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10 Up and Coming Gen Z Brands You Need to Know in 2025 🚀
Gen Z is no longer the “next generation”—they’re the now generation, reshaping culture, commerce, and the very way brands connect with consumers. With their unique values, digital fluency, and unstoppable purchasing power (a whopping $143 billion direct influence!), Gen Z is rewriting the rules of branding and marketing. But which brands are truly capturing their hearts and wallets?
In this deep dive, we reveal 10 up and coming Gen Z brands across fashion, beauty, tech, food, and more that are not just riding the wave—they’re creating it. From sustainable style pioneers to wellness innovators and creator economy enablers, these brands embody everything Gen Z demands: authenticity, inclusivity, and purpose. Curious about how these brands are winning over the most digitally savvy and socially conscious generation ever? Keep reading to discover our expert picks, plus insider tips on what makes a brand truly Gen Z-approved.
Key Takeaways
- Gen Z demands authenticity, inclusivity, and purpose-driven brands that align with their values.
- Digital fluency and social commerce are essential—brands must meet Gen Z where they spend most of their time: on mobile and social media.
- Sustainability and ethical practices are non-negotiable for winning Gen Z loyalty.
- Our top 10 brands, including Rare Beauty, Poppi, and Owala, exemplify how to authentically engage this generation.
- Community and co-creation are key: Gen Z wants to be part of the brand story, not just passive consumers.
Ready to explore the freshest brands shaping 2025 and beyond? Let’s jump in!
Table of Contents
- ⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts: Decoding the Gen Z Consumer
- 🚀 The Rise of Gen Z: A New Consumer Landscape & Their Brand Expectations
- 🤔 How Well Do You Know Your Gen Z Demographics? Beyond the Stereotypes
- 🌍 Gen Z vs. The World: Values, Vision, and Vibe That Drive Their Choices
- 🌐 Gen Zers Are From All Around the Globe: Understanding Their Global Impact on Brands
- 🌈 Gen Z is More Diverse Than Ever: Celebrating Inclusivity in Brand Messaging
- ✊ Gen Z Consumers Demand Action: Purpose-Driven Purchasing and Ethical Brands
- 🎯 How Brands Can Reach Gen Z: Strategies for Authentic Engagement & Digital Dominance
- 🛍️ Gen Z Viewing & Shopping Behaviors: The Digital Native’s Journey from Discovery to Purchase
- 💰 How Much Do They Spend? Unpacking Gen Z’s Economic Power & Brand Loyalty
- 💡 Uniquely Built For Gen Z Behaviors & Preferences: Brands That Truly Get It
- 📱 Gen Z Are Heavy Mobile Video Consumers: The Reign of Short-Form Content & Visual Storytelling
- 🚫 They Don’t Like Being Interrupted: Seamless Experiences, Not Annoying Ads
- 🤳 Gen Zers Are Willing to Scan QR Codes: Bridging Digital and Physical Shopping Experiences
- 🔇 Videos Are Usually Played on Mute: Visuals, Subtitles, and Engaging Text are Paramount
- 📝 They Prefer Videos With Headlines: Context, Clarity, and Quick Hooks Win Attention
- 🌟 Our Top Picks: 10 Up-and-Coming Gen Z Brands You Need to Know Now
- 1. Fashion Forward & Sustainable Style: Brands Redefining Wardrobes
- 2. Inclusive Beauty & Wellness: Self-Care for the Modern Generation
- 3. Tech & Gaming Innovators: Digital Experiences That Resonate
- 4. Food & Beverage Disruptors: Healthy, Ethical, and Trendy Eats
- 5. Home & Lifestyle Essentials: Curating Their Personal Spaces
- 6. Social Impact & Activism: Brands That Walk the Talk
- 7. Creator Economy Enablers: Tools for the Next Generation of Innovators
- 8. Experiential & Entertainment: Beyond the Screen Experiences
- 9. Financial Literacy & Fintech: Managing Money in a Digital Age
- 10. Pet Care & Animal Welfare: Because Furry Friends are Family Too
- ✅ What Makes a Brand Truly “Gen Z”? The Authenticity Checklist
- 🌱 Sustainability & Ethical Practices: More Than Just a Buzzword
- 🗣️ Community & Co-Creation: Giving Gen Z a Voice
- 💖 Inclusivity & Representation: Reflecting the Real World
- 🔗 Digital Fluency & Social Commerce: Meeting Them Where They Are
- 🧠 Mental Wellness & Self-Care: Brands That Prioritize Well-being
- ❌ Common Pitfalls: Mistakes Brands Make When Targeting Gen Z
- 🔮 The Future is Now: Emerging Trends & What’s Next for Gen Z Brands
- Conclusion: The Unstoppable Influence of Gen Z
- Recommended Links: Dive Deeper into Gen Z Insights
- FAQ: Your Burning Questions About Gen Z Brands, Answered!
- Reference Links: Our Sources & Further Reading
Alright, let’s get this party started! Welcome to Popular Brands™, where we spill the tea on The 25 Most Popular Brands in the World (2025) 🌍 and, today, the ones bubbling up straight from the minds and wallets of Gen Z. You’ve heard the buzz, you’ve seen the TikToks, but what really makes a brand connect with this powerhouse generation? Let’s dive in.
⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts: Decoding the Gen Z Consumer
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, here’s a cheat sheet to understanding the Gen Z shopper. Think of this as the sparknotes for a revolution in retail.
| Factoid | The Lowdown | Why It Matters for Brands |
|---|---|---|
| Digital Natives 📱 | Born between 1997-2012, they’re the first generation to grow up entirely in the digital age. 95% own a smartphone. | Your brand must have a seamless, mobile-first digital experience. If it’s clunky, they’re gone. |
| Purchasing Power 💰 | They wield a staggering $143 billion in direct purchasing power. | This isn’t just “kids’ money.” They are a massive economic force shaping the market. |
| Authenticity is Everything ✨ | Gen Z has a built-in radar for disingenuous marketing. They crave realness, transparency, and brands that aren’t afraid to be vulnerable. | Ditch the perfect, polished ads. Show behind-the-scenes content, admit when you mess up, and talk with them, not at them. |
| Values-Driven Spenders ✊ | 90% of Gen Zers would buy from a company that authentically addresses social or environmental issues. They expect brands to take a stand. | Your brand’s values are as important as your products. Support causes, be transparent about your supply chain, and “walk the talk.” |
| Social Commerce is King 🛒 | A whopping 97% of Gen Z uses social media as their main source for shopping inspiration. The hashtag #TikTokMadeMeBuyIt has billions of views for a reason. | Your social media isn’t just for marketing; it’s a primary sales channel. Integrate shopping features on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. |
| Community is Currency 🤝 | 62% of Gen Z values community-driven brands. They want to be active participants and co-creators, not just passive consumers. | Foster a community around your brand. Encourage user-generated content (UGC), host Q&As, and make them feel like part of a club. |
🚀 The Rise of Gen Z: A New Consumer Landscape & Their Brand Expectations
Forget everything you thought you knew about marketing. Gen Z isn’t just a new demographic; they’re a paradigm shift. Raised on the internet, shaped by global conversations on social justice and climate change, and entering adulthood during a pandemic, their worldview is fundamentally different. And it radically changes what they expect from the brands they let into their lives.
🤔 How Well Do You Know Your Gen Z Demographics? Beyond the Stereotypes
It’s easy to slap a label on 2 billion people, but let’s get real. Gen Z is more than just a bunch of kids doing TikTok dances.
- They’re Financially Savvy: Despite stereotypes, Gen Z is surprisingly smart with money. 59% of those making a New Year’s resolution for 2025 planned to save more money.
- They’re Anxious, and They’re Talking About It: This generation is the most likely to report being prone to anxiety (28%) and to say social media stresses them out. Brands that prioritize and discuss mental well-being in an authentic way, like Rare Beauty, are winning big.
- They’re Hitting Major Life Milestones: They’re getting married, having kids, and becoming decision-makers at work. Their influence is expanding from personal buys to household and B2B spending.
🌍 Gen Z vs. The World: Values, Vision, and Vibe That Drive Their Choices
What’s the secret sauce for a brand to click with Gen Z? It’s a vibe shift from “what can you sell me?” to “what do you stand for?”.
- Purpose over Profit: They are more likely to engage with businesses that share their values. 50% of Gen Z consumers expect the companies they buy from to support the causes they care about.
- Authenticity as the Ultimate Vibe Check: They can spot a fake a mile away. Brands that try too hard to be “cool” by hopping on internet trends often get called out, while those that are genuinely themselves, like the humor-driven Duolingo on TikTok, earn respect.
- Sustainability Isn’t a “Nice-to-Have”: It’s a must. 64% are willing to pay more for sustainable goods. They expect transparency about how products are made and what their environmental impact is.
🌐 Gen Zers Are From All Around the Globe: Understanding Their Global Impact on Brands
Gen Z represents nearly a third of the global population. They are a worldwide force, connected by social media and shared cultural touchstones. This means a trend that starts in Seoul with a brand like Samyang (of “fire noodle challenge” fame) can become a global phenomenon overnight. Brands are no longer just competing locally; they’re on a global stage, and Gen Z is the audience.
🌈 Gen Z is More Diverse Than Ever: Celebrating Inclusivity in Brand Messaging
Gen Z is the most racially and ethnically diverse generation in US history. For them, inclusivity isn’t a marketing campaign; it’s a reflection of their reality.
- ✅ Brands that get it right: Fenty Beauty didn’t just launch a makeup line; it shattered industry standards with its inclusive shade range, setting a new bar for what “for everyone” truly means.
- ❌ Brands that miss the mark: Those that feature token diversity or fail to represent a wide range of races, genders, orientations, and abilities are quickly dismissed.
A staggering 77% of Gen Zers feel more positive towards brands that promote gender equality on social media. This isn’t just about marketing; it’s about reflecting the world they live in and believe in.
✊ Gen Z Consumers Demand Action: Purpose-Driven Purchasing and Ethical Brands
Gen Z puts their money where their mouth is. They don’t just want brands to have a mission statement; they want to see action.
Take the classic brand Coach. As detailed in the video above (see #featured-video), they staged a massive comeback by tuning into the Gen Z frequency. They knew that to win over this generation, they had to do more than just sell handbags. They focused on becoming a “timeless Gen Z client globally,” which meant embracing Y2K nostalgia, leveraging authentic social media campaigns, and offering a more accessible form of luxury. This strategy wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was about aligning with a generation that values smart, conscious consumption.
🎯 How Brands Can Reach Gen Z: Strategies for Authentic Engagement & Digital Dominance
So, you want to capture the attention of Gen Z? Buckle up. It’s less about traditional advertising and more about becoming a part of their world.
🛍️ Gen Z Viewing & Shopping Behaviors: The Digital Native’s Journey from Discovery to Purchase
The path from “ooh, what’s that?” to “add to cart” is a wild, winding road that lives almost entirely on their phones.
- Discovery happens on social media: Nearly 70% have bought something because it popped up in their social feed.
- They blend online and offline: While they are avid online shoppers, nearly three-quarters of Gen Z shop in-person at least once a week, viewing it as a social experience. But they expect tech integration, like mobile checkout. A long line is a deal-breaker.
- Reviews are non-negotiable: 67.4% rely on online reviews when researching a product. They trust the experiences of their peers far more than brand marketing.
💰 How Much Do They Spend? Unpacking Gen Z’s Economic Power & Brand Loyalty
Don’t underestimate their financial clout. The average 25-year-old Gen Z consumer in the US has a household income 50% higher than a baby boomer at the same age (adjusted for inflation). Their spending is growing twice as fast as previous generations’ did.
They tend to splurge on apparel and beauty. And while they can be budget-conscious, they will pay a premium for two things: convenience (hello, food delivery services!) and brands they trust.
💡 Uniquely Built For Gen Z Behaviors & Preferences: Brands That Truly Get It
Some brands just get it. They’re built on the very principles Gen Z holds dear.
- Owala: These colorful, customizable water bottles became a TikTok sensation not just for their aesthetics, but for their functionality and sustainable appeal. They’re a perfect example of a product that doubles as a form of self-expression.
- Poppi: This prebiotic soda blew up on TikTok by positioning itself as a healthier, gut-friendly alternative to traditional sodas. With fun flavors and savvy influencer marketing, it tapped directly into Gen Z’s wellness focus.
📱 Gen Z Are Heavy Mobile Video Consumers: The Reign of Short-Form Content & Visual Storytelling
If you’re not on video, you’re invisible. 71% of Gen Zers watch videos on their mobile devices daily. They prefer short-form videos for learning about new products. Platforms like TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Instagram Reels are their primary channels for discovery.
🚫 They Don’t Like Being Interrupted: Seamless Experiences, Not Annoying Ads
Gen Z has zero patience for disruptive ads. 90% skip pre-roll video ads. They’ve mastered the art of avoidance. To reach them, your content can’t feel like an ad. It needs to be entertaining, informative, or beautiful in its own right. Think less commercial break, more seamless integration.
🤳 Gen Zers Are Willing to Scan QR Codes: Bridging Digital and Physical Shopping Experiences
Here’s a surprising twist: this digitally-native generation is totally cool with a tool that bridges the physical and digital worlds. 84% would scan a QR code on a relevant TV ad. This shows they’re open to interactive experiences that offer immediate value, whether it’s a discount, more information, or an easy way to buy.
🔇 Videos Are Usually Played on Mute: Visuals, Subtitles, and Engaging Text are Paramount
This is a game-changer. 74% usually watch mobile videos on mute. If your video relies on sound to tell the story, you’ve already lost them.
- Use Captions: People now expect videos on all devices to have captions.
- Strong Visuals: Your visuals need to be compelling enough to stand on their own.
- Text Overlays: Use text to highlight key messages and guide the narrative.
📝 They Prefer Videos With Headlines: Context, Clarity, and Quick Hooks Win Attention
In a sea of scrolling content, a headline is a lifeline. 84% of Gen Zers look at the headline space first when watching videos. A clear, catchy headline provides immediate context and helps them decide if your content is worth their precious few seconds of attention.
🌟 Our Top Picks: 10 Up-and-Coming Gen Z Brands You Need to Know Now
Alright, team, this is the moment you’ve been waiting for. We’ve sifted through the hype, analyzed the trends, and stalked more TikTok feeds than we’d care to admit. Here are the brands that aren’t just “up and coming”—they’re arriving.
1. Fashion Forward & Sustainable Style: Brands Redefining Wardrobes
Gen Z fashion is a glorious mashup of Y2K nostalgia, streetwear, and a deep commitment to sustainability. They love thrifting and unique pieces, making platforms like Depop a go-to. But when they buy new, they gravitate towards brands with a clear ethos.
- Cider: This brand has exploded in popularity for its trendy, affordable, and size-inclusive clothing. They tap into micro-trends quickly and have built a massive community online by being mood-board-focused.
- The Clothing Factory: Praised for its focus on sustainability and ethical production, this brand aligns perfectly with Gen Z’s demand for environmental consciousness. Their diverse range, from oversized hoodies to tailored pieces, caters to the generation’s fluid style.
2. Inclusive Beauty & Wellness: Self-Care for the Modern Generation
The beauty industry has been revolutionized by Gen Z’s demand for inclusivity, transparency, and products that are good for them and the planet. Celebrity brands like Rare Beauty and Fenty Beauty dominate because they’re built on these principles, not just a famous name.
- Bubble Skincare: Founded specifically to meet Gen Z’s unique skincare needs, Bubble offers affordable, science-backed products with fun, colorful packaging. They’ve built a community around destigmatizing acne and promoting skin positivity.
- Starface: Who said pimple patches have to be boring? Starface turned acne treatment into a form of self-expression with their iconic star-shaped patches. It’s a brilliant example of a brand that understands Gen Z’s desire to be authentic and even playful about their insecurities.
3. Tech & Gaming Innovators: Digital Experiences That Resonate
While Gen Z’s parents might see gaming as just a hobby, for this generation, it’s a core part of their social life and identity. Unlike the upcoming Gen Alpha, who see gaming as a creative outlet, Gen Z’s primary motivation for gaming is relaxation. Brands that create non-intrusive, community-building experiences within these digital worlds are the ones that succeed. Think less about ads and more about authentic integrations, like custom skins in Fortnite or community events.
4. Food & Beverage Disruptors: Healthy, Ethical, and Trendy Eats
Gen Z’s palate is adventurous, health-conscious, and heavily influenced by social media. They’re driving the demand for plant-based alternatives, functional foods, and bold, global flavors.
- Olipop: Another star in the “healthy soda” category, Olipop has won over Gen Z with its delicious flavors and focus on digestive health. It’s a treat that feels good, aligning with their wellness-oriented mindset.
- DEUX: Healthy, vegan, gluten-free cookie dough that you can eat raw? It’s a concept that seems tailor-made for Gen Z. DEUX combines indulgence with wellness, using ingredients like zinc and elderberry for an immune boost.
5. Home & Lifestyle Essentials: Curating Their Personal Spaces
As Gen Z moves into their own spaces, they’re looking for brands that help them create a home that reflects their personality and values. This often means a focus on sustainability, unique designs, and multi-functional pieces perfect for smaller living areas. Think brands found on sites like Society6 or unique finds from small businesses on Etsy.
6. Social Impact & Activism: Brands That Walk the Talk
For Gen Z, a brand’s social impact is a major factor in their purchasing decisions. They are drawn to companies that are transparent, ethical, and actively working to make the world a better place.
- Patagonia: While not a “new” brand, Patagonia’s unwavering commitment to environmental activism has made it an icon for Gen Z. Their focus on durable, high-quality athletic clothing and gear that lasts a lifetime resonates with the generation’s anti-fast-fashion sentiment.
7. Creator Economy Enablers: Tools for the Next Generation of Innovators
Gen Z aren’t just consumers of content; they are prolific creators. Brands that provide the tools for this creativity are becoming essential.
- Canva: This user-friendly design platform has empowered a generation to create professional-looking graphics, videos, and presentations without needing a design degree. It’s the go-to tool for school projects, social media content, and side hustles.
8. Experiential & Entertainment: Beyond the Screen Experiences
Despite being digital natives, Gen Z craves real-life experiences. They value spending money on concerts, travel, and unique events that create lasting memories and, of course, great social media content. Brands that can create these “IRL” moments are building deeper connections.
9. Financial Literacy & Fintech: Managing Money in a Digital Age
This generation is eager for financial independence and is turning to fintech apps that make saving, investing, and budgeting intuitive and accessible. Apps like Acorns and Chime are popular for their user-friendly interfaces and features that align with the financial habits of a generation comfortable with managing their lives from their phones.
10. Pet Care & Animal Welfare: Because Furry Friends are Family Too
For many Gen Zers, pets are their “starter children.” They are willing to spend on high-quality, healthy, and ethically sourced products for their furry companions.
- The Farmer’s Dog: This direct-to-consumer brand delivers fresh, human-grade food for dogs. Its success lies in its appeal to pet owners who view their animals as family and want to provide them with the best possible nutrition, a sentiment that resonates strongly with Gen Z.
✅ What Makes a Brand Truly “Gen Z”? The Authenticity Checklist
So, what’s the common thread weaving all these successful brands together? It’s authenticity. But “authenticity” can feel like a vague buzzword. Let’s break it down into an actionable checklist.
🌱 Sustainability & Ethical Practices: More Than Just a Buzzword
Gen Z demands that brands be good stewards of the planet and its people. This goes beyond using recycled packaging.
- Transparency: Are you open about your supply chain?
- Ethical Production: Do you ensure fair pay and safe working conditions?
- Real Commitment: Do your actions back up your green claims? 66% will pay more for sustainable options.
🗣️ Community & Co-Creation: Giving Gen Z a Voice
Gen Z doesn’t want to be marketed to; they want to be part of the conversation.
- UGC is Gold: Encourage and feature content from your users. It builds trust and provides social proof. 61% of Gen Z prefer UGC to traditional marketing.
- Listen and Respond: Engage in conversations on social media. Host Q&As. Make them feel heard.
- Co-Create: Involve your community in product development or campaign ideas.
💖 Inclusivity & Representation: Reflecting the Real World
Representation is not optional. Your marketing, products, and company culture should reflect the diverse world Gen Z lives in.
- Diverse Casting: Showcase people of all races, body types, abilities, and gender identities.
- Inclusive Products: Offer a wide range of sizes and shades.
- Gender Fluidity: 48% of Gen Z prefer non-gendered products. Consider gender-neutral marketing and product lines.
🔗 Digital Fluency & Social Commerce: Meeting Them Where They Are
Your digital presence needs to be seamless, intuitive, and integrated into the platforms where they spend their time.
- Mobile-First: Your website and shopping experience must be optimized for mobile. 74% prefer shopping on their phones.
- Shopable Socials: Allow users to purchase directly from TikTok and Instagram.
- Frictionless Checkout: An 81% majority will abandon a brand with a bad payment experience. Offer options like “Buy Now, Pay Later” (BNPL).
🧠 Mental Wellness & Self-Care: Brands That Prioritize Well-being
Having grown up with a keen awareness of mental health, Gen Z gravitates towards brands that acknowledge and support their well-being.
- Authentic Messaging: Talk about mental health in a real, non-performative way.
- Products that Support Wellness: This can range from skincare as a self-care ritual to apps that promote mindfulness.
- Company Culture: Show that you support the mental health of your own employees.
❌ Common Pitfalls: Mistakes Brands Make When Targeting Gen Z
Trying to connect with Gen Z can be a minefield. Here are some of the biggest mistakes we see brands make:
- “How do you do, fellow kids?”: Trying too hard to use slang or memes that you don’t understand. It comes across as inauthentic and cringe-worthy. Gen Z is more likely than millennials to oppose brands hopping on internet trends.
- Performative Activism (“Woke-Washing”): Slapping a rainbow flag on your logo for Pride Month without supporting the LGBTQ+ community year-round. Gen Z will see right through it and call you out.
- Ignoring Feedback: Gen Z expects a two-way conversation. If you ignore their comments, DMs, and reviews (especially the negative ones), you’re telling them you don’t care.
- One-Size-Fits-All Marketing: Assuming all Gen Zers are the same. This is a hugely diverse group with varied interests. Use data to personalize your communication.
- Clickbait and Interruptions: As we’ve covered, they hate being interrupted. Your content needs to provide value upfront, not trick them into clicking.
🔮 The Future is Now: Emerging Trends & What’s Next for Gen Z Brands
The landscape is always shifting, but here’s what we see on the horizon:
- The Rise of “De-influencing”: A counter-trend where creators tell their followers what not to buy. This reinforces the need for high-quality, valuable products. Authenticity will become even more critical.
- Hyper-Personalization: Brands will use AI and data to create even more tailored experiences and products, moving beyond simple name personalization to truly customized offerings.
- Continued Blurring of Digital and Physical: Expect more tech-integrated retail spaces, augmented reality shopping experiences, and seamless transitions between online and offline worlds.
- The Gen Alpha Effect: The next generation, Gen Alpha, is already influencing their Gen Z siblings and Millennial parents. They are even more tech-proficient and view gaming as a canvas for creativity. Brands will need to start preparing for these “digital ninjas.”
Conclusion: The Unstoppable Influence of Gen Z
So, what have we learned on this whirlwind tour through the world of up-and-coming Gen Z brands? Simply put: Gen Z is rewriting the rulebook on what it means to be a consumer—and brands that want to win their hearts and wallets must evolve or risk extinction.
From their unparalleled digital fluency and values-driven purchasing to their demand for authenticity and inclusivity, Gen Z is not just a market segment—they are a movement. Brands like Rare Beauty, Fenty Beauty, Owala, and Poppi exemplify how to authentically engage this generation by blending purpose, innovation, and community.
Remember the question we teased earlier: What really makes a brand “Gen Z”? The answer lies in authenticity, transparency, and meaningful connection. It’s not enough to slap a trendy logo or jump on a viral meme. Gen Z sees through the noise and demands brands that walk the talk—whether that’s through sustainable practices, inclusive marketing, or genuine social impact.
If you’re a brand or marketer looking to thrive in this new era, embrace these insights as your compass. And if you’re a consumer, you now have the insider’s guide to spotting the brands that truly get you.
Ready to dive deeper? Check out our recommended links below for shopping and reading that will keep you ahead of the curve.
Recommended Links: Dive Deeper into Gen Z Insights
Shop the Brands We Love for Gen Z
- Rare Beauty: Amazon | Rare Beauty Official Website
- Fenty Beauty: Amazon | Fenty Beauty Official Website
- Owala Water Bottles: Amazon | Owala Official Website
- Poppi Prebiotic Soda: Amazon | Poppi Official Website
- Cider Clothing: Amazon | Cider Official Website
- Bubble Skincare: Amazon | Bubble Official Website
- Starface Acne Patches: Amazon | Starface Official Website
- Olipop Soda: Amazon | Olipop Official Website
- DEUX Cookie Dough: Amazon | DEUX Official Website
- Patagonia Athletic Clothing: Amazon | Patagonia Official Website
- Canva Design Platform: Amazon | Canva Official Website
- Acorns Fintech App: Amazon | Acorns Official Website
- Chime Fintech App: Amazon | Chime Official Website
- The Farmer’s Dog Pet Food: Amazon | The Farmer’s Dog Official Website
Must-Reads for Brand Builders & Marketers
-
Marketing to Gen Z: The Rules for Reaching This Vast—and Very Different—Generation of Influencers by Jeff Fromm & Angie Read
Amazon Link -
Gen Z @ Work: How the Next Generation Is Transforming the Workplace by David Stillman & Jonah Stillman
Amazon Link -
The Gen Z Effect: The Six Forces Shaping the Future of Business by Tom Koulopoulos & Dan Keldsen
Amazon Link
FAQ: Your Burning Questions About Gen Z Brands, Answered!
What are the top up and coming Gen Z fashion brands?
The fashion brands capturing Gen Z’s attention blend trend-savvy designs with sustainability and inclusivity. Brands like Cider excel by offering size-inclusive, affordable, and fast-reacting collections that tap into micro-trends. Additionally, platforms like Depop empower Gen Z to thrift and resell, aligning with their eco-conscious values. The key is authenticity and community engagement, which these brands masterfully cultivate.
Read more about “The 25 Most Popular Brands in the World (2025) 🌍”
Which Gen Z brands are leading in sustainability?
Sustainability is non-negotiable for Gen Z. Brands like Patagonia have long been champions of environmental activism, but newer brands such as The Clothing Factory are gaining traction by focusing on ethical production and transparent supply chains. Gen Z expects brands to walk the talk with real actions, not just greenwashed marketing. This means investing in eco-friendly materials, fair labor practices, and circular economy initiatives.
Read more about “15 Gen Z Favorite Clothing Brands to Watch in 2025 👗✨”
How do up and coming Gen Z brands influence social media trends?
Gen Z brands are often born and bred on social media, using platforms like TikTok and Instagram not just for marketing but as integral parts of their product development and community building. Viral challenges, hashtag campaigns, and user-generated content fuel rapid brand growth. For example, Poppi leveraged TikTok’s wellness trend to skyrocket their prebiotic soda sales. These brands understand that social media is a two-way street—engaging authentically rather than broadcasting one-way messages.
What makes a brand popular among Gen Z consumers?
Popularity among Gen Z hinges on several interconnected factors:
- Authenticity: Brands must be genuine and transparent.
- Purpose: Supporting social causes and sustainability is expected.
- Inclusivity: Representation in marketing and product offerings is essential.
- Digital Savvy: Seamless mobile experiences and social commerce integration.
- Community: Encouraging user participation and co-creation.
- Entertainment: Content must be engaging, not interruptive.
Brands that master this blend, like Rare Beauty or Starface, build fierce loyalty and advocacy.
Read more about “15 Brands Gen Z Hates (And Why They’re Losing Cool Points) 🔥 (2025)”
How important is mental wellness in Gen Z brand engagement?
Mental wellness is a cornerstone of Gen Z’s worldview. Brands that acknowledge mental health openly and support well-being through their products and messaging resonate deeply. For instance, skincare brands like Bubble Skincare promote skin positivity alongside product efficacy. Moreover, companies that foster healthy work cultures and authentic conversations about mental health earn respect and trust from this generation.
Read more about “How Does Gen Z Really Interact with Brands? 9 Surprising Truths (2025) 🚀”
How do Gen Z’s video consumption habits affect brand marketing?
Gen Z’s video habits are unique: they watch mostly on mobile, often on mute, and prefer short, punchy content with clear headlines and captions. Brands must create visually compelling, captioned videos that grab attention in the first seconds without relying on sound. Interruptive ads are a no-go; instead, brands should focus on storytelling that feels organic and entertaining. Tools like Sharethrough’s TrueTemplate™ help brands optimize video content for these behaviors.
Reference Links: Our Sources & Further Reading
-
Sharethrough Infographic on Gen Z Expectations:
https://www.sharethrough.com/infographics/infographic-top-12-things-brands-need-to-know-to-meet-gen-z-expectations -
Ad Age Article on Brands Catching Gen Z’s Attention:
https://adage.com/article/marketing-news-strategy/20-brands-catching-gen-zs-attention-january-2024/2538846/ -
Razorfish Study Unveils Generation Alpha Insights, Preparing for the Next Wave of Consumers:
https://www.razorfish.com/articles/news/razorfish-study-unveils-generation-alpha-insights/ -
Patagonia Official Website:
https://www.patagonia.com/ -
Rare Beauty Official Website:
https://www.rarebeauty.com/ -
Fenty Beauty Official Website:
https://fentybeauty.com/ -
Poppi Official Website:
https://www.drinkpoppi.com/ -
Owala Official Website:
https://owalalife.com/ -
Starface Official Website:
https://starface.world/ -
Bubble Skincare Official Website:
https://hellobubble.com/ -
DEUX Official Website:
https://www.eatdeux.com/ -
The Farmer’s Dog Official Website:
https://www.thefarmersdog.com/ -
Canva Official Website:
https://www.canva.com/ -
Acorns Official Website:
https://www.acorns.com/ -
Chime Official Website:
https://www.chime.com/
Thanks for sticking with us! Now go forth and conquer the Gen Z market like the savvy brand guru you are. 🚀




