11 Companies That Profited Off Crisis
These companies turned global and local crises into opportunities to grow their profits.
- Daisy Montero
- 3 min read
Crises often cause hardship, but some companies have found ways to come out stronger and wealthier. By shifting strategies, seizing market gaps, or adjusting to consumer needs, these businesses made record gains when everyone else was struggling. This list looks at how 11 companies profited during difficult times and what made their success possible.
1. Amazon’s Surge During Lockdowns
Amazon.com, Inc. on Wikimedia Commons
When physical stores shut down, Amazon became the go-to for almost everything. The company’s delivery network thrived as people relied on it for essentials and entertainment. Its profits soared while small retailers struggled to stay open.
2. Zoom Turning Work Remote into Revenue
Zoom Video Communications on Wikimedia Commons
Video calls became the new office during the pandemic, and Zoom became a household name. Its user base jumped from millions to hundreds of millions almost overnight. The crisis cemented Zoom as a leader in digital communication.
3. Netflix Keeping People Entertained at Home
Netflix Inc. on Wikimedia Commons
Stuck at home, people turned to Netflix for distraction and comfort. Subscriptions skyrocketed, and original shows gained worldwide attention. The company’s profits reflected how entertainment needs exploded in tough times.
4. Pfizer Making Billions on Vaccines
Pfizer, Team on Wikimedia Commons
The global demand for vaccines made Pfizer a dominant player. Its quick rollout of a COVID-19 vaccine brought both credibility and massive profits. Health crises turned into financial success for the pharmaceutical giant.
5. Procter & Gamble Riding the Hygiene Wave
Procter & Gamble. The original uploader was KarimKoueider at English Wikipedia on Wikimedia Commons
Soap, cleaning products, and sanitizers suddenly became essentials. Procter & Gamble brands like Tide, Pampers, and Safeguard dominated shelves. The crisis boosted everyday household product sales like never before.
6. Peloton Peddling Fitness at Home
Unknown author on Wikimedia Commons
Gyms were closed, so fitness moved indoors. Peloton’s bikes and subscriptions boomed as people invested in at-home workouts. The company thrived while traditional gyms faced closures.
7. Moderna’s Vaccine Payday
Moderna on Wikimedia Commons
Like Pfizer, Moderna saw its value skyrocket during the pandemic. Its breakthrough mRNA vaccine turned the biotech firm into a global heavyweight. The health emergency gave Moderna financial power and global recognition.
8. Clorox Selling Peace of Mind
Clorox Creative Services on Wikimedia Commons
Disinfectants became a household staple during the crisis. Clorox wipes and sprays were often out of stock because of overwhelming demand. The company’s sales spiked as cleanliness became a top priority.
9. DoorDash Delivering Growth
DoorDash on Wikimedia Commons
When restaurants closed their doors, food delivery apps kept them alive. DoorDash dominated the market by bringing meals straight to homes. The crisis helped the company expand its reach and profits.
10. Apple Thriving on Remote Work Tech
Apple Inc. on Wikimedia Commons
Laptops, iPads, and iPhones became tools for working and learning at home. Apple’s ecosystem kept people connected and productive. Even in crisis, its products drove sales to new highs.
11. Tesla Turning Supply Strains Into Success
Tesla on Wikimedia Commons
While automakers struggled with shortages, Tesla adapted quickly. It reprogrammed chips and kept production running when rivals slowed down. The crisis gave Tesla an even stronger hold on the electric vehicle market.