The consumer non-durables business includes a wide range of enterprises that manufacture items with a limited lifespan that are often used shortly after purchase. These products include everyday necessities such as food, beverages, hygiene products, and housekeeping supplies.
In this article, we’ll examine some of the top companies in the consumer non-durables field, emphasizing the corporations that control this critical area of the economy.
What are Consumer Non-Durables?
To fully understand consumer non-durables, you must first understand consumer goods, essentially everything we buy daily. This can include large expenditures like furniture and computers and little purchases like laundry detergent, meals, beverages, or footwear.
Consumer products are divided into two categories: durables and non-durables. Consumer non-durables are items designed for immediate consumption, such as a can of soda, or commodities that are used up quickly, such as a bar of soap. Non-durable items are often defined as those that last less than three years.
Top 20 Major Companies in the Consumer Non-Durables Field
| Company Name | Industry | Average Salary (Annually) |
| Diageo | Beverage | $48,093 – $198,000 |
| Altria Group Inc. | Tobacco | $119,000 – $177,000 |
| Unilever PLC | Fast-Moving Consumer Goods | $49,519 – $166,167 |
| Mondelez International Inc. | Food | $32,000 – $199,000 |
| AB InBev | Beverage | $50,000 – $152,680 |
| Philip Morris International | Tobacco | $55,310 – $153,720 |
| Colgate-Palmolive Company | Manufacturing | $109,568 – $130,935 |
| Johnson & Johnson | Pharmaceutical | $35,360 – $215,000 |
| Nike Inc. | Footwear | $56,000 – $103,241 |
| PepsiCo Inc. | Food | $12,909 – $243,333 |
| Coca-Cola Company | Soft Drink Manufacturing | $37,417 – $180,389 |
| Procter & Gamble Company | Manufacturing | $86,476 – $171,813 |
| Kellogg Co. | Food | $50,729 – $193,104 |
| Nestlé | Food | $38,699 – $159,000 |
| L’Oreal | Cosmetics | $40,000 – $187,978 |
| The Estée Lauder Companies | Cosmetics | $66,774 – $196,495 |
| Kraft Heinz Company | Food | $45,000 – $182,743 |
| General Mills | Food | $42,427 – $149,778 |
| Danone | Food | $49,000 – $205,324 |
| Heineken N.V. | Brewing | $80,914 – $124,000 |
1. Diageo
Diageo, the giant alcohol firm, was founded in 1997 when Guinness and Grand Metropolitan married. They’re based in London but serve Scotch whisky and other delicious cocktails throughout the city. “Diageo” is an excellent combination of “diēs” (Latin for day) and “geo-” (Greek for earth). It’s all about having fun every day, wherever you go.
Their lineup is incredible; imagine Guinness, Smirnoff, Baileys, Captain Morgan, you name it. And remember their Scotch whisky domination, with Johnnie Walker and other prominent names accounting for 40% of the market.
They’ve also gone on a purchasing spree: Seagram’s 200 Seagram’s 1, Don Julio in 2003, and Mey Icki in 2011. And, yes, they are “consumed” or “non-durables” since “beverages don’t donate, and you’ll return for more.
Job Openings at Diageo:-
- Senior Executive – Commercial
- Data Product Manager
- Assistant Manager – Customer Marketing
- Senior Manager – Logistic Operations
- Manager Sales Innovation
- Sr. Executive RQC QA cluster
- Manager Cluster Finance Business Partner
2. Altria Group Inc.
Altria Group is a significant stakeholder in the tobacco industry, controlling the North American cigarette market. Do you know Marlboro? It’s the MVP of cigarettes, keeping Altria at the top. But smoking is losing its appeal, and vaping is gaining traction. Since 2023, Altria has been seeing a drop in cigarette sales, which isn’t just because of the season. Investors are concerned as more people abandon traditional smoking habits.
Altria is attempting to diversify its offerings by entering the vaping market and acquiring the NJOY brand. However, breaking up with cigarettes is easier when they are your primary source of income.
Job Openings at Altria Group:-
- Food Service Worker – Altria Smokeless Tobacco
- Food Prep Worker – Altria Smokeless Tobacco
- General Utility Worker – Altria Client Services MFG
- Sales Manager
- Senior Wastewater Technician
3. Unilever PLC
Unilever is a massive British firm that emerged in 1929. It was as if Dutch margarine producers and British soap experts had joined together. But hang on, this narrative begins in the 1800s. That’s when the Dutch Jurgens family entered the butter business, leading to margarine. Meanwhile, in the United Kingdom, William Lever and his brother James founded the Lever Brothers in 1885, producing soap from various oils.
It’s massive, think Axe, Ben & Jerry’s, Dove, and all the other products you undoubtedly have in your bathroom or fridge. They are classified as consumer non-durables companies. They manufacture quickly consumed items like toothpaste or your favorite ice cream.
Job Openings at Unilever:-
- Ass. Process Engineer
- Manufacturing Area Lead
- Mix Control Room Operator
- Associate Director, Category Marketing
- Product Development Lead AMESA
4. Mondelez International Inc.
Mondelez International, a significant participant in the snack industry. It all began in 1923 with the National Dairy Products Corporation, which mainly focused on ice cream. By 1924, Kraft Cheese Company had joined the fray, making it to the Chicago Stock Exchange. They even purchased Philadelphia Cream Cheese in 1928, becoming the Kraft-Phenix Cheese Company.
But National Dairy acquired Kraft Phenix in 1930 but retained the National Dairy name while allowing Kraft Phenix to operate independently. Fast-forward to 2012, and Kraft Foods Inc. has evolved into Mondelez. They retained the snack division and split off the grocery business as Kraft Foods Group.
Job Openings at Mondelez International:-
- Area Sales Manager
- Senior Analyst MSC Finance
- Brand Manager Biscuits Equity
- Mondelez International – Data Engineer – Google Cloud Platform
- Growth Analytics Lead
5. AB InBev
The history of AB InBev is reminiscent of old-school brewers such as Artois and Piedboeuf, which date back to 1366 and 1812, respectively. InBev emerged in 2004 due to the merger of Antarctica and Brahma, which gave rise to AmBev from Brazil. Then, in 2008, they partnered with Anheuser-Busch, and AB InBev became the beer industry’s player.
They have over 630 beer brands, including Budweiser, Corona, and Stella Artois, so there’s something for everyone. So, why refer to them as a non-durable consumer company? These beers are designed to be savored immediately, keeping you returning for more.
Job Openings at AB InBev:-
- Senior Compliance Manager
- Senior Analyst – OTC
- AB InBev – Manager – Talent Attraction
- Workday Function Specialist
- Assistant Manager – Workday Specialist
- Area Sales Manager
6. Philip Morris International
Philip Morris International, or PMI, has been a major participant in the tobacco industry for what seems like forever. They are well-known for their cigarettes and other unique items like heat-not-burn and vapes. PMI is known for selling healthiest cigarette alternatives as people are becoming more aware of the health risks associated with smoking.
The good news for investors, however, is that PMI has been paying dividends nonstop since 2008 and continues to do so year after year. However, some are scratching their heads, asking how to keep this going with a payout ratio of 0.99.
Job Openings at Philip Morris International:-
- Senior Team Lead Product
- Market Research Manager
- Talent Acquisition Specialist
- Sustainability Manager
- Government Affairs Coordinator
7. Colgate-Palmolive Company
Colgate-Palmolive Company is a global consumer products company known for its leadership in oral care, personal care, home care, and pet nutrition. Founded in 1806, the company has a rich history and is headquartered in New York City.
Colgate-Palmolive’s products, including well-known brands like Colgate toothpaste, Palmolive soap, and Hill’s pet food, are sold in over 200 countries and territories worldwide. The company’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility has made it a trusted name in households across the globe.
With a focus on improving the quality of life for consumers, Colgate-Palmolive continues to lead in its markets through continuous product development.
Job Openings at Colgate-Palmolive Company:-
- Manager – Analytics
- Senior Associate Scientist
- Associate Digital Manager
- Assistant Manager, Business Analytics
- Quality Lab Technician
- Veterinary Affairs Manager
8. Johnson & Johnson
Johnson & Johnson is an American multinational corporation founded in 1886, known for its diverse range of health care products. The company operates in three primary segments: pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and medical technologies.
With a reputation for innovation, Johnson & Johnson produces a variety of well-known brands, including Band-Aid, Tylenol, and Listerine.
The company’s commitment to improving global health has made it a leader in the healthcare industry, with operations in over 60 countries and products sold in more than 175 countries worldwide.
Job Openings at Johnson & Johnson:-
- Territory Account Manager
- Zonal Account Manager
- Assistant Manager – Regulatory Affairs
- Senior Clinical Data Manager
- Application Support Manager
- District Account Manager
- Key Account Manager
9. Nike Inc.
Nike, the leading sportswear company, began as Blue Ribbon Sports in 1964 when Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight launched it. Inspired by the Greek goddess of triumph, they rebranded as Nike, Inc. in 1971. They have everything you need, from stylish trainers to sports gear. However, their gear is designed to only last for a while, putting them in the fast-paced realm of consumer non-durables.
In 2024, Nike plans to cut costs by $2 billion. They are facing layoffs and cuts due to falling worldwide sales expectations, which have impacted China and Europe particularly hard.
Job Openings at Nike:-
- Lead Software Engineer
- Director of Engineering
- NBA Consumer Planner
- Converse Retail District Manger
- Lead Retail Associate
10. PepsiCo Inc.
The renowned American food and beverage firm PepsiCo was established in 1898 by Caleb Bradham, behind Pepsi. The Pepsi-Cola Company was founded in 1902, and it became a success. Jump ahead to 1965, when PepsiCo partnered with Frito-Lay to form the food and beverage behemoths we know today.
PepsiCo has many famous brands, including Lay’DoriLay’s Gatoradeade, Tropicana Juice, and Quaker Oats. It’s a significant participant in the food and beverage industry and a consumer non-durables company.
Job Openings at PepsiCo:-
- Associate Manager – Sales
- Associate Director – Category Management
- Process Engineering Lead
- Associate Manager – CATMAN – Data Analysis
- Transformation Analyst
11. Coca-Cola Company
In 1886, Dr. John Pemberton created a particular syrup in Atlanta. They started providing it at Jacobs’ Pharmacy as Jacobs’ using ingredients such as coca leaf and kola nut. The catchy name “Coca-Cola” and the “conic script? Frank Robinson, the bookkeeper, came up with the entire notion.
Coca-Cola has grown from nine daily drinks to a global icon. By 1900, they were selling tonnes of syrup and had launched the entire bottling business in 1899. Coca-Cola now leads the global beverage market with over 2,800 varieties in more than 200 countries. They provide a wide variety of beverages in addition to Coke.
Job Openings at Coca-Cola:-
- Strategic Business Partner
- Director, Marketing – Advanced Hydration
- Manager, Digital Platforms Analytics
- National Manager – Network Planning COE
- Senior Manager, People and Culture
- Electrical & Automation Engineer
- Associate Manager Government Affairs
12. Procter & Gamble Company
P&G, which stands for Procter & Gamble, has disrupted our daily lives since 1837. That’s when two guys, William Procter and James Gamble, teamed up to make soap and candles. During the Civil War, they were well-known for providing supplies to the Union Army. Over time, P&G introduced several fantastic goods, such as Ivory soap that floats and the cooking staple Crisco.
Fast-forward to now, and P&G has a vast selection of health, beauty, and home products. They’re all about looking and feeling good while keeping your house clean. However, they are interested in more than simply products. P&G is likewise committed to assisting others.
Job Openings at P&G Company:-
- Manager, Product Supply
- Internship – Information Technology
- Manager, Analytics & Insights
- Stewardship Manager- Finance
- Product Supply Internship
- Account Manager – Sales
13. Kellogg Co.
Kellogg Co., commonly known as Kellogg’s, is a multinational food manufacturing company headquartered in Battle Creek, Michigan. Founded in 1906 by Will Keith Kellogg, the company is renowned for its production of cereals and convenience foods, including snacks, crackers, and breakfast bars.
Kellogg’s iconic brands, such as Corn Flakes, Rice Krispies, and Frosted Flakes, have made it a household name globally. The company emphasizes nutrition and sustainability, aiming to provide consumers with food options that support healthy lifestyles.
Over the years, Kellogg’s has expanded its product portfolio through acquisitions and innovation, making it a significant player in the global food industry.
Job Openings at Kellogg Co.:-
- Tax Manager
- Associate Food Technologist
- Senior Manager Process Optimization
14. Nestlé
Nestlé S.A. is a Swiss multinational food and beverage industry firm with headquarters in Vevey, Switzerland. It has become the world’s largest food company since 2014 based on revenue and other measures. In 2017, it ranked 64th on the Fortune Global 500. In 2023, it was placed 50th among the Forbes Global 2000.
Nestlé manufactures coffee and tea, sweets and confectionery, bottled water, infant formula, baby food, dairy goods and ice cream, frozen meals, breakfast cereals, dry packaged foods and snacks, pet foods, and medicinal foods.
Job Openings at Nestlé:-
- Nutrition Officer
- Medical Representative
- General Trade – Sales Officer/Executive
15. L’Oreal
L’Oréal S.A. is a global personal care firm based in Clichy, Hauts-de-Seine, with its registered office in Paris. As of 2018, it was the world’s largest cosmopolitan, expanding its operations to include hair color, skincare, sun protection, makeup, perfume, and hair care products.
Eugène Paul Louis Schueller (1881-1957), a young French chemist, created the Oréale hair color compound in the early 1900s. Schueller developed and produced his products, which he distributed to Parisian hairdressers.
Job Openings at L’Oréal:-
- Sr Manager – Advanced Research
- Manager – Data Analytics & Scientific Computing
- Senior Manager E-Commerce
- Global Data Analyst
- Assistant Manager Consumer Sciences
16. The Estée Lauder Companies
Estée Lauder Companies Inc. is a global leader in the beauty and cosmetics industry, renowned for its diverse portfolio of prestigious brands. Founded in 1946 by Estée Lauder and her husband, Joseph Lauder, the company has grown to encompass a wide range of skincare, makeup, fragrance, and hair care products.
With a presence in over 150 countries, Estée Lauder Companies owns and operates well-known brands such as MAC, Clinique, Bobbi Brown, and La Mer. The company’s success is rooted in its commitment to innovation, quality, and luxury, appealing to a broad spectrum of consumers worldwide.
Job Openings at Estée Lauder Companies:-
- Beauty Advisor
- SMC Lead
- MAC Cosmetics Makeup Artist
- MAC Cosmetics Retail Manager
- Senior Stylist
17. Kraft Heinz Company
The Kraft Heinz firm (KHC), sometimes known as Kraft Heinz, is an American global food firm founded by merging Kraft Foods and H.J. Heinz Company and has headquarters in Chicago and Pittsburgh. Kraft Heinz is North America’s third-largest beverage corporation and the fifth-largest globally.
Kraft Heinz was formed by merging Kraft Foods Group and Heinz, and its headquarters are currently located in Chicago and Pittsburgh. In 2021, Kraft Heinz generated over $26 billion in revenues from familiar brand names such as Oscar Meyer, Classico, Jell-O, Maxwell House, and Capri Sun.
Job Openings at Kraft Heinz:-
- Analyst II, Talent & Acquisition
- Business and Analytics Steward
- Sr Analyst GL Accounting
- Data Engineer
- Assistant Manager ACOE
18. General Mills
General Mills, Inc. is a multinational American corporation that manufactures and markets branded processed consumer goods in retail shops. Founded on the Mississippi River at Saint Anthony Falls in Minneapolis, the enterprise became a giant flour miller.
General Mills sells pantry staples such as Pillsbury, Gold Medal flour, Yoplait, Betty Crocker, Cheerios, and Nature Valley, as well as Blue Buffalo pet food. The Company has been around for more than 150 years and employs 35,000 people. For the fiscal year 2022, the large retailer reported net sales of $19 billion in cereal, convenience foods, and other food goods.
Job Openings at General Mills:-
- Trade Planning Lead
- Sr. Software Engineer – Sites & Services
- Assistant Commercial Finance Manager
- Sr Executive – Customer Service Representative SEA
- Consultant-Global Sourcing Solutions
19. Danone
Danone is a multinational food-products corporation headquartered in Paris, France. It is known for its extensive range of products, including dairy and plant-based products, water, specialized nutrition, and early life nutrition.
Founded in 1919, Danone has grown into a global leader in the food industry, with a mission to bring health through food to as many people as possible. The company operates in over 120 countries, with popular brands like Activia, Evian, and Alpro under its umbrella.
Job Openings at Danone:-
- Senior Manager/ Licensing
- Maintenance Leader
- Manager, Logistics Procurement
- Cluster Sales Head
- Sales Operations Manager
20. Heineken N.V.
Heineken N.V. is a Dutch multinational brewing company founded in 1864 by Gerard Adriaan Heineken in Amsterdam. It has grown to become one of the largest and most well-known beer producers globally, with a diverse portfolio of over 300 international, regional, and local beer brands, including its flagship Heineken lager.
The company operates in more than 190 countries, and its products are brewed in over 165 breweries worldwide. Known for its innovative marketing and sustainability initiatives, Heineken N.V. has maintained a strong brand presence, combining traditional brewing techniques with modern advancements to meet the evolving tastes of beer consumers.
Job Openings at Heineken N.V.:-
- Preventive Team Leader
- Senior Brand Manager
- National Business Manager
- Supply Chain Analyst
- Logistic & Production Controlling Analyst
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are Consumer Non-Durables?
Consumer non-durables are goods that are consumed or used up quickly, usually within a short period of time, typically less than three years. Examples include food, beverages, toiletries, cleaning products, and clothing.
2. Which Companies are Considered Leaders in the Consumer Non-Durables Field?
Some of the leading companies in the consumer non-durables sector include Procter & Gamble, Unilever, Nestlé, Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and L’Oreal.
3. What Types of Products are Manufactured by Consumer Non-Durables Companies?
Companies in the consumer non-durables field manufacture products like food and beverages, personal care items (e.g., shampoo, soap, toothpaste), household cleaning supplies, paper products (e.g., tissues, toilet paper), and clothing.
4. Why is the Consumer Non-Durables Industry Important?
The consumer non-durables industry is crucial because it provides essential everyday products that people need and use regularly.
5. How Do Consumer Non-Durables Differ From Consumer Durables?
Consumer non-durables are products with a short lifespan that are used quickly, such as food and toiletries. On the other hand, consumer durables are goods with a longer lifespan, typically over three years, such as appliances, furniture, and cars.
6. Are There Any Challenges Faced By Companies in the Consumer Non-Durables Field?
Companies in the consumer non-durables field face challenges such as fluctuating raw material costs, intense competition, changing consumer preferences, and the need for sustainable and eco-friendly products.
7. How Do Companies in the Consumer Non-Durables Industry Address Sustainability?
Many companies in the consumer non-durables sector are focusing on sustainability by reducing packaging waste, sourcing sustainable raw materials, improving energy efficiency in production, and offering eco-friendly product options.
8. What Role Does Innovation Play in the Consumer Non-Durables Industry?
Innovation is vital in the consumer non-durables industry as companies continually develop new products, improve existing ones, and adopt new technologies to meet changing consumer demands and stay competitive.
