Philadelphia, December 23, 2025
Philadelphia showcases a dynamic business landscape with Wawa leading as the largest private company in Pennsylvania, generating revenues of $18.64 billion. Other key players include Sheetz, 84 Lumber, and D&H Distributing, highlighting the diverse sectors contributing to the state’s economy. This article explores the impact of these companies on job creation and economic sustainability in Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania’s Largest Private Companies: A Snapshot
As the heart of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia is home to a vibrant business landscape that showcases the tenacity and innovation of local entrepreneurs. As of December 2025, Wawa stands as Pennsylvania’s largest private company, reporting revenues of $18.64 billion. This impressive figure places Wawa at the 21st spot on Forbes’ list of America’s top private companies, underscoring the significant contribution of Pennsylvania businesses to both state and national economies.
The resilience of local businesses is evident in other notable companies as well, reflecting a diverse economic environment that includes convenience stores, building materials suppliers, and technology distributors. These enterprises not only create jobs but also drive the state’s economy forward through their innovative practices and commitment to community engagement.
Key Players in Pennsylvania’s Private Sector
In addition to Wawa, several other significant private companies play a crucial role in Pennsylvania’s economy:
- Sheetz: A major convenience store chain with revenues of approximately $14 billion, ranking 30th nationally.
- 84 Lumber: A building materials supply company headquartered in Eighty Four, Pennsylvania, with revenues exceeding $3.9 billion as of 2020.
- D&H Distributing: A technology products distributor based in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, reporting revenues of $5.9 billion in November 2024.
- Consol Energy: An energy company headquartered in Cecil Township, Pennsylvania, with revenues of $2.042 billion in 2024.
- Hershey Trust Company: A trust company based in Hershey, Pennsylvania, managing assets of $17.4 billion as of 2021.
- Karns Quality Foods: A supermarket chain operating in the Harrisburg metropolitan area, with 10 stores as of 2023.
- Judge Group: A business technology consulting firm headquartered in Wayne, Pennsylvania, recognized for its significant presence in the Philadelphia area.
- Morgan Properties: A real estate investment and management company based in Conshohocken, Pennsylvania, one of the largest owners of multifamily housing in the U.S.
Understanding the Landscape
These companies collectively span various industries, including retail, technology, energy, and real estate, showcasing the diverse economic landscape of Pennsylvania. Their substantial revenues and assets underscore their considerable impact on both the state and national economies. The entrepreneurial spirit evident in these firms drives innovation and fosters competition, which ultimately helps to stimulate job creation and economic sustainability.
Conclusion
Pennsylvania’s private sector is robust, with companies like Wawa, Sheetz, and others leading the way in revenue generation and economic influence. Their ongoing growth and success contribute to the state’s economic vitality and employment opportunities. As local entrepreneurs continue to innovate and navigate challenges, supporting these businesses becomes essential for sustaining Philadelphia’s economic momentum.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the largest private company in Pennsylvania?
As of December 2025, Wawa is the largest private company in Pennsylvania, reporting revenues of $18.64 billion.
Which other companies are significant in Pennsylvania’s private sector?
Other notable private companies in Pennsylvania include Sheetz, 84 Lumber, D&H Distributing, Consol Energy, Hershey Trust Company, Karns Quality Foods, Judge Group, and Morgan Properties.
What industries do these companies represent?
These companies operate in various industries, including retail, technology, energy, and real estate.
How do these companies impact Pennsylvania’s economy?
With substantial revenues and assets, these companies significantly contribute to Pennsylvania’s economic vitality and employment opportunities.
Key Features of Pennsylvania’s Largest Private Companies
| Company | Industry | Revenue (as of 2024) | Headquarters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wawa | Convenience Stores | $18.64 billion | Delaware County, PA |
| Sheetz | Convenience Stores | $14 billion | Altoona, PA |
| 84 Lumber | Building Materials Supply | $3.9 billion | Eighty Four, PA |
| D&H Distributing | Technology Products Distribution | $5.9 billion | Harrisburg, PA |
| Consol Energy | Energy | $2.042 billion | Cecil Township, PA |
| Hershey Trust Company | Trust Management | $17.4 billion in assets | Hershey, PA |
| Karns Quality Foods | Supermarket Chain | Not specified | Mechanicsburg, PA |
| Judge Group | Business Technology Consulting | Not specified | Wayne, PA |
| Morgan Properties | Real Estate Investment and Management | Not specified | Conshohocken, PA |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
PPR Capital Management Invests in Philadelphia’s Multifamily Sector
Gaming and Leisure Properties Welcomes New Independent Director
La Salle Women’s Basketball Team Overcomes Early Deficit
SAI MedPartners Acquires The Dunn Group to Bolster Growth
76ers Coach Optimistic After NBA Cup Break
Diversified LLC Earns National Recognition for Workplace Excellence
Medicus Pharma Announces New CFO in Strategic Shift
Wawa Opens 1,000th Gas Station in Springfield
Pennsylvania Seizes Leadership in AI Investments
Dakota Marketplace Unveils Extensive Private Fund Dataset
Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER
The PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhiladelphia.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mummers Parade, Philadelphia Flower Show, and Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Philadelphia, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, food services, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Comcast, Aramark, and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Pennsylvania's dynamic landscape.
