Ever wondered which businesses have stood the test of time? Some companies have been around for centuries—even millennia—surviving wars, economic collapses, and technological revolutions. These ancient enterprises aren’t just relics; many are still thriving today. Here are five wild facts about the world’s oldest companies that continue to operate.
1. A Japanese Inn Has Been Running Since 705 AD
Nestled in Japan’s Yamanashi Prefecture, Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan holds the Guinness World Record as the oldest continuously operating hotel—and possibly the oldest company in the world. Founded in 705 AD, this hot spring inn has been owned and operated by the same family for 52 generations.
- Why It Survived: The secret lies in its natural hot springs, which have attracted travelers for over 1,300 years.
- Still in Business? Absolutely—guests today can soak in the same mineral-rich waters that samurai once enjoyed.
2. A German Brewery Has Been Making Beer Since 1040
If you love beer, you’ll appreciate Weihenstephan Brewery in Bavaria, Germany. Founded in 1040, it’s the world’s oldest brewery still in operation.
- Monastic Roots: It started as a Benedictine monastery brewery, where monks perfected their craft.
- Modern Success: Today, it produces some of Germany’s most famous beers, including Weihenstephaner Hefeweissbier.
3. A Swedish Copper Mine Became a Modern Business
The Stora Enso company traces its origins to 1288, when a copper mine in Sweden was first documented.
- From Mining to Paper: Originally extracting copper, the company evolved into one of the world’s largest pulp and paper manufacturers.
- Still Thriving: Today, Stora Enso is a global leader in sustainable packaging and biomaterials.
4. Italy’s Oldest Bank Has Operated Since 1472
Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena (BMPS) is the world’s oldest surviving bank, founded in 1472 in Tuscany.
- Originally a Pawn Shop: It started as a charitable institution offering low-interest loans to the poor.
- Financial Crises & Survival: Despite near-collapses, including a 2008 bailout, it’s still operating today.
5. A French Winery Has Been Producing Wine Since 1000 AD
Château de Goulaine, a vineyard in France’s Loire Valley, has been making wine since around 1000 AD.
- Survived Revolutions & Wars: The estate was seized during the French Revolution but later returned to the original family.
- Still Family-Owned: Today, it produces Muscadet and even has a butterfly museum on-site.
Why Have These Companies Lasted So Long?
- Adaptability: Many shifted industries (like Stora Enso from mining to paper).
- Strong Brand Legacy: Reputation matters—Weihenstephan’s beer quality kept it alive.
- Family & Tradition: Long-term stewardship (Nishiyama Onsen’s 52 generations).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the oldest company in the world? A: While records vary, Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan (705 AD) is widely recognized as the oldest still-operating business.
Q: Are any of these companies publicly traded? A: Yes! Stora Enso and Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena are publicly listed.
Q: How do these companies stay relevant? A: By evolving—whether through modernizing products (like Weihenstephan’s craft beers) or diversifying (Stora Enso’s shift to sustainable materials).
Q: What’s the oldest family-owned business? A: Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan has been run by the same family for over 1,300 years.
Final Thoughts
These companies prove that longevity isn’t just about luck—it’s about resilience, adaptability, and sometimes, just being really good at what you do. Whether it’s brewing beer for a millennium or hosting guests in ancient hot springs, these businesses have seen it all—and they’re still going strong.
Would you visit a 1,300-year-old inn or try beer from a 1,000-year-old brewery? Let us know which of these ancient businesses fascinates you the most!