Top-Grossing Black-Owned Companies (Black Enterprise)
NEW YORK, May 29 /PRNewswire/ — BLACK ENTERPRISE (BE) today announced the nation’s top-grossing black-owned businesses as listed in the publication’s 35th annual BE 100s report. The cornerstone of the publication’s June issue, this comprehensive analysis includes a total of 275 businesses: 100 industrial/service companies, 100 auto dealerships, 60 financial services firms, and 15 advertising agencies.
When BE first compiled its top 100 in 1973, combined sales for the 100 component companies totaled $473 million. Today, the top 100 African American industrial/service companies and 100 leading auto dealers — the core of the BE 100s report — collectively grossed more than $27 billion. As the BE 100s list marks its 35th anniversary, the nation’s most profitable black-owned businesses collectively responded to a more challenging and competitive business environment by aggressively working toward the expansion of revenue base and markets. Companies that found success did this by implementing a new blueprint for growth, including recruiting powerhouse management teams, forming strategic partnerships, strengthening their black business networks, and developing a global focus.
As a result, several companies reached new milestones. World Wide Technology Inc., No. 1 on the BE INDUSTRIAL/SERVICE 100 list, continues its prominence as the nation’s top-grossing black-owned business. This year the Maryland Heights, Missouri-based reseller of IT products and services becomes the first company to surpass the $2 billion sales mark since TLC Beatrice International Holdings Inc. did so in 1996. In addition, two other companies exceeded $1 billion in revenues. CAMAC International Corp., a Houston-based crude oil, gas exploration, and production and trading company reported sales of $1.6 billion. CAMAC ranks No. 2 on the BE INDUSTRIAL SERVICE 100 for the fourth consecutive year. Led by CEO Gregory Jackson, Prestige Automotive reported total sales $1.5 billon, making it No. 1 on the BE AUTO DEALERS 100. Located in St. Clair Shores, Michigan, Prestige continues to thrive despite Detroit’s downturn, posting outstanding sales of Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, GM, Saturn, and Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
BE 100s companies tied closely to the automotive market had perhaps the most difficult year. Shifts in consumer demands away from sport utility vehicles sent U.S. automakers reeling along with their contractors. Faring somewhat better were companies in the quick-serve restaurant industry. While S&P’s fundamental outlook remained neutral at the end of March, the firm expects consumers to continue dining out as a result of a higher percentage of Americans working, particularly women.
Top-grossing companies on additional BE 100s lists include the following: (click here to read more…)
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