Tennessee is a state rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its vibrant music scene, scenic landscapes, and southern hospitality, Tennessee attracts visitors and residents alike from all over the country.
From the bustling city of Nashville, deemed “Music City, USA,” to the charming small town of Gatlinburg nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee offers a diverse range of experiences for all.
Home to some of the largest companies in the state, Tennessee boasts a robust economy driven by industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and technology.
Companies like FedEx, Nissan North America, and International Paper have made significant contributions to Tennessee’s economy and job market.
With a mix of urban centers and rural landscapes, Tennessee truly offers something for everyone.
1. FedEx Corporation
Background: Founded in 1971, FedEx is a global courier delivery services company headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee.
Core Industries: Provides logistics, transportation, and e-commerce solutions worldwide.
Achievements: Known for its innovative delivery services and significant contributions to the logistics industry.
2. International Paper Company
Background: Established in 1898, International Paper is a leading producer of packaging, pulp, and paper products, based in Memphis.
Core Industries: Manufactures a wide range of paper-based packaging products for various industries.
Achievements: Known for its sustainable forestry practices and commitment to environmental stewardship.
3. Nissan North America, Inc.
Background: Nissan North America is the North American headquarters of Nissan Motor Company, located in Franklin, Tennessee.
Core Industries: Designs, manufactures, and sells automobiles, trucks, and electric vehicles.
Achievements: Plays a significant role in the automotive industry, known for its innovative vehicle designs and technology.
4. Bridgestone Americas, Inc.
Background: Bridgestone Americas is the North American subsidiary of Bridgestone Corporation, a global tire and rubber company, headquartered in Nashville.
Core Industries: Produces tires, rubber products, and diversified products, serving automotive and industrial markets.
Achievements: Recognized for its tire technology, innovation, and commitment to sustainability.
5. HCA Healthcare, Inc.
Background: Founded in 1968, HCA Healthcare is one of the largest healthcare providers in the United States, headquartered in Nashville.
Core Industries: Operates hospitals, surgery centers, and outpatient facilities, providing healthcare services.
Achievements: Known for its quality patient care, medical advancements, and extensive network of healthcare facilities.
6. Eastman Chemical Company
Background: Eastman Chemical Company is a global specialty materials company headquartered in Kingsport, Tennessee, founded in 1920.
Core Industries: Produces chemicals, fibers, and plastics for various industries, including transportation, construction, and consumer goods.
Achievements: Known for its innovation in specialty materials and sustainable solutions for a wide range of applications.
7. Dollar General Corporation
Background: Dollar General is a chain of variety stores headquartered in Goodlettsville, Tennessee, founded in 1939.
Core Industries: Operates discount retail stores offering a wide range of merchandise at affordable prices.
Achievements: Known for its convenience, value, and extensive network of stores serving rural and urban communities.
8. Tractor Supply Company
Background: Tractor Supply Company is a rural lifestyle retailer based in Brentwood, Tennessee, established in 1938.
Core Industries: Sells agricultural, hardware, and home improvement products, catering to farmers, ranchers, and rural residents.
Achievements: Recognized for its customer service, product selection, and support for rural communities.
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9. Community Health Systems, Inc.
Background: Community Health Systems is a leading operator of general acute care hospitals headquartered in Franklin, Tennessee, founded in 1985.
Core Industries: Provides healthcare services through its network of hospitals and affiliated facilities.
Achievements: Known for its commitment to providing accessible, high-quality healthcare services to communities across the United States.
10. AutoZone, Inc.
Background: AutoZone is a leading retailer and distributor of automotive replacement parts and accessories, headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee, founded in 1979.
Core Industries: Sells auto parts, accessories, and maintenance products through retail stores and online channels.
Achievements: Known for its extensive product selection, customer service, and commitment to the automotive aftermarket industry.
11. Ingram Industries Inc.
Background: Ingram Industries is a diversified company headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee, with interests in transportation, marine services, and book distribution.
Core Industries: Operates businesses in marine transportation, barge manufacturing, and book distribution.
Achievements: Known for its significant contributions to the transportation and logistics industries, as well as its role in book distribution through Ingram Content Group.
12. Asurion
Background: Asurion is a technology solutions company specializing in device protection and support services, with its headquarters in Nashville.
Core Industries: Provides insurance, warranty, and tech support services for mobile devices, consumer electronics, and appliances.
Achievements: Recognized for its innovative protection plans and customer support solutions, serving millions of customers worldwide.
13. Unum Group
Background: Unum Group is a leading provider of financial protection benefits, including disability, life, and supplemental health insurance, headquartered in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Core Industries: Offers insurance products and financial services to individuals and businesses, focusing on employee benefits solutions.
Achievements: Known for its commitment to providing financial protection and support to policyholders during times of need, as well as its corporate social responsibility initiatives.
14. Hospital Corporation of America (HCA)
Background: Hospital Corporation of America (HCA) is one of the largest healthcare providers in the United States, headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee.
Core Industries: Operates hospitals, surgery centers, and outpatient facilities, offering a wide range of healthcare services.
Achievements: Known for its extensive network of hospitals and healthcare facilities, as well as its commitment to clinical excellence and patient-centered care.
15. Acadia Healthcare Company, Inc.
Background: Acadia Healthcare is a leading provider of behavioral healthcare services, with its headquarters in Franklin, Tennessee.
Core Industries: Operates psychiatric hospitals, residential treatment centers, and outpatient clinics, specializing in mental health and addiction treatment.
Achievements: Recognized for its comprehensive behavioral healthcare services and its commitment to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness and addiction.
16. Regal Entertainment Group
Background: Regal Entertainment Group is a leading movie theater chain headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Core Industries: Operates movie theaters across the United States, offering a wide range of films and entertainment options.
Achievements: Known for its state-of-the-art theaters, immersive movie experiences, and commitment to customer satisfaction.
17. Delek US Holdings, Inc.
Background: Delek US Holdings is an energy company engaged in petroleum refining, transportation, and marketing, with its headquarters in Brentwood, Tennessee.
Core Industries: Operates refineries, pipelines, and retail fuel stations, serving customers across the United States.
Achievements: Recognized for its integrated energy solutions and its role in providing reliable fuel products to consumers and businesses.
18. First Horizon Corporation
Background: First Horizon Corporation is a financial services company headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee, offering banking, wealth management, and capital markets services.
Core Industries: Provides a wide range of financial products and services to individuals, businesses, and institutional clients.
Achievements: Known for its commitment to customer service, financial expertise, and community involvement.
19. LifePoint Health, Inc.
Background: LifePoint Health is a healthcare company operating hospitals, outpatient centers, and post-acute facilities across the United States, headquartered in Brentwood, Tennessee.
Core Industries: Provides healthcare services, including acute care, behavioral health, and outpatient services, to communities nationwide.
Achievements: Known for its patient-centered approach to healthcare delivery and its focus on improving access to quality care in rural and non-urban areas.
20. Pilot Flying J
Background: Pilot Flying J is a chain of truck stops and travel centers headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Core Industries: Operates truck stops, travel centers, and convenience stores, providing fuel, food, and amenities to professional drivers and travelers.
Achievements: Recognized as a leader in the trucking and travel industry, known for its extensive network of locations and its commitment to customer service and convenience.
21. Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc.
Background: Cracker Barrel is a restaurant and retail chain known for its Southern-inspired cuisine and country store, headquartered in Lebanon, Tennessee.
Core Industries: Operates a chain of restaurants offering homestyle meals and a retail store featuring unique gifts and decor.
Achievements: Known for its hospitality, comfort food, and nostalgic atmosphere, as well as its commitment to serving communities across the country.
22. Servpro Industries, Inc.
Background: Servpro is a franchisor of residential and commercial cleanup and restoration services, with its headquarters in Gallatin, Tennessee.
Core Industries: Provides restoration services for water damage, fire damage, mold remediation, and more, through a network of franchise locations.
Achievements: Recognized for its rapid response and quality service in times of disaster, as well as its dedication to customer satisfaction.
23. BellSouth Telecommunications
Background: BellSouth Telecommunications was a regional telecommunications company based in Nashville, Tennessee, before being acquired by AT&T.
Core Industries: Provided telephone, internet, and digital television services to residential and business customers in the southeastern United States.
Achievements: Played a significant role in expanding telecommunications infrastructure and connectivity in the region, as well as pioneering new technologies and services.
24. Thomas & Betts Corporation
Background: Thomas & Betts was a manufacturer of electrical components and systems, founded in Memphis, Tennessee, before being acquired by ABB Group.
Core Industries: Produced electrical connectors, fittings, and components for construction, industrial, and utility markets.
Achievements: Known for its innovative electrical solutions and products, as well as its contributions to the electrical industry’s advancement and safety.
25. Cigna-HealthSpring
Background: Cigna-HealthSpring is a subsidiary of Cigna Corporation specializing in Medicare Advantage plans, with operations in Nashville, Tennessee.
Core Industries: Offers Medicare Advantage plans, prescription drug coverage, and other healthcare services for Medicare beneficiaries.
Achievements: Recognized for its comprehensive Medicare Advantage plans and its focus on improving health outcomes for seniors.
26. East Tennessee State University
Background: East Tennessee State University (ETSU) is a public university located in Johnson City, Tennessee, established in 1911.
Core Industries: Offers undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields, including healthcare, education, business, and the arts.
Achievements: Known for its strong academic programs, research initiatives, and commitment to serving the local community.
27. Corrections Corporation of America (now CoreCivic)
Background: Corrections Corporation of America, now known as CoreCivic, is a private prison corporation headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee.
Core Industries: Operates private prisons, detention centers, and reentry facilities on behalf of government agencies.
Achievements: Played a significant role in the privatization of corrections and detention facilities, as well as controversial discussions around criminal justice reform.
28. Ruby Tuesday, Inc.
Background: Ruby Tuesday is a chain of casual dining restaurants headquartered in Maryville, Tennessee, founded in 1972.
Core Industries: Operates a chain of restaurants offering American cuisine, including burgers, salads, and seafood dishes.
Achievements: Known for its casual dining atmosphere, varied menu options, and commitment to customer satisfaction.
29. Dollar Tree, Inc.
Background: Dollar Tree is a discount variety store chain headquartered in Chesapeake, Virginia, with significant operations in Tennessee.
Core Industries: Operates discount retail stores offering a wide range of merchandise priced at one dollar or less.
Achievements: Known for its value-oriented approach, wide selection of products, and convenient shopping experience.
30. Fred’s, Inc.
Background: Fred’s is a retail chain headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee, offering discount general merchandise and pharmacy services.
Core Industries: Operates retail stores selling household goods, electronics, health and beauty products, and more.
Achievements: Known for its affordable prices, diverse product selection, and focus on serving small communities.
31. Oreck Corporation
Background: Oreck Corporation is a manufacturer and retailer of vacuum cleaners and air purifiers, headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee.
Core Industries: Produces and sells vacuum cleaners, air purifiers, and related accessories for residential and commercial use.
Achievements: Known for its lightweight and durable vacuum cleaners, as well as its focus on air purification technology.
32. Shoney’s
Background: Shoney’s is a restaurant chain headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee, known for its casual dining and buffet-style offerings.
Core Industries: Operates restaurants serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus featuring American cuisine and Southern-inspired dishes.
Achievements: Recognized for its family-friendly atmosphere, affordable prices, and extensive menu options.
33. Jack Daniel’s Distillery
Background: Jack Daniel’s Distillery is a whiskey distillery located in Lynchburg, Tennessee, founded in 1866.
Core Industries: Produces and markets Jack Daniel’s Tennessee whiskey, including various whiskey variants and related products.
Achievements: Known for its iconic brand and reputation for producing high-quality whiskey, as well as its cultural significance in Tennessee and beyond.
34. Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)
Background: Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) is a federally owned corporation headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee, established in 1933.
Core Industries: Manages and operates hydroelectric dams, power plants, and transmission lines, providing electricity and economic development services.
Achievements: Played a crucial role in the development of the Tennessee Valley region, including flood control, electricity generation, and economic revitalization efforts.
35. Carlstar Group
Background: Carlstar Group is a manufacturer of specialty tires and wheels with its headquarters in Franklin, Tennessee.
Core Industries: Produces tires and wheels for various applications, including agriculture, construction, industrial, and recreational vehicles.
Achievements: Known for its innovative tire designs, durability, and performance across diverse industries and applications.
36. J. Alexander’s
Background: J. Alexander’s is a restaurant chain headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee, known for its upscale dining experience.
Core Industries: Operates restaurants offering American cuisine with an emphasis on steaks, seafood, and cocktails.
Achievements: Recognized for its high-quality food, attentive service, and inviting ambiance, catering to discerning diners.
37. American Addiction Centers
Background: American Addiction Centers is a healthcare company headquartered in Brentwood, Tennessee, specializing in addiction treatment services.
Core Industries: Provides comprehensive addiction treatment programs, including detoxification, therapy, and aftercare support.
Achievements: Known for its evidence-based treatment approaches, compassionate care, and commitment to helping individuals recover from addiction.
38. ServiceMaster Global Holdings
Background: ServiceMaster Global Holdings is a provider of residential and commercial services, with its headquarters in Memphis, Tennessee.
Core Industries: Offers pest control, cleaning, restoration, and home services through its various brands.
Achievements: Known for its expertise in home and commercial services, as well as its commitment to customer satisfaction and community involvement.
39. LKQ Corporation
Background: LKQ Corporation is a provider of automotive replacement parts and accessories, headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, with significant operations in Tennessee.
Core Industries: Sells recycled and aftermarket auto parts for collision repair, mechanical repair, and vehicle customization.
Achievements: Recognized for its extensive inventory of quality auto parts, efficient distribution network, and commitment to environmental sustainability through auto recycling.
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Conclusion
Tennessee boasts a diverse range of companies across industries such as transportation, healthcare, hospitality, and manufacturing.
From global corporations like FedEx and HCA Healthcare to household names like Cracker Barrel and Dollar General, these companies contribute significantly to the state’s economy and cultural fabric.
Their innovation, commitment to quality, and contributions to local communities underscore Tennessee’s dynamic business landscape.
