Five Arkansas employers among best in America, according to Forbes

Kyler Swaim
·2 min read
8

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — Five Arkansas companies were ranked among the best in America, according to a new report from Forbes.

Forbes’ rankings were produced in partnership with Statista, a market research firm. The annual rankings are the product of a survey of employees at U.S. companies that have more than 5,000 workers for the large companies. Those surveyed in the mid-size employers category work at companies with between 1,000 and 5,000 workers.

Those surveyed were asked to evaluate their employer based on different criteria, including salaries, mental health benefits, management diversity, working hours, etc.

600 organizations made the list of the best large employers and 400 for the mid-size employers.

ArcBest topped the list among employers based in Arkansas. The Fort Smith-based logistics company ranked #95 on the list. It employs over 15,000 people and was founded in 1923.

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Simmons Foods was ranked 195th after not being ranked in 2023. Headquartered in Siloam Springs, Simmons employs 8,000 and was founded in 1949.

Arvest Bank, based in Lowell, came in a 237th in the rankings. Arvest’s Chief People Officer Laura Andress said they were honored to be recognized as a top employer.

“This award highlights our core beliefs that true success lies in valuing and empowering each other, helping to create an inclusive culture where everyone is celebrated for their individuality and their contributions to the organization and our communities,” Andress said.

J.B. Hunt Transportation Services was the last Arkansas employer to be featured, ranked 586th. The supply chain company says this is the 13th time they have been included in the rankings.

“We are honored to receive these recognitions showcasing the integrity of our brand and the confidence of the people behind it,” said Shelley Simpson, president of J.B. Hunt.

For the mid-size employers, Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield was the only Arkansas employer to be included. Ranked 166th, the Little Rock-based insurance company was founded in 1929 and employs 3,200.

“Our employees are the backbone of our organization,” said Arkansas Blue Cross President
and CEO Curtis Barnett. “Our commitment to them is a reflection of our commitment to our
members and communities. We care about their well-being. We care about their futures, and
we value their choice to be part of Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield.”

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