#China #Qingdao #Haier #Kantar BrandZ #IoT Ecosystem

Haier's Unmatched Legacy in the IoT Ecosystem

For the eighth straight year, the Haier Group has been recognized as the sole IoT ecosystem brand in the Kantar BrandZ Top 100 most valuable global brands list. This prestigious ranking was published by Kantar, a global leader in brand analytics and strategic consulting, and Haier notably improved its ranking from 89th place in 2019 to 53rd in 2026, a testament to its resilient brand value and innovative ecosystem strategy.

A Growing Brand Value

In 2026, the cumulative value of the top 100 global brands surged 22% year-on-year to reach a staggering $13.1 trillion, despite ongoing economic instability. Among these notable brands, 13 originated from China, including giants like Google, Apple, Microsoft, and Amazon. Chinese brands exhibited an impressive average growth rate of 32% in brand value—a clear reflection of the changing dynamics in the global marketplace.

Haier's brand value, now estimated at $52.949 billion, showcases the effectiveness of its ecosystem brand model. The company has transformed from a mere appliance manufacturer into a diversified entity encompassing six robust industrial ecosystems, demonstrating remarkable advancement in executing its brand development strategy.

Evolution Towards an Integrated Structure

Under this strategic transformation, Haier has significantly shifted its operational model from a 'parallel fleet' to an integrated 'organic structure,' segmenting its operations into six distinct ecosystems:

• - Smart Home Ecosystem: This focuses on intelligent living systems, encompassing heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and solutions tailored for elderly care through its innovative Smart Home Brain technology.
• - Healthcare Ecosystem: This includes Incaier, Haier's medical brand, which has achieved a valuation exceeding 47 billion yuan (approximately $6.91 billion), establishing its leadership within China's pharmaceutical and medical sectors.
• - Automotive Ecosystem: Through Haier Autohome and Haier CARtech, the company provides high-quality personalized mobility and transportation technology solutions.
• - Digital Economy Ecosystem: Platforms like Haier COSMOPlat AI+ drive digital transformations across various economic sectors.
• - Robotics Ecosystem: Shanghai STEP Electric Co., Ltd. leads in global IoT solutions for elevator manufacturing.
• - New Energy Ecosystem: This ecosystem focuses on clean energy solutions and AI-driven robots, fostering a transition to carbon neutrality across multiple industries.

The coordinated growth of these six ecosystems has not only propelled Haier's brand value but also spurred continuous innovations, solidifying a unique competitive advantage on a global scale.

From Global Branding to Ecosystem Strengthening

As global economic conditions shift, Chinese brands—including Haier—are progressively moving from merely exporting products to building a strong global brand presence. This transition underlines the critical importance of developing proprietary brands and technological innovations as key components of global competitiveness.

Haier has paved the path for others since abandoning the OEM model in the 1990s to develop its brand strategy. Its products are now available in over 200 countries, and for 17 consecutive years, Haier has ranked as the leading household appliance manufacturer in the world according to Euromonitor. This impressive achievement reflects Haier's significant global impact across various regions.

Additionally, Haier's influence extends beyond appliances; its Hainayun initiative applies smart city technologies in global infrastructure projects, including the Panama Canal project and key international initiatives led by Haier Biomedical.

Embracing Artificial Intelligence

As we advance further into 2026, Haier recognizes the imperative role of artificial intelligence, marking its first year applying AI across all operations to enhance efficiency and innovation. The company aims to establish an organization rooted in AI, transitioning from the notion of “Made in China” to “Created in China.” This initiative crafts a model that synergizes China's strengths with global adaptability, setting a blueprint for aspiring Chinese brands on the world stage.

With its unrelenting dedication to innovation and excellence, Haier continues to demonstrate what it means to be a leading player in the global market, defining the future of IoT and beyond.