These 10 companies control everything you buy (2024)

As a seasoned expert in the realm of global food and beverage corporations, I can attest to the intricate web of connections that shape the industry landscape. My extensive knowledge encompasses the very essence of the article you've shared, where Oxfam sheds light on the fact that only 10 companies wield substantial control over the vast majority of major food and beverage brands worldwide. This revelation is not just a startling observation but a testament to the concentrated power and influence held by these corporate giants.

Let's delve into a detailed breakdown of the key concepts and companies mentioned in the article:

1. Oxfam's Initiative:

   • Oxfam, a renowned international confederation of charitable organizations, has undertaken an initiative to encourage positive changes in the practices of major food and beverage companies. The organization aims to raise awareness among consumers about the significant players dominating the market.

2. Top 10 Companies:

   • Nestlé: A Swiss multinational known for its extensive product portfolio, including confectionery, baby food (Gerber), bottled water (Perrier), and popular candy brands like Butterfinger and KitKat.
   • PepsiCo: With a staggering 2016 revenue of $62.8 billion, PepsiCo goes beyond sodas, owning brands such as Quaker Oatmeal, Cheetos, and Tropicana.
   • Coca-Cola: Recognized for its iconic sodas, Coca-Cola has diversified its beverage offerings with brands like Dasani, Fuze, and Honest Tea.
   • Unilever: A diverse company with an extensive brand list, including Axe body spray, Lipton tea, Magnum ice cream, and Hellmann's mayonnaise.
   • Danone: Noteworthy for yogurts like Activa, Yocrunch, and Oikos, Danone also engages in the sale of medical nutrition products and bottled water.
   • General Mills: Best known for cereals like Cheerios and Chex, General Mills also owns brands like Yoplait, Hamburger Helper, Haagen-Dazs, and Betty Crocker.
   • Kellogg's: Apart from cereals like Froot Loops and Frosted Flakes, Kellogg's owns non-cereal brands including Eggo, Pringles, and Cheez-It.
   • Mars: Famous for its chocolate brands, such as M&M, Mars also owns Uncle Ben's rice, Starburst, and Orbit gum.
   • Associated British Foods: A British company with brands such as Dorset Cereals, Twinings tea, and the retailer Primark.
   • Mondelez: This snack-centric company's brands include Oreo, Trident gum, and Sour Patch Kids.

3. Revenue Statistics (2016):

   • The revenue figures provide a glimpse into the financial prowess of these corporations:
     • Nestlé: $90.2 billion
     • PepsiCo: $62.8 billion
     • Coca-Cola: $41.9 billion
     • Unilever: $48.3 billion
     • Danone: $23.7 billion
     • General Mills: $16.6 billion
     • Kellogg's: $13 billion
     • Mars: $35 billion
     • Associated British Foods: $16.8 billion
     • Mondelez: $25.9 billion

This breakdown offers a comprehensive understanding of the interconnected world of major food and beverage brands, underscoring the influence these companies wield in shaping consumer choices and industry dynamics.