America's Hottest Brands

I like to be up-to-date with what is going on around me. I consider my knowledge regarding celebrity gossip and pop culture well above that of the average person. Whether this is a good quality to have is yet to be determined.

I am also a glutton for Ad Age -- it is the proverbial bible to my industry and provides me with a wealth of knowledge (and agency gossip) daily, as I get it delivered to my inbox at work. Besides the 'top stories' I am emailed, I like to browse the site when I have a few extra minutes (those minutes being like right before a holiday when it is semi-slow.)

Today, I came across an article touting "America's Hottest Brands." Naturally the "hottest brand names" that come to mind for me are ones like Nike, Coca-Cola, GE and McDonalds.

However for 2009, try "Auto-Tune", "Bonobos", "Tria Beauty" and "Zico." Not ringing a bell? It didn't for me, either. These brands, among a few more recognizable brands -- i.e. Bing, Cover Girl and Jet Blue -- have turned a significant profit in a very down economy. Pretty impressive stuff.

I recommend you read the article, and then start familiarizing yourself with the aforementioned pitch correction software, men's pants, and coconut water. After all, no one likes to be behind on the latest products -- or laser hair removal tool.