New recognition program honors companies and nonprofits that give people compelling reasons to care about them—and offer inspiration for others to buy in 

Slice has been recognized as an honoree in Fast Company’s first annual “Brands That Matter” list, honoring brands that do more than sell products or provide services. This new recognition program honors brands achieving relevance through cultural impact, social engagement and authentic communication of their mission and ideals.

Slice is being recognized for innovating with purpose on behalf of their industry with an increasingly sophisticated set of behind-the-scenes business services to scale small businesses to meet their fullest potential.

As a brand whose mission is to keep local thriving, Slice’s commitment goes beyond connecting consumers with delicious pizza. Slice has formed the nation’s largest network of pizzerias — over 17,000 independent shops across 3,000 cities in all 50 states, nearly triple the U.S. footprint of Domino’s. Since its start, Slice has been digitally transforming the small businesses in its network by arming them with the same tools that the big pizza companies give their franchisees, allowing them to compete against the big pizza franchises and third-party delivery apps’ predatory practices.

The final list, which includes large multinational conglomerates, small-but-mighty companies and nonprofits, recognizes 95 brands that give people compelling reasons to care about them—and offer inspiration for others to buy in. All 95 have found an ability to forge an emotional connection with customers, whether leading on the environment or pop culture, engaging B2B customers, or responding meaningfully to current events.

All brands that applied were considered for overall recognition. Plus, there were additional honorees on category-specific lists based on region, size, and status. 

“Fast Company is excited to highlight companies and organizations that have built brands with deep meaning and connections to the customers they serve. At a time when consumers are holding companies to very high standards, businesses have much to learn from these brands that have garnered respect and trust,” says Stephanie Mehta, editor-in-chief of Fast Company.

Fast Company editors judged each brand on relevancy, cultural impact, ingenuity, and business impact to compile the list.

Click here to see the complete list.