Some of America’s best-known companies are still around today because they completely changed what they did.
1. Nintendo Before America Was A Playing Card Company
Founded in Kyoto, Japan in 1889, Nintendo spent decades making traditional playing cards before expanding into toys during the 1960s.
After several unsuccessful business ventures, the company entered the video game industry in the 1970s. The launch of the Nintendo Entertainment System in North America in 1985 transformed it into one of the world’s largest gaming companies.
2. Netflix Stopped Mailing DVDs
Netflix launched in 1997 as a DVD-by-mail rental service that competed with video rental stores.
As internet speeds improved, the company shifted to streaming in 2007 and later invested heavily in original programming. That decision helped redefine television and permanently changed how people watch movies and series.
3. IBM Moved Beyond Personal Computers
IBM helped pioneer the personal computer industry during the 1980s.
Over time, however, the company shifted its focus toward enterprise software, consulting, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence. Today, services generate far more of IBM’s business than personal computers ever did.
4. American Express Began as a Freight Company
Founded in 1850, American Express originally transported freight, packages, and valuables across the United States.
As banking and travel evolved, the company reinvented itself around financial services, traveler’s checks, credit cards, and payment systems that now serve millions of customers worldwide.
5. Avon Started by Selling Books
Avon’s founder originally traveled door to door selling books.
He began offering free perfume samples as a promotion, but customers became far more interested in the fragrances than the books. That unexpected response eventually transformed Avon into one of the world’s largest beauty companies.
6. Best Buy Survived the Rise of Online Shopping
When online retailers grew rapidly, many predicted electronics stores would disappear.
Instead, Best Buy reinvented its business through price matching, expanded services, in-store pickup, and technical support, helping it remain one of America’s largest consumer electronics retailers.
