Iowa is home to a diverse range of industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, and technology.
The state is also home to some of the largest and most successful companies in the country.
With a strong emphasis on innovation and entrepreneurship, Iowa has become a hub for businesses looking to thrive in the heartland of America.
The 38 largest companies in Iowa represent a variety of sectors, including insurance, healthcare, and energy.
These companies have not only made a significant impact on the state’s economy but have also contributed to the overall growth and development of the region.
In this article, we will explore the 38 largest companies in Iowa, highlighting their contributions to the state and the industries they represent.
1. Principal Financial Group
Background: Principal Financial Group is a global financial services company that offers retirement, investment, insurance, and asset management solutions to individuals, businesses, and institutional clients.
Founded in 1879, Principal Financial Group is headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, and operates in over 80 countries.
Core Industries: Financial Services, Retirement Planning, Insurance, Asset Management
Key Achievements: Principal Financial Group is a leader in the retirement and investment industry, known for its innovative products, expert guidance, and commitment to helping clients achieve financial security and success.
The company’s comprehensive suite of services, robust investment options, and personalized advice have earned it the trust of millions of customers worldwide.
2. Hy-Vee, Inc.
Background: Hy-Vee, Inc. is a chain of supermarkets and pharmacies that operates over 280 stores across eight Midwestern states, including Iowa.
Founded in 1930, Hy-Vee is headquartered in West Des Moines, Iowa, and is known for its wide selection of grocery products, pharmacy services, and dining options.
Core Industries: Retail, Grocery, Pharmacy, Hospitality
Key Achievements: Hy-Vee is a trusted provider of quality food, health, and wellness products, offering customers a convenient and enjoyable shopping experience.
The company’s commitment to customer service, community involvement, and innovation has made it a beloved brand in the Midwest and beyond.
3. Casey’s General Stores, Inc.
Background: Casey’s General Stores, Inc. is a chain of convenience stores and gas stations that operates over 2,200 locations across the Midwest, primarily in rural communities.
Founded in 1959, Casey’s is headquartered in Ankeny, Iowa, and is known for its freshly prepared pizza, bakery items, and other convenience offerings.
Core Industries: Retail, Convenience Stores, Gas Stations, Foodservice
Key Achievements: Casey’s General Stores is a leading destination for fuel, food, and convenience items, serving customers in small towns and rural areas across the Midwest.
The company’s focus on quality, affordability, and community engagement has earned it a loyal customer base and a strong reputation for customer satisfaction.
4. Vermeer Corporation
Background: Vermeer Corporation is a global manufacturer of industrial and agricultural equipment, including balers, mowers, trenchers, and recycling equipment.
Founded in 1948, Vermeer is headquartered in Pella, Iowa, and operates manufacturing facilities and distribution centers around the world.
Core Industries: Manufacturing, Industrial Equipment, Agriculture, Construction
Key Achievements: Vermeer is known for its innovative products, advanced technology, and commitment to sustainability and customer satisfaction.
The company’s equipment is used in a wide range of applications, from agriculture and construction to environmental and utility projects, helping customers work efficiently and safely in challenging conditions.
5. Kum & Go
Background: Kum & Go is a chain of convenience stores and gas stations that operates over 400 locations across the Midwest, primarily in Iowa and neighboring states.
Founded in 1959, Kum & Go is headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, and is known for its clean facilities, friendly service, and wide selection of convenience items.
Core Industries: Retail, Convenience Stores, Gas Stations, Foodservice
Key Achievements: Kum & Go is a trusted provider of fuel, snacks, and convenience items, serving customers on the go with a focus on cleanliness, convenience, and customer satisfaction.
The company’s commitment to sustainability, community involvement, and innovation has earned it a strong presence in the competitive convenience store industry.
6. Pella Corporation
Background: Pella Corporation is a leading manufacturer of windows, doors, and building products for residential and commercial applications.
Founded in 1925, Pella is headquartered in Pella, Iowa, and operates manufacturing facilities and showrooms across the United States.
Core Industries: Manufacturing, Building Products, Construction
Key Achievements: Pella is known for its innovative design, superior quality, and commitment to customer satisfaction in the window and door industry.
The company’s diverse product portfolio, customizable options, and energy-efficient solutions have made it a preferred choice for homeowners, builders, and architects nationwide.
7. Rockwell Collins
Background: Rockwell Collins is a multinational aerospace and defense company that designs, manufactures, and supports avionics systems, communication systems, and aircraft interior products.
Founded in 1933, Rockwell Collins is headquartered in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and operates globally, serving commercial and military customers.
Core Industries: Aerospace, Defense, Avionics, Communication Systems
Key Achievements: Rockwell Collins is a trusted partner to aircraft manufacturers, airlines, and defense agencies, providing innovative solutions for safe, efficient, and connected aviation.
The company’s advanced technology, industry expertise, and commitment to customer support have made it a leader in the aerospace and defense industries.
8. Winnebago Industries
Background: Winnebago Industries is a leading manufacturer of recreational vehicles (RVs) and motorhomes for outdoor enthusiasts.
Founded in 1958, Winnebago is headquartered in Forest City, Iowa, and operates manufacturing facilities in Iowa, Oregon, and Indiana.
Core Industries: Manufacturing, Recreational Vehicles, Outdoor Recreation
Key Achievements: Winnebago is known for its iconic motorhomes, travel trailers, and camper vans, offering customers comfort, quality, and freedom to explore the open road.
The company’s commitment to innovation, craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction has made it a trusted brand in the RV industry for over six decades.
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9. Fareway Stores, Inc.
Background: Fareway Stores, Inc. is a chain of grocery stores that operates over 125 locations across five Midwestern states, including Iowa.
Founded in 1938, Fareway is headquartered in Boone, Iowa, and is known for its high-quality meat selection, fresh produce, and friendly service.
Core Industries: Retail, Grocery Stores
Key Achievements: Fareway Stores is a trusted provider of quality groceries and exceptional customer service, offering customers a unique shopping experience focused on value, freshness, and convenience.
The company’s commitment to family-owned values, community involvement, and employee development has earned it a loyal customer base and a strong reputation in the communities it serves.
10. HNI Corporation
Background: HNI Corporation is a leading provider of office furniture, hearth products, and building products for residential and commercial applications.
Founded in 1944, HNI is headquartered in Muscatine, Iowa, and operates manufacturing facilities and distribution centers across North America.
Core Industries: Manufacturing, Office Furniture, Hearth Products, Building Products
Key Achievements: HNI Corporation is known for its innovative design, superior quality, and commitment to sustainability in the furniture and building products industry.
The company’s diverse portfolio of brands, customizable solutions, and dedication to customer service have made it a preferred choice for businesses, homeowners, and contractors nationwide.
11. Casey’s General Stores, Inc.
Background: Casey’s General Stores, Inc. is a chain of convenience stores and gas stations that operates over 2,200 locations across the Midwest, primarily in rural communities.
Founded in 1959, Casey’s is headquartered in Ankeny, Iowa, and is known for its freshly prepared pizza, bakery items, and other convenience offerings.
Core Industries: Retail, Convenience Stores, Gas Stations, Foodservice
Key Achievements: Casey’s General Stores is a leading destination for fuel, food, and convenience items, serving customers in small towns and rural areas across the Midwest.
The company’s focus on quality, affordability, and community engagement has earned it a loyal customer base and a strong reputation for customer satisfaction.
12. Creighton University
Background: Creighton University is a private Jesuit university headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska, with additional campuses and programs in Arizona, California, and Wyoming.
Founded in 1878, Creighton offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs in various fields, including health sciences, business, law, and the arts and sciences.
Core Industries: Education, Higher Education, Healthcare
Key Achievements: Creighton University is known for its academic excellence, Jesuit values, and commitment to service and social justice.
The university’s focus on student-centered education, interdisciplinary research, and community engagement has helped it prepare students for successful careers and meaningful lives grounded in leadership, compassion, and ethics.
13. Kemin Industries, Inc.
Background: Kemin Industries, Inc. is a global ingredient manufacturer headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa.
Founded in 1961, Kemin develops and produces specialty ingredients for the food and beverage, animal nutrition, pet food, pharmaceutical, and personal care industries.
Core Industries: Specialty Chemicals, Food Ingredients, Animal Nutrition, Pharmaceuticals
Key Achievements: Kemin Industries is known for its commitment to science-based solutions, innovation, and sustainability in ingredient manufacturing.
The company’s portfolio of products, including antioxidants, antimicrobials, enzymes, and functional ingredients, help customers improve the quality, safety, and nutritional value of their products.
Kemin’s dedication to research and development, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance has earned it recognition as a trusted partner for ingredient solutions worldwide.
14. Amazon Hub Counter
Background: Amazon Hub Counter is a network of pickup locations offered by Amazon, Inc.
Amazon Hub Counters are located in retail stores, convenience stores, and other partner locations across the United States, where customers can pick up their Amazon packages and return items.
Core Industries: E-commerce, Retail, Logistics
Key Achievements: Amazon Hub Counter provides customers with a convenient and secure way to receive and return their Amazon orders.
The network’s widespread availability and flexible pickup hours make it easier for customers to access their packages while offering additional foot traffic and potential sales opportunities for partner locations.
15. UnityPoint Health
Background: UnityPoint Health is a network of hospitals, clinics, and healthcare providers that offers comprehensive medical services to patients across Iowa and Illinois.
Founded in 1993, UnityPoint Health is headquartered in West Des Moines, Iowa, and operates over 30 hospitals and 280 clinics in the Midwest.
Core Industries: Healthcare, Hospitals, Clinics, Medical Services
Key Achievements: UnityPoint Health is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care and improving the health and well-being of the communities it serves.
The organization’s integrated healthcare delivery system, focus on innovation, and dedication to excellence have earned it recognition as a leader in the healthcare industry.
16. Athene
Background: Athene Holding Ltd. is a financial services company headquartered in Pembroke, Bermuda.
Founded in 2009, Athene specializes in retirement savings and income products, including fixed and indexed annuities, designed to help individuals achieve financial security and retirement goals.
Core Industries: Financial Services, Insurance, Retirement Planning
Key Achievements: Athene is a leading provider of retirement solutions, known for its innovative products, risk management expertise, and strong financial performance.
The company’s focus on customer needs, product innovation, and distribution partnerships has helped it become a trusted partner for individuals and institutions seeking reliable retirement income solutions.
17. Fareway
Background: Fareway Stores, Inc. is a grocery retail chain headquartered in Boone, Iowa.
Founded in 1938, Fareway operates over 125 stores across the Midwest, offering a wide range of groceries, fresh produce, meat, dairy, and bakery products to customers in rural and small-town communities.
Core Industries: Retail, Grocery Stores, Supermarkets
Key Achievements: Fareway is known for its commitment to quality, freshness, and value in the grocery industry.
The company’s focus on personalized service, competitive pricing, and community involvement has helped it build a loyal customer base and maintain a strong presence in the markets it serves.
18. Kum & Go, L.C.
Background: Kum & Go, L.C. is a convenience store chain headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa.
Founded in 1959, Kum & Go operates over 400 stores in 11 states, offering fuel, food, beverages, and other convenience items to customers in urban and rural communities.
Core Industries: Retail, Convenience Stores, Fuel Distribution
Key Achievements: Kum & Go is known for its clean and modern stores, friendly service, and fresh food offerings, including sandwiches, salads, and snacks.
The company’s commitment to sustainability, community engagement, and customer satisfaction has contributed to its growth and success in the competitive convenience store industry.
19. Cognizant Technology Solutions
Background: Cognizant Technology Solutions is a multinational technology consulting and services company headquartered in Teaneck, New Jersey.
Founded in 1994, Cognizant provides a wide range of digital, technology, consulting, and outsourcing services to clients in various industries.
Core Industries: Technology, Consulting, Information Technology
Key Achievements: Cognizant is known for its expertise in digital transformation, technology innovation, and business consulting.
The company’s focus on delivering value-driven solutions, industry-specific expertise, and client-centric approach has helped it become a trusted partner for organizations seeking to leverage technology to drive growth and competitive advantage.
20. Alliant Energy
Background: Alliant Energy is a public utility holding company headquartered in Madison, Wisconsin, with operational headquarters in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
Founded in 1917, Alliant Energy provides electric and natural gas services to customers in Iowa, Wisconsin, and Minnesota.
Core Industries: Utilities, Energy
Key Achievements: Alliant Energy is committed to providing safe, reliable, and sustainable energy solutions to its customers and communities.
The company’s focus on renewable energy, grid modernization, and customer engagement has helped it adapt to changing energy needs and environmental challenges while maintaining affordability and reliability for customers.
21. Corteva
Background: Corteva, Inc. is a multinational agricultural company headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware.
Founded in 2019 as the agricultural division of DowDuPont, Corteva specializes in seed and crop protection products, as well as digital agriculture solutions, to help farmers improve productivity and sustainability.
Core Industries: Agriculture, Crop Protection, Seeds, Digital Agriculture
Key Achievements: Corteva is a leader in the agriculture industry, known for its innovative products, research and development capabilities, and commitment to sustainability.
The company’s focus on helping farmers increase yields, reduce environmental impact, and adapt to changing market conditions has earned it recognition as a trusted partner in global food production.
22. Acadia Healthcare
Background: Acadia Healthcare is a multinational behavioral healthcare company headquartered in Franklin, Tennessee.
Founded in 2005, Acadia operates a network of behavioral health facilities across the United States and the United Kingdom, providing psychiatric and addiction treatment services to patients of all ages.
Core Industries: Healthcare, Behavioral Health, Addiction Treatment
Key Achievements: Acadia Healthcare is a leader in the behavioral healthcare industry, known for its compassionate care, evidence-based treatment programs, and commitment to patient outcomes.
The company’s focus on clinical excellence, personalized care, and community partnerships has earned it recognition as a trusted provider of mental health and addiction treatment services.
23. Meredith Corporation
Background: Meredith Corporation is a media and marketing company headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa.
Founded in 1902, Meredith operates a diverse portfolio of brands across print, digital, broadcast, and video platforms, serving consumers and advertisers in the areas of lifestyle, entertainment, home, and family.
Core Industries: Media, Publishing, Marketing, Broadcasting
Key Achievements: Meredith is known for its iconic magazine titles, including Better Homes & Gardens, People, and Martha Stewart Living, as well as its television stations and digital properties.
The company’s focus on content creation, audience engagement, and multi-platform distribution has enabled it to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing media landscape.
24. MidWestOne Bank
Background: MidWestOne Bank is a regional bank headquartered in Iowa City, Iowa.
Founded in 1934, MidWestOne Bank offers a comprehensive range of banking products and services to individuals, businesses, and communities across Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Florida.
Core Industries: Banking, Financial Services
Key Achievements: MidWestOne Bank is known for its personalized service, local decision-making, and commitment to community banking.
The bank’s focus on building long-term relationships, understanding customer needs, and providing innovative financial solutions has earned it trust and loyalty among customers and communities throughout its footprint.
25. United Coop Hampton
Background: United Coop Hampton is an agricultural cooperative based in Hampton, Iowa.
Founded in 1936 United Coop Hampton provides a wide range of products and services to farmers and agricultural businesses, including agronomy, grain marketing, fuel, and animal feed.
Core Industries: Agriculture, Cooperative, Farming
Key Achievements: United Coop Hampton is known for its commitment to supporting local farmers and promoting agricultural sustainability in the community.
The cooperative’s focus on providing high-quality products, personalized service, and innovative solutions has helped it become a trusted partner and valuable resource for farmers in the region.
26. Eurofins
Background: Eurofins Scientific is a multinational laboratory testing and scientific services company.
Founded in 1987, Eurofins operates a network of laboratories around the world, providing testing, inspection, certification, and consulting services across various industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, environmental, and consumer products.
Core Industries: Laboratory Testing, Scientific Services, Inspection
Key Achievements: Eurofins is a global leader in laboratory testing and scientific services, known for its expertise, reliability, and comprehensive solutions.
The company’s focus on quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction has enabled it to become a trusted partner for businesses seeking to ensure product safety, quality, and compliance with regulatory standards.
27. Alpla
Background: Alpla is a multinational packaging solutions company headquartered in Hard, Austria.
Founded in 1955, Alpla designs, manufactures, and distributes plastic packaging solutions for various industries, including beverages, food, personal care, household products, and pharmaceuticals.
Core Industries: Packaging, Plastics, Manufacturing
Key Achievements: Alpla is a global leader in packaging innovation, known for its sustainable solutions, technical expertise, and customer-focused approach.
The company’s focus on quality, design flexibility, and environmental stewardship has helped it become a preferred partner for brands seeking to enhance their packaging performance and sustainability credentials.
28. Aspen Dental
Background: Aspen Dental Management, Inc. is a dental support organization headquartered in Chicago, Illinois.
Founded in 1998, Aspen Dental provides administrative and business support services to a network of dental practices across the United States, offering a wide range of dental services to patients of all ages.
Core Industries: Healthcare, Dental Services, Dental Support Organization
Key Achievements: Aspen Dental is known for its commitment to providing accessible and affordable dental care to communities across the country.
The company’s network of dental practices, combined with its centralized support services and patient financing options, has helped it expand access to quality dental services and improve oral health outcomes for millions of patients.
29. HNI Corporation
Background: HNI Corporation is a leading provider of office furniture, hearth products, and building products for residential and commercial applications.
Founded in 1944, HNI is headquartered in Muscatine, Iowa, and operates manufacturing facilities and distribution centers across North America.
Core Industries: Manufacturing, Office Furniture, Hearth Products, Building Products
Key Achievements: HNI Corporation is known for its innovative design, superior quality, and commitment to sustainability in the furniture and building products industry.
The company’s diverse portfolio of brands, customizable solutions, and dedication to customer service have made it a preferred choice for businesses, homeowners, and contractors nationwide.
30. MercyOne
Background: MercyOne is a healthcare system headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa.
Founded in 1998, MercyOne operates hospitals, medical centers, clinics, and other healthcare facilities across Iowa and neighboring states, providing a wide range of medical services and specialties.
Core Industries: Healthcare, Hospital Services
Key Achievements: MercyOne is known for its compassionate care, state-of-the-art facilities, and commitment to improving the health and well-being of the communities it serves.
The organization’s focus on patient-centered care, clinical excellence, and community outreach has earned it recognition as a leader in healthcare delivery and innovation.
31. EY (Ernst & Young)
Background: EY, formerly known as Ernst & Young, is a multinational professional services firm.
Founded in 1989 through a merger of several accounting firms, EY provides assurance, tax, consulting, and advisory services to clients in various industries around the world.
Core Industries: Professional Services, Accounting, Consulting, Advisory
Key Achievements: EY is one of the “Big Four” accounting firms, known for its expertise, global reach, and commitment to quality and integrity in professional services.
The company’s focus on delivering value-driven solutions, industry-specific insights, and innovative approaches has helped it become a trusted advisor to organizations seeking to navigate complex challenges and opportunities in today’s business environment.
32. ChildServe
Background: ChildServe is a nonprofit pediatric healthcare organization headquartered in Johnston, Iowa.
ChildServe provides comprehensive care and support services to children with special healthcare needs and their families, including medical care, therapy, respite care, and community programs.
Core Industries: Healthcare, Pediatrics, Nonprofit
Key Achievements: ChildServe is known for its compassionate care, family-centered approach, and commitment to improving the lives of children with special needs.
The organization’s interdisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, combined with its innovative programs and community partnerships, has helped it become a trusted resource and advocate for children and families facing complex healthcare challenges.
33. Winnebago Industries
Background: Winnebago Industries is a leading manufacturer of recreational vehicles (RVs) and motorhomes for outdoor enthusiasts.
Founded in 1958, Winnebago is headquartered in Forest City, Iowa, and operates manufacturing facilities in Iowa, Oregon, and Indiana.
Core Industries: Manufacturing, Recreational Vehicles, Outdoor Recreation
Key Achievements: Winnebago is known for its iconic motorhomes, travel trailers, and camper vans, offering customers comfort, quality, and freedom to explore the open road.
The company’s commitment to innovation, craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction has made it a trusted brand in the RV industry for over six decades.
34. Deloitte
Background: Deloitte is a multinational professional services network headquartered in London, England.
Founded in 1845, Deloitte provides audit, tax, consulting, enterprise risk, and financial advisory services to clients across various industries.
Core Industries: Professional Services, Consulting, Audit, Tax
Key Achievements: Deloitte is one of the “Big Four” accounting firms, known for its expertise, global reach, and commitment to quality and integrity in professional services.
The company’s innovative solutions, industry insights, and collaborative approach have helped it become a trusted advisor to organizations seeking to navigate complex challenges and opportunities in today’s business environment.
35. Arnold Motor Supply
Background: Arnold Motor Supply is an automotive parts distributor and retailer headquartered in Spencer, Iowa.
Founded in 1927, Arnold Motor Supply operates a network of stores across the Midwest, offering a wide range of automotive parts, accessories, tools, and equipment to professional mechanics and do-it-yourself customers.
Core Industries: Automotive, Parts Distribution, Retail
Key Achievements: Arnold Motor Supply is known for its extensive inventory, knowledgeable staff, and commitment to customer service in the automotive aftermarket industry.
The company’s focus on quality products, competitive pricing, and personalized solutions has made it a trusted partner for automotive professionals and enthusiasts in the communities it serves.
36. Wells Fargo
Background: Wells Fargo & Company is a multinational financial services company headquartered in San Francisco, California.
Founded in 1852, Wells Fargo provides a wide range of banking, investment, mortgage, and consumer finance products and services to individuals, businesses, and institutions.
Core Industries: Banking, Financial Services
Key Achievements: Wells Fargo is one of the largest banks in the United States, known for its extensive branch network, diverse product offerings, and commitment to customer service.
The company’s focus on innovation, risk management, and corporate responsibility has helped it build trust and loyalty with customers and communities across the country.
37. Target
Background: Target Corporation is a retail corporation headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Founded in 1902, Target operates over 1,900 stores across the United States, offering a wide range of merchandise, including apparel, accessories, home goods, electronics, and groceries.
Core Industries: Retail, Consumer Goods
Key Achievements: Target is known for its stylish and affordable merchandise, convenient shopping experience, and commitment to community involvement.
The company’s focus on innovation, including its e-commerce platform and exclusive designer collaborations, has helped it maintain a strong presence and loyal customer base in the competitive retail industry.
38. Ruan Transportation Management Systems
Background: Ruan Transportation Management Systems is a transportation logistics company headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa.
Founded in 1932 by John Ruan Sr., the company provides innovative and comprehensive supply chain solutions to customers across various industries, including retail, manufacturing, food and beverage, and healthcare.
Core Industries: Transportation, Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Key Achievements: Ruan Transportation Management Systems is known for its commitment to excellence, safety, and sustainability in the transportation industry.
The company’s integrated logistics services, including dedicated contract carriage, warehousing, and freight brokerage, help customers streamline operations, reduce costs, and improve efficiency in their supply chains.
Ruan’s focus on driver training, technology adoption, and customer collaboration has earned it recognition as a trusted partner for transportation and logistics solutions.
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Conclusion
In summary, the landscape of Iowa’s business sector is deeply influenced by the presence of its largest companies, which span diverse industries and contribute significantly to the state’s economy.
From agriculture to manufacturing, technology to healthcare, these companies showcase the breadth and depth of Iowa’s economic prowess.
Their continued growth and innovation not only provide employment opportunities but also foster community development and strengthen the state’s position in the global market.
As Iowa continues to evolve, the contributions of these 38 largest companies serve as a testament to the resilience and dynamism of its business environment, laying a solid foundation for future prosperity and sustainable growth.
