In 2024, the United States continued to be home to some of the world’s most influential and financially robust companies. These organizations span various industries, from retail and technology to healthcare and energy. Their success is a testament to innovation, strategic leadership, and adaptability in a rapidly changing global market.
Walmart
Walmart, headquartered in Bentonville, Arkansas, maintained its position as the largest company in the U.S. by revenue in 2024, with an impressive $648.1 billion in sales. This marks the 12th consecutive year it has topped the Fortune 500 list. The company’s vast network of stores and its expanding e-commerce platform have been pivotal in sustaining its dominance in the retail sector.
Walmart operates more than 10,000 stores worldwide and employs millions of people. The company has successfully integrated technology into its business model, enhancing its supply chain management, logistics, and customer experience. Walmart’s continued success is also due to its ability to adapt to changing consumer habits, especially its growing e-commerce presence. Walmart has increasingly invested in improving its digital infrastructure, competing with e-commerce giants like Amazon.
Amazon
Amazon, based in Seattle, Washington, secured the second spot with $574.8 billion in revenue. Known for revolutionizing online shopping, Amazon has diversified its business model to include cloud computing services through Amazon Web Services (AWS), which has become a significant contributor to its overall financial performance.
The company also leads the way in artificial intelligence and is continually developing new technology to enhance its product and service offerings. In addition to retail, Amazon has made strides in sectors like entertainment, grocery, and logistics, positioning itself as a multifaceted global powerhouse. Amazon’s ability to innovate, whether through its Prime subscription model or new business ventures, has solidified its place as one of the most influential companies in the world.
Apple
Apple, headquartered in Cupertino, California, reported revenues of $383.3 billion in 2024. Despite a slight decline from the previous year, Apple remains a leader in consumer electronics, with its flagship products like the iPhone, iPad, and Mac computers continuing to drive substantial sales.
In addition to hardware, Apple has built a strong ecosystem around its software and services, including iCloud, the App Store, and Apple Music. These services now make up a growing portion of its revenue, showcasing the company’s ability to pivot and remain relevant in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Apple’s focus on premium products and user experience has made it one of the most valuable brands globally.
UnitedHealth Group
UnitedHealth Group, based in Minnetonka, Minnesota, achieved revenues of $371.6 billion. As a leading healthcare company, it offers a range of services including health insurance and managed care, serving millions of individuals across the United States.
The company’s success can be attributed to its strong market position, diverse offerings, and ability to navigate the complexities of the U.S. healthcare system. Through its Optum division, UnitedHealth Group also operates in the pharmacy care services and healthcare technology space. This broad approach allows the company to provide a comprehensive range of services while ensuring continued growth and profitability.
Berkshire Hathaway
Berkshire Hathaway, led by renowned investor Warren Buffett and headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska, reported $364.5 billion in revenue. The conglomerate’s diverse portfolio includes insurance, energy, and consumer goods, contributing to its robust financial standing.
Berkshire Hathaway is known for its value-driven investment approach and its ownership of a range of companies, including well-known brands like Geico and Duracell. The company’s long-term strategy and disciplined approach to business have made it one of the most respected and successful companies in the U.S. Despite its focus on traditional industries, Berkshire Hathaway has maintained its growth by making calculated investments in emerging sectors.
CVS Health
CVS Health, based in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, posted revenues of $357.8 billion. The company operates a vast network of pharmacies and health services, positioning it as a significant player in the healthcare sector.
CVS has continually expanded its business model to include health insurance through its Aetna division and health services through its MinuteClinic locations. The company has increasingly focused on becoming a one-stop shop for health services, providing not only pharmaceuticals but also medical care and health-related products. This integrated approach has allowed CVS to strengthen its position in an increasingly competitive healthcare market.
ExxonMobil
ExxonMobil, headquartered in Spring, Texas, recorded $344.6 billion in revenue. As one of the world’s largest publicly traded oil and gas companies, its financial performance is closely tied to global energy prices and demand.
ExxonMobil is involved in nearly every aspect of the oil and gas industry, from exploration and production to refining and marketing. The company has also made investments in renewable energy and carbon capture technologies, responding to the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions. Despite fluctuations in oil prices, ExxonMobil has maintained its financial strength through operational efficiency and global market reach.
Alphabet
Alphabet, the parent company of Google, based in Mountain View, California, achieved revenues of $307.4 billion. Beyond its search engine, Alphabet has expanded into various sectors including advertising, cloud computing, and autonomous vehicles.
Google’s advertising platform remains the primary driver of Alphabet’s revenue, but the company has also made significant investments in artificial intelligence, hardware, and other technological innovations. Alphabet’s diverse portfolio ensures that it is not overly reliant on any single business unit, positioning it for long-term success in a rapidly changing tech landscape.
McKesson Corporation
McKesson Corporation, located in Irving, Texas, reported $276.7 billion in revenue. As a leading pharmaceutical distribution company, it plays a crucial role in the healthcare supply chain, ensuring the delivery of medications and medical supplies across the nation.
McKesson’s operations are critical to the functioning of the healthcare system, as it helps hospitals, pharmacies, and other healthcare providers access the products they need. The company has also expanded into healthcare technology, offering solutions to help healthcare providers improve efficiency and patient care. This diversification has contributed to McKesson’s continued growth in the highly competitive healthcare industry.
Cencora
Cencora, formerly known as AmerisourceBergen, is a pharmaceutical sourcing and distribution services company headquartered in Conshohocken, Pennsylvania. In 2024, it posted revenues of $262.2 billion, reflecting its significant presence in the healthcare distribution industry.
Cencora operates one of the largest pharmaceutical distribution networks in the world, providing essential products to healthcare providers. The company has also focused on improving the efficiency of its supply chain and expanding its offerings in the healthcare services sector. Its strong market position and operational scale have made it a key player in the global pharmaceutical distribution market.
Conclusion
The top 10 companies in the United States in 2024 exemplify the country’s diverse economic landscape. From retail giants like Walmart to tech innovators like Apple and Amazon, these companies have demonstrated resilience and adaptability. Their continued success underscores the importance of innovation, strategic planning, and responsiveness to market demands in maintaining leadership in the global marketplace.
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