I avoid brands that have held no affinity for me growing up. For better or for worse, that would include Indian, Pakistani and Aussie brands! So the likes of TON, SAF, CA, along with Kook. They don't get me excited at all. (Scat being an exception, obvs.) Why buy an overpriced Kook anyway? The enemy! I don't understand why you'd buy one (as a Brit) when there are so many top class home-grown brands to choose from. Additionally, I avoid naff sticker-up brands, too. (But proper handmade, boutique brands I'm all for.)
As well as GN, GM, Newbery, etc. and our terrific forum sponsors, I've a particular soft spot for Duncan Fearnley and Slazenger, based on their dominance thanks to the legends that wielded them through the 70s and 80s.