Niman Ranch

Location:Oakland, Calif.
2002 revenue: $30.5 million
Growth (1998-2002): 399%
CAGR: 49%
FT/PT employees (2002): 121/0

"Truly ahead of the herd," is how Bon Appé tit describes this company, which evolved from one ranch in Marin County into a meat processor serving a sprawling network of western and midwestern farms. The company's 15,000-square-foot plant and corporate offices (appropriately located in a former steakhouse) are both in East Oakland. The market for Niman's high-quality cuts includes upscale restaurants and organic grocery chains. (Read more about Niman Ranch in the Q&A "Mad Cow Doesn't Scare This Rancher" from the March 2004 issue of Inc.)