ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) is a process that allows companies to consolidate data from multiple sources into a single target data store, such as a data warehouse. It involves extracting data from heterogeneous sources, transforming it to fit operational needs, and loading it into the target data store. ETL tools automate this process, allowing companies to access and analyze consolidated data for critical business decisions. Popular ETL tools include IBM Infosphere Datastage, Informatica, and Oracle Warehouse Builder.