The Lone Star State is a breeding ground for big-time business. Over the years, it has launched numerous iconic companies that have left their mark on the industry.

I'm always looking for something new to learn about Texas. I struck gold when I came across a publication from Texas Heritage for Living. They listed out several picks they think are the most iconic brands in the state. I added a few of my own.

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Let's take a look at some legendary Texas businesses.

LOOK: THESE 10 HUGE ICONIC COMPANIES STARTED UP IN TEXAS

Dell CEO Michael Dell Speaks At Conference
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Dell Technologies

Founded by Michael Dell in 1984, Dell Technologies began as a small computer company in Austin. It quickly rose to becoming a global leader in the technology industry. Today it specializes in computer hardware, software, and IT services.


 

Southwest Airlines Experiences Major Flight Cancellations Across U.S.
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Southwest Airlines

Established in Dallas in 1967, Southwest Airlines revolutionized the airline industry with its low-cost and no-frills business. Today, it remains one of the largest and most successful airlines.


 

Whole Foods Posts 71 Percent Increase In Quarterly Profits
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Whole Foods Market

Founded in Austin in 1980 by John Mackey and Renee Lawson, Whole Foods Market is a grocery chain that specializes in organic and natural goods. It went worldwide and is now owned by Amazon.


 

Exxon Announces Quarterly Earnings And That It's Moving Headquarters To Houston
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ExxonMobil

ExxonMobil, one of the world's largest oil and gas corporations, has deep ties to Texas. It was formed through the merger of Exxon and Mobil in 1999, with its headquarters in Irving.


 

Kuerig Green Mountain To Buy Dr. Pepper Snapple
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Dr. Pepper

This beloved drink of Texas was invented in Waco by Charles Alderton in the 1880s. With its unique blend of 23 flavors, Dr. Pepper has not only become a staple of Texan culture but also a favorite nationwide.


 

AT&T To Merge Warner Media With Discovery
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AT&T Inc.

Its origins date back to Alexander Graham Bell's invention of the telephone. AT&T has played a major role in the telecommunications industry. The company's headquarters is located in Dallas.


 

Pepsi And Frito Announce Plans To Cut Sodium, Sugar, And Fat From Products
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Frito-Lay

Founded in San Antonio in 1932, Frito-Lay has become a household name with its popular snacks including Lay's, Doritos, and Cheetos.


 

Chris Madden Emerges As A Competitor To Martha Stewart
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J.C. Penney

Originally formed in Kemmerer, Wyoming, J.C. Penney moved its headquarters to Texas in 1913. The retail giant, known for its huge department stores, has left its impact on the American shopping experience.


 

7-Eleven Reports Sales Increase
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7-Eleven

It's the world's largest convenience store chain. 7-Eleven originated in Dallas in 1927. Its name reflects its original operating hours, from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.


 

Stock Of Video Game Retailer Gamestop Skyrocketing, Due To Reddit Message Board Traders
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GameStop

Founded in Dallas in 1984, GameStop is a major video game retailer.

Texas is a leading state for innovation and entrepreneurship rolling out some of the most influential companies. From tech companies like Dell to retail giants such as Whole Foods Market, these companies spotlight the state's spirit of success and growth.

Some of the biggest companies in the world are straight-up retailers. How many below do you know?

LOOK: These Are the 50 biggest retailers in America

Stacker compiled a list of the 50 biggest retailers in the country, using retail sales data from Kantar, provided by the National Retail Federation.