Every year, TIME Magazine publishes a list of the world's top 100 influential companies, ranging from innovators to companies, and more.
This year, the industry disruptors include Kim Kardashian's $3.2 billion dollar company SKIMS, which has become much more than just a shapewear brand, as well as social media platform TikTok, which has basically become the go-to for Gen Z, Supergoop! which has managed to make sunscreen and SPF+ cool, and even Shein, which (in the worst way possible) has redefined what "fast fashion" means.
Big players including Amazon, Netflix, IBM, Apple, Disney, Microsoft, and Meta are of course also on the list, featured as "Titans." It comes as no surprise as these companies continue to grow bigger, and we're also seeing companies such as Pfizer on the list as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the vaccine rollout.
One brand on the list stands out, however.
Amongst the technology giants and new initiatives stands one luxury player – Balenciaga.
"Thanks to creative director Demna, luxury powerhouse Balenciaga is not only reflecting the cultural zeitgeist, it’s also driving it," TIME writes.
Currently, Balenciaga is the most relevant brand in luxury, continuously working with top-tier talent including Kim Kardashian and most recently Kendall Jenner at the Oscars, as well as shooting Justin Bieber, Cardi B, and more for its various campaigns. Demna understands what it means to be culturally relevant, and also understands how to create conversation.
Since his appointment at Balenciaga, the creative director has been all about creating controversial pieces and tongue-in-cheek capsules, featuring collaborations with The Simpsons and Fortnite, as well as creating heeled Crocs. Polarizing, and optimized for conversation, it is clear that everything Demna does is carefully planned, and intentional.
This year, he's also worked with Kanye West as the creative director of the DONDA listening parties, as well as collaborated with the rapper on the YEEZY x GAP Engineered by Balenciaga capsule collection which brought in a humble $2 billion dollars post-release.
With Balenciaga also making moves to enter the digital world by dedicating an entire team to expanding its presence in the Metaverse and within web3, the label will continue to be fashion's most relevant label for years to come.
If you're interested in exploring the full list of influential companies, you can do so over at the TIME website.
