Fortune Magazine has announced their annual rankings for world’s most admired companies, with Apple topping the charts for their fifth consecutive year, followed by Google and Amazon in the 2nd and 3rd place slots.
To say it was another big year for Apple would be a gross understatement. With the passing of Steve Jobs, questions swirled around the companys future. But under new CEO Tim Cooks guidance, Apple continues to prosper. The companys annual revenues climbed to $108 billion, led by an 81% increase in iPhone sales — a jump that doesnt factor in the runaway success of the iPhone 4S — and a 334% spike in iPad sales, due in no small part to the revamped iPad 2. Increased sales across the board explain why shares soared 75% during the companys fiscal year to $495.
Fortune gathers data for their list by surveying the business community about the reputation of various companies. This year’s survey included nearly 4,000 executives, directors, and securities analysts. Apple is now tied with General Electric for the most number of appearances in the lists’ top position, and has set the record hands-down for number of consecutive appearances.
Unprecedented sales figures, strong growth, the construction of a number of gorgeous new retail stores, and their constant updates to their many popular product lines are just some of the reasons that Apple took the top title once again.