Most Admired Companies of 2007

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  Apple

  FORTUNE's annual list is a really big deal for investors -- and consumers. Why? Because it is the definitive report card on corporate reputations. Only the best make the list.
  
  Having fresh ideas and being green are among the qualities that distinguish this year's winners. So which companies have the best reputations? Click through our gallery to find out.

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  Index: Most Admired Companies

  Most Admired in Your State

  Apple's First Time on Top 10 List

• GE

  EyePress / AP

  General Electric

  Top 20 Rank: 1
  
  Why? GE's innovative "Ecomagination" campaign pledges to develop environmentally friendly products such as a solar hybrid locomotive, lower-emission aircraft engine and even more efficient lighting. But wait till you hear how much GE saved on its own energy bills last year.
  
  

• Starbucks

  Amy Sancetta, AP

  Starbucks

  Top 20 Rank: 2
  Why? Public opinion of Starbucks as overpriced and class-oriented doesn't sway business workers who recognize the company's long-term commitment to fair-market pricing and ecological farming.
  See Starbucks Investment Return
  
  

• Toyota

  Toyota

  Toyota Motor

  Top 20 Rank: 3
  Why? Toyota isn't producing its energy-saving electric hybrid, the Prius, to win public favor; it already produces the best-selling car in the U.S. (Camry) as well as the leading luxury model (Lexus).
  Toyota's Jump on Green Cars
  
  

• Berkshire Hathaway

  Getty Images

  Berkshire Hathaway

  Top 20 Rank: 4
  Why? It may be true that year after year, Berkshire Hathaway earns its place among the top 10 because of our admiration (and awe) for Warren Buffett, but the company also ranks at the top for six out of eight key attributes.
  Buffet's Billion-Dollar Offer Wins
  
  

• Southwest Airlines

  AP

  Southwest Airlines

  Top 20 Rank: 5
  Why? Southwest Airlines celebrated its 34th year of profitability in a beleaguered, cutthroat industry. And consumers have gotten to keep their low fares despite last year's gas price hikes. Southwest's 2006 Earnings
  
  More Most Admired Companies
  
  

• Apple Computers

  Michael Nagle, Getty Images

  Most Innovative Company

  
  Innovation could be the single most important corporate contribution. It's what will enhance our lives, cure our illnesses and save the planet. Based on FORTUNE's industry reports, Steve Jobs' Apple Inc. steals this slot for 2007.
  See Most Innovative Companies
  
  

• FedEx

  Tim Boyle, Getty Images

  Best for People Management

  
  A company is only as good as the people who run it. For investors, skilled management delivers stable talent. For employees, a well-managed company provides skills that can enhance personal as well as professional growth.
  See Best for People Management
  
  

• Whole Foods

  Scott Olson, Getty Images

  Most Socially Responsible

  
  Whole Foods was built on social responsibility, most recently leading the charge for buying wind power and forfeiting CEO pay, and yet the company is ranked No. 3 this year. Finally, this is a competitive arena.
  See Most Socially Responsible
  
  

• Exxon Mobile

  Steve Helber, AP

  Best Investment

  
  The companies who earn your patronage today are not necessarily the best resources for building your future tomorrow.
  See Best Companies to Invest In
  
  

• Walt Disney

  Damian Dovarganes, AP

  Best for Quality Products

  
  Whether you're coming from a consumer, investor or employee perspective, finding quality products and services is its own reward. Where does Disney rank?
  
  

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