Top 10 Largest Companies Making Waves in Oregon
Oregon, the Beaver State, is not just known for its majestic Cascade Range or the heritage-rich city of Portland, but also for its thriving business ecosystem. As a state known for sparking innovation and supporting local businesses, we’re home to some of the largest companies globally right in our backyard. Here’s the ultimate Oregonian’s guide to the top 10 largest companies found right here in the green heart of the Pacific Northwest.1. Nike Inc.
This multi-billion dollar sports retail giant has its world headquarters right in Beaverton, just seven miles west of Portland. Nike is known for more than just their “swoosh” – they’re a great source of local employment and sponsor various community events. It’s not uncommon to spot their merchandise at the annual Portland Marathon!2. Precision Castparts Corp.
Established in 1953, Precision Castparts Corp, based in Portland, is a world leader in complex metal component manufacturing. Anyone who’s been to the Portland International Airport has probably flown in a plane with parts made by this Oregon giant. They’re also a great contributor to local employment.3. Intel Corporation
Ever wondered about the high-tech prosperity in Washington County’s Silicon Forest? It has a lot to do with the Intel Corp. assembly plants and research centers scattered around Hillsboro. Intel isn’t just about microprocessors and silicon chips, though. Wellington Park’s annual robot race owes a lot to this tech giant’s sponsorship.
4. Lithia Motors Inc.
Headquartered in Medford, Lithia Motors is the third-largest automotive retailer in the U.S. They’ve come a long way since their humble beginnings in 1946. If you’ve cruised Oregon’s Rogue Valley in a newly bought car, there’s a good chance it’s from this Medford motor kingpin.5. Columbia Sportswear Company
Oregon’s unpredictable weather is no match for Columbia Sportswear Company. While they’re a globally recognized brand, their roots remain here in Portland. Don’t forget to take their outdoor gear for a spin on your next trip to Mount Bachelor or Smith Rock State Park.6. Greenbrier Companies
Based along the beautiful Willamette River in Lake Oswego, Greenbrier Companies is a global leader in railroad freight car manufacturing. They’re an important player in Oregon’s economy and the main reason you can spot unusually captivating cargo trains zipping across the state.7. Schnitzer Steel Industries
Another gem from Portland, Schnitzer Steel Industries has been a part of Oregon’s industrial heritage since 1906. Visit the banks of the Columbia River, and you’ll find remnants of the company’s shipbreaking yards. They remind us of Schnitzers’ contribution to our state’s robust steel recycling industry.8. FLIR Systems
Portland-based FLIR Systems is a world leader in designing and producing thermal imaging cameras, sensors, and components. Whether it’s powering search and rescue missions or the thermal cameras on the Apple iPhones, they’re all FLIR’s handiwork. Watch out for their gadgets during Portland Tech Fest demos!9. Reser’s Fine Foods
Reser’s Fine Foods, based in Beaverton, is a staple in many Oregonian homes. From potato salads for your Independence Day barbecue to their famous salsa for taco Tuesdays, they’ve made home-cooked meals easier for decades. If you’ve relished their food at a University of Oregon Ducks game, you understand why they’re on this list.10. Pacific Power
Pacific Power keeps Oregon moving. They’ve been lighting up Oregon homes since the late 1800s. Our reliance on this energy giant became particularly clear during last winter’s snowstorm, when their quick action kept our beloved Portland Rose Garden City lights shining bright.As you’ve seen from this guide, Oregon isn’t just beautiful coastlines, evergreen forests, and volcanic mountains. Our vast landscapes are also home to influential companies that play major roles locally and globally. So, next time you lace up your Nikes for a run under Pacific Power-lit streetlights, know you’re not just enjoying Oregon – you’re living the innovative spirit of our state. Oregon proud, always!