Throughout history, certain businesses have managed to endure the test of time, evolving and thriving across centuries. This article delves into the world’s oldest business groups, revealing their fascinating journeys from their humble beginnings to becoming enduring symbols of resilience and tradition. From Kongo Gumi, Japan’s ancient construction company founded in 578 AD, to Beretta, the Italian firearms manufacturer established in 1526, these venerable institutions offer a unique glimpse into the longevity and adaptability required to sustain a business over hundreds of years. Discover the founders behind these enduring enterprises, their current market values, and the diverse sectors they influence, from hospitality and banking to manufacturing and finance.
Kongo Gumi
- Founding Year: 578 AD
- Founder: Shigemitsu Kongo
- Business Name: Kongo Gumi Co., Ltd.
- Business Sector: Construction (Specializes in temple construction and renovation)
- Market Value: Private (estimated at $10 billion)
Founded in 578 AD by Shigemitsu Kongo, Kongo Gumi is the oldest continuously operating company in the world. Based in Osaka, Japan, it specializes in the construction and renovation of Buddhist temples. With over 1,400 years of history, Kongo Gumi has built a reputation for its expertise in traditional temple architecture, adapting over the centuries while preserving ancient craftsmanship. Its enduring legacy reflects its ability to innovate while staying true to its roots in the construction industry.
Nishida Trading Company (Nishida Shōten)
- Founding Year: 1716 AD
- Founder: Nishida Family
- Business Name: Nishida Shōten
- Business Sector: Trading and Commerce (Textiles and general trading)
- Market Value: Private (estimated at $1 billion)
Established in 1716, Nishida Trading Company, known as Nishida Shōten, is a historic Japanese trading firm. Founded by the Nishida family, the company originally engaged in textile trading and general commerce. Over the centuries, Nishida Shōten has adapted to changing market conditions, expanding its business scope while maintaining its commitment to quality and tradition. As one of Japan’s oldest trading enterprises, it continues to play a significant role in the country’s commercial sector, blending historical practices with modern business strategies.
St. Peter Stiftskeller
- Founding Year: 803 AD
- Founder: Unknown
- Business Name: St. Peter Stiftskeller
- Business Sector: Hospitality (Restaurant, one of the oldest in Europe)
- Market Value: Private (estimated at $50 million)
Established in 803 AD, St. Peter Stiftskeller is one of the oldest continuously operating restaurants in Europe. Located in Salzburg, Austria, this historic dining establishment originally served as a refectory for monks of the St. Peter’s Abbey. Renowned for its traditional Austrian cuisine and charming, centuries-old ambiance, St. Peter Stiftskeller offers guests a unique culinary experience steeped in history. Its enduring legacy highlights its ability to blend historical significance with modern hospitality, making it a landmark in the world of fine dining.
Mitsubishi
- Founding Year: 1870 AD
- Founder: Yataro Iwasaki
- Business Name: Mitsubishi Group
- Business Sector: Conglomerate (Including finance, chemicals, machinery, and more)
- Market Value: $275 billion (Mitsubishi Corporation)
Founded in 1870 by Yataro Iwasaki, Mitsubishi is a prominent Japanese conglomerate with a rich history spanning over 150 years. Initially starting as a shipping company, Mitsubishi has evolved into a diversified global enterprise with interests in various sectors including finance, automotive, chemicals, machinery, and more. The Mitsubishi Group encompasses numerous companies, including Mitsubishi Corporation, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, and Mitsubishi Motors, among others. Known for its innovation and industrial prowess, Mitsubishi continues to be a significant player in the global market, maintaining its influence across multiple industries.
Berenberg Bank
- Founding Year: 1590 AD
- Founder: Hans Berenberg
- Business Name: Berenberg Bank
- Business Sector: Banking (Private banking and asset management)
- Market Value: Private (estimated at $5 billion)
Founded in 1590 by Hans Berenberg, Berenberg Bank is one of the oldest banks in the world. Based in Hamburg, Germany, this prestigious financial institution originally began as a merchant bank and has since grown into a leading private bank specializing in asset management and investment banking. With over 400 years of history, Berenberg Bank is renowned for its long-standing tradition of financial expertise, client-focused service, and stability. It remains a key player in the European banking sector, known for its commitment to innovation and maintaining a high standard of financial services.
Lloyd’s of London
- Founding Year: 1688 AD
- Founder: Edward Lloyd
- Business Name: Lloyd’s of London
- Business Sector: Insurance (Specializing in underwriting and insurance)
- Market Value: $50 billion (Insurance market value)
Established in 1688 by Edward Lloyd, Lloyd’s of London is a renowned insurance market known for its long-standing tradition in underwriting and risk management. Originally founded as a coffee house where merchants and ship owners gathered to discuss maritime insurance, Lloyd’s has evolved into a global insurance marketplace. It operates through a network of syndicates that offer specialized insurance and reinsurance services, covering a wide range of risks from property and casualty to marine and aviation. With over 330 years of history, Lloyd’s of London is celebrated for its innovative approach to insurance and its role in shaping the global insurance industry.
Beretta
- Founding Year: 1526 AD
- Founder: Bartolomeo Beretta
- Business Name: Beretta Holdings
- Business Sector: Firearms (Manufacturing firearms and related equipment)
- Market Value: Private (estimated at $2 billion)
Founded in 1526 by Bartolomeo Beretta, Beretta is one of the oldest firearm manufacturers in the world. Based in Gardone Val Trompia, Italy, the company has a long-standing tradition of producing high-quality firearms, including handguns, shotguns, and rifles. Beretta is renowned for its craftsmanship and innovation in the firearms industry, serving both civilian and military markets. With over 500 years of experience, Beretta combines historical expertise with modern technology to maintain its reputation as a leading manufacturer of premium firearms.
Hoshi Ryokan
- Founding Year: 718 AD
- Founder: Hoshi Family
- Business Name: Hoshi Ryokan
- Business Sector: Hospitality (Traditional Japanese inn, one of the oldest in Japan)
- Market Value: Private (estimated at $20 million)
Founded in 718 AD by the Hoshi family, Hoshi Ryokan is a historic Japanese inn located in the town of Komatsu, Ishikawa Prefecture. Recognized as one of the oldest continuously operating ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) in Japan, Hoshi Ryokan has been providing guests with authentic Japanese hospitality and hot spring baths for over 1,300 years. The inn is renowned for its preserved traditional architecture, serene environment, and commitment to offering a unique, time-honored experience that blends historical charm with exceptional service.
Häagen-Dazs
- Founding Year: 1961 AD
- Founder: Reuben and Rose Mattus
- Business Name: Häagen-Dazs
- Business Sector: Food and Beverage (Ice cream and frozen desserts)
- Market Value: $1.5 billion (part of General Mills)
Founded in 1961 by Reuben and Rose Mattus, Häagen-Dazs is an iconic American ice cream brand known for its premium quality and rich flavors. Although the name evokes a European heritage, it was created in the United States to convey an image of European ice cream craftsmanship. Häagen-Dazs has built its reputation on using high-quality ingredients and maintaining a commitment to flavor innovation. Acquired by General Mills in 2001, the brand continues to be a leader in the premium frozen dessert market, offering a wide range of indulgent flavors and frozen treats.
Fendi
- Founding Year: 1925 AD
- Founder: Adele and Edoardo Fendi
- Business Name: Fendi
- Business Sector: Fashion (Luxury fashion and accessories)
- Market Value: $5 billion (part of LVMH)
Founded in 1925 by Adele and Edoardo Fendi, Fendi is a prestigious Italian fashion house renowned for its luxury goods and innovative designs. Originally established as a fur and leather shop in Rome, Fendi has evolved into a global fashion powerhouse known for its high-quality fashion items, including handbags, clothing, and accessories. The brand is particularly famous for its iconic “FF” logo and the creation of the world-renowned Baguette handbag. Now part of the LVMH Group, Fendi continues to influence the fashion industry with its blend of tradition and modernity, maintaining its status as a symbol of luxury and style.
Zildjian
- Founding Year: 1623 AD
- Founder: Avedis Zildjian
- Business Name: Zildjian Cymbals
- Business Sector: Musical Instruments (Drum cymbals and percussion)
- Market Value: Private (estimated at $100 million)
Founded in 1623 by Avedis Zildjian, Zildjian is one of the oldest and most respected manufacturers of cymbals and percussion instruments. Originally established in Istanbul, Turkey, the company began as a small workshop crafting cymbals using a secret alloy formula. Today, Zildjian is renowned worldwide for its high-quality cymbals, which are favored by drummers and percussionists across various musical genres. The company has a long history of innovation and craftsmanship, maintaining its position as a leading name in the music industry with a legacy of over 400 years.
Tiffany & Co.
- Founding Year: 1837 AD
- Founder: Charles Lewis Tiffany
- Business Name: Tiffany & Co.
- Business Sector: Jewelry (Luxury jewelry and accessories)
- Market Value: $16 billion (acquired by LVMH)
Founded in 1837 by Charles Lewis Tiffany and John B. Young, Tiffany & Co. is a prestigious American luxury jewelry and specialty retailer. Originally established in New York City as a stationery and gift store, it quickly gained a reputation for its high-quality jewelry, particularly its iconic Tiffany Blue box. Known for its exquisite craftsmanship and timeless designs, Tiffany & Co. has become synonymous with elegance and luxury. Acquired by LVMH in 2021, Tiffany continues to be a leading name in the global jewelry market, celebrated for its innovation, heritage, and commitment to excellence.
Conclusion
The world’s oldest business groups embody a remarkable blend of resilience, tradition, and adaptability. From Kongo Gumi’s 1,400-year history of constructing temples to Beretta’s five centuries of crafting precision firearms, these venerable institutions highlight the enduring nature of well-established enterprises. Each company has navigated the challenges of their respective industries while preserving their unique heritage and core values. Their ability to evolve and remain relevant over centuries offers invaluable lessons in perseverance and innovation. As they continue to thrive, these historic businesses not only celebrate their rich legacies but also inspire future generations to build enduring enterprises grounded in tradition and excellence.
