Top 7 Oldest Companies in the World That Have Lasted Centuries

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Running a company is no easy task, especially for those with limited entrepreneurial skills. However, the story is quite different for these oldest companies in the world, many of which date back to the 11th century or earlier.

These long-standing businesses have survived for centuries, enduring wars, natural disasters, and even periods of widespread destruction. Perhaps unsurprisingly, given Japan’s reputation as one of the world’s oldest countries, many of the centuries-old companies originate from the East Asian nation.

List of the Oldest Companies in the World

Oldest.org has revealed a list of the oldest companies in the world, featuring businesses that mostly still operate today, including one that is now a wholly owned subsidiary of another group. Continue scrolling to explore the full list.

1. Kong Gumi - 578 CE

Founded in 578 CE, Kong Gumi is widely recognized as the oldest company in the world. Though it became a subsidiary of the Takamatsu Construction Group in 2006, this Japanese temple-building firm still deserves recognition for its remarkable 1,428 years of continuous operation. 

Its longevity is largely credited to its adaptability, notably, during World War II, the company shifted from constructing temples to building coffins to stay afloat. However, mounting debt eventually led to the end of its independence.

2. Genda Shigy Paper Industries - 771 CE

Another Japan-originating company, Genda Shigy Paper Industries, traces its roots back 1,247 years to the Heian era. Renowned for its craftsmanship, the Kyoto-based company has long produced traditional paper goods, serving everyone from samurai aristocrats to the Imperial Palace. 

Its resilience, particularly, is what makes Genda Shigy truly remarkable. The company has never succumbed to market pressures over centuries running.

3. Staffelter Hof Winery - 862 CE

As one of the oldest companies in the world, Staffelter Hof Winery also holds the distinction of being one of Germany’s oldest family-run wineries. With a history that spans over 1,100 years, Staffelter Hof was once part of the Holy Roman Empire. 

Beyond winemaking, it has also evolved by operating as a guest house, offering visitors a full cultural and culinary experience within the postcard-worthy Moselle wine region.

4. Monnaie de Paris - 864 CE

Dating back to 864 CE, Monnaie de Paris is the world’s oldest mint in history. Established under the reign of Charles the Bald, the King aimed to centralize the right to mint currency under royal control. 

Although minting workshops were spread across France, their numbers gradually declined over the centuries and only Monnaie de Paris remained in operation in 1878. A new chapter soon after unfolded as it began minting the Euro, following France’s integration into the European Union.

5. Tanaka Iga - 885 CE

Tanaka Iga specializes in the production of Buddhist religious goods. Having been serving temples and practitioners since 885 CE, this family-run company was even established closely after the founding of Buddhism. 

The key factor behind its successful, long-standing presence in the business world is none other than Tanaka Iga’s ability to adapt their business model from time to time.

6. Royal Mint - 886 CE

The Royal Mint was established to centralize coin production under King Alfred the Great. With a legacy that spans over 1,100 years, it now continues to produce coins, medals, and commemorative pieces. More to that, the Royal Mint also offers visitors a chance to explore its rich history through its on-site museum.

7. Nakamura Shaji - 970 CE

Nakamura Shaji rounds out the list of the oldest companies in the world, thanks to its over a thousand years of history. This Japanese construction company specializes in woodworking, having made a lot of Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines. 

The incredible stories of these centuries-old companies inspire awe and respect, reminding us that building a lasting business may go beyond profits. For a similar groundbreaking discovery, let’s take a look at the richest person in history.

INVESTOPEDIA | OLDEST.ORG | MOSS AND FOG

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