Superbrands

UAE names 52 Superbrands, Dubai Duty Free wins for second time

editor — Sat, 16 Jul 2011 08:02:54 -0700

Superbrands has announced that Dubai Duty Free has once again won the coveted 'Brand of the Year' award at the seventh annual Superbrands Tribute Event. Dubai Duty Free made history by winning this award for the second year in a row.

Fifty two other leading UAE brands were also awarded 'Superbrands' status at the 'Oscars of Branding' evening, which was attended by the country's most prominent senior business, marketing and branding executives.

Superbrands announces tribute event to honour UAE's strongest brands

editor — Tue, 05 Jul 2011 00:45:20 -0700

Superbrands, the independent authority and arbiter of branding, announced that they are hosting their annual tribute event to honour UAE's strongest brands on July 11, 2011 at the Intercontinental Hotel in Dubai Festival City. Superbrands will also announce the highly anticipated 'Brand of the Year' award in addition to unveiling the seventh edition of the much coveted coffee-table style Superbrands book, which includes a two-page profile of each of the Superbrands, at the Tribute event.

Speaking about the event, Mr. Mike English, Director, Superbrands Middle East, says, "It gives us great pleasure to announce the 'Oscars of Branding' night, our tribute event for UAE's strongest brands. We are happy that many local brands, which include new entrants, have made it to the Superbrands list this year in addition to globally recognized brands. These brands were not only voted for by our distinguished brand council members but also by 2,500 marketing professionals, who voted through an online poll. The brand which scores the highest points will be awarded the accolade of 'Brand of the Year' at the Tribute Event."

After a rigorous selection criteria, set by the Superbrands Council, over 2,500 professionals were invited to vote for candidate brands. More than 1,415 leading UAE brands were scored by the Superbrands Council and through the online poll and the highest scoring brands were then designated as Superbrands. Only brands that achieve the level of recognition set by the independent Superbrands Council are eligible for inclusion in the Superbrands UAE book, which traces the history and achievements of each of the brands.

"UAE's best brands, which range from FMCG brands to local family owned businesses, are featured in the Superbrands book. We are pleased to see many new local brands making an entry this year along with globally recognised brands. Participation in the Superbrands book is by invitation only and acknowledges the inherent strength of the organisation and its brand value," Mr. English adds.

The Superbrands Council comprises individuals who have shown exceptional aptitude in business and who have a thorough knowledge of the market and methods of business. To be voted as a Superbrand is a powerful endorsement and is evidence for existing customers, potential customers, media, suppliers, investors and employees of each brand's exceptional status.

The Superbrands tribute event, which will be attended by the Who's Who of the corporate world, is set to be a true celebration of many of the country's highest profile brands, and promises to live up to its global reputation as the "Oscars of Branding".

Superbrands program launches its new rating process in Oman

editor — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 03:07:41 -0800

December 2010 saw the culmination of the inaugural Superbrands program for Oman. The tribute event gathered the crop of brand strategists, advertising and marketing managers of corporate Oman. In the Sultanate again, Superbrands, the globally acclaimed authority and arbiter of branding aims to identify brands that perform above and beyond other brands within their respective markets.

The globally acclaimed Superbrands program is all set to roll out its new brand ratings for 2011-2012 for Oman. The new evaluation system, reaches out to a much larger number of experts and specialists amongst brand owners and managers, and ensures a more robust rating system.

In addition to the Superbrands council, comprising business leaders, this year Superbrands will introduce its Online Voting System. Strictly by invitation only for brand owners and senior marketing professionals, the online voting system will ensure a greater dialogue and participation in the voting of Oman's Superbrands. Only brands that qualify by both the online poll and experts will be given the 'Superbrands' status and be eligible for inclusion in the Superbrands 2012 book.

"We are proud of our association with Superbrands, the globally acclaimed authority and arbiter of branding. The first edition of Superbrands was well received by the community. In order to reach out to more people we have introduced an online voting system. We urge all marketing, branding and communication experts in the Sultanate to come participate and vote for their favourite brand!" explains Bikram Sehgal, General Manager, ADINC.

Mike English, Director, Superbrands - Middle East concurs, "To be voted as a Superbrand is a powerful testament of market dominance, longevity, goodwill, customer loyalty and market acceptance. The first edition was a success and we would like to build on it ands invite greater participation from all the brands."

Known as the 'Oscars of Branding', Superbrands is represented in Oman by Advertising International Company LLC (ADINC). Held for the first time last year, Superbrands hosted a Tribute Event to honour 52 of Oman's strongest brands. Attended by the country's elite, the Superbrands Tribute Event also saw the unveiling of the coveted Superbrands 2009-2010 book, featuring Oman's strongest brands.

Advertising International Company, located at Qurum, was set up in 1991 by the Omzest group of companies. The agency offers complete advertising and communication services to its clients and is the only agency in Oman to have been awarded the prestigious Certificate of Merit at the Cresta Awards, New York twice.

du selected a UAE Superbrand

editor — Sun, 15 Aug 2010 03:09:20 -0700

After just three years since its inception, du has been recognised as a UAE Superbrand. Hala Badri, EVP Brand and Communications, du, was one of a few leading industry professionals chosen to speak at the Superbrands awards gala.

In a brief and powerful speech Badri shared du’s approach to building and developing their brand successfully, and called upon companies from the region to move away from a short-term approach of ‘branding’ towards a longer-term approach of ‘brand development’.

“We are thrilled and honoured to be recognised as a UAE Superbrand after just three years of existence. Having established ourselves well, we are now in development mode, doing all we can to develop our brand further. I believe it’s important to avoid the shallowness of ‘branding’ for the substance of ‘brand development’. It’s an important distinction; ‘branding’ is an act, while ‘brand development’ is a process which needs to be defined and managed on an ongoing basis,” commented Hala Badri, EVP Brand and Communications, du.

“I believe the time has come for the industry to embrace a broader, more holistic approach to brand thinking and brand-building. For brands from our part of the world to be developed and managed well, we need to see them as much more than just trademarked logos and advertised promises – we need to see them as intentionally designed experiences,” concluded Badri.

Superbrands is an independent organisation which hosts the annual tribute event to recognise the UAE’s best brands. Over 2,500 professionals voted to select this year’s Superbrands, using stringent selection criteria set by the Superbrands Council,. More than 1,415 UAE brands were scored by the Superbrands Council and the invited jury, and the highest scoring brands were then designated Superbrands. Only brands that achieve the level of recognition set by the Superbrands Council are eligible for inclusion in the Superbrands UAE book, which traces the history and achievements of each of the brands.

To be voted as a UAE Superbrand by the Council is a powerful endorsement of the rapid progress du has made since launch – as a company and as a brand.

Superbrands to honour UAE's top brands at tribute event

editor — Tue, 13 Jul 2010 12:37:59 -0700

Superbrands, the independent authority and arbiter of branding, today announced that they will be hosting their annual tribute event to honour UAE's strongest brands on July 20th, 2010 at the Intercontinental Hotel in Dubai Festival City. Superbrands will also announce the much awaited 'Brand of the Year' and unveil the 6th Edition of the Superbrands book at a glittering ceremony attended by the who's who of the corporate world in UAE.

"We are pleased to announce the UAE's strongest brands and honour them at our annual tribute event. The local brands that made it to the Superbrands list this year include some of the most recognised brands in the world as well as some new entrants on the list. These Superbrands were not only voted for by our distinguished brand council members but also by 2,500 marketing professionals voting for the preferred brands through an online poll. The brand with the highest score will be awarded 'Brand of the Year' at the tribute event," says Mike English, Director, Superbrands Middle East.

After a stringent selection criteria set by the Superbrands Council, over 2,500 professionals were invited to vote along with the Council. More than 1,415 leading UAE brands were scored by the Superbrands Council and the invitees and the highest scoring brands were then designated as Superbrands. Only brands that achieve the level of recognition set by the independent Superbrands Council are eligible for inclusion in the Superbrands UAE book, which traces the history and achievements of each of the brands.

The Superbrands Council comprises individuals who have shown exceptional aptitude in business and who have a thorough knowledge of the market and methods of business. To be voted as a Superbrand by the Council is a powerful endorsement and evidence for existing customers, potential customers, the media, suppliers, investors and employees of each brand's exceptional status.

The Superbrands Organisation will also unveil the much coveted coffee-table style Superbrands book, which includes a two-page profile of each of the Superbrands, at the Tribute event. "The brands featured in the book range from corporate giants to FMCG brands. We are happy to see so many of the UAE's local brands included in the book alongside key international brands. Participation in the Superbrands book is by invitation only and acknowledges the intrinsic strength of the organisation and its brand value," Mr. English adds.

The Superbrands tribute event is set to be a true celebration of many of the country's highest profile brands, and promises to live up to its global reputation as the "Oscars of Branding".

Oryx Advertising announces launch of first Superbrands Qatar programme

editor — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 02:04:08 -0800

The Superbrands organization, acclaimed worldwide as being the independent authority and arbiter of branding excellence, has appointed Oryx Advertising Co as its partner for the Qatar Programme.

Originally set up in London in 1994 where it published the first book, Superbrands is committed to paying tribute to exceptional brands and promoting the discipline of branding. Since then it has expanded its operations to 85 countries worldwide including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, China, Denmark, Egypt, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Kuwait. Lebanon, Malaysia, Mexico, Morocco, Netherlands, Norway, Pakistan, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and the United States.

The Superbrands programme starts with the appointment of Council members in each country which is comprised of individuals who have shown exceptional aptitude in business and who have a thorough knowledge of the country's markets and methods of business.

Prominent personalities like H.E. Sheikha Lubna Bint Khalid Al Qasimi - Minister - Ministry of Foreign Trade, Piyush Mathur - Regional Managing Director MENA and Pakistan - The Nielsen Company, Mishal Kanoo - Deputy Chairman - UAE & Oman - The Kanoo Group and Colm Mcloughlin - Managing Director - Dubai Duty Free are among the council members of the United Arab Emirates chapter of Superbrands. The Superbrands Council members are asked to score brands from a comprehensive list prepared and the top scoring brands are designated Superbrands.

Speaking of the partnership, Mike English, Director Superbrands, said "Having scouted the promising and vibrant Qatar market, we were pleased partner with Oryx Advertising who bring in extensive local knowledge, credibility and network. Being publishers of leading titles like Qatar Today, Qatar Al Yom, Woman Today & GLAM adds to the value they bring to Superbrands Qatar programme."

Ravi Raman, Vice President Oryx Advertising, said, "Superbrands is like a brands barometer for the country, it provides a snapshot of brands which are well managed and deliver their promise. With Qatar's exponential growth some strong local brands has emerged and I am confident that Superbrands Qatar programme will be highly successful."

Rivoli achieves the prestigious status of Superbrands 2009

editor — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 13:21:09 -0700

Presented during an event held at the Intercontinental Hotel in Dubai Festival City, the award recognises Rivoli's achievements and excellence in branding.

More than 1,160 UAE brands were judged by the Superbrands Council and jury, out of which 64 were awarded the prestigious 'Superbrand' status. Measured against the Superbrands Council's stringent selection criteria, Rivoli was judged among the highest scoring brands. Voters evaluate and score many of the leading brands available within the UAE, based on criteria like market dominance, longevity, goodwill, customer loyalty and market acceptance.

'We are honoured to be ranked as a Superbrand in the region. It is a big achievement to win recognition as one of the UAE's best brand names. Rivoli is proud to play such an important part helping to shape the vibrant and diverse retail scene that distinguishes Dubai and the UAE as among the world's leading retail destinations,' said Ramesh Prabhakar, Managing Partner, The Rivoli Group.

The Superbrands Council comprises over 3,000 individuals with exceptional aptitude in business and thorough knowledge of respective markets and methods employed. Receiving Superbrand status is a powerful endorsement and evidence for existing customers, potential customers, the media, suppliers, investors and employees of each brand's exceptional status.

Only brands that achieve the level of recognition set by the independent Superbrands Council are eligible for inclusion in the Superbrands UAE book, which is produced annually and traces the history and achievements of each brand.

Masafi wins 'Brand of the Year' award from Superbrands

editor — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 02:59:47 -0700

Superbrands Middle East announced that Masafi has won the 'Brand of the Year' award at the 5th Superbrands tribute event, which was held at the Intercontinental Dubai Festival City on Sunday. Seventy four leading brands from the country were awarded Superbrands status and the 2009 Superbrands book was unveiled at the event, also dubbed as the 'Oscars of Branding', where the UAE's strongest brands were honoured.

Speaking at the event Mr. Mike English, Director, Superbrands Middle East, said, "The tribute event is a true celebration of many of the country's highest profile brands. We are happy to announce that Masafi has been voted as the 'Brand of the Year' as it scored the highest points amongst all the brands, showing us that regardless of the slow economy, strong brands not only survive but prosper."

"Masafi may have started out as a humble mineral water brand but has diversified into flavoured water, juices, tissues and gourmet chips taking the market by storm with the launch of each new product. The brand has now become synonymous with water in the UAE. As part of its corporate social responsibility, Masafi launched its corporate recycling service - a unique initiative aimed at reducing the environmental impact of plastic bottles for which the company also won numerous awards," Mr. English added.

Seventy four brands scored more than 80% of the total possible mark and were declared Superbrands by the Brand Council. To win this accolade is a powerful endorsement and evidence for existing customers, potential customers, the media, suppliers, investors and employees of each brand's exceptional status.

The Superbrands Council, which comprises of some of the leading names in UAE business circles, score all the brands and the top scoring brands which meet the stringent criteria set by the council are awarded with Superbrands status This year, Superbrands were voted not only by the brand council but also by online voting, which has expanded the voting base to almost 3,000 marketing professionals.

The Superbrands programme acknowledges and rewards the highest standards of branding. Over the years, the Superbrands organisation has achieved international acclaim for being the independent authority and arbiter of branding excellence. The organisation is committed to the cause of promoting exceptional brands and the discipline of branding in the region.

Seventy four top brands were awarded out of thousands available in the UAE. Most of the selected brands appear in the Superbrands UAE book, which traces the history and achievements of each of the brands. The 2009 Superbrands book is a coffee table book, which includes a two-page profile of each Superbrand tracing the foundation and development of the brand and a 'Things You Didn't Know section' highlighting interesting facts about the brand and its unique achievements.

The glittering tribute event was attended by the country's most prominent senior business, marketing and branding executives.

Superbrands to honour UAE's strongest brands

editor — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 13:18:43 -0700

Superbrands, the independent authority and arbiter of branding, today announced that they will be hosting a tribute event to honour the UAE's strongest brands for their achievements and excellence in branding at the Intercontinental Hotel in Dubai Festival City. The event, which will be held on June 28th, 2009, will also see the unveiling of the 5th Edition of the Superbrands book as well as the announcement of the much anticipated 'Brand of The Year'.

Speaking about the event, Mr. Mike English, Director, Superbrands Middle East, said, "We are delighted to host our fifth tribute event to celebrate the success of the UAE's strongest brands, which are among the most recognised brands in the world. This year, Superbrands were voted not only by the brand council but also by online voting, which has expanded the voting base to almost 3,000 marketing professionals. The brand with the highest score will be awarded 'Brand of the Year' at the event."

Sixty four leading UAE brands, which met the stringent selection criteria set by the Superbrands Council, were awarded 'Superbrand' status. The Superbrands Organisation also introduced the new voting system where over 3,000 professionals were invited to vote along with the Council. More than 1,160 leading UAE brands were scored by the Superbrands Council and invitees. The Superbrands voters evaluated and scored hundreds of brands available within the UAE and the highest scoring brands were then designated as Superbrands. Only brands that achieve the level of recognition set by the independent Superbrands Council are eligible for inclusion in the Superbrands UAE book, which traces the history and achievements of each of the brands.

The Superbrands Council comprises individuals who have shown exceptional aptitude in business and who have a thorough knowledge of the market and methods of business. To be voted as a Superbrand by the Council is a powerful endorsement and evidence for existing customers, potential customers, the media, suppliers, investors and employees of each brand's exceptional status.

The Superbrands Organisation will unveil the much coveted coffee-table style Superbrands book, which includes a two-page profile of each of the Superbrands, at the Tribute event. "The brands featured in the book range from corporate giants to FMCG brands. We are happy to see so many of the UAE's local brands included in the book alongside key international brands. Participation in the Superbrands book is by invitation only and acknowledges the intrinsic strength of the organisation and its brand value," Mr. English adds.

The Superbrands tribute event is set to be a true celebration of many of the country's highest profile brands, and promises to live up to its global reputation as the "Oscars of Branding".

THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES SUPERBRANDS COUNCIL (2009):

Mike English, Director Superbrands

H.E. Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi, Minister of Foreign Trade

Colm McLoughlin, Managing Director, Dubai Duty Free

Piyush Mathur, Regional Managing Director MENA & Pakistan, The Nielsen Company Kim Redman, Regional Director, Middle East Council of Shopping Centres

Mishal Kanoo, Deputy Chairman, UAE & Oman, The Kanoo Group

John Brash, Managing Creative Director, Brash Brand Strategy & Design

Laila Suhail, Chief Executive Officer, Dubai shopping Festival
John Deykin, CEO - tmh / Freelance Broadcaster

Tawhid Abdullah, Managing Director - Damas

Mike Simon, Divisional SVP Corporate Communications, Emirates

Iain Potter, VP marketing - Home & Personal Care - Unilever North Africa & Middle East

Midas Furniture awarded “Superbrands 2008” Status Style, Quality and Value, Wins the title

editor — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 13:51:24 -0700

Midas Furniture was awarded the Superbrands 2008 title by the Superbrands Organization last week in recognizing Midas as one of Kuwait’s most powerful and customer-friendly brands.

The Director of retail Operations, Mr. Russell Brown, expressed excitement upon Midas’ achievement, pointing to reasons attributed to the explosive success Midas has enjoyed since first opening in 1994: The superior qualities found at Midas, A dedicated team of tasteful designers who are kept up to date with the latest trends. Attractive prices geared towards multiple segments of Kuwait’s diverse population. World-class presentation furniture & accessories. The continuous and strategic openings of unique showrooms to guarantee customer reach. Expansion in company product lines and activities in surrounding markets in the GCC and Arab world. Midas’ continuous effort to provide unique and outstanding services to all customers before and after their purchase.

Mr. Russell added: “Midas Furniture owes its customers for being able to meet the high standards set by Superbrands, pointing to that customer trust is the company’s most valuable asset and is the driving force behind Midas has taken the lead in Kuwait’s furniture retailing industry.

He also pointed out that unlike others, Midas has always exclusively offered furniture-related products, allowing the company to focus enough time and resources on becoming the market leader.

Midas has recruited an international team of seasoned interior designers who are well-acquainted with Kuwaiti tastes. They have access to the world’s greatest furniture producers to ensure style, quality and value are always at their maximum. With this principal in mind, along with the above points, Midas now commands a massive market share by entering 150 houses in Kuwait daily.

Superbrands evaluates brands according to global standards under designated committees for each country. The commission in charge of Superbrands for Kuwait is composed of Dr. Anas Al-Rasheed, Badr Al-Humaidi, Khalid Al-Khalid, Maha Ghunaim, Dr. Saad Al Barrak, Nabila Anjari, Alqbandi Mohammed, Saleh Alshaya, Matthew Danilyz, and FadiRoyce.