The airline’s brand value grew 17% over last year to reach US$ 7.7 billion. For the fifth year running, the airline has steadily risen up in the global ranking of the world’s top brands to be placed at #171, 47 places above the next closest airline brand. Emirates also retains its well-established position as the most valuable brand in the Middle East. In addition, Emirates’ brand value has more than doubled since 2009, when it first appeared on the Brand Finance Global 500 report.
Emirates’ solid brand positioning is grounded in its commitment to delivering best-in-class products and services both in the air and on the ground, and staying attuned to its customers’ needs.
Boutros Boutros, Divisional Senior Vice President Corporate Communications, Marketing & Brand for Emirates said: “We invest strategically in building our brand and it is reflected in everything we do. We have differentiated the Emirates brand not only through our marketing and sponsorships initiatives, but also through our competitive combination of quality products and services, and technology-driven customer initiatives that our teams deliver everyday both on the ground and on board. We work hard to identify, anticipate, and meet the ever-changing needs of our diverse global audiences, as we firmly believe that this will position us to outperform in our industry now and in the future.”
2015 was another year of growth and innovation for the airline, as Emirates marked 30 years of operations. During the year, Emirates launched six new points, expanding its network to 150 destinations. Emirates also received 26 aircraft, retaining its position as the world’s largest operator of the Boeing 777 and the ever-popular Airbus A380. The airline currently serves 37 cities around the world with the iconic double-decker A380, which features its trademark Onboard Lounge and Shower Spa and industry-leading First Class private suite.
Continuing to invest in technology, the airline also rolled out initiatives to streamline the customer experience including enhancements to its mobile sites and Apps to simplify the customer journey. Emirates also rolled out its newest version of the in-flight entertainment system, ice, on its newly delivered Boeing 777 and Airbus A380 aircraft, featuring the largest in-seat screens in the industry for First and Economy Class. The Emirates ice system has won the best In-Flight Entertainment Skytrax award for 11 for consecutive years.
Disney is this year’s strongest (most powerful) brand. Though it has long been present amongst the elite group of powerful ‘AAA+’ brands, this year is the first time it has claimed the top spot. Lego was first last year thanks in part to the success of the Lego Movie. Disney’s success this year is testament to the enduring power of the silver screen as both a source of and support for the world’s most powerful brands.
