The Guinness story
Arthur Guinness signed a lease for the St. James's Gate brewery in Dublin in 1759. The brewery began making porter and later a stronger stout, which became Guinness. By the nineteenth century it was the largest brewery in the world. The harp emblem, taken from the Brian Boru harp, has been Guinness's trademark since 1862.
What makes Guinness powerful
Guinness is one of the most distinctive drinks brands anywhere. The dark stout with its creamy head, the two-part pour and the wait for the pint to settle are rituals that rivals cannot copy. Its advertising, from Gilroy's posters to the "Surfer" film, is admired in the industry. Guinness 0.0 has extended the brand to people who do not drink alcohol.
Guinness today
Guinness is owned by Diageo, the London-based drinks group, and brewed in Dublin and in several other countries. The Guinness Storehouse at St. James's Gate is one of Ireland's most visited attractions. The brand has grown strongly with younger drinkers in recent years.
What comes next for Guinness
The road ahead for Guinness is to meet strong demand, particularly in Britain and Ireland, while extending its reach in the United States and other markets. Its heritage and its ritual are its main assets.
Why Guinness ranks #11
Guinness ranks #28 in WCRC's World's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026 with a Power Score of 78.06.
Europe's ranking carries the same score, which places Guinness at #11 among brands of core European origin.
Pillar profile
Guinness was assessed on all five pillars and 50 parameters in the World's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026. See its full global profile.
Versus its nearest rivals
17 Food & Beverage brands are in the Europe 100. Guinness is #2 in its sector.
Questions people ask
What rank is Guinness in WCRC's Europe's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026?
Guinness ranks #11 of 100 in Europe's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026, with a WCRC Power Score of 78.06 out of 100. It also ranks #28 in WCRC's World's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026.
When was Guinness founded and who founded it?
Guinness was founded in 1759. Founder(s): Arthur Guinness.
Who leads Guinness today?
Sir Dave Lewis, CEO of Diageo. The brand is owned by Diageo plc.
Where is Guinness headquartered?
Guinness is based in Dublin, Ireland (St. James's Gate); owner based in London. Its country of origin is Ireland.
What is Guinness's revenue?
US$19.6bn Diageo reported net sales (FY to 30 June 2026, -3.0%), according to the company's published results.
What is a signature fact about Guinness?
Arthur Guinness signed a 9,000-year lease on the St. James's Gate brewery in 1759.
Key facts
| Brand | Guinness |
|---|---|
| Company / owner | Diageo plc |
| Headquarters | Dublin, Ireland (St. James's Gate); owner based in London |
| Founded | 1759 |
| Founder(s) | Arthur Guinness |
| Leadership | Sir Dave Lewis, CEO of Diageo |
| Latest revenue | US$19.6bn Diageo reported net sales (FY to 30 June 2026, -3.0%) Source |
| Sector | Food & Beverage |
| Country of origin | Ireland |
| Signature fact | Arthur Guinness signed a 9,000-year lease on the St. James's Gate brewery in 1759. |
| Official website | guinness.com |
Guinness is ranked #11 in WCRC's Europe's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026 (Power Score 78.06).