Several leading US retailers have been recognised in Time’s fifth annual TIME100 Most Influential Companies list, which celebrates the businesses “shaping our world” in 2025.
The list, compiled through nominations from Time’s global network of contributors, correspondents, and outside experts, spotlights companies based on impact, innovation, ambition and success rather than financial metrics alone.
Retailers featured on the 2025 list include:
-
Aldi: With 120 new U.S. stores opened in 2024 and a record 225 more planned this year, Aldi is now America’s third-largest grocer by location count. Time credited the discount chain’s aggressive growth, 90% private label model, and climate pledge to phase out polluting refrigerants by 2035.
-
Amazon: Time cited Amazon’s ambitions beyond retail, calling it a leader in AI and cloud computing. The company is building the world’s largest AI computer cluster in Texas and designing its own chips to support innovation across its business verticals.
-
Dick’s Sporting Goods: Despite broader challenges for physical retail, Dick’s is thriving with its experiential House of Sport concept. These large-format stores feature climbing walls, running tracks and batting cages. With 22 now open, Dick’s plans to grow that to 100 by 2027 — and recently announced a $2.4 billion acquisition of Foot Locker.
-
Gap: Under CEO Richard Dickson and creative director Zac Posen, Gap is being recognised for reinvigorating legacy brands like Banana Republic and Old Navy. Once seen as a struggling staple, the retailer has regained momentum and market share.
-
Walmart: Once known as a retail behemoth with little innovation, Walmart is now being praised for its e-commerce overhaul and premium customer focus. Its stock price surged 72% in 2024, outperforming Amazon and Costco. Time also noted its leadership in drone delivery, calling Walmart the largest drone delivery retailer in the US.
Click here to sign up to Retail Gazette‘s free daily email newsletter
