Celebrating Excellence: 2026 Golden Link Awards Europe Finalists Announced

The anticipation is building as Rakuten Advertising proudly unveils the finalists for the 2026 Golden Link Awards (GLAs) Europe. Each year, the GLAs shine a spotlight on the brands, agencies, and publishers who are redefining the affiliate and performance marketing landscape. This year’s shortlist showcases innovation, creativity, and outstanding results across a diverse range of categories.

Recognising Industry Trailblazers

The Golden Link Awards are more than just a celebration they’re a testament to the power of partnership and the relentless pursuit of excellence. From breakthrough influencer campaigns to data-driven strategies, the 2026 finalists represent the very best in the industry.

Let’s meet the outstanding contenders who have set new benchmarks this year:

Best Global Expansion Strategy

This category honours brands that have successfully scaled their affiliate programmes across borders, demonstrating strategic vision and impressive results.

• Celebrity Cruises
• Etro
• SPRNV with Diesel
• Superdry

Best Influencer Marketing Campaign

Recognising campaigns that have harnessed the power of influencer partnerships to drive engagement and measurable impact.

• ASOS
• COS
• Samsung UK
• Stylink x H&M

Best Managed Affiliate Programme

Celebrating affiliate programmes that exemplify best-in-class management, innovation, and growth.

• FitFlop
• Lo Digital with Rat & Boa
• NET-A-PORTER
• P. Louise
• Samsung UK

New Campaign Strategy

This award spotlights fresh, creative approaches that have delivered exceptional results and set new standards for campaign innovation.

• Casablanca Paris
• Customer First Digital with Cowshed
• Levi’s
• Linkby x The Diamond Store x Genie Goals
• Pets at Home

Partnership of the Year

Honouring collaborations that have driven significant value through strategic alignment and shared goals.

• Adstrong x The LEGO Group
• Ryobi x Envolve
• SPRNV x PINKO
• The Fragrance Shop x Upsellit

Agency of the Year

This award celebrates the agency that has truly mastered the art of elevating brands in affiliate marketing.

• Acquire Digital
• Customer First Digital
• Genie Goals
• Profect Marketing
• SPRNV

Best Data Driven Strategy of the Year

This category recognises the use of data and analytics to inform strategy, optimise performance, and deliver outstanding results.

• Buyagift
• Collable & Superdrug
• The LEGO Group
• Skimlinks x DeMellier

Affiliate Manager or Team of the Year

Celebrating the individuals and teams whose leadership, expertise, and dedication have elevated their affiliate programmes.

• Mainline
• Pets at Home
• Samsung UK
• SPRNV X The Double F
• The LEGO Group
• TopCashback

Looking Ahead to the Awards Ceremony

The winners will be revealed at the highly anticipated Golden Link Awards ceremony, where industry leaders will gather to celebrate the achievements that are shaping the future of affiliate marketing. This year, the ceremony will take place as part of DealMaker Europe our flagship networking event for the affiliate and performance marketing community.

Don’t miss your chance to connect with industry peers, gain valuable insights, and celebrate the best in the business. Register now for DealMaker Europe to secure your spot at both the event and the Golden Link Awards ceremony. We look forward to seeing you there and congratulating all the finalists in person!

At Rakuten Advertising, we are proud to support and recognise the innovation and excellence that drive our industry forward. Good luck to all the finalists—we can’t wait to celebrate your success!