The largest employers in the United States are known for their vast workforces and significant influence across various industries. Each company has its unique footprint in healthcare, home improvement, or hospitality. These employers continuously shape the labor market, impacting employees and entire communities. Here’s a closer look at some of the country’s biggest names in employment and the people behind them.
Walmart
Walmart, headquartered in Bentonville, Arkansas, is the largest retailer in the world. Founded by Sam Walton in 1962, the company remains family-controlled, with Doug McMillon as CEO. Walmart employs around 1.6 million people within the United States, making it the country’s largest private employer. The retailer operates a vast chain of supercenters, discount stores, and grocery stores across rural and urban areas. Known for its affordable prices, Walmart serves millions daily. It continues to dominate the U.S. retail landscape through extensive reach and a broad selection of products.
Amazon
Amazon, based in Seattle, Washington, is an e-commerce and technology giant. Jeff Bezos founded the company in 1994, which started as an online bookstore before evolving into a global powerhouse. Current CEO Andy Jassy oversees Amazon’s U.S. workforce of about 1.1 million employees. The company operates in sectors including e-commerce, cloud computing, and logistics, among others. Amazon’s innovations, such as Amazon Prime and AWS, keep it at the forefront of technology. Its logistics network makes Amazon a key player in U.S. retail and tech.
McDonald’s
McDonald’s, headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, is the world’s most recognizable fast-food brand. Founded in 1940 by Richard and Maurice McDonald, it expanded under the influence of Ray Kroc. CEO Chris Kempczinski leads McDonald’s U.S. team of around 700,000 employees, including franchise locations. The company’s success is built on a franchise model, with restaurants offering classic menu items like burgers, fries, and shakes. McDonald’s is a cornerstone of the U.S. fast-food industry and a top employer in the country.
The Home Depot
The Home Depot, based in Atlanta, Georgia, is the leading home improvement retailer in the United States. Founded by Bernie Marcus and Arthur Blank in 1978, it has become essential for home repair and construction needs. CEO Ted Decker oversees Home Depot’s approximately 470,000 U.S.-based employees. The company operates big-box stores across the nation, providing tools, building materials, and appliances. Home Depot’s customer base includes both DIY enthusiasts and professional contractors. Its widespread presence makes it central to the U.S. home improvement industry.
Target
Target, based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is known for its stylish yet affordable retail offerings. Founded in 1962, Target has established itself as a leading retailer. CEO Brian Cornell oversees Target’s U.S. workforce, totaling about 440,000 employees. Target operates stores across the country, offering a broad mix of groceries, apparel, and home goods. Its focus on private-label brands and designer partnerships has helped build customer loyalty. Target remains one of the country’s most popular shopping destinations and employers.
UPS
UPS, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, is a global logistics and package delivery company. Established in 1907, it has grown into a leader in transportation and logistics. CEO Carol Tomé leads UPS’s workforce of about 444,000 employees in the United States. UPS provides various services, including ground, air, and freight delivery for businesses and individuals. Its logistics network spans the entire country, supporting supply chains and e-commerce. UPS plays a crucial role in the delivery and logistics sector, making it a major U.S. employer.
Kroger
Kroger, headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, is a leading U.S. grocery chain with a strong presence nationwide. Founded by Bernard Kroger in 1883, the company has grown significantly under the leadership of CEO Rodney McMullen. Kroger employs around 430,000 people across the United States. It operates a mix of supermarkets, multi-department stores, and convenience stores under various brand names. Kroger also has manufacturing facilities for its private-label goods. Its stores cater to a broad demographic, making it one of the largest U.S. employers in the grocery sector.
FedEx
FedEx, headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee, is a global leader in logistics and package delivery. Founded by Frederick W. Smith in 1971, the company has revolutionized overnight shipping and e-commerce delivery. CEO Raj Subramaniam leads a U.S. team of approximately 412,000 employees. FedEx offers a range of services, including ground and express delivery, freight, and logistics solutions. Its extensive network covers every part of the country, supporting both individual and business clients. FedEx’s influence in logistics makes it a major American employer.
UnitedHealth Group
UnitedHealth Group, headquartered in Minnetonka, Minnesota, is one of the nation’s largest healthcare companies. The company was founded in 1977 and has grown into a leader in healthcare and insurance. CEO Andrew Witty oversees a U.S.-based workforce of approximately 350,000 employees. UnitedHealth provides health insurance, medical services, and data analytics through its Optum and UnitedHealthcare divisions. The company serves millions of customers with a wide range of healthcare solutions. Its substantial employee base contributes to critical healthcare services across the United States.
Lowe’s
Lowe’s, based in Mooresville, North Carolina, is a leading home improvement retailer in the United States. Founded in 1921, it has grown to serve millions of DIY enthusiasts and professional contractors. CEO Marvin Ellison oversees a U.S.-based workforce of approximately 300,000 employees. Lowe’s stores provide building materials, tools, appliances, and home improvement products. The company has a strong presence in both urban and rural communities. Lowe’s remains a key player in the retail sector and home improvement industry.
JPMorgan Chase
JPMorgan Chase, headquartered in New York City, is the largest bank in the United States. The company was formed in 2000 after a merger between J.P. Morgan & Co. and Chase Manhattan Corporation. CEO Jamie Dimon manages a workforce of about 293,700 employees, mainly based in the United States. JPMorgan Chase offers a wide range of financial services, from investment banking to consumer banking and asset management. Its extensive operations make it a key player in the financial sector. The company serves millions of clients, from individuals to large corporations.
CVS Health
CVS Health, headquartered in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, is a major player in American healthcare and pharmacy services. Founded in 1963, it started as a chain of health and beauty stores and later expanded into healthcare. CEO Karen Lynch leads CVS’s U.S.-based workforce of around 258,500 employees. The company operates thousands of pharmacies and MinuteClinics nationwide, providing convenient healthcare access. CVS’s acquisition of Aetna strengthened its presence in the healthcare industry. The company’s extensive network makes it a vital part of U.S. healthcare infrastructure.
Starbucks
Starbucks, headquartered in Seattle, Washington, is an iconic American coffeehouse chain. Founded in 1971, Starbucks has become synonymous with specialty coffee and unique café experiences. CEO Laxman Narasimhan leads a U.S. workforce of around 250,000 employees. The company operates thousands of stores nationwide, offering beverages, food items, and merchandise. Known for its distinctive ambiance, Starbucks focuses on customer service and product quality. It is a significant employer in the food and beverage industry across the U.S.
Berkshire Hathaway
Berkshire Hathaway, headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska, is a massive conglomerate led by Warren Buffett. Originally a textile manufacturing company, it has diversified into numerous sectors under Buffett’s leadership. Greg Abel, Vice Chairman of Non-Insurance Operations, is in line to succeed him. Berkshire Hathaway employs around 240,000 people in the United States. The company owns a wide range of subsidiaries in insurance, energy, and consumer goods. Known for its stable and conservative investment approach, Berkshire Hathaway maintains a large workforce through its extensive holdings.
Walgreens Boots Alliance
Walgreens Boots Alliance, based in Deerfield, Illinois, is a major American pharmacy and health retailer. Established through a merger between Walgreens and Alliance Boots in 2014, it operates thousands of pharmacies nationwide. CEO Rosalind Brewer leads the U.S. workforce, consisting of around 215,000 employees. The company provides pharmacy services, health products, and convenience items through its extensive network. Walgreens emphasizes accessible healthcare, with in-store clinics and prescription services. Its presence in the healthcare sector makes it a vital part of American communities.
AT&T
AT&T, headquartered in Dallas, Texas, is one of the largest telecommunications companies in the United States. Originally founded in 1877 as part of Bell Telephone Company, it has evolved into a telecom giant. CEO John Stankey manages a U.S. workforce of approximately 202,000 employees. AT&T offers services in wireless, broadband, and entertainment through subsidiaries like WarnerMedia. The company’s extensive telecommunications network supports millions of customers nationwide. AT&T remains a major player in the telecom industry and a key employer in the U.S.
Bank of America
Bank of America, headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, is one of the largest financial institutions in the world. Tracing its origins to 1904, the bank has expanded its reach to serve millions of clients. CEO Brian Moynihan manages the U.S. workforce of about 172,000 employees. Bank of America offers services such as personal banking, investment management, and loans. Its operations span across retail branches and online platforms nationwide. As a leading bank, it plays a key role in American finance and employment.
Marriott International
Marriott International, headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, is one of the world’s largest hospitality companies. Founded in 1927 by J. Willard Marriott, it has become a leading name in hotels and lodging. CEO Anthony Capuano oversees Marriott’s U.S.-based workforce, numbering around 120,000 employees. The company operates numerous brands, including Ritz-Carlton, Sheraton, and Westin, in nearly every state. Marriott’s focus on luxury and comfort attracts a global customer base. Its widespread hotels and services make it a significant employer in the hospitality industry.
Yum! Brands
Yum! Brands, headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, operates popular fast-food chains like Taco Bell, KFC, and Pizza Hut. Founded in 1997, it expanded rapidly through a franchise model and global presence. CEO David Gibbs leads Yum!’s U.S. workforce of approximately 100,000 employees. The company emphasizes fast and convenient dining, with thousands of franchise locations across the country. Yum! Brands leverages strong brand identities and localized menus. Its restaurants play a significant role in the American quick-service industry.
This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.
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