Landor Associates, the world’s leading branding and design consultancy conducted a survey of the most popular brands among consumers, which rates the best and worst brands.

The rankings were compiled from more than 2,000 interviews carried out by a New York design agency, Landor Associates. Its managing director, Allen Adamson, said inclusivity was a critical factor for the year’s successes.

“One thing they’ve all got in common is that they appeal to multiple segments,” he said. “Google’s become the starting point for the internet experience of almost everyone – be it the chief executive or the head [lavatory] man. At Vegas, you’ve got families with kids sitting next to people who are there to escape from their families.”

Landor’s broad definition of brands extends to places or celebrities – and the biggest losers were over-exposed partygoers such as Nicole Richie, Britney Spears and Paris Hilton, all of whom are seen to have lost their way.

Did I mention that the 4th position is owned by Google too?

Here is the 2006 top 10:

1. Google
2. Las Vegas
3. iPod
4. YouTube
5. eBay
6. Yahoo!
7. Target
8. Oprah Winfrey
9. Sony
10. NFL

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