leading company

noun phrase

1. The most successful, largest, or most important company in a particular market or industry — the one that other companies compete with or follow.

   B2

   countable; usually followed by "in" + market/industrybusiness

   • "This leading company sells its products in over fifty countries."B1
   • "The leading company launched a new product that quickly became popular."B2
   • "Analysts expect the leading company in the sector to raise prices again next year."C1

2. One of the most successful, influential, or advanced companies in a field — even if not the single biggest; often used in business and advertising to show importance.

   B2

   countable; often in the plural: "one of the leading companies"business, often promotional

   • "She works for a leading company in the technology sector."B1
   • "We are proud to be one of the leading companies in this industry."B2
   • "Several leading companies have signed the agreement on reducing waste."C1