Despite economic challenges, some brands have demonstrated strong market positioning, consumer engagement, and strategic innovation, setting them apart in an increasingly competitive landscape. So, if you’re looking for role models for retail success in our disruptive, unpredictable marketplace, Placer.ai has an enlightening report on 10 Top Brands to Watch in 2025. The 10 brands demonstrate significant potential to grow in 2025 – plus the report includes three iconic brands that faced challenges in 2024 and appear poised to make a comeback. Who are they?

• Sprouts Farmers Market continues to outpace the grocery sector with a 7.2 percent year-over-year increase in visits, driven by its commitment to high-quality fresh products and small-format stores that bring its offerings closer to core audiences.
• CAVA has emerged as a leader in the Mediterranean fast-casual segment by capitalizing on evolving consumer preferences for healthier, globally inspired dining options. Its success is fueled by strategic suburban expansion, digital drive-thru innovations, and strong operational efficiencies.
• Ashley Furniture is redefining home retail by integrating experiential marketing, community engagement, and industry collaborations to drive store traffic and connect with younger consumers.
• Nordstrom remains a standout in the department store sector by prioritizing service, experience, and customer loyalty, with its potential privatization offering even greater flexibility for future growth.
• Sam’s Club is leveraging its membership model to drive strong customer retention, attract younger shoppers, and maintain high basket sizes, ensuring sustained expansion.
• Raising Cane’s continues its rapid rise in the QSR industry by focusing on operational excellence, site selection, and a simplified menu that delivers strong sales per location.
• Barnes & Noble is seeing a resurgence by reinventing the in-store experience, personalizing customer engagement, and offering more than just books, positioning itself as a “third place” for consumers.
• H Mart is tapping into the growing demand for Asian cuisine and cross-cultural grocery experiences, expanding its footprint while appealing to a broad and diverse audience.
• Bluemercury, part of Macy’s portfolio, is thriving in the beauty sector by blending premium retail, expert knowledge, and in-store services to differentiate itself in a competitive market.

Surprising Comebacks

• Starbucks faces rising competition from emerging coffee brands and changing consumer behavior but is poised for a resurgence with a renewed focus on experience-driven retail, improved digital operations, and leadership changes.
• Adidas is regaining relevance through high-demand classic styles and celebrity collaborations, reaffirming its brand strength despite retail sector challenges.
• Gap Inc. is undergoing a transformation, revitalizing its core brands with strategic collaborations, fresh marketing efforts, and updated store experiences to re-engage consumers.

Key Takeaways

The variety of success strategies highlighted in this report—ranging from small-format store expansion and operational efficiency to experiential retail and consumer-centric innovations—demonstrates the multiple pathways brands can take to achieve growth in 2025. While some thrive through category dominance, others reinvent themselves to stay relevant in an evolving market. To download and read the full report click here.