Slack: Originally a gaming company called Tiny Speck, the company pivoted to developing a team communication platform that has since become one of the most widely used tools in the business world.
Instagram: Before becoming the massively popular photo-sharing app, Instagram was a location-based check-in app called Burbn. The founders decided to pivot and focus on the photo-sharing aspect, ultimately creating the platform we know today.
Netflix: Netflix began as a DVD rental-by-mail service in 1997. Over the years, the company pivoted to a subscription-based model, and eventually, to streaming video content. This change has made Netflix one of the most successful entertainment companies in the world.
Nintendo: The company started as a playing card manufacturer in the late 1800s. Over the years, Nintendo pivoted to electronic toys and eventually entered the video game industry, where they have enjoyed tremendous success.
Twitter: Initially, Twitter was a podcasting platform called Odeo. However, when Apple launched iTunes with podcast support, the founders decided to pivot and focus on a microblogging platform, which became Twitter.
Starbucks: Starbucks started as a retailer selling high-quality coffee beans and equipment. The company pivoted to open its first coffee shop in 1984, focusing on selling freshly brewed coffee and espresso drinks. Today, Starbucks is a global coffeehouse chain.
PayPal: Originally, PayPal was a security software company called Confinity. They pivoted to focus on digital payments and money transfers, which has made them one of the most successful fintech companies.
Groupon: Groupon started as a social activism platform called The Point, which aimed to bring people together to achieve common goals. The company pivoted to a daily deals platform, making it one of the most popular online marketplaces.
7 out of 8 of these companies are huge and exist in a big way today.