IndustryWeek’s U.S. 500 list identifies the largest publicly traded manufacturing companies in the United States based on revenue. First published in 2002, the list has included a broad spectrum of companies within the U.S. manufacturing economy, even those that outsourced their production.
In 2023, IndustryWeek refined its selection criteria to focus exclusively on companies that own and operate their own manufacturing facilities. This shift underscores the importance of direct manufacturing activities that add tangible value to the economy. As a result of this change, 71 companies that outsourced their manufacturing, such as Apple, Nike, and Hasbro, were removed from the list. This revision aims to accurately represent the strength and impact of genuine U.S.-based manufacturing efforts.
Among the sectors highlighted by the IndustryWeek U.S. 500, automotive manufacturing stands out due to its critical role in the U.S. economy. The automotive sector not only contributes significantly to economic output but also supports a wide range of supply chain and service industries, making it a key driver of job creation and technological innovation. The presence of automotive companies on this list highlights their importance in maintaining industrial competitiveness and advancing manufacturing capabilities in the United States.
