What Companies are in the Consumer Services Field?

The consumer services field consists of companies that provide customer services rather than physical products. According to IBISWorld, over 1 million consumer service businesses in the United States generate annual revenue of $894 billion.

Consumer services encompass various industries, including retail, food services, hospitality, tourism, healthcare, education, and more. These companies rely heavily on technology and human resources to create positive customer experiences and meet consumer needs.

This post will highlight 26 major companies across different consumer service sectors. You’ll learn critical details like headquarters location, number of employees, history, and services offered.

Understanding leading organizations can help determine if a consumer services career suits you. Significant brands like Costco, Hilton, CVS, Apple, and Starbucks all need talented professionals to keep operations running smoothly.

What Companies Are in the Consumer Services Field? 26 Top Examples

The consumer services field consists of companies that provide intangible services to customers instead of physical products. These services depend heavily on human resources and technology to deliver positive customer experiences.

Some of the critical types of consumer services include:

Retail and wholesale – Companies like supermarkets, department stores, specialty retailers, and wholesale suppliers of consumer goods. They increasingly offer omnichannel services, with both brick-and-mortar and digital shopping.
Hospitality and tourism – Hotels, resorts, transportation providers, travel agencies, tour companies, theme parks, and other businesses in leisure and hospitality. They utilize technology to create seamless customer experiences.
Healthcare – Health systems, hospitals, telehealth providers, pharmacies, and health insurance companies help consumers manage their well-being. They provide accessible healthcare services and information.
Education – Schools, colleges, universities, education technology companies, and credentialing organizations that assist students in accessing quality education.

Across industries, consumer service companies leverage the latest technology and hire qualified personnel to improve customer service delivery constantly. Highly skilled human resources professionals and IT staff are integral to their operations.

Consumer Services Company Examples

Now that we’ve defined the consumer services field let’s look at 20 well-known companies across various sectors:

Retail industry

1. Walmart

Walmart is the world’s largest company by revenue, with over 10,500 stores under 48 banners in 24 countries. What started as a single store in 1962 in Rogers, Arkansas, has evolved into a global retail powerhouse dedicated to providing low prices on various merchandise. Walmart employs over 2.2 million associates worldwide and serves over 265 million customers weekly. The company has adapted to significant industry shifts by expanding its ecommerce capabilities and acquiring new brands like Jet.com. Walmart is also committed to sustainability, pledging to achieve zero waste and use 100% renewable energy. With its massive size and influence, Walmart shapes global commerce and sets trends within the retail industry.

Headquarters: Bentonville, AR
Employees: 2,300,000
Services: Walmart is a multinational retailer with department and warehouse stores. They also offer an e-commerce marketplace.

2. Target

Target is an upscale discount retailer providing one-stop shopping at nearly 2,000 U.S. stores and on Target.com. Founded in 1902 in Minneapolis under Goodfellow Dry Goods, the first Target store opened in 1962. Target offers curated product assortments and differentiated guest experiences to fit seamlessly into guests’ lives. The company is well-known for partnerships with designers and brands to co-create limited-time collections. Target also sets standards for corporate responsibility through initiatives supporting the environment, education, diversity, and inclusion. With a youthful spirit and passion for innovation, Target influences retail and pop culture trends. The Bullseye Design and ‘Expect More. Pay Less brand promises a hallmark of the Target experience.

Headquarters: Minneapolis, MN
Employees: 409,000
Services: Target is a department store retailer with locations across the U.S. They offer one-stop shopping and online order services.

Also Read: The Evolution and History of the Target Logo: From Bullseye to Brand Identity

3. The Home Depot

The Home Depot is the world’s largest home improvement retailer, operating over 2,300 warehouse-format stores across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Founded in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1978 by Bernie Marcus and Arthur Blank, Home Depot provides tools, construction products, appliances, décor items, and services needed to renovate, maintain or repair homes. The company offers branded and proprietary Home Depot merchandise alongside national brands. Home Depot pioneered the warehouse store for home improvement, with large, easy-to-navigate aisles and expanded product categories all under one roof. Associate expertise and excellent customer service are core focuses. Under CEO Ted Decker, Home Depot continues innovating through interconnected retail with online ordering, next-day delivery, and buy-online pickup-in-store conveniences.

Headquarters: Atlanta, GA
Employees: 500,000
Services: Home Depot is a home improvement retailer selling tools, construction products, and home services.

4. Costco

Costco is a membership warehouse club dedicated to bringing members the best possible prices on quality brand-name merchandise. With hundreds of warehouse locations worldwide, Costco provides a wide selection of merchandise, plus the convenience of speciality departments like pharmacies and food courts. Costco also offers exclusive member services like discounted travel and car rentals. The company opened its first location in 1976 under the Price Club name in San Diego. In 1983, the first Costco warehouse opened in Seattle. Through a merger in 1993, the combined company PriceCostco was formed. Today, Costco has over 100 million members and continues its mission of offering low prices and a rewarding work environment.

Headquarters: Issaquah, WA
Employees: 273,000
Services: Costco is a membership warehouse club offering discounted prices on brand name merchandise and bulk items. They have special departments and member services.

Hospitality & Tourism

5. Hilton

Hilton is one of the largest hospitality companies in the world, with over 6,500 properties across 119 countries and territories. What started as a single hotel in Cisco, Texas, in 1919 has evolved into a global empire of hotel brands like Hampton Inn, DoubleTree, and Waldorf Astoria. Hilton focuses on delivering exceptional guest experiences through quality accommodations, amenities, service, and loyalty programs. The company fosters a culture of innovation, performance, and career growth for its team members. Hilton has an industry-leading human resources program focused on diversity, equity, and corporate responsibility. With properties in most major cities worldwide, Hilton has shaped the hospitality industry and continues evolving to meet changing consumer expectations.

Headquarters: McLean, VA
Employees: 173,000
Services: Hilton operates hotels and resorts worldwide, providing accommodations and hospitality services.

6. Marriott

Marriott International is a leading global hospitality company with over 8,000 properties across 139 countries and territories. What started in 1927 with J. Willard and Alice Marriott opening a root beer stand in Washington, D.C., has evolved into a multi-brand lodging powerhouse. Today Marriott operates an extensive portfolio, including brands like Courtyard, Ritz-Carlton, Sheraton, Westin, St. Regis, and Renaissance. Marriott provides exceptional service, comfort, value and consistency for business and leisure travellers worldwide. The company fosters a people-first culture and is guided by core values, including “putting people first, pursuing excellence, embracing change, acting with integrity and serving our world.” Under CEO Anthony Capuano, Marriott continues driving innovation in the hospitality industry while expanding its global footprint.

Headquarters: Bethesda, MD
Employees: 121,000
Services: Marriott operates a chain of hotels and lodging facilities globally.

7. Airbnb

Founded in 2008, Airbnb operates an online platform for hospitality services, connecting people looking to rent their homes or spare rooms with travellers seeking accommodations. The peer-to-peer model provides alternatives to hotels while injecting tourist dollars into local economies. Airbnb is available in over 100,000 cities worldwide, with over 4 million Airbnb hosts. Users can access the service via a website or mobile app to find vacation rentals, unique stays, experiences, and other travel services. Airbnb aims to foster belonging by enabling communal hospitality. The company has evolved from renting air mattresses in San Francisco to becoming a leader in accessible and sustainable travel. Airbnb has faced regulatory issues but maintains substantial influence as an innovator.

Headquarters: San Francisco, CA
Employees: 5,600
Services: Airbnb operates an online marketplace and hospitality service, connecting people listing accommodations with travellers.

8. American Airlines

American Airlines is one of the largest air carriers in the world, with an average of 6,700 flights per day to nearly 350 destinations in 50 countries. Founded in 1930, it is the product of a 2013 merger between AMR Corporation and US Airways. American operates an extensive international and domestic network from its hubs in Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Phoenix and Washington D.C. The airline maintains a fleet of over 1,500 aircraft and gets travellers to their destinations safely and comfortably. A founding member of the Oneworld alliance, America partners with other leading carriers to provide seamless travel. The company is also enhancing the customer experience through investments in new aircraft, Wi-Fi access across its fleet, upgraded cabin interiors and airport lounge renovations.

Headquarters: Fort Worth, TX
Employees: 133,700
Services: American Airlines provides air transportation for passengers and cargo to destinations globally.

9. AAA

AAA is a federation of motor clubs providing travel, insurance, financial, and automotive services to over 62 million members across North America. Founded in 1902 as the American Automobile Association, AAA has advocated for the safety and mobility of travellers for over 120 years. In addition to famous 24-hour roadside assistance, AAA offers travel booking, trip planning tools, driving school, and auto repair advice. The organization issues over 71 million auto insurance policies through the AAA Insurance Group. AAA clubs also provide banking, life insurance and identity theft protection. With over 1,100 branch offices, AAA is committed to enhancing road safety, improving travel experiences, and serving communities. AAA continues updating offerings to deliver the latest technology and services, improving transportation for all.

Headquarters: Heathrow, FL
Employees: 15,000
Services: AAA provides roadside assistance, travel planning, insurance, and DMV services to its members.

Healthcare

10. CVS

CVS Health is a leading American retail pharmacy and healthcare company transforming the traditional approach to healthcare. Starting with a single store in 1963 called Consumer Value Store, CVS has grown into one of the nation’s largest pharmacy chains with over 9,900 retail locations. CVS provides a full range of pharmacy care services, including ExtraCare rewards, MinuteClinic clinics, speciality medications, senior care offerings, and 24/7 pharmacies. The company also acquired Aetna in 2018, expanding into health insurance. Through personalized service, community involvement, and innovative pharmacy technology, CVS aims to help people on their path to better health.

Headquarters: Woonsocket, RI
Employees: 290,000
Services: CVS is a retail pharmacy and health services company offering prescription drugs, clinics, and health insurance.

11. Pfizer

Pfizer is a research-based biopharmaceutical company headquartered in New York City with a global footprint in over 150 countries. Founded in 1849 by cousins Charles Pfizer and Charles Erhart, Pfizer discovers, develops, manufactures and markets prescription medicines, vaccines and consumer healthcare products. The company’s products span therapeutic areas like immunology, rare diseases, oncology, inflammation, cardiovascular, and neuroscience. Pfizer’s breakthroughs have helped treat conditions ranging from infectious diseases to Alzheimer’s and cancer. In addition to developing new medicines, Pfizer partners with healthcare providers and governments to improve global access to reliable, affordable healthcare. With a strong pipeline of investigational medicines and a robust R&D engine, Pfizer continues striving to impact human lives profoundly.

Headquarters: New York, NY
Employees: 78,500
Services: Pfizer is a biopharmaceutical company developing and manufacturing medicines and vaccines for human health.

Food & Beverage

12. McDonald’s

McDonald’s is the world’s largest fast-food restaurant chain and one of the most recognizable brands. Founded as a barbecue restaurant by brothers Dick and Mac McDonald in 1940, the company evolved into a hamburger stand using an assembly line system. Ray Kroc joined as a franchise agent in 1955 and bought out the McDonald brothers to oversee rapid expansion. McDonald’s serves 69 million customers daily in over 100 countries at 38,000 locations. The company continues dominating the quick service restaurant industry through innovations like online ordering, all-day breakfasts, and customizable sandwiches. McDonald’s also invests heavily in branding by sponsoring sporting events like the Olympics and FIFA World Cup. Its golden arches logo and mascot Ronald McDonald are iconic American symbols.

Headquarters: Chicago, IL
Employees: 210,000
Services: McDonald’s is a fast food chain providing quick service restaurant options globally.

13. Starbucks

Starbucks is the world’s largest coffeehouse chain, with over 34,000 stores across the globe. Founded in Seattle in 1971, it helped drive the second wave coffee movement with its dark, roasted beans. In addition to premium coffee drinks like lattes, cappuccinos and cold brew, Starbucks sells teas, pastries, sandwiches and other snacks. The company pioneered the concept of the coffee shop as a ‘third place’ between home and work. Today Starbucks maintains a global presence while focusing on community connection and progressive values like sustainability and corporate responsibility. Under CEO Howard Schultz, Starbucks transformed coffee into a lifestyle and cultural symbol, fueling a billion-dollar industry. With mobile ordering and delivery innovations, Starbucks continues evolving to meet changing consumer coffee habits.

Headquarters: Seattle, WA
Employees: 349,000
Services: Starbucks is a retail coffeehouse chain roasting, sourcing, and sells specialty coffees worldwide.

14. Subway

Subway is an American fast food restaurant specializing in submarine sandwiches, salads and wraps. Founded in 1965 by 17-year-old Fred DeLuca and family friend Dr. Peter Buck, it has grown to become one of the world’s largest restaurant chains by unit count, with over 40,000 locations in over 100 countries. Subway pioneered fast casual dining by offering fresh, customizable sandwich options in a relaxing environment. Guests can build their sandwiches with various breads, protein sources, cheeses, vegetables and condiments. Subway’s menu includes breakfast options, salads, sides, kid’s meals and beverages. From its beginnings in Bridgeport, Connecticut, Subway has achieved record growth through franchising and brand differentiation. It continues addressing shifting consumer tastes by revamping stores and adding new menu items.

Headquarters: Milford, CT
Employees: 410,000
Services: Subway is a fast food franchise serving made-to-order sandwiches, salads, and wraps.

15. DoorDash

DoorDash is a leading on-demand food delivery service founded in 2013 and based in San Francisco. The DoorDash app lets users order meals for delivery from restaurants across the U.S., Canada, Australia, and Japan. DoorDash offers the widest selection of restaurants available for delivery while providing dashers with flexible earning opportunities. After adding grocery, alcohol, and retail delivery, DoorDash grew its category share to over 50% of U.S. meal delivery sales. Powered by expertise in logistics and technology, DoorDash aims to connect people to their communities through food. Under CEO Tony Xu, DoorDash continues enhancing local commerce, using its reach to empower merchants, grow communities, and provide customers greater access and convenience.

Telecommunications

16. AT&T

AT&T is a global telecommunications and media company headquartered in Dallas, offering mobile communications, high-speed internet, digital TV, cybersecurity, and smart home solutions. With roots tracing back to the invention of the telephone, the company has a long heritage of innovation and providing essential communication services. Following a series of mergers, acquisitions and restructuring, the modern AT&T was formed in 2005 and has grown to be one of the world’s largest providers of mobile service and the second-largest U.S. wireless carrier after Verizon. Beyond wireless, AT&T offers broadband, satellite TV and streaming entertainment options through brands like DIRECTV and WarnerMedia. Under CEO John Stankey, AT&T is working to pay down debt and focus on growing its core businesses.

Headquarters: Dallas, TX
Employees: 230,000
Services: AT&T provides telecommunications, wireless, Wi-Fi, digital television, and home security services.

17. Comcast

Comcast Corporation is a telecom and media giant offering U.S. residential and business customers television, internet, phone and home security services. Founded by Ralph Roberts 1963 as a single cable system operator in Tupelo, Mississippi, Comcast has grown into one of the largest broadcasting and cable television companies. Key Comcast brands include Xfinity, NBCUniversal and Sky. Comcast aims to connect and entertain customers on any device by integrating entertainment, communications and technology. Powered by 200,000 employees, Comcast develops innovative products and continues acquiring new companies and assets. Under CEO Brian Roberts, Comcast strives to improve customers’ lives by providing the world’s best video, internet, AI-powered home solutions, and unparalleled connectivity.

Technology & Software

18. Apple

Apple is one of the world’s largest technology companies, designing and producing computer hardware, software, online services, and consumer electronics. Founded in 1976 by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne, Apple revolutionized personal technology with products like the Macintosh computer, iPod, iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch. Driven by innovation, Apple has disrupted and defined industries with intuitive, beautifully designed products and services. Under Tim Cook’s leadership, Apple continues expanding into new markets like streaming entertainment and financial services. Still based in Cupertino, California, Apple is globally admired for high customer satisfaction and brand loyalty. Its iconic logo and aesthetically pleasing product designs are cultural symbols recognized worldwide.

Headquarters: Cupertino, CA
Employees: 154,000
Services: Apple designs and sells consumer electronics, software, and online services. Their products include the iPhone, Mac, Apple TV and more.

19. Amazon

Amazon is a global e-commerce and cloud computing company based in Seattle, Washington. Founded in 1994 by Jeff Bezos, Amazon revolutionized online shopping by providing a convenient, user-friendly e-commerce platform with a vast product selection and rapid delivery. Today, Amazon sells over 12 million products across dozens of categories. A major force in retail and technology, Amazon disrupted industries through innovations like 1-click ordering, customer reviews, and Amazon Prime subscription services. The company is a leading provider of cloud infrastructure and AI capabilities through Amazon Web Services. Under CEO Andy Jassy, Amazon continues redefining commerce with acquisitions of companies like Whole Foods, investments in faster delivery, and the launch of new services like pharmacy delivery.

20. Netflix

Netflix is a global streaming entertainment service with over 220 million paid memberships in over 190 countries. Founded in 1997 as a DVD-by-mail rental service, Netflix pioneered online streaming in 2007, fundamentally changing TV viewing habits. Today, Netflix offers award-winning original films, TV shows, documentaries and mobile games across various genres and languages. Members can instantly watch unlimited entertainment on any internet-connected screen with no commercials. With a focus on original content, Netflix aims to give consumers access to stories from underrepresented groups. Under visionary co-CEO Reed Hastings, Netflix continues disrupting traditional television and shaping pop culture worldwide through hit shows like Stranger Things, Squid Game and Wednesday.

21. Salesforce

Salesforce is an American cloud-based software company headquartered in San Francisco. Founded in 1999 by former Oracle executive Marc Benioff, Salesforce pioneered the delivery of enterprise applications through cloud software services. The platforms help organizations manage customer relationships, gain business insights, and automate workflows. Salesforce’s software enables businesses to connect with customers, partners, and employees across sales, service, marketing, commerce, and more. With innovative cloud technology and thought leadership, Salesforce empowers companies to transform digitally. Under co-CEOs Marc Benioff and Bret Taylor, Salesforce continues driving innovation in cloud computing and emerging areas like AI.

Transportation

22. Uber

Uber is a ride-hailing app company that has transformed urban transportation since its founding in 2009. The Uber app lets users request rides from contracted drivers, track their reserved car’s location, and pay seamlessly within the app. Available in over 10,000 cities globally, Uber offers services beyond ride-hailing, like food delivery (Uber Eats) and freight shipping (Uber Freight). The company has faced various regulatory hurdles but maintains enormous influence over the rideshare industry. While disrupting traditional taxi services, Uber also provides flexible earning opportunities for drivers and greater transportation accessibility for riders. Under CEO Dara Khosrowshahi, Uber continues developing new mobility products and expanding its reach worldwide.

Headquarters: San Francisco, CA
Employees: 22,800
Services: Uber operates a ride-hailing mobile app connecting contracted drivers with passengers needing rides.

23. American Airlines

Banking & Finance

24. Bank of America

Bank of America is one of the world’s leading financial institutions, serving individual consumers, small and middle-market businesses, and large corporations with banking, investing, asset management and other financial services. Founded in San Francisco in 1904 as Bank of Italy, it expanded and was renamed Bank of America in 1930. Today, with over 4,000 retail financial centres, 16,000 ATMs and award-winning digital banking services, Bank of America provides banking services for 1 in 2 households in the U.S. The company has a leadership position in mobile banking, credit cards, and corporate investment banking. Guided by a shared purpose to improve financial lives, Bank of America focuses on responsible growth and environmental sustainability.

Headquarters: Charlotte, NC
Employees: 200,000
Services: Bank of America provides consumer banking, loans, credit cards, wealth management, and corporate financial services.

Online Marketplaces

25. Fiverr

Founded in 2010, Fiverr operates an online freelance services marketplace connecting businesses with freelancers offering digital services across over 500 categories. Its name comes from the original $5 starting price per gig. Fiverr streamlines hiring freelancers from graphic design and digital marketing to programming and translation. Buyers post their project requirements, and freelancers bid for the work. Services span web development, video and animation, writing, data entry and more. Fiverr provides user ratings and reviews along with purchase protection for added transparency. Headquartered in Tel Aviv with offices worldwide, the company has helped over 5.5 million businesses access talent on-demand. Fiverr fosters an online community where freelancers can grow their independent careers.

Headquarters: New York, NY
Employees: 77,700
Services: Fiverr operates an online freelance services marketplace, connecting businesses with freelancers.

Entertainment & Media

26. The Walt Disney Company

The Walt Disney Company is a global entertainment company founded in 1923 by brothers Walt and Roy Disney. It grew into a dominant Hollywood studio and multimedia force, starting with animated short films. Today, Disney operates theme parks worldwide, produces live entertainment, including Broadway shows, creates original streaming content for Disney+, runs a massive film studio, licenses consumer products, and owns various media networks like ABC and ESPN. Disney’s unique storytelling and creative vision transform imagination into award-winning experiences. The company fosters innovation, delivers magical family entertainment, and harnesses the power of creativity and technology to bring stories to life. Guided by strong values, Disney continually reimagines entertainment and creates cultural touchstones.

Headquarters: Burbank, CA
Employees: 223,000
Services: Disney is a media and entertainment company operating theme parks, resorts, cruises, streaming services, and movie studios.

FAQ

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the consumer services field:

1. What do consumer services mean?

Consumer services consist of companies that provide intangible services to customers to meet various needs rather than physical products. These services depend on human resources and technology.

2. What are examples of consumer services?

Some examples are retail, food/beverage services, hospitality, tourism, healthcare, education, transportation, entertainment, banking, and insurance.

3. What industries are considered consumer services?

The primary industries are retail/wholesale, leisure/hospitality, healthcare/social assistance, and education services. However, many other industries provide services to consumers.

4. What challenges do consumer service companies face?

Some key challenges are adopting new technology, recruiting skilled talent, increasing competition, optimizing the customer experience, and providing omnichannel service options.

Summary

As we’ve seen, the consumer services field consists of diverse companies serving customers across retail, travel, healthcare, education, and more.

Major organizations like Costco, Hilton, CVS, Disney, Uber, and Starbucks employ hundreds of thousands of staff to provide personalized services to consumers worldwide. They increasingly leverage technology like mobile apps, websites, and AI to optimize operations and deliver efficient customer experiences.

With the massive size of the consumer services industry, companies are constantly looking to hire talented professionals in areas like human resources, information technology, customer service, marketing, and finance. This presents excellent opportunities if you’re interested in launching a career in consumer services.

Understanding the key players within the industry can help you find companies and positions aligned with your skills and interests. Use this overview of 26 major consumer service brands as a starting point for your job search or career exploration.

You might be interesting to read:

The Ultimate Guide to Marketing Services Guru.com
115 Best Ideas For Business To Start In California
Top 100 Luxury Services List

What Companies are in the Consumer Services Field? 26 Top Examples