Apple tops Fortune's most admired list

NEW YORK — Fortune has released its 2012 list of the most admired companies, and it should come as no surprise that Apple topped the list. Even with the passing of Steve Jobs, the company didn't miss a beat delivering products that are still in high demand, increasing sales and delivering soaring profits for its investors.

Also on the list were a number of retailers including third-ranked Amazon.com, 20th-ranked Costco Wholesale, 24th-ranked Wal-Mart Stores, 25th-ranked Target, 28th-ranked Whole Foods Market and 41st ranked eBay.

Fortune conducted the survey in 2011 among top executives, directors and securities analysts in 58 industries. Companies were selected based on such criteria as financial soundness, long-term investment value, people management, social responsibility, use of assets, quality of management, quality of products and services, and innovation and competitiveness.

The full list of 358 companies, and their rankings, can be viewed here.