- Manufacturers
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The largest manufacturing company in the world is Apple, with a revenue of $394.33 billion.
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As of 2023, the global manufacturing industry has a market size of $287.54 billion.
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In the U.S., manufacturing represents 12% of the country’s total economic output.
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The global manufacturing industry is projected to grow at a CAGR of 11.2% through 2030.
Manufacturing, by definition, encompasses the large-scale production of goods that transform raw materials, parts, and components into finished products. These goods are then sold to consumers or other manufacturers who may use them to create more complex items.
Manufacturing companies utilize various resources, including machines, robotics, computers, and human labor to assemble these finished products. The manufacturing landscape has evolved significantly, particularly with advancements in technology, automation, and sustainable practices.
There are three primary types of manufacturing production methods. The first is make-to-stock (MTS), which relies on historical sales data to forecast demand and manage production accordingly.
Make-to-order (MTO) allows customers to request customized products, initiating the production process only after an order is received, minimizing the risks of surplus inventory.
The final type, make-to-assemble (MTA), uses demand forecasts to stock necessary components, commencing assembly only once an order is placed. This method represents a balanced approach between MTS and MTO.
Now that we have a better understanding of manufacturing operations, let’s examine the top manufacturing companies by revenue in 2026:
The 15 Largest Manufacturing Companies in the World
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Total Revenue (2023): $394.33 billion
Headquartered in Cupertino, California, Apple designs, develops, and sells consumer electronics, software, and online services. As the world’s largest technology company by revenue, it is also recognized as one of the world’s most valuable brands.
The company’s manufacturing and logistics strategies enable it to execute large-scale product launches efficiently without maintaining extensive inventory.
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Total Revenue (2023): $295.7 billion
Founded in 1937, Volkswagen Group is a German automotive manufacturing corporation that designs and distributes passenger and commercial vehicles, alongside motorcycles and engines. It is renowned for brands such as Audi, Porsche, and Bentley and operates in over 150 countries.
As of 2023, China’s market remains significant for the company, with millions of vehicles sold annually.
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Toyota Motor Corporation
Total Revenue (2023): $270.9 billion
Toyota Motor Corporation, founded in 1937, is a leader in automotive manufacturing and was the first to produce over 10 million vehicles annually since 2012. The company excels in hybrid electric vehicles and promotes their mass adoption globally.
Their extensive product line includes electric, hybrid, and hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles, alongside a commitment to various non-automotive sectors, including robotics and agriculture.
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Total Revenue (2023): $225.3 billion
Samsung Electronics, headquartered in South Korea, is the world’s largest manufacturer of consumer electronics by revenue. It supplies a vast range of products, including mobile devices, semiconductors, and home appliances, serving numerous high-profile clients globally.
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Total Revenue (2023): $219.50 billion
Foxconn, also known as Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., is a Taiwanese electronics manufacturer and one of the largest employers globally. Its operations span East Asia and several other regions, providing manufacturing services for major technology companies.
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Total Revenue (2023): $181.364 billion
Cardinal Health is an American healthcare services company that distributes pharmaceuticals and medical products to over 100,000 locations. It also manufactures essential medical and surgical supplies, contributing significantly to healthcare infrastructure.
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Daimler AG
Total Revenue (2023): $176.46 billion
Daimler AG, formed from the merger of Benz & Cie. and Daimler Motoren Gesellschaft, is a prominent automotive corporation known for Mercedes-Benz and various commercial vehicles. The company is heavily investing in electric vehicle technologies and sustainable manufacturing practices.
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China Railway Group Ltd.
Total Revenue (2023): $170.64 billion
China Railway Group, headquartered in Beijing, is a leading construction company engaged in extensive infrastructure projects globally, emphasizing innovation in construction and project management.
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Total Revenue (2023): $158.1 billion
Ford Motor Company, based in Michigan, is known for its role in pioneering mass automobile production. Today, Ford focuses on electric and hybrid vehicles and has made significant strides in sustainable automotive technology.
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Total Revenue (2023): $156.7 billion
General Motors, headquartered in Detroit, designs and manufactures vehicles globally. Known for innovation, GM is focusing on electric vehicles and sustainable practices in response to evolving market demands.
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Total Revenue (2023): $153.66 billion
Mitsubishi Motors, a historic automotive manufacturer, has evolved significantly since its inception in 1917. The company continues to innovate while maintaining a focus on sustainability and technological advancements.
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Total Revenue (2023): $150.25 billion
BMW, known for its luxury vehicles, continues to innovate in the automotive sector with a commitment to electric mobility and sustainable practices, significantly expanding its electric vehicle lineup.
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Total Revenue (2023): $129.52 billion
Honda is a prominent manufacturer of automobiles, motorcycles, and power equipment. The company has maintained its status as a leading motorcycle manufacturer while expanding its automotive and power equipment offerings.
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SAIC Motors
Total Revenue (2023): $114.0 billion
SAIC Motors is a major player in automotive design and manufacturing in China, engaged in partnerships with global automakers and focusing on innovation in electric and hybrid vehicles.
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Huawei
Total Revenue (2023): $92.77 billion
Huawei is a leading technology company specializing in telecommunications equipment and consumer electronics, notably smartphones. Despite facing challenges in international markets, Huawei continues to innovate in technology and expand its global footprint.
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Manufacturing Companies FAQ
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What is the largest manufacturing company in the world?
The largest manufacturing company in the world is Apple. With a revenue of $394.33 billion in 2023, Apple leads the global manufacturing sector, followed by Volkswagen at $295.7 billion.
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How big is the global manufacturing industry?
The global manufacturing industry has a market size of $287.54 billion. The sector plays a crucial role in the global economy, with significant growth potential projected at a CAGR of 11.2% through 2030.
- Manufacturers
Author
Caitlin Mazur is a freelance writer at Zippia. Caitlin is passionate about helping Zippia’s readers land the jobs of their dreams by offering content that discusses job-seeking advice based on experience and extensive research. Caitlin holds a degree in English from Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, PA.
