What is the World Brand Design Society (WBDS) Global Ranking System and Awards?

The World Brand Design Society (WBDS) Global Ranking System and Awards serve as one of the most respected benchmarks for creative excellence in branding, packaging, and visual identity design. These rankings honor the most awarded and influential agencies, in-house design teams, independent creatives, and educational institutions shaping the global design landscape.

For business owners, marketing professionals, and designers, understanding these rankings provides valuable insight into the world’s leading creative talent. Whether you’re a local entrepreneur in British Columbia looking for top-tier branding solutions or a graphic designer seeking inspiration, the WBDS awards spotlight the very best in visual communication.

The WBDS Awards open each year on May 1st and close on December 1st, allowing agencies, corporations, freelancers, and students to showcase their work on an international stage. Below, we break down the 2024 WBDS Global Rankings, recognizing 25 winners per category across graphic design agencies, in-house design teams, independent creatives, and graphic design schools.

Top 25 Graphic Design Agencies of 2024

The Global Agency Design Ranking recognizes the most awarded branding and graphic design agencies worldwide. These firms have consistently produced groundbreaking work in corporate branding, packaging design, and identity development.

Here are the top 25 graphic design agencies of 2024:

1. Kind (Norway) – The world’s highest-ranked branding agency, specializing in strategic and visually compelling identities.
2. Backbone Branding (Armenia) – Leaders in packaging design, blending storytelling with innovation.
3. Kingdom & Sparrow (UK) – Known for their expertise in premium beverage branding and packaging.
4. Boundless Brand Design (UK) – A top-tier studio crafting immersive brand experiences.
5. Onfire Design (New Zealand) – A design agency producing award-winning brand identities across digital and print.
6. Morillas (Spain) – A global force in corporate branding and strategic identity.
7. Auge Design (Italy) – Experts in elevated visual storytelling and branding solutions.
8. Thirst (UK) – A creative powerhouse specializing in luxury and beverage branding.
9. Omdesign (Portugal) – Pioneers of sustainable and high-end packaging solutions.
10. Pencil Studio (UK) – A design studio creating bold and timeless brand identities.
11. Prompt Design (Thailand) – Blending Asian aesthetics with contemporary global branding.
12. Harcus Design (Australia) – A firm pushing branding boundaries with strategic creativity.
13. Chad Michael Studio (USA) – Luxury-focused branding with a deep artistic approach.
14. Truffl Branding Agency (USA) – A culture-driven agency blending branding, storytelling, and digital design.
15. Pond Design (Sweden) – Innovators in packaging and consumer brand storytelling.
16. Knockout Design and Innovation (UK) – Experts in high-impact and disruptive branding.
17. A.S. Strategy Branding & Communication (Greece) – Crafting holistic and memorable brand narratives.
18. Derek & Eric (UK) – Specializing in motion branding and digital brand experiences.
19. CF Napa Brand Design (USA) – A leader in wine, beer, and spirits branding.
20. Elmwood UK (UK) – One of the most recognized names in global branding and identity.
21. Studio Guild (Australia) – Creating strategic and scalable brand identities.
22. ShenZhen Lingyun (China) – An emerging force in luxury brand aesthetics.
23. The Collaborators (UK) – Experts in high-end food and hospitality branding.
24. Lavernia & Cienfuegos (Spain) – Known for refined and elegant corporate branding.
25. Bluemarlin (UK) – A branding agency blending conceptual thinking with impactful execution.

For businesses and entrepreneurs in British Columbia, these agencies represent the gold standard in branding and design. Understanding their approaches, strategies, and styles can help inform branding decisions and inspire fresh creative ideas. Visit the official website.

Top 25 In-House Design Teams of 2024

The Global In-House Design Ranking honors corporate creative teams that successfully manage brand identity, digital experiences, and product packaging. These teams operate within major corporations, shaping consistent and innovative brand messaging from the inside.

Here are the top 25 in-house design teams of 2024:

1. Douglas Laing & Co. (UK) – A leader in whisky branding and luxury packaging.
2. BBVA Creative (Spain) – Setting new standards in financial branding and digital identity.
3. Diageo India – A creative force in premium beverage branding.
4. De Bortoli Wines (Australia) – Innovators in sustainable wine packaging.
5. Azbuka Vkusa (Russia) – A trendsetter in retail and supermarket branding.
6. Ben (UK) – A fast-rising name in corporate identity and brand storytelling.
7. Zendesk Creative (UK) – Elevating tech branding with strong visual narratives.
8. Howden (UK) – Leaders in industrial and corporate branding.
9. The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. (Ireland) – Specialists in high-end spirits branding.
10. Le Portier Cognac (Portugal) – Innovators in luxury beverage branding.
11. Suofeiya Group Design Centre (China) – Transforming retail brand identity.
12. JocoGlass | JocoStudio (Mexico) – Masters in sustainable glassware branding.
13. Appetite Me (UK) – A fresh force in hospitality branding and design.
14. Braze (USA) – Redefining branding in the SaaS industry.
15. Cricut Creative (USA) – Leaders in creative technology branding.
16. Intuit QuickBooks (USA) – Reshaping financial software branding.
17. Rimac Group (Croatia) – Innovators in automotive branding and visual identity.
18. Milwaukee Bucks (USA) – Leading sports branding and fan engagement design.
19. Heraia (Italy) – A rising name in luxury fashion branding.
20. Benard Spirit Ltd. (Hungary) – Elevating artisanal beverage branding.
21. Man Theory (UK) – A standout in bespoke brand narratives.
22. Homes.com (USA) – A leader in real estate branding and digital presence.
23. BHC (USA) – Innovating in corporate brand identity design.
24. Studioleeroy (UK) – A modern force in brand aesthetics.
25. Lacàph (Vietnam) – Masters in coffee branding and sustainable storytelling.

For local businesses in British Columbia, investing in an internal creative team can lead to stronger brand consistency and recognition. These in-house teams prove that great branding isn’t limited to agencies—it can be cultivated from within. Visit the official website.

Top 25 Independent Creatives of 2024

The Global Creative Design Ranking honors freelancers, boutique studios, and solo designers who have made a significant impact in branding, visual identity, and consumer packaging. These independent creatives stand out for their ability to compete with major agencies while maintaining a unique artistic vision and strategic execution.

Here are the top 25 independent creatives of 2024:

1. Kirsten Murray (UK) – The top-ranking independent creative, recognized for branding and packaging excellence.
2. Charmaine Choi (USA) – A highly awarded brand designer pushing creative boundaries.
3. Joost Identities (Netherlands) – Known for bold and impactful visual identity design.
4. C.Carbon Studio (Portugal) – Specialists in modern, strategic brand storytelling.
5. Ceren Burcu Turkan (Turkey) – A standout in packaging and luxury branding.
6. Petitmoulin Studio (Portugal) – A boutique studio crafting narrative-driven branding.
7. Widakk Design (Serbia) – Known for vintage-inspired brand aesthetics.
8. HUB87 (Italy) – A rising force in modern European brand identity design.
9. Vic Lee (UK) – An award-winning typography and illustration artist.
10. Caroline Freire (Brazil) – A creative with a strong focus on visual storytelling.
11. Marina Reis (Brazil) – Specializing in handcrafted and organic brand aesthetics.
12. Renata Alcantara (Brazil) – A leading name in product branding and illustration.
13. Meng Zhang (Australia) – A multi-disciplinary designer with a sharp eye for branding.
14. Ze Feng (USA) – An emerging force in identity and motion design.
15. Dusadee Lamkijja (Thailand) – A brand strategist with a strong design philosophy.
16. Qin Luo (China) – A recognized expert in digital brand aesthetics.
17. Storm Wiggett (South Africa) – Blending illustration with impactful brand design.
18. Dario Frattaruolo (Italy) – A leader in high-concept branding and typography.
19. Loz Ives (UK) – Crafting highly conceptual branding systems.
20. Ximena Ureta Studio (Chile) – A powerful creative in luxury packaging design.
21. Mikael Selin Design Studio AB (Sweden) – A top studio with a sharp minimalist style.
22. Chanwut Hothai (Thailand) – A creative who merges fine art with branding.
23. Luis Pacheco (Mexico) – An award-winning designer redefining modern identity systems.
24. Mindprizm Creative Studio (USA) – Pioneers in digital branding and motion identity.
25. Pavla Chuykina (UK) – A fresh and influential name in contemporary branding.

These independent creatives prove that freelance designers and boutique studios can compete on a global scale. For local designers in British Columbia, this ranking serves as inspiration—proof that small teams and solo creatives can lead the industry with the right mix of talent, strategy, and innovation. Visit the official website.

Top 25 Graphic Design Schools of 2024

The Global Design Education Ranking highlights the world’s leading institutions for graphic design, branding, and visual communication. These universities and colleges produce award-winning students and cultivate new creative talent entering the industry.

Here are the top 25 graphic design schools of 2024:

1. San Diego City College (USA) – The world’s top-ranked design school, consistently producing award-winning students.
2. HSE Art & Design School (Russia) – A global leader in branding and visual identity education.
3. British Higher School of Art & Design (Russia) – Recognized for its commercial-focused curriculum.
4. ArtCenter College of Design (USA) – A long-established leader in creative education.
5. University of Hertfordshire (UK) – The top-ranked UK design school, known for industry collaboration.
6. The KPU Wilson School of Design (Canada) – Canada’s highest-ranked design program, offering hands-on experience.
7. ELISAVA – Barcelona School of Design and Engineering (Spain) – A European leader in design education and research.
8. School of Visual Arts (USA) – A top institution for branding, typography, and visual communication.
9. FH Salzburg (Austria) – Specializing in digital and interactive design.
10. Art Academy of Latvia (Latvia) – An emerging force in European design education.
11. Norwich University of the Arts (UK) – A growing leader in commercial branding education.
12. Haute École Albert Jacquard (Belgium) – A top school for typography and visual storytelling.
13. Vilnius Academy of Arts (Lithuania) – Known for concept-driven graphic design training.
14. Universidad Iberoamericana (Mexico) – A standout in Latin American design education.
15. LABASAD Barcelona School of Arts & Design (Spain) – A hub for digital branding innovation.
16. RMIT University Vietnam (Vietnam) – A fast-rising school in branding and commercial design.
17. Swinburne University of Technology (Australia) – A leader in branding and digital design strategy.
18. Lehigh University (USA) – Producing award-winning students across branding and UI/UX.
19. Shillington Education AUS (Australia) – A top-ranked school for accelerated design training.
20. ESDIR – Escuela Superior de Diseño de La Rioja (Spain) – A school focused on branding and packaging design.
21. Shillington Education UK (UK) – A fast-track commercial design school.
22. University of Central Lancashire (UK) – Producing highly competitive branding professionals.
23. Budapest Metropolitan University (Hungary) – Known for multidisciplinary creative training.
24. Syracuse University – School of Design (USA) – A long-standing leader in visual communication.
25. Temasek Polytechnic (Singapore) – A rising school for digital and brand strategy design.

For aspiring designers in British Columbia, The KPU Wilson School of Design’s ranking at #6 shows that Canada’s design education is competing globally. This is a major achievement, proving that local talent has access to world-class training. Visit the official website.

Types of Design Recognized

The World Brand Design Society (WBDS) Global Ranking System and Awards recognize excellence across a wide range of design disciplines. These rankings celebrate the creative professionals, agencies, in-house teams, and educational institutions that push the boundaries of branding, packaging, and visual communication.

The following design categories are considered in the WBDS awards:

Brand Identity Design

Leading agencies and designers craft logos, typography, color palettes, and brand systems to establish memorable visual identities. These designs ensure a brand’s consistency across all touchpoints, from digital platforms to packaging.

Packaging Design

A key category in the WBDS awards, packaging design includes everything from consumer product labels to luxury brand packaging. Judges evaluate innovation in sustainability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal, recognizing brands that stand out on shelves while maintaining strong storytelling elements.

Graphic Design

Traditional and digital graphic design are recognized for their role in marketing, editorial layouts, signage, and promotional materials. The best designs combine strategy with compelling visuals, ensuring clarity and impact.

Digital and UI/UX Design

With the rise of digital-first branding, this category highlights excellence in website interfaces, mobile apps, motion graphics, and interactive experiences. Design firms that blend technology with creativity are often awarded in this space.

Typography and Lettering Design

Custom typefaces, experimental typography, hand-drawn lettering, and motion-based typography are all key aspects of brand storytelling. Many winning projects in this category showcase how letterforms contribute to a brand’s personality.

Illustration and Visual Storytelling

Illustration plays a vital role in branding, from custom brand mascots to editorial and advertising artwork. This category honors artists who elevate brands through distinctive, handcrafted or digital visuals.

Photography and Art Direction

High-impact brand photography, product shoots, and campaign visuals are recognized under this category. Winning work often involves meticulous art direction and storytelling, ensuring that brand images resonate with audiences.

Spatial and Environmental Design

This category includes branded retail spaces, exhibitions, installations, and wayfinding systems. The judges assess how spatial design enhances brand identity and user experience in physical environments.

Writing and Branding Strategy

Beyond visuals, effective branding requires strong messaging and storytelling. This category recognizes excellence in brand voice development, campaign copywriting, and strategic communication.

Campaign Design and Advertising

WBDS honors designers who craft powerful multi-platform brand campaigns, integrating social media, print, digital, and experiential marketing. Winning campaigns merge compelling narratives with cutting-edge design.

Emerging Design Categories

New fields of branding and visual communication are continuously evolving, with WBDS recognizing:

• AI and Generative Design – Leveraging artificial intelligence for branding and automated design systems.
• Augmented Reality (AR) & Virtual Reality (VR) Design – Creating immersive brand experiences that blend digital and physical realities.
• Motion Design and Animated Branding – Developing dynamic brand elements that move and evolve across digital platforms.
• Sustainable and Ethical Design – Recognizing eco-conscious branding and packaging innovations that prioritize ethical production.

The WBDS awards showcase the best in branding, design, and creative strategy, highlighting how the global design industry continues to evolve. Whether through print, digital, motion, or spatial design, these categories define the future of visual storytelling and brand communication.

For businesses and entrepreneurs in British Columbia, understanding these design disciplines provides insight into the latest trends and global standards, helping local brands and creative professionals stay ahead in a competitive market.

Why the WBDS Global Rankings Matter

These rankings provide invaluable insights for entrepreneurs, businesses, and designers in British Columbia. Whether you’re a small business owner looking to refresh your brand, a corporate team considering an in-house design department, or a graphic designer seeking inspiration, there is much to learn from the strategies, creativity, and execution of these top-ranked agencies, teams, and individuals.

For local businesses, working with an award-winning agency or independent creative could elevate brand perception, enhance storytelling, and boost customer engagement. Branding is no longer just about aesthetics—it’s about strategy, innovation, and differentiation in a crowded marketplace.

For freelancers and design professionals, the WBDS rankings highlight the standards of excellence in the industry. Entering competitions like WBDS Awards can help build credibility, attract clients, and expand career opportunities.

For students and educators, these rankings showcase the best institutions for developing industry-ready design skills. With KPU’s Wilson School of Design ranking in the top 10, British Columbia has a strong presence in the global design education landscape.

Whether you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, or creative professional, these rankings offer a benchmark for excellence and inspiration for the future of branding and design. At Bl3nd Design, we are dedicated to delivering the same world-class creativity and strategy showcased in the WBDS Awards—and we look forward to earning our place among the industry’s top-ranking agencies in the years ahead.

For questions about the WBDS Rankings and Awards, email hello@worldbranddesign.com.
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