It’s a lazy Saturday. Let’s say you searched for something on Bing, made a run to Costco, and then ordered something from Amazon. If you did, you just supported three of the world’s largest brands. All are headquartered in or near Seattle.

Brand valuation consultant Brand Finance says Microsoft’s brand value is $461 billion, good enough to rank as the world’s second-most valuable brand, up 35% from a year ago. Amazon ranks No. 4, at $356 billion. Costco ranks No. 26.

Those big brands contribute significantly to Seattle’s economy, community, and infrastructure in various ways. They create jobs, and their presence attracts talent from around the world. They contribute substantial tax revenue to public services including schools, infrastructure, and public safety. They have a long history of philanthropy (Microsoft, for example, has already committed $675 million toward affordable housing initiatives). 

They are also environmental leaders. Microsoft aims to go carbon-negative in just five years. Amazon’s goal is net-zero carbon by 2040. 

Granted, they also contribute to challenges such as rising housing costs, traffic congestion, and income inequality. But consider how different Seattle — a true world-class city — would be without them: not nearly as affluent, influential, or progressive.

Apple is the world’s top brand. Google is No. 3, and Walmart No. 5.