Guest post by Britney Baker
Many companies and brands have been a flash in the pan, remaining highly profitable for several years or even decades before they eventually fell by the wayside. Others have fallen foul of bad economic conditions, mergers, takeovers, and other business hurdles. Some, however, stand the test of time. Here are five of the most successful and recognizable companies with a long and and illustrious history behind them. They have survived two World Wars, the Great Depression, and the current economic crisis, and they serve as an inspiration to current business owners that it’s possible to persevere in the face of adversity.
1. Ford
Ford Motor Company was first founded by Henry Ford in 1903. Amazingly, 107 years later the company is still the most successful American automotive company. As Japanese companies like Toyota and Honda made in-roads into the American market, Ford’s place in the United States stayed very sturdy as it expanded internationally. The company managed to weather the current recession and turn a profit while other struggling American automakers had to ask for government intervention.
2. Coca-Cola
This soft-drink giant started as a very small company offering a medicinal elixir for a mere nickel in 1886. The company quickly switched gears by altering its product for non-medicinal consumption. The world of beverages has never been the same. Not only has Coca-Cola been extremely popular in the United States, but its presence internationally is staggering. Very few companies can say they sell their product in over 200 different countries.
3. Hershey
The Hershey Company began its existence in 1894. Not only is it the oldest chocolate manufacturer in the United States, but it is also the largest. Hershey chocolate bars and Hershey Kisses have stayed relatively the same product for generations; however, they still remain two of the most popular choices with chocolate lovers to this day. On top of that, the company has introduced plenty of other successful chocolate and food based products over the years. The company will certainly endure for years to come.
4. Kellogg’s
Kellogg’s is a company that began its existence in the tiny town of Battle Creek, Michigan in 1906. 104 years later, it is the largest provider of cereals in the world. Not only has Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes and its other cereal brands remained some of the most popular in the world, but the company has also greatly expanded into other food based markets. Today, the company competes strongly in the market for breakfast foods, snack foods, cookies, crackers, and even vegan foods.
5. Heineken
Heineken has been a very popular beer choice for many since 1873. Heineken International started as a relatively small company in the Netherlands. Since the late 1800’s, the company has expanded exponentially. Today, the company owns 119 different breweries and sells its product in 65 different countries. What is amazing is how well this European brand of beer has made in-roads in the United States. As a brand, it is often thought of as a hip beer choice in comparison to the much more American brand, Budweiser.
Britney Baker is a freelance blogger who also writes for Prepaid Cellphones.net.
