It’s a clear signal that consumers aren’t interested in complexity masquerading as innovation. They want brands that act more like helpful sidekicks than megaphone-wielding superheroes.
Why the C-Suite Should Pay Close Attention
For leaders navigating tighter budgets, shifting expectations, and new consumer realities, this list doubles as a cheat sheet for where value is actually being created.
The Go-to Brands List gives executives:
- A snapshot of what loyalty looks like today
- A roadmap for where customers are heading
- A diagnostic lens for improving brand performance
- A reminder that usefulness beats flashiness — every time
In short: if you’re trying to build a brand people rely on, this list is a masterclass.
The 2025 Go-to Brands List is a reminder that, even in a world obsessed with tech, trends, and transformation, the brands that win are the ones that make people feel seen, supported, and empowered.
