Updated: July, 2025
To achieve meaningful success, businesses need to understand the essentials of building a strong brand identity. This knowledge helps in choosing the right brand design company to shape your future. Discover how to narrow your options and collaborate with leading creative designers and full-service agencies worldwide.
How to Choose a Brand Development Agency?
Maintaining a consistent brand presentation across all platforms can significantly impact your bottom line. Studies show it can lead to a revenue increase of up to 23%.
Companies that proactively cultivate a dynamic brand identity are more likely to resonate with their target audience. While comprehensive rebranding initiatives occur every 7-10 years for many organizations, implementing strategic visual refreshes in between allows brands to remain fresh and competitive.
To ensure the prosperity of your brand, it is crucial to engage the services of the appropriate branding agency. Take into account the following factors:
Define your branding goals: Start by outlining your brand’s needs in terms of design, messaging, and marketing. Clearly define your objectives to ensure agencies understand your vision and can provide tailored solutions.
Research and shortlist agencies: Look for creative firms with strong industry experience. Don’t just rely on flashy portfolios - focus on agencies that bring fresh ideas and have experience solving similar branding challenges. Select a few that align with your vision.
Screen top candidates: Narrow your list to three agencies and assess their expertise and approach. Share an example of a branding challenge and process to see if their solutions address your concerns effectively.
Evaluate proposals: Meet with each agency to discuss your project in detail. Evaluate their proposals, timelines, budgets, and overall strategies. Focus on how well their approach aligns with your brand’s goals and whether their solutions can drive meaningful results.
Make your choice: Present your brand needs to the top two agencies with the best proposals. Use these discussions to gauge their excitement, working style, and compatibility with your team. Choose the agency that understands your brand’s complexities and can deliver innovative solutions.
Finding an agency with experience in branding and digital technologies is key for brands in emerging industries like cryptocurrency. At Clay, we specialize in building strong, impactful brands for the crypto world. Our expertise ensures that your brand resonates with your target audience and stands out in the competitive crypto market.
Ultimately, choose the agency you feel the strongest connection with and that best aligns with your brand and company strategy.
This approach will help you find the ideal creative agency to meet your branding needs and support the success of your brand now and in the future.
The World’s Top 16 Branding Agencies - July Rankings
1. Clay
A global branding & UX design agency blending AI, design & technology

- Locations: San Francisco
- Year Established: 2009
- Team size: 11-50 employees
- Budget: $100k+
- Hourly price: $175-$200+/hr
- Capabilities: brand strategy, brand architecture, verbal & visual identity, brand guidelines, brand experience
- Best for: startups, crypto & Web3, financial services, FinTech, eCommerce, technology, B2B, healthcare, retail, logistics
- Portfolio: https://clay.global/work
At Clay, we believe branding is more than aesthetics. We're a strategic partner, the pottery studio for your business identity. We transform raw ideas into compelling brands – strong, unique, and designed to stand out.
Our focus goes beyond superficial appeal. We delve into your company's core: its story, values, and desired brand perception. This translates into a consistent strategy that unifies your presence across all touchpoints, from website to social media. Imagine a signature style but for your brand.
Our team includes strategists who serve as trusted partners for your brand. Working closely with our designers, they create identities that truly connect with your audience. By leveraging storytelling, we transform design elements into engaging narratives that build emotional bonds. In the end, we help you stand out and form authentic relationships with your customers.
We're proud of the impactful work we've done with various startups. From Wealth to CafePay, we've helped young companies establish themselves with clear, differentiated brands that resonated with their target market and fueled their growth.
Ready to elevate your brand from forgettable to remarkable? Clay is your one-stop solution. See our showreel for more details.
Distinctive feature: we understand the unique challenges startups face in establishing a strong brand identity. Our experience in guiding young businesses allows us to navigate these challenges, crafting brands that resonate with your target audience and pave the way for future success.
2. Mission Control
Branding and experiences that propel startups to greatness

- Locations: San Francisco
- Year established: 2025
- Team size: 11-50 employees
- Budget: depends on the pricing model
- Hourly price: $150/hr
- Capabilities: brand strategy, brand architecture, verbal & visual identity, brand guidelines, brand experience
- Best for: startups, crypto & Web3, financial services, FinTech, technology, B2B
Mission Control is a fresh face in the world of branding, launched in 2025 and based in San Francisco. Backed by the creative powerhouse of Clay — the team behind iconic brands like Slack, Meta, and Coinbase — Mission Control is laser-focused on helping ambitious startups build brands that don’t just look great but genuinely connect with their audience.
Our seasoned designers and strategists are talented at transforming big ideas into powerful brand identities, complete with clear strategies, compelling visuals, and consistent messaging.
Whether you’re a startup in crypto, fintech, B2B, or any other fast-growing sector, Mission Control’s approach is all about clarity and creativity. They don’t just hand over a logo and call it a day. They craft brand strategies that define your purpose, brand architectures that organize your offerings, and stunning visual identities that set you apart.
And they’re not just about pretty visuals: our team’s strategic thinking ensures your brand is built to grow, adapt, and make an impact. With flexible pricing models and a team that blends human creativity with AI-driven efficiency, Mission Control is designed for startups ready to launch with confidence and scale with style.
Distinctive feature: At Mission Control, the pricing is as flexible as their design process, giving startups the freedom to choose what works best for them. If you’re just getting started, the Launchpad package is perfect — it's a one-time, fixed-price deal for branding and web design. Need ongoing design support? The Orbit plan offers predictable monthly retainers to keep your visuals fresh and your brand on track. For those aiming even higher, the Alliance partnership blends cash and equity, creating a long-term collaboration that grows with your business. Whatever your budget or growth stage, Mission Control has an option that fits perfectly.
3. Pentagram
The world's largest independent design consultancy shaping global brands

- Locations: London, New York City, Berlin, Austin
- Year established: 1972
- Team size: 251-300 employees
- Budget: $400k+
- Hourly price: $350-$500/hr
- Capabilities: brand strategy, brand architecture, brand messaging, verbal & visual identity, brand guidelines, brand experience
- Best for: luxury goods & retail, technology & telecommunications, media & entertainment, Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG), education & non-profits, healthcare & pharmaceuticals, financial services & banking
- Portfolio: https://www.pentagram.com/work
Pentagram isn't your typical design studio. Since 1972, they've been crafting timeless brands and identities that resonate globally. With 24 design partners, each bringing unique expertise, Pentagram operates as a collaborative powerhouse, offering a multifaceted approach to shaping a brand's DNA.
Beyond aesthetics, Pentagram dives deep. They become brand detectives, uncovering a company's core values, target audience aspirations, and desired market position. This in-depth understanding fuels the creation of comprehensive brand strategies that permeate every customer touchpoint. Every element, from logos and websites to packaging and physical spaces, reflects and reinforces the brand's core message. With Pentagram, consistency reigns supreme, ensuring a seamless and cohesive brand experience across all interactions.
Distinctive feature: Pentagram's true strength lies in its collaborative partnership model. Unlike agencies with a single creative leader, Pentagram offers many design perspectives.
This allows them to tap into broader creativity, ensuring they deliver a brand identity that's not just beautiful but strategically sound and future-proof. It's the synergy of these design giants that sets them apart, making them the go-to for companies seeking to establish a brand with global reach and lasting impact.
4. Wolff Olins
Global brand builders, crafting transformative identities for over 50 years

- Locations: London, New York City, San Francisco, Los Angeles
- Year established: 1965
- Team size: 151-200 employees
- Budget: $450k+
- Hourly price: $350-$500/hr
- Capabilities: brand strategy, identity design, brand activation, brand architecture, content creation, digital experiences
- Best for: technology & telecommunications, retail & consumer goods, healthcare & pharmaceuticals, arts & culture, non-profit & social impact
- Portfolio: https://wolffolins.com/work
Founded in 1965, Wolff Olins has been at the forefront of corporate identity, shaping how brands connect with the world. Their approach goes beyond aesthetics. They're architects, meticulously crafting brand experiences that resonate on a deeper level, driving positive change.
Their secret? A mix of strategic thinking and creative brilliance. They uncover a brand's values, aspirations, and audience, using this insight to craft strategies that shape every touchpoint – logos, websites, marketing materials, and physical spaces. The result? A brand that communicates clearly and consistently across every interaction. That’s the Wolff Olins magic.
The results are undeniable. From the iconic NYBG logo to the vibrant energy of Kenvue brand identity, Wolff Olins boasts a legacy of transforming brands into cultural forces. They're the ideal partner for companies seeking a strategic and impactful branding experience that goes beyond creating a logo and delves into the heart of what a brand truly stands for.
Distinctive feature: Wolff Olins stands out for its unwavering commitment to positive impact. They believe brand strategy can be a powerful force for good, and they weave this philosophy into every project. From advocating for sustainability to fostering social change, they use their design expertise to empower brands that make a difference. This dedication to purpose sets them apart, making them the ideal partner for companies seeking to leave a lasting, positive mark on the world.
5. DesignStudio
Your London-based partner in visual storytelling and brand success

- Locations: London, New York, Sydney
- Year established: 2008
- Team size: 301-350 employees
- Budget: $1k+
- Hourly price: $300-$400+/hr
- Capabilities: brand strategy, brand architecture, digital strategy, employer brand strategy, visual & verbal identity, motion & sonic identity, naming
- Best for: startups & scale-ups, technology & innovation, consumer goods & retail, lifestyle & entertainment
- Portfolio: https://www.design.studio/work
Forget cookie-cutter logos and generic slogans. DesignStudio are the cultivators who nurture a brand's unique story and help it blossom into a powerful force. Founded in 2008, they've spent a decade honing their craft, understanding that a brand's true value lies in the narrative it weaves.
Their approach goes beyond the surface. They dig deep, uncovering a brand's core values, aspirations, and the stories that resonate with its target audience. This translates into strategic branding that's more than just an aesthetic; it's a carefully cultivated experience. Think of it as a symphony – logo, website, and marketing materials, all playing their part in a unified and captivating brand narrative.
The results speak for themselves. From the playful energy of Bettefly brand identity to the timeless elegance of Penguin Random House revamped look, DesignStudio's portfolio is a testament to its storytelling prowess. They're the ideal partner for growth-minded businesses seeking a brand that stands out and connects with its audience on a deeper level.
Unique approach: Unlike larger agencies, DesignStudio embraces a boutique style that prioritizes personalized attention. Their smaller team size allows them to craft branding strategies tailored to each client’s unique needs and future aspirations. From helping startups break into competitive markets to rejuvenating established brands, DesignStudio develops growth-focused plans that evolve with the business. This commitment to customized solutions and a forward-thinking vision makes them an ideal partner for companies aiming to build a brand that grows with their ambitions.
6. Siegel+Gale
Simplifying brands and driving success through strategic design since 1969

- Locations: New York, Dubai, Los Angeles, Shanghai, San Francisco, Tokyo, London
- Year established: 1969
- Team size: 201-250 employees
- Budget: $350k+
- Hourly price: $350-$500/hr
- Capabilities: brand messaging, brand voice, storytelling, content creation & strategy, brand management assessment, naming
- Best for: financial services, government communications, healthcare, technology, sports
- Portfolio: https://www.siegelgale.com/work
In a world bombarded by flashy visuals and complex messaging, Siegel+Gale stands out as a beacon of clarity. Founded in 1969 by Alan Siegel, a champion of clear communication, this design agency isn't interested in bells and whistles. Their focus is on crafting brands that resonate through simplicity.
They believe that true power lies in straightforward communication. They meticulously dissect complex concepts, distilling them into concise and impactful brand messages. Imagine a brand that speaks in a clear, confident voice, effortlessly rising above the cacophony of marketing noise. That's the Siegel+Gale magic. They translate your brand's essence into a language that resonates with your target audience, fostering trust and understanding.
The results are undeniable. From simplifying the stablecoin experience with the iconic Tether to designing the universally recognizable CVS Health logo, Siegel+Gale boasts a legacy of success. They're the ideal partner for companies seeking to declutter their brand communication and unlock the power of simplicity.
Unique approach: Siegel+Gale stands out with their philosophy, "Simplicity is Smart." This isn't just a slogan; it's a guiding principle. In a world overwhelmed by visual clutter, they prioritize clarity and brevity as the foundation of impactful branding. They understand that simplicity often speaks louder than complexity, and a clear, focused message can leave a more lasting impression. By embracing this mindset, they craft brands that are visually appealing, communicate effectively, and foster trust and loyalty.
7. Lippincott
A global company partnering with brands to build enduring legacies

- Locations: New York, Dubai, London, Singapore, Shanghai, Seoul, Sydney, Hong Kong, San Francisco
- Year established: 1943
- Team size: 201-250 employees
- Budget: $400k+
- Hourly price: $350-$500/hr
- Capabilities: brand architecture, naming, logo design, brand identity system, taglines, brand messaging
- Best for: technology, food & beverage, retail, non-profit, fashion, financial services, media & entertainment, travel & hospitality
- Portfolio: https://www.lippincott.com/work
Design agency Lippincott was not founded in 1943 as some run-of-the-mill logo maker. They are the architects and storytellers who create brand narratives that last for years to come. Their legacy is built on more than good looks; it’s about getting under the skin of a company and expressing that through powerful brand experiences.
They take the time to truly understand your brand, acting like detectives to uncover its core values, goals, and unique identity. Using these insights, they build a solid strategy that informs every interaction. Whether it’s your website, packaging, or physical spaces like offices and stores, every touchpoint will consistently represent your brand's essence.
Their track record speaks for itself: Delta Airlines’ timeless elegance and Swarovski vibrant energy are just two examples of many iconic projects over the years where Lippincott has helped shape brands that transcend fashion. If you want not simply another passing trend but rather an idea so deeply embedded within popular culture that it becomes part of pop culture itself, look no further than these guys because nobody does it better!
Distinctive feature: Lippincott stands out for their ability to create enduring brands like few others can. Their focus on longevity sets them apart from most agencies today. With years of experience across countless industries, they understand the importance of strong foundations when building something new - whether for business success or personal growth. Forget chasing trends - let them help tell your story!
8. Saffron
Independent global consultancy transforming brands through strategic thinking and bold ideas

- Locations: London, Madrid, Vienna, Istanbul
- Year established: 2001
- Team size: 51-100 employees
- Budget: $300k+
- Hourly price: $250-$400/hr
- Capabilities: brand architecture, brand identity, brand positioning
- Best for: financial services, travel & hospitality, technology & telecommunications, consumer goods & entertainment, real estate, social impact
- Portfolio: https://saffron-consultants.com/work
Saffron are experts in clarity who create brands with worldwide resonance very carefully. The organization was established in 2001 and goes beyond aesthetics; it combines strategic thought with cultural awareness to make brands that can impact the globe.
Picture a brand that speaks clearly and confidently regardless of where it is heard or read – even in a different language. This is what Saffron does best. They dig deep into a business enterprise's underlying principles before developing a brand strategy that surpasses geographical boundaries.
Consider universally adaptable websites, packaging materials that resonate everywhere, and marketing resources that engage international audiences – these should be uniform yet sensitive enough to reflect various cultures according to Saffron’s approach.
Its achievements speak volumes. From designing A1 brand identity that can relate to millions across the continents to giving the Victoria & Albert Museum a facelift to appeal to broader sections of people, Saffron has had many successes. Any firm looking forward to establishing its presence clearly and forcefully on a global platform should partner with them.
Distinctive feature: Saffron stands out for its commitment to global fluency. Recognizing the importance of interconnectedness in today’s world, they’ve built a team of international brand strategists and designers who ensure your brand not only looks great but also resonates with diverse audiences worldwide. Few agencies combine such strategic thinking and cultural sensitivity to create brands that truly connect on a global scale.
9. Labbrand
A global branding leader driving innovation and growth for ambitious brands

- Locations: Shanghai, Paris, New York, Singapore, Malaysia
- Year established: 2005
- Team size: 101-150 employees
- Budget: $300k+
- Hourly price: $250-$300/hr
- Capabilities: naming, brand identity, packaging, brand communication, brand strategy, brand management, brand positioning, brand architecture
- Best for: technology, fashion & luxury, education, entertainment, healthcare, real estate, financial services, auto, retail, logistics
- Portfolio: https://www.labbrand.com/work
Labbrand, a renowned design agency founded in China in 2001, views branding as a strategic tool for growth. They emphasize the power of a brand to build connections, inspire audiences, and drive success.
As a top global branding agency, Labbrand focuses on developing meaningful brand strategies and identities. By blending cultural insights with market expertise, they help businesses create distinctive brand experiences that deeply connect with their audiences.
Their approach blends creativity with strategic insight, ensuring that each brand they work with stands out in a crowded marketplace. By leveraging its brand naming, design, and communication expertise, Labbrand helps companies build strong, enduring connections with their customers, driving loyalty and growth.
Think of the iconic Lanvin identity, reinvented for the Chinese market by Labbrand. Or the vibrant identity of Unilever, crafted with global appeal. These are just a few examples of their success stories.
Distinctive feature: Labbrand’s commitment to cultural sensitivity sets them apart. Unlike many agencies that take a one-size-fits-all approach, Labbrand recognizes the importance of tailoring brand strategies to specific cultural contexts.
Their team of experts conducts in-depth research to understand the cultural nuances of each market, ensuring that brands resonate with local consumers on a deep level. This emphasis on cultural relevance sets Labbrand apart, allowing them to create brands that feel authentic and meaningful to diverse audiences worldwide.
10. Anomaly
Creative powerhouse Anomaly blends strategy, design, and digital marketing for impactful brands

- Locations: Los Angeles, New York, Toronto, London, Berlin, Shanghai
- Year established: 2004
- Notable branding projects: Mini, Corona Extra, Budweiser, Adidas, Johnnie Walker, Converse, Instagram Shopping
- Team size: 800+ employees
- Budget: $350k+
- Hourly price: $250-$400/hr
- Capabilities: brand strategy, verbal & visual brand identity design, brand architecture, brand consultancy, product development
- Best for: technology, food & beverage, fashion, auto, retail, healthcare, beauty, non-profit
- Portfolio: https://www.anomaly.com/work
Unlike many firms that stick to tired tactics or churn out cookie-cutter designs, Anomaly takes a completely different approach. They start by diving deep into what makes a brand unique — its core values, long-term goals, and the impact it wants to have on the world. This kind of honest, in-depth self-reflection leads to brand experiences that aren’t just creative but genuinely meaningful.
They don’t just catch your eye — they touch your heart. These connections don’t just build brand loyalty. They create a sense of belonging, forming strong bonds between brands and the people they serve.
Anomaly is all about redefining how we connect with brands in today’s fast-paced world. They don’t just design logos or campaigns; they craft stories and experiences that resonate on a personal level. Look at how they transformed Adidas' global identity or captured the spirit of MINI — these aren’t just visuals. They’re living, breathing examples of branding that feels real.
For Anomaly, great branding is more than just making a company recognizable. It’s about creating real change — helping brands build meaningful relationships and leaving a lasting impact on their audience.
What really sets them apart is their fearless commitment to purposeful disruption. They don’t just follow the rules — they challenge them. They ask the tough questions, spark important conversations, and turn ideas upside down to create something genuinely new. Instead of shouting louder in a crowded market, they design brands that actually inspire action. They don’t add to the noise — they make a difference.
11. Dentsu
Integrated marketing solutions for brands to connect them with consumers in a changing world

- Locations: Tokyo, New York, Singapore, Amsterdam, London, Dublin, South Melbourne, São Paulo
- Year established: 1901
- Team size: 35,000+ employees
- Budget: $500k+
- Hourly price: $350+/hr
- Capabilities: branding, media strategies,
- Best for: food & beverage, media & telecom, sports, logistics, entertainment, technology, healthcare & life sciences, e-commerce & fashion tech, electronics
- Portfolio: https://www.dentsu.com/us/en/our-work
Dentsu is a stalwart in global advertising and branding, boasting a rich tapestry of history and a legacy of innovation. With roots tracing back decades, Dentsu has evolved into an industry leader renowned for its adeptness in crafting compelling brand identities.
Dentsu stands out by blending creativity with strategic insights to craft brand experiences that are both visually striking and tailored to market demands. Their skilled team of creatives seamlessly connects design with business objectives, creating compelling brand stories that resonate with audiences and foster long-term growth.
What sets Dentsu apart is its holistic approach to branding. Rather than concentrating on one aspect, such as advertising or visual identity, the agency offers a diverse range of services, guiding brands from initial concepts through to execution.
From developing strategies and crafting brand identities to managing multi-channel marketing campaigns, Dentsu delivers integrated and cohesive solutions.
This comprehensive approach ensures consistent branding across all touchpoints, making Dentsu a valuable partner for businesses aiming to build a strong and unified presence in the marketplace.
12. FutureBrand Australia
Transforming brands to drive purposeful business growth

- Locations: Melbourne, Sydney
- Year established: 1999
- Notable branding projects: Asian Football Confederation, Bush Heritage Australia, Fiji Airways, Guide Dogs Australia
- Team size: 11-50 employees
- Budget: $100k+
- Hourly price: $200-300+/hr
- Capabilities: brand architecture, brand & customer experience, visual identity, brand language, naming, brand management, brand measurement
- Best for: arts & culture, entertainment, sport, healthcare, non-profit, technology, travel & hospitality
- Portfolio: https://futurebrand.com.au/projects
- Socials: Instagram
Imagine a brand that speaks with an authentic Aussie voice - confident, approachable, and resonates with the local spirit. That's the FutureBrand Australia touch. They go beyond market research – they tap into the cultural pulse of Australia, understanding the values, aspirations, and sense of humor that make Aussie consumers tick. This cultural fluency fuels the creation of branding strategies that feel inherently Australian, fostering trust and connection with local audiences.
The results tell the story. FutureBrand Australia has a proven track record, from their work with iconic Australian brands to reshaping tourism campaigns for entire regions. Their deep understanding of the Australian market makes them the perfect partner for businesses looking for branding that’s both globally impactful and authentically Australian.
But their expertise doesn’t stop at Australia’s borders. With a global network and strategic approach, they’re able to bring their signature Australian flair to audiences around the world.
Distinctive feature: what truly sets FutureBrand Australia apart is its mastery of the Australian identity. They're not just branding experts but cultural anthropologists with a deep understanding of the Australian psyche.
This unique ability to translate the essence of Australia into powerful branding strategies allows them to create brands that not only resonate with local audiences but also feel inherently Australian. They're the Aussie whisperers, ensuring your brand speaks the language that truly connects with the hearts and minds of Australian consumers.
13. Snøhetta
A global architecture and design firm known for its innovative and sustainable projects

- Locations: Oslo, New York, San Francisco, Innsbruck, Paris, Adelaide, Melbourne, Hong Kong, Shenzhen
- Year established: 1989
- Team size: 351-400 employees
- Budget: $500k+
- Hourly price: $350-$500/hr
- Capabilities: brand development, brand strategy, product design, naming, visual identity, brand activation, communication & PR
- Best for: architecture, education, retail, sports, art, public space, travel & hospitality, technology, healthcare
- Portfolio: https://www.snohetta.com/projects
Snøhetta isn't your typical branding agency confined to the two-dimensional world. Founded in 1989, this Norwegian powerhouse takes a holistic approach, blurring the lines between architecture, landscape design, and brand experience. Imagine a brand identity that extends beyond logos and color palettes and breathes life into your company's essence through a multi-sensory experience.
They believe a brand is more than just a visual representation; it's a story waiting to be told. They become brand storytellers, meticulously crafting visual narratives seamlessly woven into physical spaces, digital experiences, and employee culture.
Think of a flagship store that embodies your brand values, a website that feels like an immersive journey, or an office space that fosters innovation and collaboration. This cohesive approach ensures your brand identity resonates with every touchpoint, creating a lasting impression on your audience.
The results are undeniable. From designing the iconic Bibliotheca Alexandrina in Egypt to crafting the visual identity for Norway's national parks, Snøhetta boasts a legacy of creating impactful experiences that transcend the boundaries of traditional branding. They're the ideal partner for companies seeking a branding experience that goes beyond the expected and tells your story uniquely and captivatingly.
Distinctive feature: Snøhetta stands out for its focus on multi-sensory brand storytelling, using experiences to create lasting brand impressions. They go beyond traditional branding to design spaces, digital experiences, and company cultures that reflect your brand's essence. This approach ensures your brand is not just seen but felt, creating a memorable, holistic experience. Snøhetta doesn’t just build brands - they build brand worlds.
14. Chermayeff & Geismar & Haviv
Legendary NYC design firm crafting iconic logos for global brands

- Locations: New York
- Year established: 1958
- Team size: 11-50 employees
- Budget: $500k+
- Hourly price: $350-$500+/hr
- Capabilities: brand identities, print and motion graphics, brand development, brand strategy, brand & customer experience
- Best for: sports, art & entertainment, technology & telecommunications, education, non-profit, healthcare, financial services
- Portfolio: https://www.cghnyc.com/work/logos
For over six decades, Chermaffeoff & Geismar & Haviv (C&GH) has been a titan in the world of branding. This New York-based agency, founded in 1957 by Ivan Chermayeff and Tom Geismar, isn't interested in flashy trends. Their focus is on crafting brands that stand the test of time, with a philosophy rooted in strategic simplicity.
C&GH believes that true brand power lies in clarity and conciseness. They meticulously dissect a company's essence, distilling it into a logo and identity that resonates deeper. Imagine a brand that speaks with a clear, confident voice, effortlessly cutting through the marketing noise. That's the magic of C&GH. They translate complex ideas into simple yet powerful visual representations that become synonymous with the company they represent.
Their legacy speaks for itself. From the iconic National Geographic logo to the universally recognizable Brown University, C&GH boasts a portfolio brimming with brands that have transcended generations. They're the ideal partner for companies seeking a branding experience that prioritizes clarity and longevity, ensuring their brand continues to resonate for years.
Distinctive feature: C&GH has an unwavering commitment to the principle of "less is more." C&GH champions the idea that simplicity and clarity are the hallmarks of a truly effective brand in a world obsessed with visual extravagance.
They understand that a well-crafted, easy-to-understand logo and identity can have a far greater impact than a cluttered and confusing one. This dedication to strategic simplicity allows them to create aesthetically pleasing brands strategically designed to connect with audiences on a lasting level.
15. Design Bridge
Elevating brands with award-winning design since 1986

- Locations: Amsterdam, Bangkok, Beijing, Berlin, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Johannesburg, London, Los Angeles, Madrid, Mumbai, Munich, New York, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Singapore, São Paolo
- Year established: 1986
- Team size: 1000+ employees
- Budget: $450k+
- Hourly price: $350-$500/hr
- Capabilities: brand strategy, brand positioning, brand architecture, visual & verbal identity, naming, sonic & audio identity, packaging design & production, brand management
- Best for: financial services, art & entertainment, healthcare, non-profit, real estate, retail, technology, travel & hospitality
- Portfolio: https://www.designbridge.com/work
Imagine a brand that transcends mere functionality. Imagine a brand that speaks to your emotions and evokes trust, excitement, or belonging. That's the magic Design Bridge brings. They translate a company's essence into a powerful brand narrative that seamlessly unfolds across every touchpoint – websites, packaging, marketing materials, and customer service interactions. Consistency is critical but infused with a human touch, fostering an emotional connection with your audience.
The results are undeniable. From breathing new life into classic brands like Hellmann’s to shaping the future-facing identity of innovative startups like Clear Mobile, Design Bridge has a knack for creating brands that stand out and connect with audiences on a meaningful level. They're the ideal partner for companies seeking a branding experience that goes beyond aesthetics and fosters long-lasting relationships with their customers.
Distinctive feature: Design Bridge believes in the power of emotional connection. In today’s crowded market, a brand must do more than look good - it needs to resonate, evoke emotions, and inspire loyalty.
Design Bridge helps businesses build lasting connections by crafting compelling brand stories. Purposeful branding creates awareness and fosters a sense of community through shared experiences.
16. Jones Knowles Ritchie
London-based creative agency building brands for scale, disruption, and good

- Locations: London, New York, Shanghai
- Year established: 1990
- Team size: 300+ employees
- Budget: $500k+
- Hourly price: $350-$500+/hr
- Capabilities: brand strategy, brand experience, brand positioning, packaging design, brand architecture, visual & verbal identity, naming, brand consultancy
- Best for: financial services, art & entertainment, healthcare, non-profit, real estate, retail, technology, travel & hospitality
- Portfolio: https://jkrglobal.com/work
Established in 1990, Jones Knowles Ritchie (JKR) carved a niche as the voice of design for those seeking impact without sacrificing discernment. Their approach transcends trendy fads, focusing on crafting brand identities that resonate with a discerning audience for years to come.
From their work with industry giants like M&M’s and Domino’s to their success stories with bold startups like Ugly Drinks, JKR boasts a legacy of building brands that look stunning and function flawlessly. They're the ideal partner for companies seeking a branding experience that prioritizes a strategic narrative delivered with audacious design.
Distinctive feature: what truly sets JKR apart is their mastery of the symphony between bold design and strategic storytelling. They understand that a brand is more than just a pretty face; it's a living narrative with the power to connect with audiences on a deeper level.
JKR doesn't just create logos, they craft experiences. This unique blend allows them to weave a brand story that visually captivates while strategically engaging the target audience, ensuring your brand stands out aesthetically and resonates for years to come.
FAQ: How to Choose the Right Branding Agency
0. What Are the Top Branding Agencies in 2025?
Among the top branding agencies in 2025 are Clay, Pentagram, Wolf Ollins, DesignStudio, and Siegel+Gale. Known for their strategic thinking and creative depth, these agencies help companies develop distinctive brand systems that connect meaningfully with audiences and evolve across digital and physical touchpoints.
1. Why is Branding Important for Businesses?
A professional web design agency brings specialized skills in user experience, visual design, and web strategy that most internal teams can’t fully replicate. They also help ensure your site is visually polished, user-friendly, and conversion-optimized from day one.
2. What Does a Branding Agency Do?
Web design agencies focus on layout, user experience, interaction, and branding. Web development agencies handle the technical build, such as coding, backend systems, CMS integration, and performance optimization.
3. How is a Branding Agency Different from a Marketing Agency?
Most web design agencies offer a combination of strategy, design, and creative services, including:
- UI/UX design and research
- Responsive web design
- Wireframing and prototyping
- Visual design systems
- Branding and style integration
- Developer collaboration and handoff
4. What Services Should I Expect from a Branding Agency?
Look for a portfolio that demonstrates quality, versatility, and relevance to your industry. A good agency will also have:
- Clear case studies with measurable outcomes
- Strong client reviews
- Transparent design processes
- Experience with businesses at your scale
5. How Do I Choose the Right Branding Agency?
Look for experience in your industry, a strong creative portfolio, proven results, clear processes, and an approach that aligns with your business goals.
6. How Much Does It Cost to Work with a Branding Agency?
Pricing varies widely depending on the agency and project complexity. Expect:
- $10,000–$20,000 for basic websites
- $30,000–$75,000 for mid-size, custom builds
- $100,000+ for enterprise-level or complex digital experiences
7. How Long Does the Branding Process Take?
A full website design typically takes 6 to 16 weeks, depending on content readiness, revisions, and the number of stakeholders involved. Phases usually include discovery, wireframes, high-fidelity design, and developer handoff.
8. Should I Work with a Local or Global Branding Agency?
Local agencies offer easier communication, timezone alignment, and cultural context. International agencies can provide:
- Global design insights
- Cross-market experience
- Diverse creative teams
- Broader toolsets and methodologies
9. Can a Branding Agency Help with Rebranding?
To evaluate fit and process, ask:
- What’s your typical design process and timeline?
- Do you have experience in our industry or user base?
- How do you handle mobile responsiveness and accessibility?
- What role does SEO and performance play in your design?
- How do you collaborate with developers?
10. What Mistakes Should I Avoid When Choosing a Branding Agency?
Yes, most agencies handle both new builds and redesigns. They can modernize outdated sites, fix usability issues, or align the design with a rebrand or new strategy.
11. How Does Branding Impact Business Success?
Common pitfalls include choosing purely based on cost or visual style. Also avoid agencies that:
- Skip user experience research
- Don’t design mobile-first
- Lack a clear design process
- Can’t show past performance results
The Bottom Line
Selecting the right branding agency is essential, as your brand shapes your identity, engages your audience, and fuels your success. Each of the agencies featured here brings unique expertise and methods to the table.
From Lippincott's strategic perspective to Saffron's global approach, you'll find a partner ready to help you create a brand that inspires, connects, and drives growth.
Take the time to explore their portfolios and choose the agency that best aligns with your goals. Keep in mind, successful branding goes beyond visuals - it’s about unlocking your brand’s potential and crafting a compelling story that truly resonates with your audience.
Thanks for reading!


About Clay
Clay is a UI/UX design & branding agency in San Francisco. We team up with startups and leading brands to create transformative digital experience. Clients: Facebook, Slack, Google, Amazon, Credit Karma, Zenefits, etc.
Learn more

About Clay
Clay is a UI/UX design & branding agency in San Francisco. We team up with startups and leading brands to create transformative digital experience. Clients: Facebook, Slack, Google, Amazon, Credit Karma, Zenefits, etc.
Learn more