Florida’s economy is dominated by numerous large companies that have made a significant impact on the state and beyond.
From global corporations to homegrown businesses, Florida is home to some of the largest and most influential companies in the world.
With a diverse range of industries including tourism, healthcare, aerospace, and technology, these companies play a crucial role in shaping the state’s economy and contributing to its overall growth.
In this article, we will explore the 40 largest companies in Florida, exploring their success stories, their impact on the local and global economy, and their contributions to the communities they operate in.
1. NextEra Energy, Inc.
Background: NextEra Energy, Inc. is a leading clean energy company headquartered in Juno Beach, Florida.
It is one of the largest electric utility companies in the United States, operating through its subsidiaries Florida Power & Light Company and NextEra Energy Resources.
Core Industries: Clean energy, electric utilities, renewable energy.
Key Achievements: NextEra Energy is a pioneer in renewable energy development, with a significant portfolio of wind, solar, and nuclear power generation facilities.
The company’s commitment to sustainability and innovation has positioned it as a leader in the transition to clean energy and carbon reduction initiatives.
2. Publix Super Markets, Inc.
Background: Publix Super Markets, Inc. is a supermarket chain headquartered in Lakeland, Florida.
It is one of the largest employee-owned companies in the United States, operating over 1,200 grocery stores across the Southeastern United States.
Core Industries: Retail, grocery stores, supermarkets.
Key Achievements: Publix is known for its commitment to customer service, quality products, and community involvement.
The supermarket chain offers a wide range of grocery items, including fresh produce, meats, bakery goods, and household essentials.
Publix’s employee-owned structure fosters a sense of pride and ownership among its associates, contributing to its reputation as a trusted neighborhood grocer.
3. World Fuel Services Corporation
Background: World Fuel Services Corporation is a global energy management company headquartered in Miami, Florida.
It provides fuel, energy, and logistics solutions to businesses in the aviation, marine, and land transportation industries.
Core Industries: Energy management, fuel supply, logistics.
Key Achievements: World Fuel Services’ comprehensive range of energy solutions helps customers optimize fuel procurement, manage risk, and improve operational efficiency.
The company’s expertise in energy management and logistics enables it to deliver reliable and cost-effective fueling services to clients worldwide.
4. CSX Corporation
Background: CSX Corporation is a transportation company headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida.
It operates a Class I railroad network in the Eastern United States, providing freight transportation services for various industries.
Core Industries: Railroad transportation, freight services, logistics.
Key Achievements: CSX’s rail network is essential for the transportation of goods, commodities, and raw materials across the Eastern United States.
The company’s commitment to safety, efficiency, and sustainability has enabled it to meet the diverse transportation needs of its customers while reducing environmental impact and enhancing operational performance.
5. Office Depot, Inc.
Background: Office Depot, Inc. is a retail company headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida. It is a leading provider of office supplies, technology products, and business services to consumers and businesses.
Core Industries: Retail, office supplies, business services.
Key Achievements: Office Depot offers a wide range of products and services, including office furniture, electronics, printing services, and business solutions.
The company’s retail stores, online platform, and business-to-business services cater to the needs of small businesses, corporations, and individual consumers.
Office Depot’s focus on innovation, convenience, and customer satisfaction has made it a preferred destination for office essentials and workplace solutions.
6. Jabil Inc.
Background: Jabil Inc. is a global manufacturing services company headquartered in St. Petersburg, Florida. It provides electronics design, production, and product management services for a wide range of industries.
Core Industries: Electronics manufacturing, contract manufacturing, supply chain management.
Key Achievements: Jabil’s manufacturing capabilities support the production of electronic components, devices, and systems for customers in industries such as healthcare, automotive, consumer electronics, and aerospace.
The company’s end-to-end solutions, from product design to distribution, help customers accelerate time-to-market and reduce manufacturing costs.
7. AutoNation, Inc.
Background: AutoNation, Inc. is an automotive retailer headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
It is the largest automotive retailer in the United States, operating over 300 dealerships across the country.
Core Industries: Automotive retail, car dealerships, automotive services.
Key Achievements: AutoNation offers a wide selection of new and pre-owned vehicles from various manufacturers, as well as automotive repair and maintenance services.
The company’s commitment to customer service, transparency, and integrity has earned it a strong reputation in the automotive retail industry.
8. Hertz Global Holdings, Inc.
Background: Hertz Global Holdings, Inc. is a car rental company headquartered in Estero, Florida. It operates the Hertz, Dollar, and Thrifty brands, providing rental vehicles to customers worldwide.
Core Industries: Car rental, transportation services, fleet management.
Key Achievements: Hertz’s rental car fleet offers a diverse selection of vehicles, including cars, trucks, and SUVs, for business and leisure travelers.
The company’s global presence and convenient rental locations make it a preferred choice for customers seeking reliable transportation solutions.
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9. Royal Caribbean Group
Background: Royal Caribbean Group is a global cruise vacation company headquartered in Miami, Florida.
It operates a fleet of cruise ships under several brands, including Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises.
Core Industries: Cruise vacations, hospitality, tourism.
Key Achievements: Royal Caribbean Group offers a wide range of cruise itineraries to destinations around the world, providing passengers with memorable vacation experiences.
The company’s innovative ships, onboard amenities, and entertainment options cater to diverse traveler preferences and interests.
Royal Caribbean Group’s commitment to safety, sustainability, and guest satisfaction has made it a leader in the cruise industry.
10. Lennar Corporation
Background: Lennar Corporation is a home construction and real estate company headquartered in Miami, Florida. It is one of the largest homebuilders in the United States, operating in over 20 states.
Core Industries: Home construction, real estate development, homebuilding.
Key Achievements: Lennar builds single-family homes, townhomes, and condominiums in master-planned communities and urban infill locations.
The company’s focus on quality construction, innovative design, and customer satisfaction has made it a trusted builder for homebuyers across the country.
11. Darden Restaurants, Inc.
Background: Darden Restaurants, Inc. is a restaurant company headquartered in Orlando, Florida. It operates several casual dining restaurant chains, including Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, and Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen.
Core Industries: Casual dining, restaurant management, food service.
Key Achievements: Darden Restaurants’ portfolio of restaurant brands offers a variety of cuisine options and dining experiences for customers of all ages.
The company’s commitment to food quality, hospitality, and value has earned it a loyal customer base and industry recognition.
12. MasTec, Inc.
Background: MasTec, Inc. is an infrastructure construction company headquartered in Coral Gables, Florida.
It provides engineering, construction, and maintenance services for telecommunications, energy, and utility infrastructure projects.
Core Industries: Infrastructure construction, engineering, telecommunications.
Key Achievements: MasTec’s expertise in building and maintaining critical infrastructure assets supports the expansion and modernization of telecommunications networks, energy distribution systems, and utility facilities.
The company’s commitment to safety, quality, and customer satisfaction has enabled it to secure contracts for large-scale projects across the United States and internationally.
13. Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. (FIS)
Background: Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. (FIS) is a financial services technology company headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida.
It provides software solutions and processing services for banks, financial institutions, and businesses worldwide.
Core Industries: Financial technology, software solutions, payment processing.
Key Achievements: FIS’s innovative technology platforms and software applications enable financial institutions to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and manage risk effectively.
The company’s solutions support a wide range of financial services, including banking, payments, wealth management, and compliance.
14. Carnival Corporation & plc
Background: Carnival Corporation & plc is a cruise line company headquartered in Miami, Florida.
It is one of the largest cruise vacation companies in the world, operating a fleet of cruise ships under various brands, including Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Holland America Line.
Core Industries: Cruise vacations, hospitality, tourism.
Key Achievements: Carnival Corporation & plc offers a diverse range of cruise experiences to destinations worldwide, catering to different preferences and budgets.
The company’s commitment to innovation, entertainment, and guest satisfaction has made it a leader in the cruise industry.
15. WellCare Health Plans, Inc. (now Centene Corporation)
Background: WellCare Health Plans, Inc. was a managed care company headquartered in Tampa, Florida. It was acquired by Centene Corporation in 2019.
WellCare provided government-sponsored healthcare plans to individuals and families eligible for Medicaid, Medicare, and other public assistance programs.
Core Industries: Managed care, healthcare insurance.
Key Achievements: WellCare’s healthcare plans offered comprehensive coverage and access to a network of healthcare providers, hospitals, and specialists.
The company’s focus on care coordination, preventive services, and member engagement helped improve health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs for its members.
16. Ryder System, Inc.
Background: Ryder System, Inc. is a transportation and logistics company headquartered in Miami, Florida.
It provides fleet management, supply chain solutions, and transportation services to businesses across various industries.
Core Industries: Transportation, logistics, fleet management.
Key Achievements: Ryder’s fleet management services help businesses optimize their transportation operations, reduce costs, and improve efficiency.
The company’s logistics solutions offer end-to-end supply chain management, warehousing, and distribution services to support customers’ business needs.
17. Roper Technologies, Inc.
Background: Roper Technologies, Inc. is a diversified technology company headquartered in Sarasota, Florida. It operates through various segments, including industrial technology, software, and medical devices.
Core Industries: Technology, software, industrial equipment.
Key Achievements: Roper Technologies’ portfolio of businesses offers innovative solutions for industrial automation, software applications, and healthcare technology.
The company’s focus on research and development, acquisitions, and strategic investments has driven growth and profitability in its diverse markets.
18. The GEO Group, Inc.
Background: The GEO Group, Inc. is a real estate investment trust (REIT) headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida.
It specializes in the ownership, leasing, and management of correctional, detention, and community reentry facilities.
Core Industries: Real estate investment, corrections, detention services.
Key Achievements: The GEO Group’s facilities provide secure and humane housing for individuals under the custody of federal, state, and local governments.
The company’s focus on rehabilitation, reentry programs, and community partnerships supports offender reintegration and reduces recidivism.
19. Bloomin’ Brands, Inc.
Background: Bloomin’ Brands, Inc. is a restaurant company headquartered in Tampa, Florida. It operates several casual dining restaurant chains, including Outback Steakhouse, Carrabba’s Italian Grill, and Bonefish Grill.
Core Industries: Casual dining, restaurant management, food service.
Key Achievements: Bloomin’ Brands’ restaurant concepts offer a variety of cuisine options, from steaks and seafood to Italian and American fare.
The company’s commitment to quality ingredients, flavorful dishes, and hospitality has made its brands popular dining destinations for families, couples, and groups.
20. Raymond James Financial, Inc.
Background: Raymond James Financial, Inc. is a financial services company headquartered in St. Petersburg, Florida.
It provides investment banking, wealth management, and asset management services to individuals, businesses, and institutional clients.
Core Industries: Financial services, investment banking, wealth management.
Key Achievements: Raymond James Financial’s network of financial advisors and investment professionals offers personalized advice and customized solutions to help clients achieve their financial goals.
The company’s commitment to integrity, client service, and community involvement has earned it a strong reputation in the financial services industry.
21. Spirit Airlines, Inc.
Background: Spirit Airlines, Inc. is an ultra-low-cost carrier headquartered in Miramar, Florida. It operates flights to destinations across the United States, Latin America, and the Caribbean.
Core Industries: Air transportation, aviation, travel.
Key Achievements: Spirit Airlines’ business model focuses on providing affordable air travel options to customers while maintaining operational efficiency and cost control.
The company’s no-frills approach to air travel, with optional fees for amenities and services, appeals to budget-conscious travelers.
22. Tupperware Brands Corporation
Background: Tupperware Brands Corporation is a multinational direct-to-consumer company headquartered in Orlando, Florida.
It is known for its household products, including food storage containers, kitchenware, and personal care items.
Core Industries: Direct selling, household products, consumer goods.
Key Achievements: Tupperware Brands’ iconic products are sold through a network of independent consultants worldwide, offering consumers convenient solutions for food storage, preparation, and organization.
The company’s commitment to innovation, quality, and sustainability has made it a trusted name in households around the world.
23. HEICO Corporation
Background: HEICO Corporation is an aerospace and defense company headquartered in Hollywood, Florida.
It designs, manufactures, and sells aerospace components and electronic products for commercial and military aircraft.
Core Industries: Aerospace, defense, manufacturing.
Key Achievements: HEICO’s products are used in aircraft systems, including engines, avionics, landing gear, and airframe structures.
The company’s focus on precision engineering, quality control, and customer support has made it a preferred supplier for aerospace manufacturers and operators.
24. Fidelity National Financial, Inc.
Background: Fidelity National Financial, Inc. is a leading provider of title insurance and settlement services headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida.
It offers a range of services to facilitate real estate transactions, including title insurance, escrow, and closing services.
Core Industries: Title insurance, real estate services, settlement services.
Key Achievements: Fidelity National Financial’s expertise in title insurance and settlement services helps protect property owners and lenders against financial loss due to title defects, liens, and other risks.
The company’s technology-driven solutions and efficient processes streamline the real estate closing process for buyers, sellers, and lenders.
25. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.
Background: Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. is a cruise vacation company headquartered in Miami, Florida.
It operates several cruise brands, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
Core Industries: Cruise vacations, hospitality, tourism.
Key Achievements: Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings’ cruise brands offer a range of cruise experiences, from contemporary to luxury, catering to different traveler preferences and interests.
The company’s commitment to innovation, entertainment, and guest satisfaction has made it a leader in the cruise industry.
26. HSN, Inc. (now part of Qurate Retail Group, Inc.)
Background: HSN, Inc. was a multimedia retailer headquartered in St. Petersburg, Florida. It was acquired by Qurate Retail Group, Inc. (formerly known as Liberty Interactive Corporation) and now operates as part of QVC Group.
Core Industries: Retail, multimedia retailing, e-commerce.
Key Achievements: HSN’s television shopping network and online platform offered a wide range of products, including fashion, beauty, home goods, and electronics.
The company’s interactive shopping experience and engaging programming entertained and informed millions of viewers, driving sales and customer loyalty.
27. TECO Energy, Inc. (now part of Emera Inc.)
Background: TECO Energy, Inc. was an energy company headquartered in Tampa, Florida. It was acquired by Emera Inc., a Canadian utility company, in 2016.
TECO Energy provided electric and natural gas services to customers in Florida.
Core Industries: Electric utilities, natural gas utilities.
Key Achievements: TECO Energy’s subsidiaries, including Tampa Electric Company and Peoples Gas System, provided reliable and affordable energy services to residential, commercial, and industrial customers in Florida.
The company’s commitment to safety, environmental stewardship, and customer satisfaction supported economic growth and development in the communities it served.
28. SEACOR Holdings Inc.
Background: SEACOR Holdings Inc. is a diversified holding company headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. It operates businesses in various industries, including marine transportation, logistics, and aviation services.
Core Industries: Marine transportation, logistics, aviation.
Key Achievements: SEACOR Holdings’ diverse portfolio of businesses provides critical services and solutions for customers in maritime and transportation sectors.
The company’s fleet of vessels, aircraft, and logistics assets supports global trade, offshore energy operations, and humanitarian missions.
29. J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc.
Background: J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. is a transportation and logistics company headquartered in Lowell, Arkansas, with a significant presence in Florida.
It provides truckload, intermodal, and logistics services across North America.
Core Industries: Transportation, logistics, freight services.
Key Achievements: J.B. Hunt’s transportation and logistics solutions help businesses optimize their supply chains, reduce costs, and improve efficiency.
The company’s commitment to innovation, technology, and customer service has made it a trusted partner for shippers and carriers.
30. Dometic Group AB
Background: Dometic Group AB is a global manufacturer of recreational vehicle (RV) and marine equipment headquartered in Solna, Sweden, with operations in Florida.
It produces appliances, accessories, and systems for RVs, boats, and other leisure vehicles.
Core Industries: RV equipment, marine equipment, leisure products.
Key Achievements: Dometic’s products enhance comfort and convenience for travelers and boaters, offering solutions for climate control, refrigeration, sanitation, and power management.
The company’s commitment to innovation, quality, and sustainability has made it a leader in the leisure and recreational vehicle industries.
31. Kforce Inc.
Background: Kforce Inc. is a professional staffing and solutions firm headquartered in Tampa, Florida.
It provides staffing services and workforce solutions in various industries, including technology, finance, healthcare, and government.
Core Industries: Staffing, recruiting, workforce solutions.
Key Achievements: Kforce’s staffing solutions help businesses find qualified professionals and navigate workforce challenges, including talent shortages and skill gaps.
The company’s expertise in recruiting, consulting, and project management supports clients’ strategic objectives and business success.
32. MarineMax, Inc.
Background: MarineMax, Inc. is a recreational boat retailer headquartered in Clearwater, Florida.
It is the largest recreational boat dealer in the United States, offering new and pre-owned boats, yacht brokerage, and marine services.
Core Industries: Recreational boating, boat sales, marine services.
Key Achievements: MarineMax’s extensive inventory of boats and yachts, along with its experienced sales team and service technicians, provide customers with a comprehensive boating experience.
The company’s commitment to customer service, product knowledge, and boating lifestyle has made it a leader in the marine industry.
33. Embraer S.A.
Background: Embraer S.A. is an aerospace company headquartered in São José dos Campos, Brazil, with a significant presence in Florida. It is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of commercial and executive jets.
Core Industries: Aerospace, aviation, aircraft manufacturing.
Key Achievements: Embraer’s commercial aircraft and business jets are renowned for their performance, efficiency, and comfort.
The company’s focus on innovation, engineering excellence, and customer satisfaction has made it a preferred choice for airlines, corporations, and aircraft operators worldwide.
34. Herc Holdings Inc.
Background: Herc Holdings Inc. is an equipment rental company headquartered in Bonita Springs, Florida. It provides rental equipment and services to construction, industrial, and infrastructure markets.
Core Industries: Equipment rental, construction, industrial services.
Key Achievements: Herc Rentals offers a wide range of rental equipment, including aerial lifts, earthmoving machinery, and power generators, to meet customers’ project needs.
The company’s focus on quality equipment, reliable service, and customer support has made it a trusted partner for construction and industrial projects.
35. FirstService Corporation
Background: FirstService Corporation is a property services company headquartered in Toronto, Canada, with operations in Florida.
It provides residential and commercial property management, real estate brokerage, and other property services.
Core Industries: Property services, property management, real estate.
Key Achievements: FirstService’s property management services help communities and property owners maintain and enhance the value of their assets.
The company’s expertise in real estate management, maintenance, and customer service supports vibrant and sustainable communities.
36. Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc.
Background: Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc. is a global producer and distributor of fresh fruits and vegetables headquartered in Coral Gables, Florida. It operates farms, distribution centers, and processing facilities worldwide.
Core Industries: Agriculture, food production, fresh produce.
Key Achievements: Fresh Del Monte Produce’s high-quality fruits and vegetables are distributed to retailers, wholesalers, and foodservice providers around the world.
The company’s commitment to sustainable agriculture, food safety, and quality assurance ensures fresh and nutritious produce for consumers.
37. Advanced Disposal Services, Inc. (now part of Waste Management, Inc.)
Background: Advanced Disposal Services, Inc. was a waste management company headquartered in Ponte Vedra, Florida.
It was acquired by Waste Management, Inc. in 2020. Advanced Disposal provided waste collection, recycling, and disposal services to residential, commercial, and industrial customers.
Core Industries: Waste management, recycling, environmental services.
Key Achievements: Advanced Disposal’s integrated waste management solutions helped customers minimize waste, increase recycling rates, and comply with environmental regulations.
The company’s focus on sustainability, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction supported responsible waste management practices.
38. Perry Ellis International, Inc.
Background: Perry Ellis International, Inc. is a clothing and apparel company headquartered in Miami, Florida.
It designs, manufactures, and markets men’s and women’s apparel, accessories, and fragrances under various brand names.
Core Industries: Apparel, fashion, clothing manufacturing.
Key Achievements: Perry Ellis International’s diverse portfolio of brands offers stylish and affordable clothing options for men and women.
The company’s focus on design innovation, quality craftsmanship, and brand management has made it a recognized leader in the fashion industry.
39. Dycom Industries, Inc.
Background: Dycom Industries, Inc. is a telecommunications infrastructure company headquartered in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.
It provides engineering, construction, and maintenance services for telecommunications networks.
Core Industries: Telecommunications, infrastructure construction, engineering.
Key Achievements: Dycom’s expertise in building and maintaining telecommunications infrastructure supports the expansion and enhancement of broadband networks across the United States.
The company’s services enable telecommunications providers to deliver high-speed internet, voice, and data services to residential and business customers.
40. Qurate Retail Group, Inc. (formerly HSNi, Inc.)
Background: Qurate Retail Group, Inc. is a multimedia retailer headquartered in St. Petersburg, Florida. It operates several retail brands, including QVC and HSN, offering products through television shopping, e-commerce, and mobile platforms.
Core Industries: Retail, multimedia retailing, e-commerce.
Key Achievements: Qurate Retail Group’s interactive shopping experiences engage millions of consumers worldwide, offering a diverse selection of products across various categories.
The company’s innovative approach to retailing, combined with its loyal customer base and strong brand partnerships, has made it a leader in the multimedia retail industry.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, the 40 largest companies in Florida exemplify the state’s diverse and robust economy, spanning industries from technology and healthcare to tourism and finance.
These corporations not only contribute significantly to Florida’s economic growth but also play a vital role in shaping the state’s identity as a dynamic business hub.
As they continue to innovate, expand, and adapt to the ever-changing landscape, these companies not only drive local prosperity but also contribute to the broader economic landscape of the United States.
With their continued success, they are poised to maintain Florida’s position as a key player in the national and global economy for years to come.
