[Ranking] TOP 25 Entertainment Companies Q3/2023
Intro
The entertainment industry plays a critical role in the worldwide economy, with its diverse sub-industries contributing significantly to global GDP. From film and television to music and live performances, entertainment is an integral part of our daily lives, providing us with an escape from reality and a means of cultural expression.
The profound influence of the entertainment industry extends far beyond its primary sectors. It has a ripple effect across various industries, including tourism, fashion, technology, and advertising. The success of a blockbuster movie can boost the tourism industry in the filming location, while a popular song can drive trends in fashion and influence consumer behavior.
The economic magnitude of the entertainment industry is staggering, and it continues to grow at an impressive rate. In 2020, the global entertainment and media market reached a value of $2 trillion, and it is projected to reach $2.6 trillion by 2026. This upward trajectory is fueled by the increasing demand for digital content and the expansion of streaming platforms.
Recent trends and breakthroughs are shaping the entertainment industry in exciting ways. The rise of streaming services has disrupted traditional distribution models, allowing consumers to access a vast library of content anytime, anywhere. Technological advancements, such as virtual reality and artificial intelligence, are revolutionizing the way we experience entertainment, offering immersive and personalized experiences.
The entertainment industry is a dynamic and ever-changing landscape. The emergence of new platforms, the convergence of media, and the shift towards digital consumption are transforming the industry's landscape. To navigate this rapidly evolving environment, it is crucial to explore and understand the leading companies that drive innovation and shape the future of entertainment.
Ranking
#25 IMAX Corporation
Employees: 1.6K
Revenue: 1B$
Website: https://www.imax.com
Description: IMAX Corporation, headquartered in Los Angeles, United States, is a leading player in the Entertainment industry. Founded in 1968, the company specializes in providing immersive cinematic experiences through its state-of-the-art IMAX theaters. With a workforce of approximately 1.6 thousand employees, IMAX has established itself as a prominent name in the entertainment sector. The company generates an impressive annual revenue of 1 billion dollars. IMAX theaters offer unparalleled picture quality and sound, enabling audiences to enjoy films on a grand scale. With its global presence and commitment to innovation, IMAX continues to revolutionize the movie-going experience and captivate audiences worldwide.
#24 World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc.
Employees: 1.5K
Revenue: 1.1B$
Website: https://www.wwe.com
Description: World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. (WWE) is an American entertainment company that primarily operates in the professional wrestling industry. Headquartered in Stamford, Connecticut, WWE produces and promotes professional wrestling events, television programs, and films. The company was founded in 1952 by Jess McMahon and Toots Mondt as Capitol Wrestling Corporation. With a staff of approximately 1,500 employees, WWE has become a global leader in sports entertainment, reaching millions of fans across the globe. WWE generates revenue through various streams including ticket sales, merchandise, licensing, and media rights. The company's flagship television programs, such as Raw and SmackDown, attract a large audience and contribute significantly to its annual revenue of 1.1 billion dollars.
#23 Cineworld Group Plc
Employees: 9.5K
Revenue: 1.2B$
Website: https://www.cineworld.co.uk/
Description: Cineworld Group Plc is a leading entertainment company headquartered in London, United Kingdom. Founded in 1995, the company operates in the entertainment industry, offering a wide range of services including cinema operation, film distribution, and event organization. With a workforce of approximately 9.5 thousand employees, Cineworld Group Plc is committed to providing high-quality cinematic experiences to its customers. The company generates an annual revenue of around 1.2 billion dollars, positioning it as a major player in the global entertainment market. Cineworld Group Plc continues to expand its presence and innovate within the industry, constantly adapting to the evolving needs and preferences of its audience.
#22 Spin Master Corp.
Employees: 2.5K
Revenue: 1.2B$
Website: https://www.spinmaster.com/
Description: Spin Master Corp. is a Canadian entertainment company headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Founded in 1994, the company has grown to become a leading player in the entertainment industry. With over 2.5 thousand employees, Spin Master operates in various sectors of the entertainment industry, including toys, games, television, and digital media. The company is known for its innovative and creative products that cater to children and families worldwide. Spin Master's revenue stands at an impressive 1.2 billion dollars, reflecting its success in the market. Through its diverse portfolio of brands and products, Spin Master continues to captivate audiences and deliver engaging entertainment experiences.
#21 Lions Gate Entertainment Corp.
Employees: 1.5K
Revenue: 1.4B$
Website: https://www.lionsgate.com
Description: Lions Gate Entertainment Corp. is a leading entertainment company based in Santa Monica, United States. Founded in 1997, the company operates in the entertainment industry, primarily involved in the production and distribution of films, television series, and digital content. With a workforce of approximately 1,500 employees, Lions Gate Entertainment Corp. has established itself as a prominent player in the industry. The company's revenue reached 1.4 billion dollars, showcasing its financial success and market presence. Lions Gate Entertainment Corp. continues to deliver high-quality entertainment content to global audiences, contributing to the vibrant landscape of the entertainment industry.
#20 Cinemark Holdings, Inc.
Employees: 10K
Revenue: 1.5B$
Website: https://www.cinemark.com/
Description: Cinemark Holdings, Inc. is an entertainment company headquartered in Plano, United States. Founded in 1984, the company operates in the entertainment industry, primarily focusing on movie exhibition. With approximately 10,000 employees, Cinemark is one of the largest movie theater chains in the world. The company generates annual revenue of around 1.5 billion US dollars. Cinemark is known for providing immersive movie experiences to audiences through its state-of-the-art theaters equipped with advanced digital projection and sound systems. Through its various subsidiaries, Cinemark operates theaters across North America and several international markets, offering a wide range of movies for all age groups and catering to diverse audience preferences.
#19 Square Enix Holdings Co., Ltd.
Employees: 5K
Revenue: 1.5B$
Website: https://www.square-enix.com/
Description: Square Enix Holdings Co., Ltd. is a Japanese entertainment company based in Tokyo, Japan. Founded in 1975, the company operates in the entertainment industry, primarily focusing on the development, publishing, and distribution of video games, manga, and anime. With a workforce of approximately 5,000 employees, Square Enix has established itself as a prominent player in the gaming industry, known for its popular franchises such as Final Fantasy, Dragon Quest, and Tomb Raider. The company's revenue stands at around 1.5 billion US dollars, reflecting its success in the global market. Square Enix continues to innovate and captivate audiences worldwide with its immersive storytelling, stunning graphics, and engaging gameplay experiences.
#18 Ubisoft Entertainment SA
Employees: 18K
Revenue: 2.2B$
Website: https://www.ubisoft.com
Description: Ubisoft Entertainment SA, headquartered in Paris, France, is a leading company in the entertainment industry. Established in 1986, Ubisoft has become a prominent player in the gaming sector, specializing in the development, publishing, and distribution of interactive entertainment products. With a workforce of approximately 18,000 employees, Ubisoft consistently delivers innovative and high-quality gaming experiences across various platforms. The company's revenue reached 2.2 billion dollars, showcasing its strong presence and success in the market. Ubisoft's portfolio includes popular franchises such as Assassin's Creed, Far Cry, Just Dance, and Watch Dogs, captivating gamers worldwide with its immersive gameplay and captivating storytelling.
#17 Sea Limited
Employees: 13K
Revenue: 4.4B$
Website: https://www.seagroup.com/
Description: Sea Limited, headquartered in Singapore, is a leading company operating in the entertainment industry. Founded in 2009, Sea Limited has rapidly grown its presence in the market. With a workforce of approximately 13,000 employees, the company has established itself as a major player in the industry. Sea Limited operates a range of digital entertainment platforms, including Garena, Shopee, and SeaMoney. Garena is a popular online gaming platform, offering a diverse portfolio of games to millions of users across the globe. Shopee is a leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, providing users with a seamless online shopping experience. SeaMoney is a digital financial services platform, offering services such as mobile wallet, payment processing, and digital lending. With a revenue of 4.4 billion dollars, Sea Limited continues to innovate and expand its entertainment offerings, making it a key player in the industry.
#16 Mattel, Inc.
Employees: 25K
Revenue: 4.5B$
Website: https://www.mattel.com
Description: Mattel, Inc. is a leading entertainment company headquartered in El Segundo, United States. Founded in 1945, the company has established itself as a prominent player in the entertainment industry. With a workforce of approximately 25,000 employees, Mattel operates globally and is known for its innovative and iconic toys, games, and entertainment products. The company's revenue stands at 4.5 billion dollars, solidifying its position as a major player in the market. Mattel continues to create and deliver engaging entertainment experiences that inspire imagination and bring joy to children and families worldwide.
#15 Hasbro, Inc.
Employees: 5.5K
Revenue: 4.7B$
Website: https://www.hasbro.com
Description: Hasbro, Inc., headquartered in Pawtucket, United States, is a leading entertainment company operating in the toy and game industry. Founded in 1923, the company has grown to become a global leader in creating and distributing entertainment and play experiences. With approximately 5,500 employees, Hasbro is dedicated to inspiring creativity and imagination in children and adults alike through its wide range of iconic brands and franchises. The company's revenue in 2020 reached 4.7 billion dollars, driven by the success of its diverse portfolio of toys, games, and entertainment products. Hasbro continues to innovate and captivate audiences worldwide with its engaging and interactive entertainment experiences.
#14 Bandai Namco Holdings Inc.
Employees: 20K
Revenue: 4.8B$
Website: https://www.bandainamcoent.com/
Description: Bandai Namco Holdings Inc. is a Japanese entertainment company headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. Founded in 2005, the company operates in the entertainment industry, specializing in video games, toys, and amusement facilities. With approximately 20,000 employees, Bandai Namco Holdings Inc. generates an annual revenue of 4.8 billion US dollars. The company is known for its popular franchises such as Pac-Man, Tekken, Dragon Ball, and Naruto. Bandai Namco Holdings Inc. has a strong global presence, with subsidiaries and offices in various countries. Through its diverse range of entertainment products and services, the company aims to bring joy and excitement to people of all ages around the world.
#13 Electronic Arts Inc.
Employees: 9K
Revenue: 5B$
Website: https://www.ea.com/
Description: Electronic Arts Inc. (EA) is a leading global interactive entertainment software company headquartered in Redwood City, United States. Founded in 1982, EA has become one of the largest and most well-known companies in the entertainment industry. With a workforce of approximately 9,000 employees, EA develops and publishes games across various platforms including consoles, PCs, and mobile devices. The company's portfolio includes popular franchises such as FIFA, Madden NFL, The Sims, Need for Speed, and Battlefield. EA generates significant revenue, with an estimated annual revenue of 5 billion dollars. Through its innovative and engaging games, EA continues to entertain millions of players worldwide.
#12 AMC Entertainment Holdings, Inc.
Employees: 15K
Revenue: 5.5B$
Website: https://www.amctheatres.com/
Description: AMC Entertainment Holdings, Inc. is a prominent player in the entertainment industry. Headquartered in Leawood, United States, AMC operates a vast network of movie theaters, offering a wide range of films to its audiences. Founded in 1920, the company has a rich history and has established itself as a leading name in the cinema exhibition business. With a workforce of approximately 15,000 employees, AMC strives to provide exceptional movie experiences to its patrons. The company has achieved substantial revenue growth, with an estimated revenue of 5.5 billion dollars. AMC Entertainment Holdings, Inc. continues to innovate and adapt to the evolving entertainment landscape, ensuring its position as a key player in the industry.
#11 Activision Blizzard, Inc.
Employees: 10K
Revenue: 7.5B$
Website: https://www.activisionblizzard.com
Description: Activision Blizzard, Inc. is a leading entertainment company operating in the video game industry. Headquartered in Santa Monica, United States, the company was founded in 2008. With a workforce of approximately 10,000 employees, Activision Blizzard develops, publishes, and distributes interactive entertainment content and services globally. The company's portfolio includes popular franchises such as Call of Duty, World of Warcraft, Overwatch, and Candy Crush. Activision Blizzard generates significant revenue, with an annual revenue of approximately 7.5 billion US dollars. With a strong presence in North America and a global reach, Activision Blizzard continues to entertain millions of gamers worldwide with its innovative and engaging gaming experiences.
#10 Live Nation Entertainment, Inc.
Employees: 10K
Revenue: 10B$
Website: https://www.livenationentertainment.com
Description: Live Nation Entertainment, Inc. is a leading entertainment company operating in the live events industry. Headquartered in Beverly Hills, United States, Live Nation Entertainment is known for its expertise in producing and promoting live concerts, music festivals, and other live events. With a history dating back to 1996, the company has grown to become a major player in the entertainment industry, attracting millions of attendees to its events worldwide. Live Nation Entertainment employs approximately 10,000 individuals who contribute to the planning, execution, and management of its diverse portfolio of live events. The company generates impressive revenue, with an annual turnover of around 10 billion dollars, making it one of the most successful entities in the entertainment sector.
#9 Nintendo Co., Ltd.
Employees: 6.2K
Revenue: 12.3B$
Website: https://www.nintendo.com/
Description: Nintendo Co., Ltd. is a leading player in the entertainment industry, known for its innovation in the gaming sector. Based in Kyoto, Japan, Nintendo has been revolutionizing the gaming world since its founding in 1889. With a workforce of around 6,200 employees, Nintendo continues to create and market cutting-edge gaming consoles, software, and accessories. The company's flagship products include the Nintendo Switch, a hybrid console that can be played both as a home console and a portable device, and popular game franchises such as Super Mario, The Legend of Zelda, and Pokémon. With its commitment to delivering fun and immersive gaming experiences, Nintendo has achieved considerable success, generating over 12.3 billion dollars in revenue.
#8 Netflix, Inc.
Employees: 8.6K
Revenue: 25B$
Website: https://www.netflix.com
Description: Netflix, Inc. is an entertainment company headquartered in Los Gatos, United States. Founded in 1997, Netflix operates in the entertainment industry, providing streaming services for movies, TV shows, and documentaries. With a workforce of approximately 8.6 thousand employees, Netflix has revolutionized the way people consume media by offering a vast catalog of on-demand content accessible through various devices. The company generates an annual revenue of 25 billion dollars, making it one of the leading players in the entertainment streaming market. With its user-friendly interface and original content production, Netflix has become a global household name, offering a wide range of entertainment options for subscribers worldwide.
#7 ViacomCBS Inc.
Employees: 30K
Revenue: 28B$
Website: https://www.viacomcbs.com
Description: ViacomCBS Inc. is a leading entertainment company headquartered in New York City, United States. The company was formed in 2019 as a result of the merger between Viacom Inc. and CBS Corporation. ViacomCBS operates in the entertainment industry, offering a wide range of content across various platforms. The company owns and operates popular television networks such as CBS, MTV, Nickelodeon, Comedy Central, and BET. ViacomCBS also produces and distributes films through Paramount Pictures. With a workforce of approximately 30,000 employees, ViacomCBS generates an estimated annual revenue of 28 billion US dollars.
#6 Twenty-First Century Fox, Inc.
Employees: 21K
Revenue: 28B$
Website: https://www.21cf.com
Description: Twenty-First Century Fox, Inc., headquartered in Los Angeles, United States, is a prominent player in the entertainment industry. Founded in 1979, the company has an employee base of approximately 21,000 individuals. With a revenue of 28 billion dollars, Twenty-First Century Fox operates through various subsidiaries that engage in the production and distribution of films, television programs, and other media content. Its diverse portfolio includes popular entertainment brands such as Fox Broadcasting Company, Fox News Channel, 20th Century Studios, and National Geographic Partners. The company's commitment to delivering high-quality content has made it a major player in the global entertainment landscape.
#5 Time Warner Inc.
Employees: 95K
Revenue: 30B$
Website: https://www.timewarner.com
Description: Time Warner Inc. is a leading entertainment company based in New York City, United States. Established in 1990, the company operates in the entertainment industry, offering a wide range of services including film production, television networks, and digital media. With a workforce of approximately 95,000 employees, Time Warner Inc. has established itself as a major player in the industry. The company generates an impressive annual revenue of 30 billion dollars, showcasing its success and profitability. Time Warner Inc. continues to innovate and deliver high-quality entertainment content to its global audience through its various subsidiaries and divisions.
#4 Walt Disney Company
Employees: 203K
Revenue: 69.6B$
Website: https://www.disney.com
Description: The Walt Disney Company, headquartered in Burbank, United States, is a leading player in the Entertainment industry. Founded in 1923, the company has a workforce of approximately 203,000 employees. With a revenue of 69.6 billion dollars, Disney operates various businesses including film production, theme parks, television networks, and consumer products. The company is renowned for its iconic characters such as Mickey Mouse, Cinderella, and Frozen's Elsa, which have captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. Disney's portfolio includes popular franchises like Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, and Disney Princesses, allowing them to dominate the entertainment market through their diverse offerings. Through their theme parks, movies, merchandise, and television channels like ABC and ESPN, Disney continues to entertain and enchant audiences of all ages.
#3 Tencent Holdings Limited
Employees: 89K
Revenue: 74.7B$
Website: https://www.tencent.com
Description: Tencent Holdings Limited is a leading Chinese multinational conglomerate that operates in the entertainment industry. Headquartered in Shenzhen, China, it is one of the largest companies in Asia. Tencent is known for its diverse portfolio of services and products, including social media platforms, online gaming, music streaming, e-commerce, and digital advertising. The company's most popular instant messaging app, WeChat, has over a billion monthly active users worldwide. Tencent also owns significant stakes in various entertainment companies, including Riot Games, Epic Games, and Universal Music Group. With a workforce of around 89,000 employees, Tencent has established itself as a major player in the global entertainment market, generating a revenue of 74.7 billion dollars.
#2 Sony Corporation
Employees: 110K
Revenue: 79.2B$
Website: https://www.sony.com
Description: Sony Corporation, headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, is a leading player in the Entertainment industry. Founded in 1946, Sony has established itself as a global powerhouse, known for its innovative products and services. With approximately 110,000 employees, Sony operates in various sectors of the Entertainment industry, including electronics, gaming, music, and film. The company's diverse portfolio includes popular consumer electronics devices, such as televisions, smartphones, and audio equipment. Sony is also a major player in the gaming industry, with its PlayStation gaming consoles and popular game titles. In addition, Sony boasts a prominent presence in the music industry, with its record label and music streaming services. Furthermore, Sony Pictures Entertainment is a prominent film production and distribution company, known for its blockbuster movies. With a revenue of 79.2 billion dollars, Sony continues to be a driving force in the Entertainment industry, delivering innovative and high-quality products and content to consumers worldwide.
#1 Comcast Corporation
Employees: 190K
Revenue: 108B$
Website: https://corporate.comcast.com
Description: Comcast Corporation, headquartered in Philadelphia, United States, is a major player in the Entertainment industry. Founded in 1963, the company has grown to become one of the largest entertainment conglomerates in the world. With approximately 190,000 employees, Comcast operates a diverse portfolio of businesses including cable television, film production, theme parks, and sports franchises. The company's revenue stands at a staggering 108 billion dollars, making it a key player in the global entertainment market. Comcast has established itself as a leading provider of high-quality entertainment content and services, catering to millions of customers worldwide.
Summary
The entertainment industry is a lucrative and dynamic sector that encompasses various sub-industries, including film, television, music, gaming, and live events. Forbes recently conducted an analysis to identify the top companies within this sub-industry.
One unexpected finding from the investigation was the significant impact of streaming platforms on the entertainment industry. Companies like Netflix and Disney+ have revolutionized the way we consume content, leading to a decline in traditional cable and satellite television.
The premier companies in the entertainment sub-industry include Netflix, Disney, WarnerMedia, Sony, and Universal Studios. These companies have a global presence and are known for their high-quality content and innovative business strategies.
One shared element among these leading firms is their focus on content creation. They invest heavily in producing original and engaging content that appeals to a wide audience. Additionally, these companies have embraced technology and digital platforms to reach their target consumers effectively.
What sets these eminent companies apart from their rivals is their ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences and market trends. They are constantly evolving their strategies to meet the demands of a digital-first audience and are not afraid to take risks with unconventional content and distribution methods.