CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- Wal-Mart Stores Inc. is still the king of West Virginia's private employers.

Wal-Mart remains in the top spot on WorkForce West Virginia's annual list of the state's largest private employers. The retail giant has held that position since 1998.

West Virginia United Health System remains the second largest private employer, followed by Charleston Area Medical Center, Kroger and American Electric Power. The companies held the same spots in 2009.

The rankings are based on data from the first quarter of 2010.

WorkForce West Virginia did not release the companies' employment figures, citing confidentiality.

According to Wal-Mart's website, the retailer employs 12,420 people in West Virginia.