The seventh EFFIE/THE BEST BRAND Award Ceremony was held in the Expocentr Exhibition Center on October 26, 2004. The EFFIE/THE BEST BRAND Award is a registered trademark owned by the organizer of the ceremony, RBC. This award ceremony was the most fabulous of all and about 1,000 top managers and leaders of major Russian and international companies, advertising agencies and representatives of mass media attended it. EFFIE/THE BEST BRAND is the only Russian contest for professionals, where the activities of a company in brand building in general are appraised. The contest has earned the reputation of an event, participation in which means recognition of success.

The number of guests attending the EFFIE/THE BEST BRAND Award Ceremony is growing at the same pace as the number of participants. In 2002 over 200 top managers were present at the Award Ceremony. In 2003 there were 300. Over 1,000 Russian and international business stars attended the ceremony this year. For some people this event is a moment of triumph in their profession. For others it is a possibility to be involved in an intrigue (the list of winners is secret before the results on the contest are officially announced) and to compare their opinion with that of the judging panel. Almost all projects are top achievements in brand building. But only 94 brands became winners out of 284 bidders.

Among new trends disclosed as a result of holding the contest - the development of strong brands in the mass media sector, on the market for clothing, footwear and the fashion industry. One should say that the majority of winners were brands owned by Russian companies.

"EFFIE/THE BEST BRAND is the kindest appraisal of the activities of the Savage company, which targets the creation of a product able to form the taste and style of the nation. The more strong and reliable companies and brands we have, the stronger our country will be. Expert appraisal is more proof of the fact that Russia has successful brands," emphasized the General Director of Salvage, which won a silver award in the clothing, footwear and accessories category.

Samsung became really triumphant as it won 3 awards in the household appliances, high-tech goods and services and home electronics categories and won a Grand Prix Award in the Goodwill and Confidence category. The winners were not afraid of showing their excitement - the award not only reflects success on the market, but also the professionalism of those who managed the companies, which became leaders under strong competition. RBC TV, the official organizer of the contest, will broadcast the full version of the EFFIE/THE BEST BRAND Award Ceremony 2004.