Rhode Island may be the smallest state in the United States, but it is home to some significant players in the business world.
The 35 largest companies in Rhode Island span across various industries, contributing to the state’s economy and employment opportunities.
From healthcare and education to manufacturing and retail, these companies play a crucial role in driving innovation and growth in the state.
Some of the well-known companies on the list include CVS Health, Citizens Financial Group, and Textron Inc.
In this article, we will exploring the top 35 largest companies in Rhode Island, exploring their contributions to the local economy and their strategies for success in a competitive business landscape.
1. CVS Health Corporation
Background: CVS Health Corporation is a leading healthcare company based in Woonsocket, Rhode Island.
It operates one of the largest pharmacy retail chains in the United States, providing a wide range of health services and products.
Core Industries: Healthcare, Pharmacy, Retail
Key Achievements: CVS Health Corporation has expanded its services beyond traditional pharmacy offerings to include health clinics, insurance services, and digital health solutions.
The company’s commitment to improving access to healthcare and promoting wellness has earned it recognition as a key player in the industry.
2. Textron Inc.
Background: Textron Inc. is a multinational conglomerate headquartered in Providence, Rhode Island. It operates in various industries, including aviation, defense, industrial, and finance.
Core Industries: Aviation, Defense, Industrial
Key Achievements: Textron Inc. is known for its diverse portfolio of brands, including Bell, Cessna, Beechcraft, and Textron Systems.
The company’s innovative approach to product development and commitment to customer satisfaction have contributed to its success in multiple markets.
3. Citizens Financial Group, Inc.
Background: Citizens Financial Group, Inc. is a bank holding company headquartered in Providence, Rhode Island.
It operates Citizens Bank, one of the largest retail banks in the United States.
Core Industries: Banking, Financial Services
Key Achievements: Citizens Financial Group, Inc. has a long history of providing banking services to individuals, businesses, and institutions.
The company’s focus on customer-centric solutions and community engagement has helped it establish a strong presence in the financial services industry.
4. Hasbro, Inc.
Background: Hasbro, Inc. is a multinational toy and entertainment company based in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. It is known for producing popular toy brands such as Transformers, Nerf, and My Little Pony.
Core Industries: Toy Manufacturing, Entertainment
Key Achievements: Hasbro, Inc. has a rich history of creating beloved toys and games that entertain and inspire children and adults alike.
The company’s commitment to innovation and storytelling has made it a leader in the toy industry for decades.
5. Amica Mutual Insurance Company
Background: Amica Mutual Insurance Company is a mutual insurance company headquartered in Lincoln, Rhode Island. It offers a range of insurance products, including auto, home, and life insurance.
Core Industries: Insurance
Key Achievements: Amica Mutual Insurance Company is known for its exceptional customer service and financial stability.
The company’s focus on personalized coverage options and proactive claims management has earned it a reputation as a trusted insurance provider.
6. United Natural Foods, Inc.
Background: United Natural Foods, Inc. (UNFI) is a distributor of natural, organic, and specialty foods and related products.
Headquartered in Providence, Rhode Island, UNFI serves a wide range of customers, including retailers, supermarkets, and foodservice operators.
Core Industries: Food Distribution
Key Achievements: UNFI has grown to become one of the largest distributors of natural and organic foods in North America.
The company’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility is reflected in its efforts to promote healthy eating choices and support local communities.
7. FM Global
Background: FM Global is a mutual insurance company specializing in property insurance and risk management solutions.
Headquartered in Johnston, Rhode Island, FM Global serves clients worldwide, helping them minimize the impact of property-related risks.
Core Industries: Insurance, Risk Management
Key Achievements: FM Global is known for its engineering-based approach to risk assessment and mitigation.
The company’s innovative loss prevention solutions and commitment to client partnerships have helped it become a leader in the property insurance industry.
8. Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Background: Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing and commercializing life-changing therapies for rare diseases.
Headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, with operations in Smithfield, Rhode Island, Alexion is known for its innovative research and development efforts.
Core Industries: Biopharmaceuticals
Key Achievements: Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc. has brought several breakthrough therapies to market, transforming the lives of patients with rare and devastating diseases.
The company’s dedication to scientific excellence and patient advocacy has earned it recognition as a pioneer in the field of rare disease treatment.
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9. GTECH Corporation
Background: GTECH Corporation is a gaming technology and services company headquartered in Providence, Rhode Island.
It provides lottery and gaming solutions to government-sponsored entities worldwide.
Core Industries: Gaming Technology, Lottery Services
Key Achievements: GTECH Corporation has established itself as a global leader in the lottery and gaming industry, offering innovative products and services that drive revenue growth for its customers.
The company’s commitment to technological innovation and regulatory compliance has positioned it for continued success in the evolving gaming market.
10. AAA Northeast
Background: AAA Northeast is a regional branch of the American Automobile Association (AAA), providing automotive, travel, insurance, and financial services to its members.
Headquartered in Providence, Rhode Island, AAA Northeast serves members in several states, including Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New Hampshire.
Core Industries: Automotive Services, Travel Services, Insurance
Key Achievements: AAA Northeast is known for its commitment to providing exceptional roadside assistance, travel planning, and insurance services to its members.
The organization’s dedication to customer satisfaction and community engagement has made it a trusted resource for motorists and travelers in the Northeast region.
11. Gilbane Building Company
Background: Gilbane Building Company is a construction and real estate development firm headquartered in Providence, Rhode Island.
With over 150 years of experience, Gilbane specializes in providing construction management, design-build, and general contracting services for projects across various industries.
Core Industries: Construction, Real Estate Development
Key Achievements: Gilbane Building Company has a proven track record of delivering high-quality, cost-effective construction solutions for clients in the commercial, institutional, and public sectors.
The company’s commitment to safety, sustainability, and innovation has earned it recognition as a leader in the construction industry.
12. Electric Boat Corporation
Background: Electric Boat Corporation is a subsidiary of General Dynamics Corporation and is headquartered in Groton, Connecticut, with operations in Quonset Point, Rhode Island.
It specializes in the design, construction, and maintenance of submarines for the United States Navy.
Core Industries: Defense, Shipbuilding
Key Achievements: Electric Boat Corporation has a long history of supporting the U.S. Navy’s submarine fleet, delivering advanced technology and unmatched expertise in submarine design and construction.
The company’s submarines play a critical role in national defense and maritime security.
13. UNFI (United Natural Foods)
Background: United Natural Foods, Inc. (UNFI) is a distributor of natural, organic, and specialty foods and related products.
Headquartered in Providence, Rhode Island, UNFI serves a wide range of customers, including retailers, supermarkets, and foodservice operators.
Core Industries: Food Distribution
Key Achievements: UNFI has grown to become one of the largest distributors of natural and organic foods in North America.
The company’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility is reflected in its efforts to promote healthy eating choices and support local communities.
14. BankNewport
Background: BankNewport is a community bank headquartered in Newport, Rhode Island.
It provides a range of financial products and services, including personal and business banking, wealth management, and mortgage lending.
Core Industries: Banking, Financial Services
Key Achievements: BankNewport is known for its commitment to serving the financial needs of individuals, businesses, and communities in Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts.
The bank’s focus on personalized service, community involvement, and financial stability has earned it a loyal customer base and a strong reputation in the region.
15. Brown & Brown of Rhode Island, Inc.
Background: Brown & Brown of Rhode Island, Inc. is an insurance brokerage firm based in Providence, Rhode Island.
It offers a wide range of insurance products and risk management services to businesses and individuals.
Core Industries: Insurance, Risk Management
Key Achievements: Brown & Brown of Rhode Island, Inc. is recognized for its expertise in designing customized insurance solutions to meet the unique needs of its clients.
The company’s commitment to client satisfaction, integrity, and professionalism has helped it build long-lasting relationships in the insurance industry.
16. Toray Plastics (America), Inc.
Background: Toray Plastics (America), Inc. is a leading manufacturer of plastic films and related products, with headquarters in North Kingstown, Rhode Island.
The company serves various industries, including packaging, industrial, and electronics.
Core Industries: Manufacturing, Plastics
Key Achievements: Toray Plastics (America), Inc. is known for its innovative product development and high-quality manufacturing processes.
The company’s commitment to sustainability and customer satisfaction has earned it recognition as a trusted supplier of plastic films in diverse markets.
17. Gil’s Appliances
Background: Gil’s Appliances is a family-owned appliance retailer headquartered in Bristol, Rhode Island. It offers a wide selection of home appliances, including refrigerators, ovens, washers, and dryers.
Core Industries: Retail, Appliances
Key Achievements: Gil’s Appliances has been serving customers in Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts for over 50 years.
The company’s focus on providing top-notch customer service, competitive pricing, and high-quality products has made it a preferred destination for appliance purchases in the region.
18. The Washington Trust Company
Background: The Washington Trust Company is a community bank headquartered in Westerly, Rhode Island.
It provides a range of banking, investment, and wealth management services to individuals, businesses, and institutions.
Core Industries: Banking, Financial Services
Key Achievements: The Washington Trust Company has a long history of serving the financial needs of its customers with integrity and professionalism.
The bank’s commitment to building lasting relationships, supporting local communities, and delivering innovative financial solutions has made it a trusted partner for generations of clients.
19. Ocean State Job Lot
Background: Ocean State Job Lot is a discount retailer headquartered in North Kingstown, Rhode Island.
It offers a wide range of merchandise, including clothing, household goods, electronics, and outdoor equipment, at discounted prices.
Core Industries: Retail, Discount Stores
Key Achievements: Ocean State Job Lot has grown to become one of the largest discount retailers in the northeastern United States.
The company’s focus on offering quality products at unbeatable prices, combined with its commitment to community giving and environmental sustainability, has earned it a loyal customer following and a positive reputation in the retail industry.
20. The Providence Journal
Background: The Providence Journal is a daily newspaper serving the state of Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts.
Headquartered in Providence, Rhode Island, it provides news coverage, investigative reporting, and editorial content on local, national, and international issues.
Core Industries: Media, Publishing
Key Achievements: The Providence Journal has a long-standing tradition of journalistic excellence and community engagement.
The newspaper’s commitment to providing accurate, timely, and comprehensive news coverage has earned it recognition as a trusted source of information for readers in the region.
21. The Beacon Mutual Insurance Company
Background: The Beacon Mutual Insurance Company is a workers’ compensation insurance provider headquartered in Warwick, Rhode Island.
It offers insurance coverage and risk management services to businesses in Rhode Island.
Core Industries: Insurance, Workers’ Compensation
Key Achievements: The Beacon Mutual Insurance Company is dedicated to helping businesses protect their employees and manage workplace risks effectively.
The company’s focus on providing personalized service, competitive pricing, and proactive claims management has made it a preferred insurance partner for employers in Rhode Island.
22. CVS Pharmacy
Background: CVS Pharmacy is a retail pharmacy chain and subsidiary of CVS Health Corporation.
With locations across Rhode Island and the United States, CVS Pharmacy offers prescription medications, over-the-counter health products, beauty supplies, and convenience items.
Core Industries: Retail, Pharmacy
Key Achievements: CVS Pharmacy is committed to providing accessible and affordable healthcare solutions to customers nationwide.
The company’s focus on convenience, innovation, and customer service has helped it maintain a strong presence in the retail pharmacy market.
23. Nortek Control
Background: Nortek Control is a global manufacturer and distributor of smart home and security solutions.
Headquartered in Carlsbad, California, with operations in Providence, Rhode Island, Nortek Control offers a wide range of products for residential and commercial applications.
Core Industries: Smart Home Technology, Security Systems
Key Achievements: Nortek Control is known for its innovative products and solutions that enhance the safety, comfort, and efficiency of homes and businesses.
The company’s commitment to quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction has made it a leader in the smart home and security industry.
24. FM Global
Background: FM Global is a mutual insurance company specializing in property insurance and risk management solutions.
Headquartered in Johnston, Rhode Island, FM Global serves clients worldwide, helping them minimize the impact of property-related risks.
Core Industries: Insurance, Risk Management
Key Achievements: FM Global is known for its engineering-based approach to risk assessment and mitigation.
The company’s innovative loss prevention solutions and commitment to client partnerships have helped it become a leader in the property insurance industry.
25. Taco, Inc.
Background: Taco, Inc. is a manufacturer of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment based in Cranston, Rhode Island.
The company produces a wide range of pumps, valves, and other HVAC components for residential and commercial applications.
Core Industries: HVAC Manufacturing
Key Achievements: Taco, Inc. has a reputation for innovation and quality in the HVAC industry.
The company’s products are known for their reliability, energy efficiency, and ease of installation, making them a preferred choice for contractors and building owners.
26. Rhode Island Hospital
Background: Rhode Island Hospital is a major teaching hospital affiliated with the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University.
Located in Providence, Rhode Island, it is the largest hospital in the state and provides a wide range of medical services, including primary care, specialty care, and research.
Core Industries: Healthcare, Hospital Services
Key Achievements: Rhode Island Hospital is recognized for its high-quality patient care, cutting-edge medical research, and commitment to medical education.
The hospital’s physicians, nurses, and staff are dedicated to improving the health and well-being of the community through compassionate and innovative healthcare services.
27. Rhode Island School of Design (RISD)
Background: Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) is a renowned art and design college located in Providence, Rhode Island.
Founded in 1877, RISD offers undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of art and design disciplines, including fine arts, architecture, graphic design, and industrial design.
Core Industries: Education, Art and Design
Key Achievements: RISD is known for its rigorous academic programs, world-class faculty, and vibrant artistic community.
The college’s graduates are highly sought after by employers in the creative industries, and its alumni have made significant contributions to art, design, and culture around the world.
28. Providence College
Background: Providence College is a private, Catholic liberal arts college located in Providence, Rhode Island.
Founded in 1917, Providence College offers undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of academic disciplines, including business, humanities, social sciences, and health sciences.
Core Industries: Education, Liberal Arts
Key Achievements: Providence College is committed to providing a transformative educational experience that prepares students for success in their careers and lives.
The college’s rigorous academic curriculum, supportive faculty, and vibrant campus community foster intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and ethical leadership among its graduates.
29. Bryant University
Background: Bryant University is a private university located in Smithfield, Rhode Island.
Founded in 1863, Bryant University offers undergraduate and graduate programs in business, arts and sciences, and health sciences, with a focus on experiential learning and career readiness.
Core Industries: Education, Business
Key Achievements: Bryant University is known for its innovative approach to business education and its strong emphasis on practical, real-world experience.
The university’s dedicated faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and extensive network of alumni and industry partners provide students with the skills and resources they need to succeed in today’s competitive business environment.
30. Roger Williams University
Background: Roger Williams University is a private university located in Bristol, Rhode Island.
Established in 1956, Roger Williams University offers undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of fields, including liberal arts, professional studies, and architecture.
Core Industries: Education, Liberal Arts
Key Achievements: Roger Williams University is committed to providing students with a personalized and engaging educational experience that prepares them for success in their chosen careers.
The university’s strong focus on experiential learning, community engagement, and interdisciplinary studies fosters critical thinking, creativity, and leadership skills among its graduates.
31. Textron Systems
Background: Textron Systems is a subsidiary of Textron Inc. and is headquartered in Providence, Rhode Island.
It specializes in the development and manufacturing of advanced aerospace and defense technologies, including unmanned systems, tactical vehicles, and marine craft.
Core Industries: Aerospace, Defense
Key Achievements: Textron Systems is known for its innovative solutions that support military and government missions around the world.
The company’s commitment to technological excellence, reliability, and customer support has made it a trusted partner for defense and security organizations.
32. Taco Comfort Solutions
Background: Taco Comfort Solutions is a division of Taco, Inc. and is headquartered in Cranston, Rhode Island.
It specializes in the design and manufacturing of heating, cooling, and plumbing systems for residential and commercial applications.
Core Industries: HVAC Manufacturing
Key Achievements: Taco Comfort Solutions is recognized for its energy-efficient and environmentally friendly HVAC products that provide comfort and reliability to customers worldwide.
The company’s commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction has made it a leader in the heating and cooling industry.
33. Shawmut Design and Construction
Background: Shawmut Design and Construction is a construction management firm headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, with operations in Providence, Rhode Island.
Founded in 1982, Shawmut specializes in providing construction services for luxury retail, hospitality, healthcare, and institutional projects.
Core Industries: Construction, Real Estate Development
Key Achievements: Shawmut Design and Construction has earned a reputation for delivering high-quality, complex projects on time and within budget.
The company’s collaborative approach, attention to detail, and commitment to client satisfaction have made it a preferred construction partner for leading brands and institutions across the country.
34. Electric Boat
Background: Electric Boat is a subsidiary of General Dynamics Corporation and is headquartered in Groton, Connecticut, with operations in Quonset Point, Rhode Island.
It is a leading designer and builder of nuclear submarines for the United States Navy.
Core Industries: Defense, Shipbuilding
Key Achievements: Electric Boat has a long history of supporting the U.S. Navy’s submarine fleet with innovative designs and advanced manufacturing capabilities.
The company’s submarines are critical assets for national defense and maritime security, providing unmatched capabilities for undersea warfare and strategic deterrence.
35. Lifespan
Background: Lifespan is a non-profit health system based in Providence, Rhode Island. It is the largest healthcare provider in the state and operates several hospitals, medical practices, and research facilities.
Core Industries: Healthcare, Hospital Services
Key Achievements: Lifespan is committed to providing high-quality, compassionate healthcare services to patients in Rhode Island and beyond.
The health system’s dedication to medical excellence, research innovation, and community outreach has earned it recognition as a leader in the healthcare industry.
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Conclusion
In Rhode Island, a diverse array of companies stands as pillars of the state’s economy, each contributing uniquely to its commercial landscape.
From healthcare giants like CVS Health Corporation to manufacturing innovators such as Electric Boat, Rhode Island’s corporate community reflects a blend of tradition, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit.
Educational institutions like Brown University and Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) further enrich the state’s business ecosystem, fostering talent and research.
Beyond business success, these companies actively engage in community initiatives, sustainability efforts, and philanthropic endeavors, enhancing their positive impact on both local communities and the broader society.
Collectively, these companies embody Rhode Island’s commitment to innovation, economic growth, and social responsibility, solidifying its reputation as a dynamic and forward-thinking business destination.
