Modern Building With Trees And Flag — Brasfield & Gorrie HQ in Birmingham’s Lakeview District. (Pat Byington / Bham Now)

Alabama is making moves, with 12 private companies earning a spot on TIME Magazine’s best private companies in America list.

Birmingham-based EBSCO Industries notched the highest ranking in the state coming in 3rd nationally.

Released in July 2026, TIME teamed up with global data experts Statista to release their first edition of America’s Best Private Companies.

The analysis published by the prestigious publication highlights 500 privately-owned companies nationwide that excel in employee satisfaction and a positive net impact on society.

EBSCO Industries in Birmingham ranks 3rd nationally

Patagonia, the outdoor apparel and sporting goods company topped the inaugural list, followed by Wegman’s Food Markets and then Birmingham’s EBSCO Industries.

If you’re unfamiliar with EBSCO, the company’s origins go back as far as 1930 when its founder Elton B. Stephens Sr. began selling magazines to put himself through college and law school.

After deciding he could earn more money as a salesman than a lawyer, Stephens founded the Military Services Company (MSC) in 1944, selling magazine subscriptions, personalized binders, and magazine racks to the armed forces.

Over the years, the privately-owned company grew, acquiring a diverse portfolio of businesses, eventually becoming EBSCO Industries.

11 other Alabama private businesses make list, including 7 from Birmingham

In addition to EBSCO, eleven other Alabama-based private companies made the TIME top 500 private companies in America list, including seven from the Birmingham-metro area.

“Having eight Birmingham-headquartered companies recognized among TIME’s 500 best private companies in America speaks volumes about the strength of our business community. These companies span industries, employ thousands of people and have built businesses with national and global reach, all from right here in Birmingham.

EBSCO’s No. 3 ranking is an extraordinary achievement, and together these recognitions reinforce what we see every day: Birmingham is a place where great companies are built, grow and make a lasting impact.”
Steve Ammons, President + CEO, Birmingham Business Alliance

An impressive list, here are the 11 other Alabama companies and their rankings: