We’ve seen reports that Google+ has failed, and reports that Google+ is winning, but now new research puts the controversial social network firmly in the latter camp.

The site is establishing itself as a mainstream social platform for brands, boasting a 9,400% increase in followers since last year, according to a new report by BrightEdge.

The ‘Social Share’ report evaluates top organizations including Apple, IBM and BMW, and tracks their social media adoption trends. Among the findings, the top 100 brands on Google+ now boast 20.9 million fans, up from just 222,000 in 2011. The top 10 brands account for four out of five followers on the network.

Certainly, in recent times many brands have been uncertain of the value of Google+, but those embracing the site – and Google+ marketing – have come to recognize its ability to affect search results and improve page rankings, as well as its (admittedly slowly) growing influence on the social media playing field.

The Social Share report also found that 87% of top brands have a YouTube channel, with Google, Red Bull and Samsung leading the pack with large numbers of subscribers.

Jim Yu, chief executive at Bright Edge, says: “Google+ and YouTube have established themselves firmly in the mainstream of social networking. A majority of the top 100 brands – three quarters – have active profiles. As more brands engage users, we expect to see those who are unconvinced to shake off reservations and establish a strong Google+ presence.”