Kentucky is home to a wide variety of industries, and its largest companies reflect this diversity.
From healthcare and technology to manufacturing and retail, Kentucky’s top companies contribute significantly to the state’s economy and provide employment opportunities for thousands of residents.
In this article, we will explore the 32 largest companies in Kentucky, delving into their respective industries, revenue, and impact on the local community.
These companies play a crucial role in shaping Kentucky’s business landscape and have a major influence on the state’s economic development.
By examining the largest companies in Kentucky, we can gain valuable insights into the state’s business climate and the key players driving its economy.
1. Humana Inc.
Background: Humana Inc. is a leading health insurance company headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky.
Founded in 1961, Humana offers a wide range of health insurance products and services, including medical, dental, vision, and pharmacy plans, as well as wellness programs and Medicare Advantage plans.
Core Industries: Health Insurance, Healthcare Services
Key Achievements: Humana is known for its commitment to improving the health and well-being of its members and communities.
The company’s focus on innovation, personalized care, and value-based solutions has helped it become a trusted partner for individuals, employers, and healthcare providers seeking quality healthcare coverage and services.
2. Yum! Brands, Inc.
Background: Yum! Brands, Inc. is a multinational fast-food restaurant company headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky.
Founded in 1997, Yum! Brands operates a portfolio of restaurant brands, including KFC, Pizza Hut, Taco Bell, and The Habit Burger Grill, with thousands of locations worldwide.
Core Industries: Restaurant, Fast Food, Franchising
Key Achievements: Yum! Brands is one of the largest restaurant companies in the world, known for its iconic brands and global reach.
The company’s focus on innovation, marketing, and franchise partnerships has helped it maintain its position as a leader in the competitive fast-food industry.
3. Papa John’s International, Inc.
Background: Papa John’s International, Inc. is a pizza restaurant franchise headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky.
Founded in 1984, Papa John’s operates over 5,000 locations worldwide, offering a variety of pizzas, sides, and beverages for delivery and carryout.
Core Industries: Restaurant, Pizza Delivery, Franchising
Key Achievements: Papa John’s is known for its commitment to quality ingredients, superior customer service, and innovation in the pizza industry.
The company’s focus on digital ordering, product innovation, and community engagement has helped it maintain a strong brand presence and loyal customer base.
4. Churchill Downs Incorporated
Background: Churchill Downs Incorporated is a diversified racing, gaming, and entertainment company headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky.
Founded in 1937, Churchill Downs owns and operates several iconic racetracks, including the Churchill Downs Racetrack, home of the Kentucky Derby, as well as casinos and online wagering platforms.
Core Industries: Horse Racing, Gaming, Entertainment
Key Achievements: Churchill Downs is known for its prestigious horse racing events, including the Kentucky Derby, as well as its gaming and entertainment offerings.
The company’s focus on delivering world-class experiences, engaging fans, and driving innovation has helped it become a leader in the racing and gaming industry.
5. Brown-Forman Corporation
Background: Brown-Forman Corporation is a multinational producer of alcoholic beverages headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky.
Founded in 1870, Brown-Forman owns and markets a portfolio of iconic brands, including Jack Daniel’s, Woodford Reserve, Old Forester, and Finlandia Vodka, distributed globally.
Core Industries: Beverage, Distillery, Alcohol
Key Achievements: Brown-Forman is known for its high-quality spirits, innovative marketing, and commitment to responsible drinking.
The company’s focus on craftsmanship, brand building, and sustainability has helped it maintain its leadership position in the competitive spirits industry.
6. Lexmark International, Inc.
Background: Lexmark International, Inc. is a multinational technology company headquartered in Lexington, Kentucky.
Founded in 1991, Lexmark designs, manufactures, and markets a wide range of printers, software solutions, and managed print services for businesses and consumers worldwide.
Core Industries: Technology, Printing, Software
Key Achievements: Lexmark is known for its innovative printing solutions, advanced technology, and commitment to sustainability.
The company’s focus on productivity, security, and cost savings has helped it become a trusted partner for organizations seeking to optimize their printing and document management processes.
7. Kindred Healthcare, Inc.
Background: Kindred Healthcare, Inc. is a healthcare services company headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky.
Founded in 1985, Kindred operates a network of hospitals, rehabilitation centers, long-term acute care hospitals, and home health and hospice services across the United States.
Core Industries: Healthcare, Hospital Services, Rehabilitation
Key Achievements: Kindred Healthcare is known for its compassionate care, clinical excellence, and commitment to patient outcomes.
The company’s focus on rehabilitation, transitional care, and home-based services has helped it become a leading provider of post-acute healthcare services in the communities it serves.
8. Ashland Global Holdings Inc.
Background: Ashland Global Holdings Inc. is a specialty chemicals company headquartered in Covington, Kentucky.
Founded in 1924, Ashland develops, manufactures, and markets a wide range of specialty chemicals, additives, and ingredients for various industries, including personal care, pharmaceuticals, coatings, and construction.
Core Industries: Chemicals, Specialty Chemicals, Additives
Key Achievements: Ashland is known for its innovative solutions, technical expertise, and commitment to sustainability in the specialty chemicals industry.
The company’s focus on customer collaboration, product innovation, and operational excellence has helped it become a preferred partner for businesses seeking high-performance chemical solutions.
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9. Sazerac Company, Inc.
Background: Sazerac Company, Inc. is a privately held American alcoholic beverage company headquartered in Metairie, Louisiana, with significant operations in Louisville, Kentucky.
Founded in 1850, Sazerac produces and markets a diverse portfolio of spirits and alcoholic beverages, including bourbon, whiskey, vodka, rum, and liqueurs.
Core Industries: Beverage, Distillery, Alcohol
Key Achievements: Sazerac is known for its heritage brands, craftsmanship, and dedication to quality in the spirits industry.
The company’s portfolio of iconic brands, including Buffalo Trace, Fireball, and Southern Comfort, has earned it recognition as a leader in bourbon and whiskey production.
10. Texas Roadhouse, Inc.
Background: Texas Roadhouse, Inc. is a chain of casual dining restaurants headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky.
Founded in 1993, Texas Roadhouse operates over 600 locations in the United States and internationally, offering hand-cut steaks, ribs, chicken, and other American-style dishes.
Core Industries: Restaurant, Casual Dining
Key Achievements: Texas Roadhouse is known for its lively atmosphere, hand-cut steaks, and made-from-scratch sides and sauces.
The company’s focus on quality, value, and customer service has helped it build a loyal customer following and maintain consistent growth in the competitive restaurant industry.
11. GE Appliances
Background: GE Appliances is an American home appliance manufacturer headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky.
Founded in 1905 as the General Electric Appliance Division, GE Appliances produces a wide range of appliances, including refrigerators, dishwashers, ranges, washers, dryers, and air conditioners.
Core Industries: Manufacturing, Appliances, Home Goods
Key Achievements: GE Appliances is known for its innovative designs, advanced technology, and commitment to quality and reliability.
The company’s focus on energy efficiency, smart connectivity, and consumer insights has helped it maintain a strong market position and brand reputation in the competitive appliance industry.
12. LG&E and KU Energy LLC
Background: LG&E and KU Energy LLC is a utility holding company headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky.
LG&E provides electric and natural gas services to customers in Louisville and surrounding areas, while KU Energy serves customers in central and eastern Kentucky.
Core Industries: Utilities, Energy
Key Achievements: LG&E and KU Energy is known for its reliable and affordable energy services, commitment to safety and environmental stewardship, and community involvement.
The company’s focus on modernizing infrastructure, diversifying energy sources, and enhancing customer experience has helped it adapt to evolving energy needs and regulatory requirements.
13. PharMerica Corporation
Background: PharMerica Corporation is a leading provider of pharmacy services to long-term care facilities and post-acute care settings.
Headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, PharMerica operates pharmacy locations and medication management programs across the United States, serving patients in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and other healthcare settings.
Core Industries: Healthcare, Pharmacy Services
Key Achievements: PharMerica is known for its clinical expertise, technology solutions, and commitment to patient safety and medication management.
The company’s focus on personalized care, regulatory compliance, and customer service has helped it become a trusted partner for long-term care providers and healthcare organizations.
14. Valvoline Inc.
Background: Valvoline Inc. is a leading provider of automotive services and lubricants headquartered in Lexington, Kentucky.
Founded in 1866, Valvoline manufactures and markets a wide range of motor oils, additives, and automotive chemicals, as well as operates a network of quick-lube service centers and auto parts stores.
Core Industries: Automotive, Lubricants, Quick Lube
Key Achievements: Valvoline is known for its high-quality products, technical expertise, and customer-focused service in the automotive aftermarket industry.
The company’s focus on innovation, brand building, and professional partnerships has helped it become a trusted choice for consumers and automotive professionals seeking engine protection and performance solutions.
15. Steel Technologies LLC
Background: Steel Technologies LLC is one of the largest steel processors and distributors in North America, with headquarters in Louisville, Kentucky.
Founded in 1971, Steel Technologies operates processing facilities and distribution centers across the United States, providing flat-rolled steel products and value-added services to customers in various industries.
Core Industries: Manufacturing, Steel Processing, Distribution
Key Achievements: Steel Technologies is known for its advanced processing capabilities, supply chain solutions, and commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
The company’s focus on innovation, operational excellence, and strategic partnerships has helped it become a preferred supplier and valued partner for manufacturers and distributors in the steel industry.
16. Skyline Chili
Background: Skyline Chili is a regional chain of chili restaurants headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, with locations in Kentucky and other states.
Founded in 1949, Skyline Chili is known for its Cincinnati-style chili, served over spaghetti or hot dogs with various toppings, as well as other menu items such as sandwiches and salads.
Core Industries: Restaurant, Fast Food, Franchising
Key Achievements: Skyline Chili is known for its unique chili recipe, distinctive flavor, and loyal customer following in the Cincinnati region and beyond.
The company’s focus on quality ingredients, consistent preparation, and customer service has helped it maintain a strong brand identity and expand its presence in new markets.
17. Café Press Inc.
Background: Café Press Inc. is an online retailer and e-commerce platform headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky.
Founded in 1999, Café Press operates a website where users can design and customize a wide range of products, including clothing, accessories, home décor, and gifts, which are produced on-demand and shipped directly to customers.
Core Industries: E-commerce, Retail, Printing
Key Achievements: Café Press is known for its customizable products, creative designs, and user-friendly platform, allowing individuals and businesses to express their unique style and personality.
The company’s focus on print-on-demand technology, product innovation, and customer engagement has helped it become a leading destination for personalized merchandise and gifts.
18. Genscape
Background: Genscape is a leading provider of real-time data and intelligence for energy and commodity markets, with headquarters in Louisville, Kentucky.
Founded in 1999, Genscape collects and analyzes data from various sources, including satellite imagery, sensors, and proprietary algorithms, to provide insights and forecasts for energy trading, risk management, and strategic decision-making.
Core Industries: Energy, Commodities, Data Analytics
Key Achievements: Genscape is known for its accurate and timely information, innovative technology, and expertise in energy markets.
The company’s focus on data integrity, market transparency, and customer support has helped it become a trusted source of intelligence and analysis for energy professionals and investors worldwide.
19. Republic Bank & Trust Company
Background: Republic Bank & Trust Company is a regional bank headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky.
Founded in 1977, Republic Bank offers a range of banking products and services, including personal and business banking, mortgage lending, wealth management, and insurance, with branches in Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Tennessee, and Florida.
Core Industries: Banking, Financial Services
Key Achievements: Republic Bank is known for its personalized service, community involvement, and commitment to customer satisfaction.
The bank’s focus on convenience, innovation, and relationship banking has helped it build strong ties with individuals, families, and businesses in the communities it serves.
20. Frost Brown Todd LLC
Background: Frost Brown Todd LLC is a full-service law firm headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, with offices in Kentucky, Indiana, Tennessee, and Ohio.
Founded in 2000 through a merger of several regional law firms, Frost Brown Todd offers a wide range of legal services to clients in various industries, including business law, litigation, intellectual property, and labor and employment.
Core Industries: Legal Services, Law Firm
Key Achievements: Frost Brown Todd is known for its legal expertise, industry knowledge, and client-focused approach to legal representation.
The firm’s focus on collaboration, innovation, and client service has helped it build a strong reputation and expand its presence in regional and national markets.
21. Norton Healthcare Inc.
Background: Norton Healthcare Inc. is a non-profit healthcare system headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky.
Founded in 1886, Norton Healthcare operates hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities across Kentucky and Southern Indiana, providing a wide range of medical services and specialties.
Core Industries: Healthcare, Hospital Services
Key Achievements: Norton Healthcare is known for its quality care, clinical expertise, and commitment to serving the healthcare needs of the community.
The organization’s focus on patient-centered care, innovation, and community partnerships has helped it become a trusted provider of healthcare services and a leader in medical excellence.
22. Stites & Harbison PLLC
Background: Stites & Harbison PLLC is a full-service law firm headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, with offices in several other cities across the Southeastern United States.
Founded in 1832, Stites & Harbison offers a wide range of legal services to clients in various industries, including business law, litigation, real estate, and intellectual property.
Core Industries: Legal Services, Law Firm
Key Achievements: Stites & Harbison is known for its legal expertise, integrity, and dedication to client success.
The firm’s focus on collaboration, innovation, and delivering practical solutions has helped it build long-lasting relationships with clients and achieve favorable outcomes in complex legal matters.
23. Baptist Healthcare System Inc.
Background: Baptist Healthcare System Inc. is a non-profit healthcare organization headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky.
Founded in 1924, Baptist Healthcare operates hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities across Kentucky and Southern Indiana, providing a wide range of medical services and specialties.
Core Industries: Healthcare, Hospital Services
Key Achievements: Baptist Healthcare is known for its commitment to quality care, patient safety, and community health.
The organization’s focus on clinical excellence, innovation, and compassionate service has helped it become a trusted provider of healthcare services and a leader in advancing health and wellness in the communities it serves.
24. KentuckyOne Health
Background: KentuckyOne Health is a non-profit healthcare system headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky.
Formed in 2012 through the merger of several healthcare organizations, KentuckyOne Health operates hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities across Kentucky and Southern Indiana, providing a wide range of medical services and specialties.
Core Industries: Healthcare, Hospital Services
Key Achievements: KentuckyOne Health is known for its comprehensive care, clinical expertise, and commitment to improving the health and well-being of the community.
The organization’s focus on patient-centered care, innovation, and community partnerships has helped it become a leading provider of healthcare services and a trusted partner in advancing health equity and access.
25. Norton Healthcare Inc.
Background: Norton Healthcare Inc. is a non-profit healthcare system headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky.
Founded in 1886, Norton Healthcare operates hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities across Kentucky and Southern Indiana, providing a wide range of medical services and specialties.
Core Industries: Healthcare, Hospital Services
Key Achievements: Norton Healthcare is known for its quality care, clinical expertise, and commitment to serving the healthcare needs of the community.
The organization’s focus on patient-centered care, innovation, and community partnerships has helped it become a trusted provider of healthcare services and a leader in medical excellence.
26. Stites & Harbison PLLC
Background: Stites & Harbison PLLC is a full-service law firm headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, with offices in several other cities across the Southeastern United States.
Founded in 1832, Stites & Harbison offers a wide range of legal services to clients in various industries, including business law, litigation, real estate, and intellectual property.
Core Industries: Legal Services, Law Firm
Key Achievements: Stites & Harbison is known for its legal expertise, integrity, and dedication to client success.
The firm’s focus on collaboration, innovation, and delivering practical solutions has helped it build long-lasting relationships with clients and achieve favorable outcomes in complex legal matters.
27. Baptist Healthcare System Inc.
Background: Baptist Healthcare System Inc. is a non-profit healthcare organization headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky.
Founded in 1924, Baptist Healthcare operates hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities across Kentucky and Southern Indiana, providing a wide range of medical services and specialties.
Core Industries: Healthcare, Hospital Services
Key Achievements: Baptist Healthcare is known for its commitment to quality care, patient safety, and community health.
The organization’s focus on clinical excellence, innovation, and compassionate service has helped it become a trusted provider of healthcare services and a leader in advancing health and wellness in the communities it serves.
28. Lexmark International Inc.
Background: Lexmark International, Inc. is a multinational technology company headquartered in Lexington, Kentucky.
Founded in 1991, Lexmark designs, manufactures, and markets a wide range of printers, software solutions, and managed print services for businesses and consumers worldwide.
Core Industries: Technology, Printing, Software
Key Achievements: Lexmark is known for its innovative printing solutions, advanced technology, and commitment to sustainability.
The company’s focus on productivity, security, and cost savings has helped it become a trusted partner for organizations seeking to optimize their printing and document management processes.
29. Hilliard Lyons
Background: Hilliard Lyons is a wealth management and investment banking firm headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky.
Founded in 1854, Hilliard Lyons offers a range of financial services, including investment advisory, brokerage, trust and estate planning, and corporate finance, serving individuals, families, and businesses.
Core Industries: Financial Services, Wealth Management
Key Achievements: Hilliard Lyons is known for its personalized approach to wealth management, financial expertise, and long-term client relationships.
The firm’s focus on trust, integrity, and client satisfaction has helped it build a strong reputation and become a trusted advisor for generations of clients seeking to achieve their financial goals.
30. Tempur Sealy International, Inc.
Background: Tempur Sealy International, Inc. is a global manufacturer and marketer of mattresses, pillows, and sleep products headquartered in Lexington, Kentucky.
Founded in 1992, Tempur Sealy produces and sells mattresses under various brands, including Tempur-Pedic, Sealy, and Stearns & Foster, distributed through retail and e-commerce channels worldwide.
Core Industries: Manufacturing, Sleep Products, Mattresses
Key Achievements: Tempur Sealy is known for its innovative sleep solutions, advanced technology, and commitment to quality and comfort.
The company’s focus on research, development, and consumer insights has helped it become a trusted leader in the sleep products industry, providing customers with transformative sleep experiences.
31. GE Appliances
Background: GE Appliances is an American home appliance manufacturer headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky.
Founded in 1905 as the General Electric Appliance Division, GE Appliances produces a wide range of appliances, including refrigerators, dishwashers, ranges, washers, dryers, and air conditioners.
Core Industries: Manufacturing, Appliances, Home Goods
Key Achievements: GE Appliances is known for its innovative designs, advanced technology, and commitment to quality and reliability.
The company’s focus on energy efficiency, smart connectivity, and consumer insights has helped it maintain a strong market position and brand reputation in the competitive appliance industry.
32. ResCare, Inc.
Background: ResCare, Inc. is a leading provider of human services and support programs headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky.
Founded in 1974, ResCare offers a wide range of services, including residential and community-based care, vocational training, job placement, and behavioral health services, serving individuals with disabilities, seniors, and youth.
Core Industries: Human Services, Healthcare, Vocational Training
Key Achievements: ResCare is known for its compassionate care, person-centered approach, and commitment to empowering individuals to achieve their full potential.
The company’s focus on innovation, quality improvement, and community partnerships has helped it become a trusted provider of human services and a leader in promoting independence and inclusion for people of all abilities.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, the landscape of Kentucky’s economy is greatly influenced by its largest companies, each playing a significant role in the state’s growth and development.
From established giants in manufacturing and healthcare to innovative players in technology and finance, these companies not only contribute to the state’s economic prosperity but also provide employment opportunities and support various communities across Kentucky.
As the state continues to evolve, it is imperative to recognize the invaluable contributions of these corporations and their impact on shaping Kentucky’s future trajectory.
Through their continued success and commitment to excellence, these 32 largest companies exemplify Kentucky’s resilience and potential for sustained growth in the years to come.
