50 BEST becomes THE 50; A new global hospitality brand uniting rankings, content and communities under one identity

50 Best, owned by global media business William Reed, becomes The 50. The new identity brings together globally recognised rankings, awards, content and the Discovery platform under one clear and distinctive master brand.

New Identity:
A unified global hospitality brand bringing together rankings, awards, editorial content, and the Discovery platform under one master brand.

Origins:
Began in 2002 as a single restaurant ranking; now covers restaurants, bars, hotels, and vineyards worldwide.

Purpose:
Positions itself as a force for good — connecting communities, inspiring discovery, and supporting hospitality’s long-term success.

Leadership Voices:
- Rikki Tidball (Events MD): Hospitality is about human connection; The 50 strengthens the platform to bring people together.
- Lisa Green (Content MD): The 50 enables year-round storytelling, championing voices and innovations beyond rankings.

Visual Identity:
A gemstone made of 50 unique facets, symbolizing diverse perspectives and stories united under one brand.

Integrity:
Rankings remain independently voted, with established methodologies and third-party adjudication.

Rollout:
- Refreshed naming conventions, unified website, and consistent brand experience.
- First awards program under the new identity: The 50 Best Hotels 2026 in Paris (September).
- Progressive rollout across all rankings and platforms through late 2026 and beyond.

This shift is about clarity and cohesion: instead of multiple sub-brands, The 50 becomes a single umbrella identity, amplifying its influence across hospitality.