Lilly’s brand value has surged by 108% since entering the weight loss market in 2023, according to a new report from Brand Finance, the world’s leading brand valuation consultancy. Lilly is now the world’s second most valuable pharmaceutical brand, with a brand value of USD8.0 billion. Novo Nordisk, a leader in weight loss and diabetes drugs has also grown considerably, with its brand value up 130% since 2022. Both brands have strengthened their growth by pairing the success of their treatments with targeted acquisitions to expand their pipelines and future growth potential.
Johnson & Johnson has solidified its position as the world’s most valuable pharmaceutical brand, with a 16% increase in brand value to USD15.5 billion. J&J is also the strongest pharma brand, with a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 83.5 out of 100. In a primarily business-to-business industry, the legacy of the brand’s consumer health division, spun off as Kenvue in 2023, continues to support brand strength, maintaining high levels of familiarity across key markets. Bayer ranks as the second strongest pharmaceutical brand, with a BSI score of 82.2 out of 100.
Hugo Hensley, valuation director, Brand Finance, commented, “The top 25 most valuable brands in the pharmaceutical and medical devices sectors have seen modest aggregate growth of 1% and 5%, respectively, over the past year. While overall expansion remains steady, innovation continues to be a key driver of growth. Breakthrough treatments have propelled brands like Novo Nordisk and Lilly to new heights – Lilly is the fastest-growing among the top 25 pharma brands, with a 36% year-on-year increase.
In contrast, the US healthcare services sector is under pressure, with nine of the ten most valuable brands experiencing a decline. Brand Finance research reveals a downturn in public sentiment, as heightened scrutiny and regulatory challenges weigh on the reputations of major healthcare providers.”
Medtronic has become the most valuable medical device brand, following a 2% increase in brand value to USD7.4 billion. This marks a shift at the top of the ranking, as Fresenius, which held the top spot in 2024, saw its brand value decline by 5% to USD7.3 billion. Meanwhile, GE HealthCare, following its spin-off from General Electric, enters the ranking with a brand value of USD3.1 billion.
UnitedHealthcare (brand value up 14% to USD54.2 billion) is the only brand in the Healthcare Services 10 2025 ranking to record brand value growth, while the other nine brands saw declines. It also retains its position as the strongest brand in the sector, with a BSI score of 84.8 out of 100. The recent murder of Brian Thompson, CEO of UnitedHealthcare’s insurance division, occurred after Brand Finance’s research was completed and has not influenced this year’s results.
