Ten of the world’s oldest companies that are still open for business
lovemoney staff
02 May 2017
The planet's most venerable firms
The average life span of a company is just 10 years according to a study from the Santa Fe Institute in the US, but some firms have managed to thrive for centuries and even millennia. In it for the long haul, these businesses have got serious staying power. From Australia's first major enterprise to England's most ancient pub, take a look the world's oldest companies that are still operating today.
Australian Agricultural Company, Australia: est.1824
The youngest company in our round-up, Australia's oldest continuously-operating firm was granted a royal charter by Britain's King George IV in 1824. The Australian Agricultural Company started out using convict labour to raise Merino sheep and cattle in New South Wales, and went on to open myriad coal mines and build the country's first railroad.
Australian Agricultural Company, Australia: est.1824
The company sold off its mining assets in the 1920s to concentrate almost entirely on raising cattle, and beef remains the firm's main focus. Today, the Australian Agricultural Company manages a herd of 340,000 cattle spread out over two states and its beef products are enjoyed by one million people a day worldwide.
Breck's Flowers, USA: est. 1818
In 1818, horticulturist Joseph Breck (pictured), founded his family-owned garden supply business, Breck’s Flowers. The first store opened its doors in Massachusetts, but the company soon became catalogue-based following the success of the first catalogue, released in 1840.
Breck's Flowers, USA: est. 1818
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Today, Breck’s flower is the world’s largest direct-to-consumer Dutch bulb importer. However, over the past 200 years of trading, the business has faced some difficulties. Breck’s parent company, Foster and Gallagher, went bust in 2001, and Breck’s was bought over by Garden Alive!, a catalogue company, following financial difficulties.
Brooks Brothers, USA: est. 1818
Brooks & Co.'s quality menswear opened its doors in 1818, founded by Henry Sands Brooks. Rebranded Brooks Brothers in 1950, the store is famed for its fashion pieces such as ties, classic suits, and button-down polo shirts. Its impressive celebrity clientele has included Fred Astaire, Clark Gable, and Cary Grant.
Brooks Brothers, USA: est. 1818
The store has dressed nearly all the US presidents, including Barack Obama for his inauguration. However, despite over 200 years of success, the company filed for bankruptcy protection in July 2021. Shopping centre owner Simon Property, and management firm, Authentic Brands, have bought over the company, which is set to survive under the new management.
Louisville Stoneware, USA: est 1815
Founded in 1815 on the edge of the Ohio River, this is one of America’s oldest stoneware companies. In the 19th century, immigrants travelling around the USA used the stoneware to transport food and to protect cargo from rodents, leading to a great demand for the products.
Louisville Stoneware, USA: est 1815
The business has changed ownership several times over the years to stay in business, following difficulties. That hasn’t stopped it from attracting elite clientele. Its world-renowned stoneware is in the White House, and Queen Elizabeth II also owns a music box created by the company.
The Andover Bookstore, USA: est. 1809
Established the same year Abraham Lincoln was born, The Andover Bookstore, Massachusetts, is America’s second oldest book shop.
The Andover Bookstore, USA: est. 1809
Originally founded to provide textbooks for the nearby Phillips Academy prep school, today the independent store stocks a wide range of fiction and non-fiction titles, as well as academic books, and even toys. It also offers events such as book clubs and storytelling for the local community.
Colgate, USA: est. 1806
Known then as Colgate & Co., William Colgate was just 23 when he started his soap and candle business. In 1896, the company was the first to sell toothpaste in a tube, the start of a business empire.
Colgate, USA: est. 1806
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Today, Colgate, which is now owned by Palmolive Soap Company, is a global best-selling brand. According to a report by market research organisation, Kantar Worldpanel, Colgate is the only brand in the world to be purchased by more than half of all households.
Shreve, Crump & Low, USA: est. 1796
This family-owned business is America’s oldest jewellery store. The company first opened its doors in 1796, and operated under several names throughout the years, before settling on Shreve, Crump & Low in 1869. It retails the finest diamonds, gemstones, watches, jewellery, and china from around the world.
Shreve, Crump & Low, USA: est. 1796
The company has boasted Hollywood clientele over the years, including Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, who had their wedding rings engraved at the store. Today, it has branches in Boston and Greenwich, as well as an e-commerce website.
Jim Beam, USA: est. 1795
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Jacob Beam founded the Kentucky-based whiskey company in 1795, using his father’s German recipe. The business passed through seven generations before being acquired by the Japanese alcohol-producer, Suntory Holdings, in 2014.
Jim Beam, USA: est. 1795
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Today, the world’s best-selling bourbon has an annual revenue of $1.27 billion (£921m).
Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft, USA: est. 1792
The oldest continuously operating law firm in America, Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft, traces back to 1792, though it took its final name in 1914 after other partners joined.
Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft, USA: est. 1792
Today, the international firm represents a number high-profile clients. Its website states that it is advising Forbes on a $630 million (£456m) business merger with Magnus Opus.
The New York Stock Exchange, USA: est. 1792
In 1792, 24 stockbrokers signed the Buttonwood Agreement on Wall Street, kickstarting the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). Decades later, in 1865, the NYSE opened premises at its present day iconic location at 11 Wall Street.
The New York Stock Exchange, USA: est. 1792
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Today, the NYSE is the largest equities-based exchange in the world. The trading floor, which operates between 9.30am and 4.00pm Eastern Time each day, temporarily closed in March 2020 because of the coronavirus pandemic. It reopened just two months later.
The Brick Store, USA: est 1790s
The Brick Shop, in Bath, New Hampshire, is America’s oldest general store, retailing goods such as cured meat, cheese, and fudge. The store has a diverse history, and housed law offices, a millinery shop, and a press during the 1800s.
The Brick Store, USA: est 1790s
Up until the 1940s, the store also served as the post office for the town of Bath. The original post office boxes are still on display today. The store was relaunched under new ownership in 2017, and while it still operates as a brick-and-mortar business, it also runs an e-commerce store in order to keep up with the changing times and digital age.
King Arthur Flour, USA: est. 1790
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Founded in 1790, America’s first flour company was created by British entrepreneur Henry Wood in New England. In its early days, the business imported flour from England, but that changed when the American wheat farming industry boomed in the 1820s.
King Arthur Flour, USA: est. 1790
Today the company retails flour, baking mixes, baked goods, and even cookbooks. The company has stood the test of time by adapting to the ever-changing industry, launching a gluten free product range. In a landmark move, the business was also sold to its employees in 2004, making them all partners in the business.
Laird & Company, USA: est. 1780
The distillery was founded by a Scotsman, Alexander Laird, who travelled from his home in Fife, Scotland to New Jersey, USA in 1698. He began brewing applejack as a hobby with friends, which eventually led to the opening of a distillery in 1717. The company’s first public sale was recorded in 1780.
Laird & Company, USA: est. 1780
Today, the company produces most of the applejack and apple brandy on the market. The business has been family-run for eight whole generations, and its tipple is as popular today as it was in colonial times.
Crane & Co, USA: est. 1770
Stephen Crane opened his first paper mill in 1770. Now one of the most successful paper companies ever, its paper has been used for American banknotes since 1879.
Crane & Co, USA: est. 1770
Today, Crane is renowned for its personalised stationery, business cards and wedding invitations. The company is the go-to brand for celebrity clients such as Jimmy Fallon, Vera Wang, and the British Royal Family.
Caswell-Massey, USA: est. 1752
Originally named Dr. Hunter’s Apothecary, Caswell-Massey was founded in Rhode Island in 1752. America’s longest-running apothecary business, the brand has had numerous famous clients over the years, including John and Jackie Kennedy, Lauren Becall, and the Rolling Stones.
Caswell-Massey, USA: est. 1752
Today, the company specialises in luxury perfume blends. Their simple and traditional formulas are free from chemicals, which many modern products contain. The business has stayed relevant over the years by adapting to market trends – the brand became cruelty-free in the 1930s after being bought by new owners.
Moravian Book Shop, USA: est. 1745
This isn’t just America’s oldest bookstore. The Moravian Book Shop in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, is the world’s oldest continuously operating book shop.
Moravian Book Shop, USA: est. 1745
Once owned by the Moravian Church, Moravian College now owns the store, which retails indie books, best-sellers, trade books, and books highlighting the history of Moravians. The store also sells student textbooks and Moravian University merchandise. Hungry customers can also purchase beers, sodas, and sandwiches as the shop is partnered with a local deli.
The John Stevens Shop, USA: est. 1705
Founded in 1705, this stone-carving workshop in Rhode Island has been operating for over 300 years.
The John Stevens Shop, USA: est. 1705
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The company has carved the gravestones of famous figures such as playwrights Tennessee Williams and Lillian Hellman. It’s also responsible for the inscriptions on the memorials of Martin Luther King and John F. Kennedy (pictured).
The Tavern, USA: est. 1686
Located in Charleston, in South Carolina’s historical Rainbow Row, The Tavern is America’s oldest liquor store, selling tipples such as beer, wine and moonshine to customers since 1686.
The Tavern, USA: est. 1686
Today, the company has branched out, and boasts 3 boutique locations across the state. It offers in-store events such as food and wine tastings to keep customers coming back.
The White Horse Tavern, USA: est. 1673
A National Historic Landmark, established in 1673, The White Horse Tavern is America’s oldest restaurant.
The White Horse Tavern, USA: est. 1673
The building was originally constructed as a home for wealthy Englishman, Francis Brinley. It was later bought by a pirate named William Mayes and converted into a tavern. The history-rich restaurant now serves premium dishes such as lobster and truffles fries.
Hudson's Bay Company, Canada: est.1670
The Hudson's Bay Company (aka La Compagnie de la Baie d'Hudson) is Canada's most venerable business. Incorporated by English royal charter in 1670, the firm controlled the lucrative North American fur trade and effectively served as a government for vast swathes of North America before the UK and France staked their claims.
Hudson's Bay Company, Canada: est.1670
The Hudson's Bay Company moved from wholesale fur trading into retail during the mid-19th century, and the firm opened its first store in 1857. Nowadays, the company operates a slew of department stores in Canada, the US, Germany, and Belgium, including Hudson's Bay, Saks Fifth Avenue.
Seaside Inn, USA: est. 1660
Established in 1660, the oldest inn in America is located near the Kennebunk River in Maine. Its current owners, Trish and Ken Mason, are the only ninth generation innkeepers in America.
Seaside Inn, USA: est. 1660
Trish Mason has written a book about the inn’s 400-year history. It belonged to her great-great-great-great-great-great-grandfather, Jedidiah Gooch, who bought the inn from a cousin. The business was traditionally passed down to the first-born son, until four generations ago, it was passed to a daughter.
Shirley Plantation, USA: est.1613
North America's oldest business, Shirley Plantation in Virginia was founded in 1613 and has been owned by the Hill family since 1638. Harboring a dark past, the plantation's tobacco fields were toiled by enslaved people until 1865, when slavery was finally outlawed in the state.
Shirley Plantation, USA: est.1613
The plantation was recognized as a National Historic Landmark in 1970. These days, tourism rather than tobacco accounts for the bulk of its revenue – the eleventh generation of the Hill family, who reside on the upper floors of the main house, provide guided tours of the estate.
Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena, Italy: est. 1472
The world's oldest surviving bank, the Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena, was created in 1472 in the city state of Siena as a "mount of piety" – a sort of charity pawnbroker that offered loans with moderate interest rates to those in need.
Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena, Italy: est. 1472
Following the unification of Italy in the 19th century, the bank expanded throughout the country and was the first to offer mortgages to its customers. Now one of Italy's main banks, Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena has 4.5 million customers and more than 1,500 branches.
The Raeapteek, Estonia: est. c.1415
The Santa Maria Novella pharmacy in Florence, Italy may have been founded in 1221, but it wasn't opened to the public until 1612. The world's oldest commercial pharmacy is actually the Raeapteek in Tallinn, Estonia, which was established in 1415. In its early days, the pharmacy sold all sorts of weird and wonderful concoctions, including unicorn horn powder and ointments made from crushed-up Egyptian mummies.
The Raeapteek, Estonia: est. c.1415
The Burchat family, a dynasty of doctors and pharmacists, ran the business from 1582 until 1911, when it was sold to Mr C. R. Lehbert. The Raeapteek was nationalized in the 1940s and extensively renovated in the 1990s and early 2000s. It still operates as a pharmacy and stocks a range of medications, although not the unicorn powder and mummy ointment.
Château de Goulaine, France: est. 1000
The oldest family-owned business and continuously-operating winery in Europe, Château de Goulaine in France's Loire Valley, started producing wine in 1000 and has been in the Goulaine family ever since, bar a period following the French Revolution, when it was sold to a Dutch banker to prevent it being looted and destroyed.
Château de Goulaine, France: est. 1000
The Goulaine family reacquired the business in 1858 and expanded operations during the latter half of the 19th century. The estate still produces a variety of fine wines, including Muscadet and Sancerre, and houses a biscuit museum and butterfly aviary.
The Bingley Arms, England: est. 953
This characterful pub in Bardsey, North Leeds, is the UK's oldest pub and most venerable company. The Yorkshire establishment dates back to at least 953 when publican Samson Ellis began brewing ale on the premises, and may even go back as far as 905.
The Bingley Arms, England: est. 953
The pub, which sheltered Catholic priests during the Dissolution of the Monasteries of the 1530s and 1540s, was known as the Priests' Inn until the 1780s when it was renamed the Bingley Arms. A hotbed of paranormal activity, several ghosts are said to haunt the pub, including a laughing cavalier and a phantom dog.
Sean's Bar, Ireland: est. 900
While the Bingley Arms has a history dating back as far as 905, Sean's Bar in Athlone, Ireland is even older. The most ancient pub in Europe, and very possibly the world, was founded in 900 at a crossing point on the banks of the River Shannon and was originally called Luain's Inn.
Sean's Bar, Ireland: est. 900
In 1129, King Turlough O'Connor built a wooden castle near the crossing point and the town of Athlone effectively formed around the pub. Over the years, Sean's Bar has had a number of interesting proprietors, including pop star Boy George, who owned the tavern for a short time in 1987.
Stiftskeller St. Peter, Austria, est. 803
First mentioned by English scholar Alcuin of York in 803, the Stiftskeller St. Peter in Salzburg is Europe's oldest restaurant and most likely the oldest eatery in the world. Over the years, the restaurant has served a whole host of illustrious diners, including Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.
Stiftskeller St. Peter, Austria, est. 803
The restaurant has also welcomed Mozart's friend and fellow great composer Joseph Haydn, not to mention Christopher Columbus and alchemist Johann Georg Faust. Stiftskeller St. Peter continues to attract notable diners. A variety of famous people have patronized the establishment in recent years, from Karl Lagerfeld to Clint Eastwood.
Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan, Japan: est. 705
This hot spring retreat in Hayakawa, Yamanashi Prefecture, has been recognized as the oldest hotel in the world by the Guinness World Records, and it's more than likely to be the oldest company on the planet that is still in business. Founded by Fujiwara Mahito in 705, the hotel has been managed by the same family for a staggering 52 generations.
Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan, Japan: est. 705
The healing waters of the hot spring have been a magnet for the great and good of Japanese society throughout the 37-room hotel's long history and past guests have included samurai warriors and emperors. If you want to experience the world's oldest hotel for yourself, you'll have to dig deep. The average room price is around $473 (£343).
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