8 Most Innovative Consumer Goods Brands Revealed

Fast Company has once again released its Most Innovative Companies list, and consumer goods companies capture a respectable number of spots on the 2021 ranking.

Set by the company’s editors and reporters, the list identifies businesses that “embody creative problem-solving and fearlessness in the face of crisis.” In addition to its Top 50, Fast Company also digs into innovation with 46 sub-categories, including food, beauty, style and wellness.

Many of the brands on this year’s list are united by their successful efforts in directly engaging with consumers. Whether through DTC sales or brand awareness, a number of the CGs are hailed for their work in connecting directly with the people purchasing their products.

Presented here are the consumer goods companies it has deemed most innovative for 2021 as part of its Top 50 list. Take a look at the full list with all of the breakouts here. RIS News, a CGT sister brand, also explores the retailers that made this year’s ranking.

Nike

The footwear and apparel brand is recognized by Fast Company for its successful direct-to-consumer strategy.

Ben & Jerry’s

The ice cream brand is recognized for its trailblazing work in corporate activism and social justice.

Sony Interactive Entertainment

The consumer electronics and gaming arm of Sony is recognized for the success of its PlayStation 5 and the console’s pioneering technology.

Lululemon

The apparel brand and retailer is recognized for its visionary decision to purchase the Mirror in-home fitness system in order to grow consumer engagement.

Avocados From Mexico

The wholly-owned subsidiary of the Mexican Hass Avocado Importers Association is recognized for its work in making its brand a household name.

"As a package-less fruit, our innovative marketing strategies have taken the Mexican avocado from just another fruit in the produce aisle to Avocados From Mexico, one of the most recognized avocado brands on the market and the first-ever produce brand to be ranked No. 1 in the branding category of this esteemed list," said Alvaro Luque, AFM CEO and president, in a statement.

Hermes

The luxury apparel and accessories brand is recognized both for its growth strategy, which has tripled its revenue, and for its work to further sustainability.

NotCo

The maker of plant-based condiments leverages artificial intelligence to match animal protein at the molecular level to plant-based alternatives. It’s recognized for its success in making these eco-friendly alternatives more widely used, including through a partnership with Burger King.

“I’m a firm believer that the introduction of a new technology is the only way to solve a broken system,” said Matias Muchnick, NotCo CEO and founder. “The food industry is obsolete and artificial intelligence is one of the keys to unveil a whole new world of possibilities, creating a whole new world of products that are just as delicious, but better for the environment. I’m thrilled to see NotCo recognized in such a prominent list of innovators.”

Peloton

The fitness company is recognized for its consumer engagement efforts during the pandemic, in which home exercise became a lifeline for many people in lockdown.