ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC (ITW)
SIC breadcrumb: Manufacturing > Industrial And Commercial Machinery And Computer Equipment > SIC 3560 General Industrial Machinery & Equipment
SEC company page: https://www.sec.gov/edgar/browse/?CIK=49826. Latest filing source: 0000049826-26-000008.
Informational only - descriptive public-record data, not investment advice.
Selected Fundamentals
| Metric | Value | Unit | FY | Filed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revenue | 16,044,000,000 | USD | 2025 | 2026-02-13 |
| Net income | 3,066,000,000 | USD | 2025 | 2026-02-13 |
| Assets | 16,148,000,000 | USD | 2025 | 2026-02-13 |
Financials
Annual standardized facts from SEC companyfacts as of latest extracted filing date 2026-02-13. Source: https://data.sec.gov/api/xbrl/companyfacts/CIK0000049826.json. Derived margins, ratios, and free cash flow are computed from the extracted annual SEC facts.
| Metric | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revenue | 13,599,000,000 | 14,314,000,000 | 14,768,000,000 | 14,109,000,000 | 12,574,000,000 | 14,455,000,000 | 15,932,000,000 | 16,107,000,000 | 15,898,000,000 | 16,044,000,000 |
| Net income | 2,035,000,000 | 1,687,000,000 | 2,563,000,000 | 2,521,000,000 | 2,109,000,000 | 2,694,000,000 | 3,034,000,000 | 2,957,000,000 | 3,488,000,000 | 3,066,000,000 |
| Operating income | 3,056,000,000 | 3,485,000,000 | 3,584,000,000 | 3,402,000,000 | 2,882,000,000 | 3,477,000,000 | 3,790,000,000 | 4,040,000,000 | 4,264,000,000 | 4,216,000,000 |
| Diluted EPS | 5.70 | 4.86 | 7.60 | 7.74 | 6.63 | 8.51 | 9.77 | 9.74 | 11.71 | 10.49 |
| Operating cash flow | 2,302,000,000 | 2,402,000,000 | 2,811,000,000 | 2,995,000,000 | 2,807,000,000 | 2,557,000,000 | 2,348,000,000 | 3,539,000,000 | 3,281,000,000 | 3,126,000,000 |
| Capital expenditures | 273,000,000 | 297,000,000 | 364,000,000 | 326,000,000 | 236,000,000 | 296,000,000 | 412,000,000 | 455,000,000 | 437,000,000 | 419,000,000 |
| Dividends paid | 821,000,000 | 941,000,000 | 1,124,000,000 | 1,321,000,000 | 1,379,000,000 | 1,463,000,000 | 1,542,000,000 | 1,615,000,000 | 1,695,000,000 | 1,785,000,000 |
| Share buybacks | 2,000,000,000 | 1,000,000,000 | 2,000,000,000 | 1,500,000,000 | 706,000,000 | 1,000,000,000 | 1,750,000,000 | 1,500,000,000 | 1,500,000,000 | 1,500,000,000 |
| Assets | 15,201,000,000 | 16,780,000,000 | 14,870,000,000 | 15,068,000,000 | 15,612,000,000 | 16,077,000,000 | 15,422,000,000 | 15,518,000,000 | 15,067,000,000 | 16,148,000,000 |
| Stockholders' equity | 4,259,000,000 | 4,589,000,000 | 3,258,000,000 | 3,030,000,000 | 3,182,000,000 | 3,626,000,000 | 3,089,000,000 | 3,013,000,000 | 3,317,000,000 | 3,226,000,000 |
| Cash and cash equivalents | 2,472,000,000 | 3,094,000,000 | 1,504,000,000 | 1,981,000,000 | 2,564,000,000 | 1,527,000,000 | 708,000,000 | 1,065,000,000 | 948,000,000 | 851,000,000 |
| Free cash flow | 2,029,000,000 | 2,105,000,000 | 2,447,000,000 | 2,669,000,000 | 2,571,000,000 | 2,261,000,000 | 1,936,000,000 | 3,084,000,000 | 2,844,000,000 | 2,707,000,000 |
Ratios
| Metric | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Net margin | 14.96% | 11.79% | 17.36% | 17.87% | 16.77% | 18.64% | 19.04% | 18.36% | 21.94% | 19.11% |
| Operating margin | 22.47% | 24.35% | 24.27% | 24.11% | 22.92% | 24.05% | 23.79% | 25.08% | 26.82% | 26.28% |
| Return on equity | 47.78% | 36.76% | 78.67% | 83.20% | 66.28% | 74.30% | 98.22% | 98.14% | 105.16% | 95.04% |
| Return on assets | 13.39% | 10.05% | 17.24% | 16.73% | 13.51% | 16.76% | 19.67% | 19.06% | 23.15% | 18.99% |
| Current ratio | 2.22 | 2.38 | 1.63 | 2.90 | 2.52 | 1.84 | 1.41 | 1.33 | 1.36 | 1.21 |
Financial Charts
Quarterly
Quarterly standardized facts from SEC companyfacts as of latest extracted filing date 2026-05-07. Source: https://data.sec.gov/api/xbrl/companyfacts/CIK0000049826.json.
| Quarter | End Date | Revenue | Net Income | Diluted EPS | Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022-Q2 | 2022-06-30 | 2.37 | reported discrete quarter | ||
| 2022-Q3 | 2022-09-30 | 2.35 | reported discrete quarter | ||
| 2023-Q1 | 2023-03-31 | 2.33 | reported discrete quarter | ||
| 2023-Q2 | 2023-06-30 | 754,000,000 | 2.48 | reported discrete quarter | |
| 2023-Q3 | 2023-09-30 | 772,000,000 | 2.55 | reported discrete quarter | |
| 2023-Q4 | 2023-12-31 | 717,000,000 | derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD | ||
| 2024-Q1 | 2024-03-31 | 3,973,000,000 | 819,000,000 | 2.73 | reported discrete quarter |
| 2024-Q2 | 2024-06-30 | 4,027,000,000 | 759,000,000 | 2.54 | reported discrete quarter |
| 2024-Q3 | 2024-09-30 | 3,966,000,000 | 1,160,000,000 | 3.91 | reported discrete quarter |
| 2024-Q4 | 2024-12-31 | 3,932,000,000 | 750,000,000 | derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD | |
| 2025-Q1 | 2025-03-31 | 3,839,000,000 | 700,000,000 | 2.38 | reported discrete quarter |
| 2025-Q2 | 2025-06-30 | 4,053,000,000 | 755,000,000 | 2.58 | reported discrete quarter |
| 2025-Q3 | 2025-09-30 | 4,059,000,000 | 821,000,000 | 2.81 | reported discrete quarter |
| 2025-Q4 | 2025-12-31 | 4,093,000,000 | 790,000,000 | derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD | |
| 2026-Q1 | 2026-03-31 | 4,016,000,000 | 768,000,000 | 2.66 | reported discrete quarter |
Quarterly Charts
Macro Cross-References
- CPIAUCSL - Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: All Items in U.S. City Average
- UNRATE - Unemployment Rate
- FEDFUNDS - Federal Funds Effective Rate
- CES0500000003 - Average Hourly Earnings of All Employees, Total Private
- DFEDTARU - Federal Funds Target Range - Upper Limit
- DFEDTARL - Federal Funds Target Range - Lower Limit
- DGS3MO - Market Yield on U.S. Treasury Securities at 3-Month Constant Maturity
- DGS2 - Market Yield on U.S. Treasury Securities at 2-Year Constant Maturity
- DGS10 - Market Yield on U.S. Treasury Securities at 10-Year Constant Maturity
- DGS30 - Market Yield on U.S. Treasury Securities at 30-Year Constant Maturity
- T10Y2Y - 10-Year Treasury Constant Maturity Minus 2-Year Treasury Constant Maturity
- CPILFESL - Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: All Items Less Food and Energy
- CPIUFDSL - Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: Food
- CPIENGSL - Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: Energy
- CUSR0000SAH1 - Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: Shelter
- PCEPI - Personal Consumption Expenditures: Chain-type Price Index
- PCEPILFE - Personal Consumption Expenditures Excluding Food and Energy: Chain-type Price Index
- PPIACO - Producer Price Index by Commodity: All Commodities
- T10YIE - 10-Year Breakeven Inflation Rate
- U6RATE - Total Unemployed, Plus All Marginally Attached Workers Plus Total Employed Part Time for Economic Reasons
- PAYEMS - All Employees, Total Nonfarm
- CIVPART - Labor Force Participation Rate
- EMRATIO - Employment-Population Ratio
- UNEMPLOY - Unemployed
- CE16OV - Employment Level
- ICSA - Initial Claims
- JTSJOL - Job Openings: Total Nonfarm
- JTSQUR - Quits: Total Nonfarm
- GDPC1 - Real Gross Domestic Product
- A191RL1Q225SBEA - Real Gross Domestic Product: Percent Change from Preceding Period
- INDPRO - Industrial Production: Total Index
- TCU - Capacity Utilization: Total Index
- HOUST - New Privately-Owned Housing Units Started: Total Units
- PERMIT - New Privately-Owned Housing Units Authorized in Permit-Issuing Places: Total Units
- RSAFS - Advance Retail Sales: Retail Trade
- PCE - Personal Consumption Expenditures
- DSPIC96 - Real Disposable Personal Income
- PSAVERT - Personal Saving Rate
- M2SL - M2
- BOPGSTB - U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services: Balance
- MSPUS - Median Sales Price of Houses Sold for the United States
- HSN1F - New One Family Houses Sold: United States
- RHORUSQ156N - Homeownership Rate in the United States
- TTLCONS - Total Construction Spending: Total Construction in the United States
- RRVRUSQ156N - Rental Vacancy Rate in the United States
- TOTALSL - Total Consumer Credit Owned and Securitized
- REVOLSL - Revolving Consumer Credit Owned and Securitized
- DRCCLACBS - Delinquency Rate on Credit Card Loans, All Commercial Banks
- GDP - Gross Domestic Product
- GPDI - Gross Private Domestic Investment
- GCE - Government Consumption Expenditures and Gross Investment
- PCEC - Personal Consumption Expenditures
- NETEXP - Net Exports of Goods and Services
- GFDEBTN - Federal Debt: Total Public Debt
- GFDEGDQ188S - Federal Debt: Total Public Debt as Percent of Gross Domestic Product
- FYFSD - Federal Surplus or Deficit
- FGRECPT - Federal Government Current Receipts
- FGEXPND - Federal Government: Current Expenditures
- MANEMP - All Employees, Manufacturing
- USCONS - All Employees, Construction
- USTRADE - All Employees, Retail Trade
- USFIRE - All Employees, Financial Activities
- USGOVT - All Employees, Government
- AWHAETP - Average Weekly Hours of All Employees, Total Private
- DGORDER - Manufacturers' New Orders: Durable Goods
- NEWORDER - Manufacturers' New Orders: Nondefense Capital Goods Excluding Aircraft
- BUSINV - Total Business Inventories
- EXPGS - Exports of Goods and Services
- IMPGS - Imports of Goods and Services
- IR - Import Price Index (End Use): All Commodities
- PPIFIS - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Final Demand
Latest quarter (10-Q)
Latest 10-Q source: 0000049826-26-000028.
ITEM 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
INTRODUCTION
Illinois Tool Works Inc. (the "Company" or "ITW") is a global manufacturer of a diversified range of industrial products and equipment. As of December 31, 2025, the Company had 88 divisions with approximately 43,000 people in 49 countries.
The Company's operations are organized and managed based on similar product offerings and end markets, and are reported to senior management as the following seven segments: Automotive OEM; Food Equipment; Test & Measurement and Electronics; Welding; Polymers & Fluids; Construction Products; and Specialty Products.
Due to the large number of diverse businesses and the Company's decentralized operating structure, the Company does not require its businesses to provide detailed information on operating results. Instead, the Company's corporate management collects data on several key measurements: operating revenue, operating income, operating margin, variable cost of revenue, overhead expenses, number of months on hand in inventory, days sales outstanding in accounts receivable, past due receivables and return on invested capital. These key measures are monitored by management and significant changes in operating results versus current trends in end markets and variances from forecasts are discussed with operating unit management.
THE ITW BUSINESS MODEL
The powerful and highly differentiated ITW Business Model is the Company's core source of value creation. It serves as the Company's primary competitive advantage and defines the framework through which ITW generates sustainable value for its shareholders. The ITW Business Model is comprised of three unique elements:
•80/20 Front-to-Back defines how the Company operates. It is a unique set of proprietary tools and methodologies that ITW divisions utilize to structure and operate their businesses to (a) maximize the performance, execution, and value-add provided to their largest and most profitable customers (the "80"), and (b) minimize the costs, complexity, and distractions associated with serving less profitable accounts (the "20"). Through the application of the 80/20 Front-to-Back process, ITW divisions deliver best-in-class customer-facing execution, high-quality organic growth, and superior profitability and return on capital performance.
•Customer-Back Innovation ("CBI") drives the Company's approach to innovation and development. ITW innovates from the customer back, rather than from a centralized research and development center out. ITW divisions partner with their key customers to create unique solutions that solve difficult technical challenges and improve business performance. This disciplined, repeatable process directs innovation efforts toward high-growth markets with solid long-term fundamentals.
•ITW's Decentralized, Entrepreneurial Culture is the key to the Company's execution. Divisions are clear on the expectations of the ITW Business Model, strategy, and values. Within this framework, business teams are empowered to make decisions and customize their approach to maximize the relevance and impact of the ITW Business Model for their specific customers and end markets. This "flexibility within the framework" culture encourages an ownership mindset and accountability, enabling the Company to consistently deliver differentiated results.
ENTERPRISE STRATEGY: LEVERAGING THE ITW BUSINESS MODEL TO ITS FULL POTENTIAL
Since the initiation of the Enterprise Strategy in 2012, the entire organization has focused on utilizing the ITW Business Model to its full potential to deliver solid growth with best-in-class margins and returns. To execute the strategy, the Company undertook a complete review of its performance, focusing on its businesses that delivered consistent above-market growth with best-in-class margins and returns, and developed a framework to replicate that performance across its operations. ITW determined that high-quality above-market organic growth is the core growth engine to deliver world-class financial performance and compelling long-term returns for its shareholders.
Key initiatives in the Company's Enterprise Strategy included portfolio management, business structure simplification, strategic sourcing and the diligent re-application of ITW's proprietary 80/20 Front-to-Back process.
•As part of the Portfolio Management initiative, ITW exited businesses that were operating in commoditized market spaces and prioritized sustainable differentiation as a must-have requirement for all ITW businesses. This process included both divesting entire businesses and exiting commoditized product lines and customers inside otherwise highly differentiated ITW divisions.
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•Business Structure Simplification was implemented to simplify and scale up ITW's operating structure to support increased engineering, marketing, and sales resources, and improve global reach and competitiveness, all of which were critical to driving accelerated organic growth. ITW now has 88 scaled-up divisions with significantly enhanced focus on growth investments, core customers and products, and Customer-Back Innovation.
•The Strategic Sourcing initiative established sourcing as a core strategic and operational capability at ITW, delivering an average of one percent reduction in spend each year since 2013 and continues to be a key contributor to the Company's ongoing Enterprise Strategy.
•With the initial portfolio realignment and scale-up work largely completed, the Company shifted its focus to preparing for and accelerating organic growth, reapplying the 80/20 Front-to-Back process to optimize its scaled-up divisions for growth, first, to build a foundation of operational excellence, and second, to identify the best opportunities to drive organic growth.
Since implementing the Company's Enterprise Strategy in 2012, the Company has demonstrated the compelling performance potential of the ITW Business Model and superior 80/20 management, resulting in meaningful incremental improvement in margins and returns as evidenced by the Company's operating margin and after-tax return on invested capital.
NEXT PHASE: 2024 - 2030
In the Next Phase of the Company's Enterprise Strategy, the ITW Business Model remains the Company's core competitive advantage and a powerful performance differentiator, uniquely positioning the Company to navigate a global operating environment characterized by increasing volatility and a rapid pace of change. The 80/20 Front-To-Back process provides the strategic clarity to deliver high-quality organic growth and superior customer service, profitability and returns on capital. Through Customer-Back Innovation, the Company innovates technical solutions to solve critical customer challenges with higher effectiveness and lower risk. The Company's decentralized entrepreneurial culture allows it to be a "fast adaptor," capable of reading and reacting to market shifts with agility. Furthermore, the Company's ability to execute and invest consistently through all phases of the business cycle has become a defining strength.
As the Company advances through this Next Phase, it is continuing to improve the quality of practice in its proprietary business model while pivoting decisively to build above-market organic growth, fueled by Customer-Back Innovation execution, into a core ITW strength. Achieving high-quality organic growth of four percent or more through the cycle is the Company's highest priority in the Next Phase. CBI successes, coupled with underlying market growth and share gains, are how the Company intends to achieve its high-quality organic growth.
Portfolio Discipline
The Company only operates in industries where it can generate significant, long-term competitive advantage from the ITW Business Model. ITW businesses have the right "raw material" in terms of market and business attributes that best fit the ITW Business Model and have significant potential to drive above-market organic growth over the long-term.
The Company focuses on high-quality businesses, ensuring it operates in markets with positive long-term macro fundamentals and with customers that have critical needs and value ITW's differentiated products, services and solutions. ITW's portfolio operates in highly diverse end markets and geographies which makes the Company more resilient in the face of uncertain or volatile market environments.
The Company routinely evaluates its portfolio to ensure it delivers sustainable differentiation and drives consistent long-term performance. This includes both implementing portfolio refinements and assessing selective high-quality acquisitions to supplement ITW's long-term growth potential.
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TERMS USED BY ITW
Management uses the following terms to describe the financial results of operations of the Company:
•Organic business - acquired businesses that have been included in the Company's results of operations for more than 12 months on a constant currency basis.
•Operating leverage - the estimated effect of the organic revenue volume changes on organic operating income, assuming variable margins remain the same as the prior period.
•Price/cost - represents the estimated net impact of increases or decreases in the cost of materials used in the Company's products versus changes in the selling price to the Company's customers.
•Product line simplification ("PLS") - focuses businesses on eliminating the complexity and overhead costs associated with smaller product lines and customers, and focuses businesses on supporting and growing their largest customers and product lines. In the short-term, PLS may result in a decrease in revenue and overhead costs while improving operating margin. In the long-term, PLS is expected to result in growth in revenue, profitability, and returns.
Unless otherwise stated, the changes in financial results in the consolidated results of operations and the results of operations by segment represent the current year period versus the comparable period in the prior year. The following discussion of operating results should be read in conjunction with Item 7 - Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in the Company's 2025 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
CONSOLIDATED RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
During the first quarter of 2022, Russian military forces invaded Ukraine. In response, the United States and several other countries imposed economic and other sanctions on Russia. The Company has four immaterial Russian subsidiaries with net assets of approximately $38 million as of March 31, 2026. The revenue for these four subsidiaries for the three months ended March 31, 2026 was approximately $6 million. These subsidiaries are not material to the Company's results of operations or financial position.
On April 2, 2025, the United States government announced additional tariffs on goods imported to the U.S. from numerous countries. In response, certain countries retaliated with additional counter-tariffs or negotiated with the U.S. government regarding tariffs. Tariffs on goods from many countries became effective on August 1, 2025. On February 20, 2026, the U.S. Supreme Court invalidated many of the tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (the "IEEPA"), resulting in the termination of many tariffs imposed in 2025. Following this decision, a new temporary 10 percent global tariff was imposed under the Trade Act, which may remain in effect up to 150 days. The Company believes that it continues to be well positioned to minimize the impact of these tariffs because its businesses generally manufacture products in the markets where they are sold and the Company expects to recover any increased cost due to tariffs through price increases. However, current tariff policies have introduced additional uncertainty and may negatively impact overall demand from the Company's custo
[Excerpt truncated for page length; source filing is linked above.]
Latest 10-K MD&A
ITEM 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
INTRODUCTION
Illinois Tool Works Inc. (the "Company" or "ITW") is a global manufacturer of a diversified range of industrial products and equipment with 88 divisions in 49 countries. As of December 31, 2025, the Company employed approximately 43,000 people.
The Company's operations are organized and managed based on similar product offerings and end markets, and are reported to senior management as the following seven segments: Automotive OEM; Food Equipment; Test & Measurement and Electronics; Welding; Polymers & Fluids; Construction Products; and Specialty Products.
Due to the large number of diverse businesses and the Company's decentralized operating structure, the Company does not require its businesses to provide detailed information on operating results. Instead, the Company's corporate management collects data on several key measurements: operating revenue, operating income, operating margin, variable cost of revenue, overhead expenses, number of months on hand in inventory, days sales outstanding in accounts receivable, past due receivables and return on invested capital. These key measures are monitored by management and significant changes in operating results versus current trends in end markets and variances from forecasts are discussed with operating unit management.
THE ITW BUSINESS MODEL
The powerful and highly differentiated ITW Business Model is the Company's core source of value creation. It is the Company's competitive advantage and defines how ITW creates value for its shareholders. The ITW Business Model is comprised of three unique elements:
•ITW's 80/20 Front-to-Back process is the operating system that is applied in every ITW business. Initially introduced as a manufacturing efficiency tool in the 1980s, ITW has continually refined, improved and expanded 80/20 into a proprietary, holistic business management process that generates significant value for the Company and its customers. Through the application of data driven insights generated by 80/20 practice, ITW focuses on its largest and best opportunities (the "80") and eliminates cost, complexity and distractions associated with the less profitable opportunities (the "20"). 80/20 enables ITW businesses to consistently achieve world-class operational excellence in product availability, quality, and innovation, while generating superior financial performance;
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•Customer-back Innovation has fueled decades of profitable growth at ITW. The Company's unique innovation approach is built on insight gathered from the 80/20 Front-to-Back process. Working from the customer back, ITW businesses position themselves as the go-to problem solver for their "80" customers. ITW's innovation efforts are focused on understanding customer needs, particularly those in "80" markets with solid long-term growth fundamentals, and creating unique solutions to address those needs. These customer insights and learnings drive innovation at ITW and have contributed to a portfolio of approximately 21,800 granted and pending patents; and
•ITW's Decentralized, Entrepreneurial Culture enables ITW businesses to be fast, focused, and responsive. ITW businesses have significant flexibility within the framework of the ITW Business Model to customize their approach in order to best serve their specific customers' needs. ITW colleagues recognize their unique responsibilities to execute the Company's strategy and values. As a result, the Company maintains a focused and simple organizational structure that, combined with outstanding execution, delivers best-in-class services and solutions adapted to each business' customers and end markets.
ENTERPRISE STRATEGY: 2012 - 2023
In late 2012, ITW began its strategic framework transitioning the Company to fully leverage the unique and powerful set of capabilities and operating practices of the ITW Business Model. The Company undertook a complete review of its performance, focusing on its businesses delivering consistent above-market growth with best-in-class margins and returns, and developing a strategy to replicate that performance across its operations. ITW determined that solid and consistent above-market organic growth is the core growth engine to deliver world-class financial performance and compelling long-term returns for its shareholders.
Key initiatives in the Company's enterprise strategy included portfolio management, business structure simplification, strategic sourcing and the diligent re-application of ITW's proprietary 80/20 Front-to-Back process.
•As part of the Portfolio Management initiative, ITW exited businesses that were operating in commoditized market spaces and prioritized sustainable differentiation as a must-have requirement for all ITW businesses. This process included both divesting entire businesses and exiting commoditized product lines and customers inside otherwise highly differentiated ITW divisions.
•Business Structure Simplification was implemented to simplify and scale up ITW's operating structure to support increased engineering, marketing, and sales resources, and improve global reach and competitiveness, all of which were critical to driving accelerated organic growth. ITW now has 88 scaled-up divisions with significantly enhanced focus on growth investments, core customers and products, and customer-back innovation.
•The Strategic Sourcing initiative established sourcing as a core strategic and operational capability at ITW, delivering an average of one percent reduction in spend each year since 2013 and continues to be a key contributor to the Company's ongoing enterprise strategy.
•With the initial portfolio realignment and scale-up work largely completed, the Company shifted its focus to preparing for and accelerating organic growth, reapplying the 80/20 Front-to-Back process to optimize its scaled-up divisions for growth, first, to build a foundation of operational excellence, and second, to identify the best opportunities to drive organic growth.
Since implementing the Company's enterprise strategy in 2012, the Company has demonstrated the compelling performance potential of the ITW Business Model and superior 80/20 management, resulting in meaningful incremental improvement in margins and returns as evidenced by the Company's operating margin and after-tax return on invested capital. At the same time, these 80/20 initiatives may also result in restructuring initiatives that reduce costs and improve profitability and returns.
OUR NEXT PHASE: 2024 - 2030
In the Next Phase of the Company's evolution, the ITW Business Model and the Enterprise Strategy framework will be as formidable of a competitive advantage and performance differentiator as it has been over the last decade, if not more so. Volatility, risk and the pace of change in the global operating environment will continue to increase, and a decentralized entrepreneurial culture allows the Company to be a fast adaptor – to read, react, respond and evolve. The Company's ability to consistently execute and invest through the ups and downs of the business cycle is now a defining competitive advantage.
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Throughout the Next Phase, the Company's focus is to build organic growth into a core ITW strength on par with the Company's world-class financial performance and operational capabilities. Throughout this phase, the Company will sustain its foundational strengths built over the past decade, including the high-quality ITW Business Model practice. Customer-back Innovation ("CBI") is the most impactful driver to achieve high-quality organic growth through the cycle by establishing trusted problem solver relationships with key customers to effectively invent solutions that address customers' most critical pain points or tackle the biggest growth opportunities. CBI successes, coupled with underlying market growth and share gains, are how the Company intends to achieve its high-quality organic growth.
During the Next Phase, ITW will continue to drive 80/20 Front-to-Back practice excellence in every division in the Company, every day, further improving customer-facing performance and supporting additional structural margin expansion at the enterprise level.
Portfolio Discipline
The Company only operates in industries where it can generate significant, long-term competitive advantage from the ITW Business Model. ITW businesses have the right "raw material" in terms of market and business attributes that best fit the ITW Business Model and have significant potential to drive above-market organic growth over the long-term.
The Company focuses on high-quality businesses, ensuring it operates in markets with positive long-term macro fundamentals and with customers that have critical needs and value ITW's differentiated products, services and solutions. ITW's portfolio operates in highly diverse end markets and geographies which makes the Company more resilient in the face of uncertain or volatile market environments.
The Company routinely evaluates its portfolio to ensure it delivers sustainable differentiation and drives consistent long-term performance. This includes both implementing portfolio refinements and assessing selective high-quality acquisitions to supplement ITW's long-term growth potential.
In the fourth quarter of 2022, plans were approved to divest one business in the Specialty Products segment. This business was presented as held for sale beginning in the fourth quarter of 2022. This business was sold on April 3, 2023, with no significant gain or loss upon sale. Operating revenue related to this business that was included in the Company's results of operations was $9 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023. Refer to Note 3. Divestitures in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information regarding the Company's divestitures.
On January 2, 2024, the Company completed the acquisition of one business in the Test & Measurement and Electronics segment for $57 million, net of cash acquired. On April 1, 2024, the Company completed the acquisition of one business in the Test & Measurement and Electronics segment for $59 million, net of cash acquired. The Company has completed the allocation of purchase price for both of these acquisitions. On October 1, 2025, the Company completed the acquisition of one business in the Test & Measurement and Electronics segment for $120 million, net of cash acquired, and subject to certain closing adjustments. The allocation of purchase price for this acquisition will be completed as soon as practicable, but no later than one year from the acquisition date. These acquisitions were not material, individually or in the aggregate, to the Company's results of operations, financial position or cash flows. Refer to Note 2. Acquisitions in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information regarding the Company's acquisitions.
On August 5, 2024, the Company entered into a purchase agreement with affiliates of Clayton, Dubilier & Rice, LLC ("CD&R") for the sale of the Company's noncontrolling equity interest in Wilsonart International Holdings LLC ("Wilsonart") for $398 million. The transaction closed immediately after the execution of the purchase agreement. Proceeds from the transaction, net of transaction costs, were $395 million, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $363 million which was included in Other income (expense) in the Statement of Income. Income taxes on the gain were more than offset by a discrete tax benefit of $107 million in the third quarter of 2024 related to the utilization of capital loss carryforwards upon the sale of Wilsonart. Refer to Note 5. Other Income (Expense) and Note 6. Income Taxes in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for additional information regarding this transaction.
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TERMS USED BY ITW
Management uses the following terms to describe the financial results of operations of the Company:
•Organic business - acquired businesses that have been included in the Company's results of operations for more than 12 months on a constant currency basis.
•Operating leverage - the estimated effect of the organic revenue volume changes on organic operating income, assuming variable margins remain the same as the prior period.
•Price/cost - represents the estimated net impact of increases or decreases in the cost of materials used in the Company's products versus changes in the selling price to the Company's customers.
•Product line simplification ("PLS") - focuses businesses on eliminating the complexity and overhead costs associated with smaller product lines and customers, and focuses businesses on supporting and growing their largest customers and product lines. In the short-term, PLS may result in a decrease in revenue and overhead costs while improving operating margin. In the long-term, PLS is expected to result in growth in revenue, profitability, and returns.
Unless otherwise stated, the changes in financial results in the consolidated results of operations and the results of operations by segment represent the current year period versus the comparable period in the prior year.
CONSOLIDATED RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
During the first quarter of 2022, Russian military forces invaded Ukraine. In response, the United States and several other countries imposed economic and other sanctions on Russia. The Company has four immaterial Russian subsidiaries with net assets of approximately $38 million as of December 31, 2025. The revenue for these four subsidiaries for the twelve months ended December 31, 2025 was approximately $24 million. These subsidiaries were not material to the Company's results of operations or financial position.
In the fourth quarter of 2022, plans were approved to divest one business in the Specialty Products segment. This business was presented as held for sale beginning in the fourth quarter of 2022. This business was sold on April 3, 2023, with no significant gain or loss upon sale. Operating revenue related to this business that was included in the Company's results of operations was $9 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023. Refer to Note 3. Divestitures in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information regarding the Company's divestitures.
On January 2, 2024, the Company completed the acquisition of one business in the Test & Measurement and Electronics segment for $57 million, net of cash acquired. On April 1, 2024, the Company completed the acquisition of one business in the Test & Measurement and Electronics segment for $59 million, net of cash acquired. The Company has completed the allocation of purchase price for both of these acquisitions. On October 1, 2025, the Company completed the acquisition of one business in the Test & Measurement and Electronics segment for $120 million, net of cash acquired, and subject to certain closing adjustments. The allocation of purchase price for this acquisition will be completed as soon as practicable, but no later than one year from the acquisition date. These acquisitions were not material, individually or in the aggregate, to the Company's results of operations, financial position or cash flows. Refer to Note 2. Acquisitions in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information regarding the Company's acquisitions.
During the first quarter of 2024, the Company changed the method used to determine the cost of inventory at certain U.S. businesses from the last-in, first-out ("LIFO") method to the first-in, first-out ("FIFO") method, as the Company believes the FIFO method is preferable because it provides a more consistent method for valuing inventory across the Company's operations, improves comparability with peers, and better reflects the current value of inventories at the balance sheet date. The LIFO provision for the year ended December 31, 2023 was $6 million of expense, and was not material to the Company’s results of operations, financial position or cash flows. Therefore, the Company recorded the pre-tax cumulative effect of this change in accounting method of $117 million as a reduction of Cost of revenue in the first quarter of 2024. Refer to Note 1. Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for additional information regarding this change in accounting method and the Company's inventory balances.
21
On August 5, 2024, the Company entered into a purchase agreement with affiliates of CD&R for the sale of the Company's noncontrolling equity interest in Wilsonart. The transaction closed immediately after the execution of the purchase agreement. Proceeds from the transaction, net of transaction costs, were $395 million, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $363 million which was included in Other income (expense) in the Statement of Income. Income taxes on the gain were more than offset by a discrete tax benefit of $107 million in the third quarter of 2024 related to the utilization of capital loss carryforwards upon the sale of Wilsonart. Refer to Note 5. Other Income (Expense) and Note 6. Income Taxes in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for additional information regarding this transaction.
On April 2, 2025, the United States government announced additional tariffs on goods imported to the U.S. from numerous countries. In response, certain countries retaliated with additional counter-tariffs or are working to negotiate with the U.S government regarding tariffs. Tariffs on goods from many countries became effective on August 1, 2025. The Company believes it is well positioned to minimize the impact of these tariffs because its businesses generally manufacture products in the markets where they are sold and the Company expects to recover the increased cost of tariffs through price increases. However, current tariff policies have introduced additional uncertainty and may negatively impact overall demand from the Company's customers. The Company continues to assess the impact of the tariffs and actions that can be taken to moderate and/or minimize their effects on the Company.
On July 4, 2025, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (the "OBBBA") was enacted in the United States, which extended and modified certain provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the "TCJA"). The provisions of the OBBBA did not have any impact on the Company's operating results, financial position or cash flows for the twelve months ended December 31, 2025, and is not expected to have a material impact on future periods.
In 2025, the Company delivered solid financial results in a challenging and dynamic environment primarily due to the strong execution on enterprise initiatives as an outcome of the highly differentiated ITW Business Model.
Operating Revenue
Refer to the "Results of Operations for Total Company" and the "Results of Operations by Segment" sections for discussion of changes in operating revenue for 2025 compared to 2024 and 2024 compared to 2023.
Operating Expenses
| Dollars in millions | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Operating Revenue | $ | 16,044 | $ | 15,898 | $ | 16,107 | ||||
| Cost of revenue | $ | 8,969 | $ | 8,858 | $ | 9,316 | ||||
| Percent of operating revenue | 55.9 | % | 55.7 | % | 57.8 | % | ||||
| Selling, administrative, and research and development expenses | $ | 2,779 | $ | 2,675 | $ | 2,638 | ||||
| Percent of operating revenue | 17.3 | % | 16.8 | % | 16.4 | % | ||||
| Amortization and impairment of intangible assets | $ | 80 | $ | 101 | $ | 113 | ||||
| Percent of operating revenue | 0.5 | % | 0.6 | % | 0.7 | % |
Cost of revenue was $8.97 billion in 2025, $8.86 billion in 2024 and $9.32 billion in 2023. Cost of revenue increased 1.2% in 2025 compared to 2024. Excluding the first quarter 2024 LIFO accounting method change of $117 million, Cost of revenue decreased 0.1% in 2025 compared to 2024 primarily due to benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, partially offset by higher employee-related expenses. Cost of revenue, excluding the first quarter 2024 LIFO accounting method change, as a percent of operating revenue improved in 2025 compared to 2024 primarily due to benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, partially offset by higher employee-related expenses. Cost of revenue was 4.9% lower in 2024 compared to 2023 primarily due to lower revenue and the first quarter 2024 LIFO accounting method change, which reduced cost of revenue by 3.1% and 1.3%, respectively. Cost of revenue as a percent of operating revenue improved in 2024 compared to 2023 primarily due to the LIFO accounting method change and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, partially offset by higher employee-related expenses.
22
Selling, administrative, and research and development expenses were $2.78 billion in 2025, $2.68 billion in 2024 and $2.64 billion in 2023. Selling, administrative, and research and development expenses in 2025 increased 3.9% compared to 2024 primarily due to higher employee-related expenses and higher research and development expenses, partially offset by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives. Expenses in 2024 increased 1.4% compared to 2023 primarily driven by higher employee-related expenses and the impact of acquisitions in 2024. Selling, administrative, and research and development expenses as a percent of operating revenue were higher in 2024 compared to 2023, as higher employee-related expenses and the unfavorable impact of acquisitions in the first and second quarters of 2024 were partially offset by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives.
Amortization and impairment of intangible assets was $80 million in 2025, $101 million in 2024 and $113 million in 2023. The decreased expense in each respective period was primarily due to fully amortized intangible assets.
Refer to the "Results of Operations for Total Company" and the "Results of Operation by Segment" sections for additional discussion of operating results for 2025 compared to 2024 and 2024 compared to 2023.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS FOR TOTAL COMPANY
The Company's consolidated results of operations for 2025, 2024 and 2023 were as follows:
2025 compared to 2024
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2025 | 2024 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/ Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 16,044 | $ | 15,898 | 0.9 | % | — | % | 0.1 | % | — | % | 0.8 | % | 0.9 | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 4,216 | $ | 4,264 | (1.1) | % | (1.8) | % | (0.1) | % | — | % | 0.8 | % | (1.1) | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 26.3 | % | 26.8 | % | (50) bps | (50) bps | — | — | — | (50) bps |
•Operating revenue increased primarily due to the favorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue was flat as growth in the Automotive OEM, Welding, Food Equipment and Specialty Products segments was offset by a decline in the Construction Products, Test & Measurement and Electronics and Polymers & Fluids segments. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 60 basis points.
◦North American organic revenue declined 0.7% as a decrease in the Construction Products, Test & Measurement and Electronics, Automotive OEM and Polymers & Fluids segments was partially offset by growth in the Food Equipment, Welding and Specialty Products segments.
◦Europe, Middle East and Africa organic revenue decreased 2.2% as a decline in the Test & Measurement and Electronics, Construction Products, Automotive OEM, Polymers & Fluids and Food Equipment segments was partially offset by growth in the Specialty Products and Welding segments.
◦Asia Pacific organic revenue grew 6.3% as growth in the Automotive OEM, Test & Measurement and Electronics, Welding, Polymers & Fluids and Specialty Products segments was partially offset by a decline in the Construction Products and Food Equipment segments. Organic revenue in China increased 8.7% as growth in the Automotive OEM, Test & Measurement and Electronics, Welding, Polymers & Fluids and Specialty Products segments was partially offset by a decline in the Food Equipment and Construction Products segments.
•Operating income of $4.2 billion declined 1.1%, or increased 1.7% excluding the $117 million favorable impact of the LIFO accounting method changed discussed previously.
•Operating margin of 26.3% decreased 50 basis points. Excluding the 70 basis points of favorable impact from the LIFO accounting method change in the first quarter of 2024, operating margin increased 20 basis points primarily driven by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives of 130 basis points and favorable price/cost of 10 basis points, partially offset by higher employee-related expenses, including higher health and welfare expenses.
•The Company's effective tax rate for 2025 and 2024 was 22.7% and 21.1%, respectively. The effective tax rate for 2025 included a discrete tax benefit of $21 million in the first quarter of 2025 related to the reversal of a valuation allowance on net operating loss carryforwards. Additionally, the 2025 effective tax rate benefited from a discrete tax benefit in the third quarter of 2025 of $43 million related to the estimated U.S. federal tax liability for 2024, partially offset by a $16 million discrete tax expense related primarily to the resolution of a foreign tax audit. The 2024 effective tax rate benefited from discrete income tax benefits during the third quarter of 2024 of $107 million related
23
to the utilization of capital loss carryforwards upon the sale of Wilsonart and $87 million related to a reorganization of the Company's intellectual property, partially offset by a $73 million discrete tax expense related to the remeasurement of unrecognized tax benefits associated with various intercompany transactions. Refer to Note 5. Other Income (Expense) and Note 6. Income Taxes in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for additional information regarding these transactions. Additionally, the effective tax rates for 2025 and 2024 included discrete income tax benefits of $8 million and $14 million, respectively, related to excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation.
•Diluted earnings per share ("EPS") of $10.49 in 2025 decreased 10.4%, or increased 3.3% excluding the favorable impact of $1.26 from the third quarter 2024 Wilsonart transaction and the favorable impact from the first quarter 2024 LIFO accounting method change of $0.30.
•The Company repurchased approximately 6.0 million shares of its common stock in 2025 for approximately $1.5 billion.
•The Company increased the quarterly dividend on common stock from $1.50 to $1.61 per share in 2025, or from $6.00 to $6.44 per share on an annualized basis. Total cash dividends of approximately $1.8 billion were paid in 2025.
2024 compared to 2023
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2024 | 2023 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/ Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 15,898 | $ | 16,107 | (1.3) | % | (0.7) | % | 0.1 | % | — | % | (0.7) | % | (1.3) | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 4,264 | $ | 4,040 | 5.5 | % | 6.2 | % | (0.2) | % | 0.5 | % | (1.0) | % | 5.5 | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 26.8 | % | 25.1 | % | 170 bps | 170 bps | (10) bps | 10 bps | — | 170 bps |
•Operating revenue decreased primarily due to lower organic revenue and the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue declined 0.7% as a decrease in the Construction Products, Welding, Test & Measurement and Electronics and Automotive OEM segments was partially offset by growth in the Specialty Products, Food Equipment and Polymers & Fluids segments. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 60 basis points.
◦North American organic revenue decreased 2.4% as a decline in six segments was partially offset by growth in the Specialty Products segment.
◦Europe, Middle East and Africa organic revenue declined 0.3% as a decrease in the Automotive OEM, Construction Products and Test & Measurement and Electronics segments was partially offset by growth in the Specialty Products, Food Equipment, Polymers & Fluids and Welding segments.
◦Asia Pacific organic revenue grew 3.0% as growth in six segments was partially offset by a decline in the Construction Products segment. Organic revenue in China increased 6.9% as growth in five segments was partially offset by a decline in the Construction Products and Test & Measurement and Electronics segments.
•Operating income of $4.3 billion grew 5.5%, or 2.6% excluding the $117 million favorable impact of the LIFO accounting method changed discussed previously.
•Operating margin of 26.8% increased 170 basis points. Excluding the 70 basis points of favorable impact from the LIFO accounting method change in the first quarter of 2024, operating margin increased 100 basis points primarily driven by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives of 130 basis points and favorable price/cost of 40 basis points, partially offset by higher employee-related expenses.
•The Company's effective tax rate for 2024 and 2023 was 21.1% and 22.6%, respectively. The 2024 effective tax rate benefited from discrete income tax benefits during the third quarter of 2024 of $107 million related to the utilization of capital loss carryforwards upon the sale of Wilsonart and $87 million related to a reorganization of the Company's intellectual property, partially offset by a $73 million discrete tax expense related to the remeasurement of unrecognized tax benefits associated with various intercompany transactions. Refer to Note 5. Other Income (Expense) and Note 6. Income Taxes in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for additional information regarding these transactions. The 2023 effective tax rate benefited from a discrete income tax benefit of $20 million in the second quarter of 2023 related to amended 2021 U.S. taxes. Additionally, the effective tax rates for 2024 and 2023 included discrete income tax benefits of $14 million and $20 million, respectively, related to excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation.
24
•Diluted earnings per share ("EPS") of $11.71 in 2024 increased 20.2%, or 4.2% excluding the favorable impact from the first quarter 2024 LIFO accounting method change of $0.30 and the favorable impact of $1.26 from the third quarter 2024 Wilsonart transaction.
•The Company repurchased approximately 5.9 million shares of its common stock in 2024 for approximately $1.5 billion.
•The Company increased the quarterly dividend on common stock from $1.40 to $1.50 per share in 2024, or from $5.60 to $6.00 per share on an annualized basis. Total cash dividends of approximately $1.7 billion were paid in 2024.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS BY SEGMENT
The reconciliation of segment operating revenue and operating income to total operating revenue and operating income is as follows:
| Operating Revenue | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| In millions | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | |||||||
| Automotive OEM | $ | 3,288 | $ | 3,188 | $ | 3,235 | ||||
| Food Equipment | 2,699 | 2,647 | 2,622 | |||||||
| Test & Measurement and Electronics | 2,825 | 2,818 | 2,832 | |||||||
| Welding | 1,890 | 1,851 | 1,902 | |||||||
| Polymers & Fluids | 1,765 | 1,764 | 1,804 | |||||||
| Construction Products | 1,820 | 1,909 | 2,033 | |||||||
| Specialty Products | 1,775 | 1,743 | 1,697 | |||||||
| Total segments | 16,062 | 15,920 | 16,125 | |||||||
| Intersegment revenue | (18) | (22) | (18) | |||||||
| Total | $ | 16,044 | $ | 15,898 | $ | 16,107 |
| Operating Income | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| In millions | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | |||||||
| Automotive OEM | $ | 693 | $ | 625 | $ | 561 | ||||
| Food Equipment | 753 | 719 | 713 | |||||||
| Test & Measurement and Electronics | 694 | 703 | 686 | |||||||
| Welding | 621 | 597 | 605 | |||||||
| Polymers & Fluids | 493 | 484 | 482 | |||||||
| Construction Products | 550 | 559 | 578 | |||||||
| Specialty Products | 553 | 528 | 449 | |||||||
| Total segments | 4,357 | 4,215 | 4,074 | |||||||
| Unallocated | (141) | 49 | (34) | |||||||
| Total | $ | 4,216 | $ | 4,264 | $ | 4,040 |
Segments are allocated a fixed overhead charge based on the segment's revenue. Expenses not charged to the segments are reported separately as Unallocated. Because the Unallocated category includes a variety of items, it is subject to fluctuations on a quarterly and annual basis. Unallocated expenses in 2025 included higher employee-related expenses, including health and welfare expenses and insurance-related expenses as compared to 2024. Unallocated expenses in 2024 included the favorable pre-tax cumulative effect of the LIFO accounting method change of $117 million in the first quarter of 2024. Refer to Note 1. Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for additional information regarding this change in accounting method and the Company's inventory balances.
25
AUTOMOTIVE OEM
This segment is a global, niche supplier to top tier OEMs, providing unique innovation to address pain points for sophisticated customers with complex problems. Businesses in this segment produce components and fasteners for automotive-related applications. This segment primarily serves the automotive original equipment manufacturers and tiers market. Products in this segment include:
•plastic and metal components, fasteners and assemblies for automobiles, light trucks and other industrial uses.
The results of operations for the Automotive OEM segment for 2025, 2024 and 2023 were as follows:
2025 compared to 2024
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2025 | 2024 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 3,288 | $ | 3,188 | 3.2 | % | 2.0 | % | — | % | — | % | 1.2 | % | 3.2 | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 693 | $ | 625 | 10.9 | % | 9.8 | % | — | % | (0.2) | % | 1.3 | % | 10.9 | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 21.1 | % | 19.6 | % | 150 bps | 150 bps | — | — | — | 150 bps |
•Operating revenue increased due to higher organic revenue and the favorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue grew 2.0% compared to worldwide auto builds which increased 4%. Auto builds, for original equipment manufacturers in geographies where the Company has a higher concentration of revenue, increased 1%. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 120 basis points.
◦North American revenue declined 2.1% compared to North American auto builds which decreased 1% primarily due to customer mix and product line simplification activities.
◦European organic revenue decreased 1.2% compared to European auto builds which declined 1% primarily due to customer mix and product line simplification activities.
◦Asia Pacific organic revenue grew 10.6%. China organic revenue increased 11.8%, including growth in the electric vehicles market and market penetration gains with Chinese original equipment manufacturers, versus China auto builds which grew 10%. Auto builds of foreign automotive manufacturers in China, where the Company has higher content per vehicle, declined 5%.
•Operating margin of 21.1% increased 150 basis points primarily driven by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, positive operating leverage of 40 basis points and favorable price/cost of 10 basis points, partially offset by higher employee-related expenses and continued investment in the business.
2024 compared to 2023
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2024 | 2023 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 3,188 | $ | 3,235 | (1.5) | % | (0.4) | % | — | % | — | % | (1.1) | % | (1.5) | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 625 | $ | 561 | 11.4 | % | 9.6 | % | — | % | 3.0 | % | (1.2) | % | 11.4 | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 19.6 | % | 17.3 | % | 230 bps | 180 bps | — | 50 bps | — | 230 bps |
•Operating revenue decreased due to the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation and lower organic revenue.
•Organic revenue declined 0.4% compared to worldwide auto builds which decreased 1%. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 70 basis points.
◦North American revenue decreased 5.1% compared to North American auto builds which declined 1% primarily due to customer mix and product line simplification activities. Auto builds for the Detroit 3, where the Company has higher content, decreased 4%.
26
◦European organic revenue declined 3.4% compared to European auto builds which decreased 5% primarily due to market penetration gains.
◦Asia Pacific organic revenue grew 9.7%. China organic revenue increased 8.1%, including growth in the electric vehicles market and market penetration gains with Chinese original equipment manufacturers, versus China auto builds which grew 4%. Auto builds of foreign automotive manufacturers in China, where the Company has higher content per vehicle, decreased 17%.
•Operating margin of 19.6% increased 230 basis points primarily driven by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, lower restructuring expenses and favorable price/cost of 20 basis points, partially offset by higher employee-related expenses and continued investment in the business.
FOOD EQUIPMENT
This segment is a highly focused and branded industry leader in commercial food equipment differentiated by innovation and integrated service offerings. This segment primarily serves the food service, food retail and food institutional/restaurant markets. Products in this segment include:
•warewashing equipment;
•cooking equipment, including ovens, ranges and broilers;
•refrigeration equipment, including refrigerators, freezers and prep tables;
•food processing equipment, including slicers, mixers and scales;
•kitchen exhaust, ventilation and pollution control systems; and
•food equipment service, maintenance and repair.
The results of operations for the Food Equipment segment for 2025, 2024 and 2023 were as follows:
2025 compared to 2024
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2025 | 2024 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 2,699 | $ | 2,647 | 1.9 | % | 0.8 | % | — | % | — | % | 1.1 | % | 1.9 | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 753 | $ | 719 | 4.6 | % | 3.0 | % | — | % | 0.4 | % | 1.2 | % | 4.6 | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 27.9 | % | 27.2 | % | 70 bps | 60 bps | — | 10 bps | — | 70 bps |
•Operating revenue increased due to the favorable effect of foreign currency translation and higher organic revenue.
•Organic revenue grew 0.8% as equipment declined 0.3% and service organic revenue increased 2.8%.
◦North American organic revenue grew 1.8%. Equipment organic revenue grew 0.4% primarily due to growth in the institutional end market, partially offset by lower demand in the independent restaurant and food retail end markets. Service organic revenue increased 4.1%.
◦International organic revenue decreased 0.6%. Equipment organic revenue declined 1.1% primarily due to lower demand in the European cooking and refrigeration end markets and a decline in Asia Pacific, partially offset by higher demand in the European warewash end market. Service organic revenue increased 0.4%.
•Operating margin of 27.9% increased 70 basis points primarily driven by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and positive operating leverage of 20 basis points, partially offset by higher operating expenses, including employee-related expenses and additional investment in the business.
27
2024 compared to 2023
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2024 | 2023 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 2,647 | $ | 2,622 | 1.0 | % | 1.1 | % | — | % | — | % | (0.1) | % | 1.0 | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 719 | $ | 713 | 1.0 | % | 1.4 | % | — | % | (0.3) | % | (0.1) | % | 1.0 | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 27.2 | % | 27.2 | % | — | 10 bps | — | (10) bps | — | — |
•Operating revenue increased primarily due to higher organic revenue.
•Organic revenue grew 1.1% as equipment declined 0.8% and service organic revenue increased 4.8%.
◦North American organic revenue decreased 0.2%. Equipment organic revenue declined 2.4% primarily due to lower demand in the independent restaurant and food retail end markets, partially offset by growth in the institutional end market. Service organic revenue grew 3.9%.
◦International organic revenue grew 3.0%. Equipment organic revenue increased 1.6% primarily due to higher demand in the European warewash and cooking end markets and growth in Asia Pacific, partially offset by lower demand in the European refrigeration end market. Service organic revenue grew 6.4%.
•Operating margin of 27.2% was flat as benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, favorable price/cost of 30 basis points and positive operating leverage of 20 basis points were offset by higher operating expenses, including employee-related expenses and additional investment in the business.
TEST & MEASUREMENT AND ELECTRONICS
This segment is a branded and innovative producer of test and measurement and electronic manufacturing and maintenance, repair, and operations, or "MRO" solutions that improve efficiency and quality for customers in diverse end markets. Businesses in this segment produce equipment, consumables, and related software for testing and measuring of materials and structures, as well as equipment and consumables used in the production of electronic subassemblies and microelectronics. This segment primarily serves the electronics, general industrial, automotive original equipment manufacturers and tiers, energy, industrial capital goods and consumer durables markets. Products in this segment include:
•equipment, consumables, and related software for testing and measuring of materials, structures, gases and fluids;
•electronic assembly equipment;
•electronic components and component packaging;
•static control equipment and consumables used for contamination control in clean room environments; and
•pressure sensitive adhesives and components for electronics, medical, transportation and telecommunications applications.
The results of operations for the Test & Measurement and Electronics segment for 2025, 2024 and 2023 were as follows:
2025 compared to 2024
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2025 | 2024 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 2,825 | $ | 2,818 | 0.2 | % | (1.4) | % | 0.4 | % | — | % | 1.2 | % | 0.2 | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 694 | $ | 703 | (1.2) | % | (0.8) | % | (0.5) | % | (0.8) | % | 0.9 | % | (1.2) | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 24.6 | % | 24.9 | % | (30) bps | 20 bps | (20) bps | (20) bps | (10) bps | (30) bps |
•Operating revenue increased due to the favorable effect of foreign currency translation and revenue from acquisitions, partially offset by lower organic revenue.
•On April 1, 2024, the Company completed the acquisition of one business in the Test & Measurement and Electronics segment for $59 million, net of cash acquired. On October 1, 2025, the Company completed the acquisition of one business in the Test & Measurement and Electronics segment for $120 million, net of cash
28
acquired. Refer to Note 2. Acquisitions in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for additional information regarding these acquisitions.
•Organic revenue declined 1.4% primarily due to a decrease in the general industrial end market, partially offset by growth in the semiconductor and electronics end markets.
◦Organic revenue for the test and measurement businesses declined 2.5% primarily driven by lower demand in the MTS Test & Simulation business, partially offset by growth in the semiconductor end market, primarily in North America and Asia Pacific.
◦Electronics organic revenue grew 1.1% primarily due to higher demand in the semiconductor end market. The electronics assembly businesses decreased 0.1% primarily due to lower demand in Asia Pacific, partially offset by growth in North America. The other electronics businesses, which include the contamination control, static control and pressure sensitive adhesives businesses, increased 1.6% with higher demand in North America and Asia Pacific, partially offset by a decline in Europe.
•Operating margin of 24.6% decreased 30 basis points primarily driven by unfavorable operating leverage of 40 basis points, higher employee-related expenses and the dilutive impact of 20 basis points from acquisitions, partially offset by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and lower intangible asset amortization expense.
2024 compared to 2023
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2024 | 2023 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 2,818 | $ | 2,832 | (0.5) | % | (1.0) | % | 0.9 | % | — | % | (0.4) | % | (0.5) | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 703 | $ | 686 | 2.5 | % | 4.0 | % | (1.0) | % | — | % | (0.5) | % | 2.5 | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 24.9 | % | 24.2 | % | 70 bps | 130 bps | (50) bps | — | (10) bps | 70 bps |
•Operating revenue decreased due to lower organic revenue and the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation, partially offset by revenue from acquisitions.
•The Company completed the acquisition of one business for $57 million, net of cash acquired, on January 2, 2024, and completed the acquisition of a second business for $59 million, net of cash acquired, on April 1, 2024. Refer to Note 2. Acquisitions in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for additional information regarding these acquisitions.
•Organic revenue decreased 1.0% primarily due to a decline in the semiconductor and electronics end markets, partially offset by growth in the MTS Test & Simulation business.
◦Organic revenue for the test and measurement businesses declined 1.0% primarily driven by lower demand in the semiconductor and general industrial end markets, primarily in North America and Asia Pacific, partially offset by growth in the MTS Test & Simulation business.
◦Electronics organic revenue decreased 1.3% primarily due to a decline in the consumer electronics end market, partially offset by higher demand in the consumable semiconductor end market. The electronics assembly businesses declined 11.1% primarily due to lower demand in North America. The other electronics businesses, which include the contamination control, static control and pressure sensitive adhesives businesses, grew 3.1% primarily due to higher demand across all major regions.
•Operating margin of 24.9% increased 70 basis points primarily driven by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, favorable price/cost of 60 basis points and lower intangible asset amortization expense, partially offset by product mix, the dilutive impact of 50 basis points from acquisitions in 2024, higher employee-related expenses and unfavorable operating leverage of 20 basis points.
WELDING
This segment is a branded value-added equipment and specialty consumable manufacturer with innovative and leading technology. Businesses in this segment produce arc welding equipment, consumables and accessories for a wide array of industrial and commercial applications. This segment primarily serves the general industrial market, which includes fabrication, shipbuilding and other general industrial markets, and construction, energy, MRO, industrial capital goods and automotive original equipment manufacturers and tiers markets. Products in this segment include:
•arc welding equipment; and
•metal arc welding consumables and related accessories.
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The results of operations for the Welding segment for 2025, 2024 and 2023 were as follows:
2025 compared to 2024
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2025 | 2024 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/ Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,890 | $ | 1,851 | 2.1 | % | 2.0 | % | — | % | — | % | 0.1 | % | 2.1 | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 621 | $ | 597 | 4.1 | % | 4.1 | % | — | % | — | % | — | % | 4.1 | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 32.9 | % | 32.3 | % | 60 bps | 60 bps | — | — | — | 60 bps |
•Operating revenue increased primarily due to higher organic revenue.
•Organic revenue grew 2.0% with growth across all major regions. Equipment grew 3.6%, partially offset by a decline in consumables of 0.6%.
◦North American organic revenue grew 1.2% primarily due to an increase of 1.9% in the industrial end market and growth in the second half of the year in the aerospace end market, partially offset by a decline of 2.1% in the commercial end market.
◦International organic revenue increased 6.0% primarily due to higher equipment demand in the general industrial and oil and gas end markets in Europe and Asia Pacific.
•Operating margin of 32.9% increased 60 basis points primarily driven by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, favorable price/cost of 30 basis points and positive operating leverage of 30 basis points, partially offset by higher employee-related expenses.
2024 compared to 2023
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2024 | 2023 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,851 | $ | 1,902 | (2.7) | % | (2.4) | % | — | % | — | % | (0.3) | % | (2.7) | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 597 | $ | 605 | (1.3) | % | (1.3) | % | — | % | 0.2 | % | (0.2) | % | (1.3) | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 32.3 | % | 31.8 | % | 50 bps | 40 bps | — | 10 bps | — | 50 bps |
•Operating revenue decreased due to lower organic revenue and the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue declined 2.4% as equipment and consumables decreased 2.1% and 3.0%, respectively.
◦North American organic revenue decreased 3.3% as the industrial and commercial end markets declined 2.3% and 6.0%, respectively.
◦International organic revenue grew 2.2% primarily due to higher equipment demand in the general industrial and oil and gas end markets in Europe and Asia Pacific.
•Operating margin of 32.3% increased 50 basis points primarily driven by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and favorable price/cost of 50 basis points, partially offset by higher employee-related expenses and unfavorable operating leverage of 40 basis points.
POLYMERS & FLUIDS
This segment is a branded supplier to niche markets that require value-added, differentiated products. Businesses in this segment produce engineered adhesives, sealants, lubrication and cutting fluids, and fluids and polymers for auto aftermarket maintenance and appearance. This segment primarily serves the automotive aftermarket, general industrial and MRO markets. Products in this segment include:
•adhesives for industrial, construction and consumer purposes;
•chemical fluids which clean or add lubrication to machines;
•epoxy and resin-based coating products for industrial applications;
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•hand wipes and cleaners for industrial applications;
•fluids, polymers and other supplies for auto aftermarket maintenance and appearance;
•fillers and putties for auto body repair; and
•polyester coatings and patch and repair products for the marine industry.
The results of operations for the Polymers & Fluids segment for 2025, 2024 and 2023 were as follows:
2025 compared to 2024
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2025 | 2024 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,765 | $ | 1,764 | 0.1 | % | (0.2) | % | — | % | — | % | 0.3 | % | 0.1 | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 493 | $ | 484 | 1.9 | % | 1.9 | % | — | % | — | % | — | % | 1.9 | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 27.9 | % | 27.4 | % | 50 bps | 60 bps | — | — | (10) bps | 50 bps |
•Operating revenue increased due to the favorable effect of foreign currency translation, partially offset by lower organic revenue.
•Organic revenue declined 0.2%, primarily due to a decrease in Europe and North America, partially offset by an increase in Asia Pacific and South America. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 60 basis points.
◦Organic revenue for the automotive aftermarket businesses declined 0.5% primarily due to lower demand in the North American body repair and tire repair businesses, partially offset by growth in the North American car care business.
◦Organic revenue for the polymers businesses declined 0.3% due to a decrease in Europe and North America, partially offset by an increase in Asia Pacific and South America.
◦Organic revenue for the fluids businesses increased 0.7% primarily driven by higher demand in Europe, primarily due to growth in the life sciences end market, partially offset by lower demand in the North American and European industrial maintenance, repair and operations and hygiene end markets.
•Operating margin of 27.9% increased 50 basis points primarily driven by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and lower intangible asset amortization expense, partially offset by higher employee-related expenses.
2024 compared to 2023
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2024 | 2023 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,764 | $ | 1,804 | (2.2) | % | 0.9 | % | — | % | — | % | (3.1) | % | (2.2) | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 484 | $ | 482 | 0.4 | % | 3.7 | % | — | % | 0.9 | % | (4.2) | % | 0.4 | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 27.4 | % | 26.7 | % | 70 bps | 80 bps | — | 20 bps | (30) bps | 70 bps |
•Operating revenue decreased due to the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation, partially offset by higher organic revenue.
•Organic revenue grew 0.9% due to increases in South America, Europe and Asia Pacific, partially offset by a decrease in North America. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 30 basis points.
◦Organic revenue for the polymers businesses grew 6.3% due to increases in South America, Europe and Asia Pacific, partially offset by a decrease in North America.
◦Organic revenue for the fluids businesses increased 1.9% primarily driven by higher demand in Europe, primarily due to growth in the life sciences end market, partially offset by lower demand in the North American and European industrial maintenance, repair and operations and hygiene end markets.
◦Organic revenue for the automotive aftermarket businesses declined 2.2% primarily due to lower demand in the North American car care, body repair and tire repair businesses, partially offset by growth in the North American engine repair business and the European additives and tire repair businesses.
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•Operating margin of 27.4% increased 70 basis points primarily driven by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, favorable price/cost of 30 basis points, positive operating leverage of 20 basis points, lower restructuring expenses and lower intangible asset amortization expense, partially offset by higher employee-related expenses.
CONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS
This segment is a branded supplier of innovative engineered fastening systems and solutions. This segment primarily serves the residential construction, renovation/remodel and commercial construction markets. Products in this segment include:
•fasteners and related fastening tools for wood and metal applications;
•anchors, fasteners and related tools for concrete applications;
•metal plate truss components and related equipment and software; and
•packaged hardware, fasteners, anchors and other products for retail.
The results of operations for the Construction Products segment for 2025, 2024 and 2023 were as follows:
2025 compared to 2024
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2025 | 2024 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,820 | $ | 1,909 | (4.6) | % | (5.1) | % | — | % | — | % | 0.5 | % | (4.6) | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 550 | $ | 559 | (1.6) | % | (3.1) | % | — | % | 1.1 | % | 0.4 | % | (1.6) | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 30.2 | % | 29.3 | % | 90 bps | 60 bps | — | 30 bps | — | 90 bps |
•Operating revenue decreased due to lower organic revenue, partially offset by the favorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue declined 5.1% due to lower demand across all major regions. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 100 basis points.
◦North American organic revenue declined 5.5% primarily due to lower demand in the residential and commercial end markets. Organic revenue in the United States residential end market decreased 6.4%. Organic revenue in the commercial end market was flat. Organic revenue in Canada decreased 3.2%.
◦International organic revenue declined 4.7%. European organic revenue decreased 3.9% primarily due to lower demand in the commercial and residential end markets. Asia Pacific organic revenue declined 5.7% primarily due to lower demand in the Australia and New Zealand residential end markets.
•Operating margin of 30.2% increased 90 basis points primarily driven by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and lower restructuring expenses, partially offset by unfavorable operating leverage of 110 basis points, unfavorable price/cost of 50 basis points and higher employee-related expenses.
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2024 compared to 2023
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2024 | 2023 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,909 | $ | 2,033 | (6.1) | % | (6.1) | % | — | % | — | % | — | % | (6.1) | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 559 | $ | 578 | (3.4) | % | (2.5) | % | — | % | (0.8) | % | (0.1) | % | (3.4) | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 29.3 | % | 28.4 | % | 90 bps | 110 bps | — | (20) bps | — | 90 bps |
•Operating revenue decreased due to lower organic revenue.
•Organic revenue declined 6.1% due to lower demand across all major regions. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 50 basis points.
◦North American organic revenue decreased 4.6% primarily due to lower demand in the residential and commercial end markets. Organic revenue in the United States residential and commercial end markets declined 4.5% and 9.5%, respectively. Organic revenue in Canada increased 3.9%.
◦International organic revenue declined 7.7%. European organic revenue decreased 6.3% primarily due to lower demand in the commercial and residential end markets. Asia Pacific organic revenue declined 9.2% primarily due to lower demand in the Australia and New Zealand residential end markets.
•Operating margin of 29.3% increased 90 basis points primarily driven by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and favorable price/cost of 10 basis points, partially offset by unfavorable operating leverage of 110 basis points, higher employee-related expenses and higher restructuring expenses.
SPECIALTY PRODUCTS
This segment is focused on diversified niche market opportunities with substantial patent protection producing beverage packaging equipment and consumables, product coding and marking equipment and consumables, and appliance components and fasteners. This segment primarily serves the food and beverage, consumer durables, airlines, general industrial, industrial capital goods and printing and publishing markets. Products in this segment include:
•conveyor systems and line automation for the food and beverage industries;
•plastic consumables that multi-pack cans and bottles and related equipment;
•foil, film and related equipment used to decorate consumer products;
•product coding and marking equipment and related consumables;
•plastic and metal closures and components for appliances;
•airport ground support equipment; and
•components for medical devices.
The results of operations for the Specialty Products segment for 2025, 2024 and 2023 were as follows:
2025 compared to 2024
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2025 | 2024 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,775 | $ | 1,743 | 1.8 | % | 1.0 | % | — | % | — | % | 0.8 | % | 1.8 | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 553 | $ | 528 | 4.7 | % | 4.0 | % | — | % | (0.1) | % | 0.8 | % | 4.7 | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 31.2 | % | 30.3 | % | 90 bps | 90 bps | — | — | — | 90 bps |
•Operating revenue increased due to higher organic revenue and the favorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue grew 1.0% as equipment sales increased 7.4%, partially offset by a decline in consumables of 0.9%. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 90 basis points.
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◦North American organic revenue grew 0.6% primarily driven by growth in the filter medical, specialty films and ground support equipment businesses, partially offset by a decline in the consumer packaging strength films businesses.
◦International organic revenue increased 1.7% primarily due to an increase in European ground support equipment and consumer packaging equipment businesses, partially offset by a decline in the appliance business.
•Operating margin of 31.2% increased 90 basis points primarily driven by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, positive operating leverage of 20 basis points and favorable price/cost of 20 basis points, partially offset by higher employee-related expenses and product mix.
2024 compared to 2023
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2024 | 2023 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,743 | $ | 1,697 | 2.7 | % | 3.5 | % | (0.6) | % | — | % | (0.2) | % | 2.7 | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 528 | $ | 449 | 17.6 | % | 17.3 | % | (0.1) | % | 0.7 | % | (0.3) | % | 17.6 | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 30.3 | % | 26.5 | % | 380 bps | 350 bps | 10 bps | 20 bps | — | 380 bps |
•Operating revenue increased due to higher organic revenue, partially offset by the impact of a divestiture in the second quarter of 2023 and the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•The Company divested a business on April 3, 2023. Operating revenue for this business in 2023 was $9 million.
•Organic revenue grew 3.5% as consumables increased 2.3% and equipment sales grew 8.2% due to higher demand across all major regions. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 270 basis points.
◦North American organic revenue increased 1.8% primarily driven by growth in the ground support equipment, appliance, consumer packaging and strength films businesses, partially offset by a decline in the decorative and thermal foils businesses.
◦International organic revenue grew 6.9% primarily due to an increase in Europe, primarily in the ground support equipment business, and growth in the appliance business in Asia Pacific, partially offset by a decline in the consumer packaging businesses.
•Operating margin of 30.3% increased 380 basis points primarily driven by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, positive operating leverage of 70 basis points, favorable price/cost of 70 basis points and lower restructuring expenses, partially offset by higher employee-related expenses and product mix.
OTHER FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
•Interest expense was $292 million in 2025, $283 million in 2024 and $266 million in 2023. Refer to Note 10. Debt in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information.
•Other income (expense) was income of $42 million in 2025, $441 million in 2024 and $49 million in 2023. On August 5, 2024, the Company entered into a purchase agreement with affiliates of CD&R for the sale of the Company's noncontrolling equity interest in Wilsonart. The transaction closed immediately after the execution of the purchase agreement. Proceeds from the transaction, net of transaction costs, were $395 million, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $363 million. Refer to Note 5. Other Income (Expense) in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information.
•The Company's effective tax rate for 2025, 2024, and 2023 was 22.7%, 21.1% and 22.6%, respectively. The effective tax rate for 2025 included a discrete tax benefit of $21 million in the first quarter of 2025 related to the reversal of a valuation allowance on net operating loss carryforwards. Additionally, the 2025 effective tax rate benefited from a discrete tax benefit in the third quarter of 2025 of $43 million related to the estimated U.S. federal tax liability for 2024, partially offset by a $16 million discrete tax expense related primarily to the resolution of a foreign tax audit. The 2024 effective tax rate benefited from discrete income tax benefits during the third quarter of 2024 of $107 million related to the utilization of capital loss carryforwards upon the sale of Wilsonart and $87 million related to a reorganization of the Company's intellectual property, partially offset by a $73 million discrete tax expense related to the remeasurement of unrecognized tax benefits associated with various intercompany transactions. The 2023 effective tax rate benefited from a discrete income tax benefit of $20 million in the second quarter of 2023 related to amended 2021 U.S. taxes. Additionally, the effective tax rates for 2025, 2024 and 2023 included discrete income tax benefits of $8 million, $14 million and $20 million, respectively, related to excess tax
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benefits from stock-based compensation. Refer to Note 6. Income Taxes in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information.
•The impact of foreign currencies against the U.S. Dollar in 2025 versus 2024 increased operating revenue and income before taxes by approximately $131 million and $29 million, respectively. The impact of foreign currencies against the U.S. Dollar in 2024 versus 2023 decreased operating revenue and income before taxes by approximately $115 million and $40 million, respectively.
NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
Information regarding new accounting pronouncements is included in Note 1. Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
The Company's primary sources of liquidity are free cash flow and short-term credit facilities. As of December 31, 2025, the Company had $851 million of cash and equivalents on hand and no outstanding borrowings under its $3.0 billion revolving credit facility. The Company also has maintained strong access to public debt markets. Management believes that these sources are sufficient to service debt and to finance the Company's capital allocation priorities, which include:
•internal investments to support organic growth and sustain core businesses;
•payment of an attractive dividend to shareholders; and
•external investments in selective strategic acquisitions that support the Company's organic growth focus and an active share repurchase program.
The Company believes that, based on its operating revenue, operating margin, free cash flow, and credit ratings, it could readily obtain additional financing, if necessary.
The Company has certain contractual obligations, primarily operating leases and long-term debt. Refer to Note 9. Leases and Note 10. Debt in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for details related to the Company's contractual obligations. The Company did not have any significant off-balance sheet commitments as of December 31, 2025.
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Cash Flow
The Company uses free cash flow to measure cash flow generated by operations that is available for dividends, share repurchases, acquisitions and debt repayment. The Company believes this non-GAAP financial measure is useful to investors in evaluating the Company's financial performance and measures the Company's ability to generate cash internally to fund Company initiatives. Free cash flow represents net cash provided by operating activities less additions to plant and equipment. Free cash flow is a measurement that is not the same as net cash flow from operating activities per the statement of cash flows and may not be consistent with similarly titled measures used by other companies. Summarized cash flow information for the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023 was as follows:
| In millions | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Net cash provided by operating activities | $ | 3,126 | $ | 3,281 | $ | 3,539 | ||||
| Additions to plant and equipment | (419) | (437) | (455) | |||||||
| Free cash flow | $ | 2,707 | $ | 2,844 | $ | 3,084 | ||||
| Cash dividends paid | $ | (1,785) | $ | (1,695) | $ | (1,615) | ||||
| Repurchases of common stock | (1,500) | (1,500) | (1,500) | |||||||
| Acquisition of businesses (excluding cash and equivalents) | (119) | (115) | — | |||||||
| Proceeds from sale of operations and affiliates | 1 | — | 7 | |||||||
| Proceeds from sale of noncontrolling interest in Wilsonart International Holdings LLC | — | 395 | — | |||||||
| Net proceeds from (repayments of) debt | 508 | (8) | 294 | |||||||
| Other | 49 | 27 | 84 | |||||||
| Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and equivalents | 42 | (65) | 3 | |||||||
| Net increase (decrease) in cash and equivalents | $ | (97) | $ | (117) | $ | 357 |
Stock Repurchase Programs
On May 7, 2021, the Company announced a stock repurchase program which provided for the repurchase of up to $3.0 billion of the Company's common stock over an open-ended period of time (the "2021 Program"). Under the 2021 Program, the Company repurchased approximately 7.1 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $210.46 per share during 2022 and approximately 6.3 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $235.35 per share during 2023. The 2021 Program was completed in the fourth quarter of 2023.
On August 4, 2023, the Company announced a stock repurchase program which provides for the repurchase of up to an additional $5.0 billion of the Company's common stock over an open-ended period of time (the "2023 Program"). Under the 2023 Program, the Company repurchased approximately 38,000 shares of its common stock at an average price of $263.44 per share during the fourth quarter of 2023, approximately 5.9 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $254.04 per share during 2024 and approximately 6.0 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $251.20 per share during 2025. As of December 31, 2025, there were approximately $2.0 billion of authorized repurchases remaining under the 2023 Program.
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After-tax Return on Average Invested Capital
The Company uses after-tax return on average invested capital ("After-tax ROIC") to measure the effectiveness of its operations' use of invested capital to generate profits. After-tax ROIC is not defined under U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"). After-tax ROIC is a non-GAAP financial measure that the Company believes is a meaningful metric to investors in evaluating the Company's ability to generate returns from cash invested in its operations and may be different than the method used by other companies to calculate After-tax ROIC. The Company defines After-tax ROIC as operating income after taxes divided by average invested capital, which is annualized when presented in interim periods. Operating income after taxes is a non-GAAP measure consisting of net income before interest expense and other income (expense), on an after-tax basis, which are excluded as they do not represent returns generated by the Company's operations. For comparability, the Company also excluded the net discrete tax benefit of $27 million in the third quarter of 2025 and the discrete tax benefit of $21 million in the first quarter of 2025 from net income and the effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2025. Additionally, for comparability, the Company also excluded the net discrete tax benefit of $121 million in the third quarter of 2024 from net income and the effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2024. Also, for comparability, the Company excluded the discrete tax benefit of $20 million in the second quarter of 2023 from net income and the effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2023. Total invested capital represents the net assets of the Company, other than cash and equivalents and outstanding debt which do not represent capital investment in the Company's operations. The most comparable GAAP measure to operating income after taxes is net income. Net income to average invested capital and After-tax ROIC for the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024, and 2023 were as follows:
| Dollars in millions | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Numerator: | ||||||||||
| Net income | $ | 3,066 | $ | 3,488 | $ | 2,957 | ||||
| Net discrete tax benefit related to the third quarter 2025 | (27) | — | — | |||||||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the first quarter 2025 | (21) | — | — | |||||||
| Net discrete tax benefit related to the third quarter 2024 | — | (121) | — | |||||||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the second quarter 2023 | — | — | (20) | |||||||
| Interest expense, net of tax (1) | 222 | 215 | 204 | |||||||
| Other (income) expense, net of tax (1) | (32) | (336) | (38) | |||||||
| Operating income after taxes | $ | 3,208 | $ | 3,246 | $ | 3,103 | ||||
| Denominator: | ||||||||||
| Invested capital: | ||||||||||
| Cash and equivalents | $ | 851 | $ | 948 | $ | 1,065 | ||||
| Trade receivables | 3,227 | 2,991 | 3,123 | |||||||
| Inventories | 1,659 | 1,605 | 1,707 | |||||||
| Net plant and equipment | 2,230 | 2,036 | 1,976 | |||||||
| Goodwill and intangible assets | 5,689 | 5,431 | 5,566 | |||||||
| Accounts payable and accrued expenses | (2,158) | (2,095) | (2,244) | |||||||
| Debt | (8,969) | (7,863) | (8,164) | |||||||
| Other, net | 697 | 264 | (16) | |||||||
| Total net assets (stockholders' equity) | 3,226 | 3,317 | 3,013 | |||||||
| Cash and equivalents | (851) | (948) | (1,065) | |||||||
| Debt | 8,969 | 7,863 | 8,164 | |||||||
| Total invested capital | $ | 11,344 | $ | 10,232 | $ | 10,112 | ||||
| Average invested capital (2) | $ | 10,959 | $ | 10,419 | $ | 10,214 | ||||
| Net income to average invested capital | 28.0 | % | 33.5 | % | 29.0 | % | ||||
| After-tax return on average invested capital | 29.3 | % | 31.2 | % | 30.4 | % |
(1) Effective tax rate used for interest expense and other (income) expense for the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024, and 2023 was 23.9%, 23.8% and 23.2%, respectively.
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(2) Average invested capital is calculated using the total invested capital balances at the start of the period and at the end of each quarter within each of the periods presented.
After-tax ROIC decreased 190 basis points for the twelve month period ended December 31, 2025 compared to the prior year period as a result of a 5.2% increase in average invested capital and a 1.2% decrease in after-tax operating income.
A reconciliation of the 2025 effective tax rate, excluding the third quarter 2025 net discrete tax benefit of $27 million, which included a favorable discrete tax benefit of $43 million related to the estimated U.S. federal tax liability for 2024, partially offset by a $16 million discrete tax expense related primarily to the resolution of a foreign tax audit, and excluding the first quarter 2025 discrete tax benefit of $21 million related to the reversal of a valuation allowance on net operating loss carryforwards, is as follows:
| Twelve Months Ended | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 31, 2025 | ||||||
| Dollars in millions | Income Taxes | Tax Rate | ||||
| As reported | $ | 900 | 22.7 | % | ||
| Net discrete tax benefit related to the third quarter 2025 | 27 | 0.7 | % | |||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the first quarter 2025 | 21 | 0.5 | % | |||
| As adjusted | $ | 948 | 23.9 | % |
After-tax ROIC increased 80 basis points for the twelve month period ended December 31, 2024 compared to the prior year period as a result of a 4.6% increase in after-tax operating income versus a 2.0% increase in average invested capital.
After-tax ROIC for the year ended December 31, 2024 included 90 basis points of favorable impact related to the cumulative effect of the change from the LIFO method of accounting to the FIFO method for certain U.S. businesses ($117 million pre-tax, or $88 million after-tax) in the first quarter of 2024. Refer to Note 1. Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies in Item 8. Financial Statements for additional information regarding this change in accounting method.
A reconciliation of the 2024 effective tax rate excluding the third quarter 2024 net discrete tax benefit of $121 million, which included favorable discrete tax benefits of $107 million related to the utilization of capital loss carryforwards upon the sale of Wilsonart and $87 million related to a reorganization of the Company's intellectual property, partially offset by a $73 million discrete tax expense related to the remeasurement of unrecognized tax benefits associated with various intercompany transactions, is as follows:
| Twelve Months Ended | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 31, 2024 | ||||||
| Dollars in millions | Income Taxes | Tax Rate | ||||
| As reported | $ | 934 | 21.1 | % | ||
| Net discrete tax benefit related to the third quarter 2024 | 121 | 2.7 | % | |||
| As adjusted | $ | 1,055 | 23.8 | % |
A reconciliation of the 2023 effective tax rate excluding the second quarter 2023 discrete tax benefit of $20 million related to amended 2021 U.S. taxes is as follows:
| Twelve Months Ended | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 31, 2023 | ||||||
| Dollars in millions | Income Taxes | Tax Rate | ||||
| As reported | $ | 866 | 22.6 | % | ||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the second quarter 2023 | 20 | 0.6 | % | |||
| As adjusted | $ | 886 | 23.2 | % |
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Refer to Note 6. Income Taxes in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information regarding the discrete tax items noted above.
Working Capital
Management uses working capital as a measurement of the short-term liquidity of the Company. Net working capital as of December 31, 2025 and 2024 is summarized as follows:
| In millions | 2025 | 2024 | Increase (Decrease) | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Current Assets: | ||||||||||
| Cash and equivalents | $ | 851 | $ | 948 | $ | (97) | ||||
| Trade receivables | 3,227 | 2,991 | 236 | |||||||
| Inventories | 1,659 | 1,605 | 54 | |||||||
| Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 463 | 312 | 151 | |||||||
| Total current assets | 6,200 | 5,856 | 344 | |||||||
| Current Liabilities: | ||||||||||
| Short-term debt | 2,286 | 1,555 | 731 | |||||||
| Accounts payable and accrued expenses | 2,158 | 2,095 | 63 | |||||||
| Other | 682 | 658 | 24 | |||||||
| Total current liabilities | 5,126 | 4,308 | 818 | |||||||
| Net Working Capital | $ | 1,074 | $ | 1,548 | $ | (474) |
As of December 31, 2025, a significant portion of the Company's cash and equivalents was held by international subsidiaries. Cash and equivalents held internationally are typically used for international operating needs or reinvested to fund expansion of existing international businesses. International funds may also be used to fund international acquisitions or, if not considered permanently invested, may be repatriated to the U.S. and subject to foreign withholding taxes. The Company has accrued for foreign withholding taxes related to foreign held cash and equivalents that are not permanently invested.
In the U.S., the Company utilizes cash flows from operations to fund domestic cash needs and the Company's capital allocation priorities. This includes operating needs of the U.S. businesses, dividend payments, share repurchases, acquisitions, servicing of domestic debt obligations, reinvesting to fund expansion of existing U.S. businesses and general corporate needs. The Company may also use its commercial paper program, which is supported by a long-term credit facility, for short-term liquidity needs. The Company believes cash generated by operations and liquidity provided by the Company's commercial paper program will continue to be sufficient to fund cash requirements in the U.S.
Debt
Total debt as of December 31, 2025 and 2024 was as follows:
| In millions | 2025 | 2024 | Increase (Decrease) | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Short-term debt | $ | 2,286 | $ | 1,555 | $ | 731 | ||||
| Long-term debt | 6,683 | 6,308 | 375 | |||||||
| Total debt | $ | 8,969 | $ | 7,863 | $ | 1,106 |
As of December 31, 2025, Short-term debt included $999 million related to the 2.65% notes due November 15, 2026, which were reclassified from Long-term debt to Short-term debt in the fourth quarter of 2025. As of December 31, 2024, Short-term debt included $777 million related to the Euro-denominated credit agreement entered into on May 5, 2023 (the "Euro Credit Agreement") with an interest rate of 3.61%, which was classified as Short-term debt since the debt, including the options to extend the termination date, was due on April 30, 2025. Short-term debt also included commercial paper of $1.3 billion and $778 million as of December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively. The weighted-average interest rate on commercial paper outstanding was 3.84% and 4.56% as of December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively.
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In May 2024, the Company issued €650 million of 3.25% Euro notes due May 17, 2028 at 99.525% of face value and €850 million of 3.375% Euro notes due May 17, 2032 at 99.072% of face value. Proceeds from the issuance were used for general corporate purposes, including the repayment of a portion of the indebtedness under the commercial paper program and the Euro Credit Agreement.
On February 24, 2025, the Company entered into an amendment to the Euro Credit Agreement to extend the termination date from April 30, 2025 to February 28, 2027, with an option to further extend the termination date to September 15, 2027. The amendment also decreased the interest rate spread applicable to the loans from 0.75% to 0.70% and removed the option for a one-month interest period. As of December 31, 2025, the Company had $881 million outstanding under the Euro Credit Agreement with an interest rate of 2.77%, which was reclassified from Short-term debt to Long-term debt in the first quarter of 2025.
The Company may issue commercial paper to fund general corporate needs, share repurchases, and small and medium-sized acquisitions. During the fourth quarter of 2022, the Company entered into a $3.0 billion, five-year revolving credit facility with a termination date of October 21, 2027, which is available to provide additional liquidity, including to support the potential issuances of commercial paper. No amounts were outstanding under the revolving credit facility as of December 31, 2025 or 2024. The Company was also in compliance with the financial covenants of the revolving credit facility as of December 31, 2025, which included a minimum interest coverage ratio.
As of December 31, 2025, the Company had unused capacity of approximately $210 million under international debt facilities. In the ordinary course of business, the Company also had approximately $265 million outstanding in guarantees, letters of credit and other similar arrangements with financial institutions as of December 31, 2025. Refer to Note 10. Debt in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for additional details regarding the Company's outstanding debt obligations.
Total Debt to EBITDA
The Company uses the ratio of total debt to EBITDA as a measure of its ability to repay its outstanding debt obligations. EBITDA and the ratio of total debt to EBITDA are non-GAAP financial measures. The Company believes that total debt to EBITDA is a meaningful metric to investors in evaluating the Company's long term financial liquidity and may be different than the method used by other companies to calculate total debt to EBITDA. The ratio of total debt to EBITDA represents total debt divided by net income before interest expense, other income (expense), income taxes, depreciation, and amortization and impairment of intangible assets on a trailing twelve month basis. Total debt to EBITDA for the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023 was as follows:
| Dollars in millions | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total debt | $ | 8,969 | $ | 7,863 | $ | 8,164 | ||||
| Net income | $ | 3,066 | $ | 3,488 | $ | 2,957 | ||||
| Add: | ||||||||||
| Interest expense | 292 | 283 | 266 | |||||||
| Other (income) expense | (42) | (441) | (49) | |||||||
| Income taxes | 900 | 934 | 866 | |||||||
| Depreciation | 317 | 301 | 282 | |||||||
| Amortization and impairment of intangible assets | 80 | 101 | 113 | |||||||
| EBITDA | $ | 4,613 | $ | 4,666 | $ | 4,435 | ||||
| Total debt to EBITDA ratio | 1.9 | 1.7 | 1.8 |
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Stockholders' Equity
The changes to stockholders' equity during 2025 and 2024 were as follows:
| In millions | 2025 | 2024 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beginning balance | $ | 3,317 | $ | 3,013 | ||
| Net income | 3,066 | 3,488 | ||||
| Cash dividends declared | (1,809) | (1,717) | ||||
| Repurchases of common stock | (1,500) | (1,500) | ||||
| Other comprehensive income (loss) | 50 | (43) | ||||
| Other | 102 | 76 | ||||
| Ending balance | $ | 3,226 | $ | 3,317 |
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES
The Company has three accounting estimates that it believes are most important to the Company's financial condition and results of operations, and which require the Company to make judgments about matters that are inherently uncertain. Management bases its estimates on historical experience, and in some cases on observable market information. Various assumptions are also used that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances and form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
The Company's critical accounting estimates are as follows:
Income Taxes— The Company provides deferred income tax assets and liabilities based on the estimated future tax effects of differences between the financial and tax bases of assets and liabilities based on currently enacted tax laws. The Company's deferred and other tax balances are based on management's interpretation of the tax regulations and rulings in numerous taxing jurisdictions. Income tax expense, assets and liabilities recognized by the Company also reflect its best estimates and assumptions regarding, among other things, the level of future taxable income, the effect of the Company's various tax planning strategies and uncertain tax positions. Future tax authority rulings and changes in tax laws, changes in projected levels of taxable income and future tax planning strategies could affect the actual effective tax rate and tax balances recorded by the Company.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets— The Company's business acquisitions typically result in recording goodwill and other intangible assets, which are a significant portion of the Company's total assets and affect the amount of amortization expense and impairment charges that the Company could incur in future periods. The Company follows the guidance prescribed in the accounting standards to test goodwill and intangible assets for impairment. On an annual basis, or more frequently if triggering events occur, the Company compares the estimated fair value of its reporting units to the carrying value of each reporting unit to determine if a potential goodwill impairment exists. If the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value, a goodwill impairment loss is recorded for the difference. In calculating the fair value of the reporting units or specific intangible assets, management relies on a number of factors, including business plans, economic projections, anticipated future cash flows, comparable transactions and other market data. There are inherent uncertainties related to these factors and management's judgment in applying them in the impairment tests of goodwill and other intangible assets.
As of December 31, 2025, the Company had total goodwill and intangible assets of approximately $5.7 billion allocated to its reporting units. Although there can be no assurance that the Company will not incur additional impairment charges related to its goodwill and other intangible assets, the Company generally believes the risk of significant impairment charges is lessened by the number of diversified businesses and end markets represented by its reporting units that have goodwill and other intangible assets. In addition, the individual businesses in many of the reporting units have been acquired over a long period of time, and in many cases have been able to improve their performance, primarily as a result of the application of the Company's 80/20 Front-to-Back process. The amount of goodwill and other intangible assets allocated to individual reporting units as of December 31, 2025 ranged from approximately $267 million to $1.4 billion, with the average amount equal to $711 million. In all cases, the fair value of the individual reporting unit significantly exceeds its carrying value. Fair value determinations require considerable judgment and are sensitive to changes in the factors described above. Due to the inherent uncertainties associated with these factors and economic conditions in the Company's global end markets, impairment charges related to one or more reporting units could occur in future periods.
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Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits— The Company has various company-sponsored defined benefit retirement plans covering a number of U.S. employees and many employees outside the U.S. Pension and other postretirement benefit expense and obligations are determined based on actuarial valuations. Pension benefit obligations are generally based on each participant's years of service, future compensation, and age at retirement or termination. Important assumptions in determining pension and postretirement expense and obligations are the discount rate, the expected long-term return on plan assets, life expectancy, and health care cost trend rates. Future changes in any of these assumptions could materially affect the amounts recorded related to the Company's pension and other postretirement benefit plans. See Note 11. Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for additional discussion of actuarial assumptions used in determining pension and postretirement health care liabilities and expenses.
The Company determines the discount rate used to measure plan liabilities as of the year-end measurement date for the U.S. primary pension plan. The discount rate reflects the current rate at which the associated liabilities could theoretically be effectively settled at the end of the year. In estimating this rate, the Company looks at rates of return on high-quality fixed income investments, with similar duration to the liabilities in the plan. A 25 basis point decrease in the discount rate would increase the present value of the U.S. primary pension plan obligation by approximately $21 million. The Company estimates the service and interest cost components of net periodic benefit cost by applying specific spot rates along the yield curve to the projected cash flows rather than a single weighted-average rate. See Note 11. Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for information on the Company's pension and other postretirement benefit plans and related assumptions.
The expected long-term return on plan assets is based on historical and expected long-term returns for similar investment allocations among asset classes. For the U.S. primary pension plan, a 25 basis point decrease in the expected return on plan assets would increase the annual pension expense by approximately $3 million.
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MD&A history
Prior-year 10-K MD&A spans are extracted from SEC filings with the same bounded parser used for the latest filing. The latest 10-K appears above; prior years are below.
FY 2024 10-K MD&A
SEC filing source: 0000049826-25-000007.
ITEM 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
INTRODUCTION
Illinois Tool Works Inc. (the "Company" or "ITW") is a global manufacturer of a diversified range of industrial products and equipment with 86 divisions in 51 countries. As of December 31, 2024, the Company employed approximately 44,000 people.
The Company's operations are organized and managed based on similar product offerings and end markets, and are reported to senior management as the following seven segments: Automotive OEM; Food Equipment; Test & Measurement and Electronics; Welding; Polymers & Fluids; Construction Products; and Specialty Products.
Due to the large number of diverse businesses and the Company's decentralized operating structure, the Company does not require its businesses to provide detailed information on operating results. Instead, the Company's corporate management collects data on several key measurements: operating revenue, operating income, operating margin, variable cost of revenue, overhead expenses, number of months on hand in inventory, days sales outstanding in accounts receivable, past due receivables and return on invested capital. These key measures are monitored by management and significant changes in operating results versus current trends in end markets and variances from forecasts are discussed with operating unit management.
THE ITW BUSINESS MODEL
The powerful and highly differentiated ITW Business Model is the Company's core source of value creation. It is the Company's competitive advantage and defines how ITW creates value for its shareholders. The ITW Business Model is comprised of three unique elements:
•ITW's 80/20 Front-to-Back process is the operating system that is applied in every ITW business. Initially introduced as a manufacturing efficiency tool in the 1980s, ITW has continually refined, improved and expanded 80/20 into a proprietary, holistic business management process that generates significant value for the Company and its customers. Through the application of data driven insights generated by 80/20 practice, ITW focuses on its
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largest and best opportunities (the "80") and eliminates cost, complexity and distractions associated with the less profitable opportunities (the "20"). 80/20 enables ITW businesses to consistently achieve world-class operational excellence in product availability, quality, and innovation, while generating superior financial performance;
•Customer-back Innovation has fueled decades of profitable growth at ITW. The Company's unique innovation approach is built on insight gathered from the 80/20 Front-to-Back process. Working from the customer back, ITW businesses position themselves as the go-to problem solver for their "80" customers. ITW's innovation efforts are focused on understanding customer needs, particularly those in "80" markets with solid long-term growth fundamentals, and creating unique solutions to address those needs. These customer insights and learnings drive innovation at ITW and have contributed to a portfolio of approximately 20,900 granted and pending patents;
•ITW's Decentralized, Entrepreneurial Culture enables ITW businesses to be fast, focused, and responsive. ITW businesses have significant flexibility within the framework of the ITW Business Model to customize their approach in order to best serve their specific customers' needs. ITW colleagues recognize their unique responsibilities to execute the Company's strategy and values. As a result, the Company maintains a focused and simple organizational structure that, combined with outstanding execution, delivers best-in-class services and solutions adapted to each business' customers and end markets.
ENTERPRISE STRATEGY: 2012 - 2023
In late 2012, ITW began its strategic framework transitioning the Company to fully leverage the unique and powerful set of capabilities and operating practices of the ITW Business Model. The Company undertook a complete review of its performance, focusing on its businesses delivering consistent above-market growth with best-in-class margins and returns, and developing a strategy to replicate that performance across its operations. ITW determined that solid and consistent above-market organic growth is the core growth engine to deliver world-class financial performance and compelling long-term returns for its shareholders.
Key initiatives in the Company's enterprise strategy included portfolio management, business structure simplification, strategic sourcing and the diligent re-application of ITW's proprietary 80/20 Front-to-Back process.
•As part of the Portfolio Management initiative, ITW exited businesses that were operating in commoditized market spaces and prioritized sustainable differentiation as a must-have requirement for all ITW businesses. This process included both divesting entire businesses and exiting commoditized product lines and customers inside otherwise highly differentiated ITW divisions.
•Business Structure Simplification was implemented to simplify and scale up ITW's operating structure to support increased engineering, marketing, and sales resources, and improve global reach and competitiveness, all of which were critical to driving accelerated organic growth. ITW now has 86 scaled-up divisions with significantly enhanced focus on growth investments, core customers and products, and customer-back innovation.
•The Strategic Sourcing initiative established sourcing as a core strategic and operational capability at ITW, delivering an average of one percent reduction in spend each year since 2013 and continues to be a key contributor to the Company's ongoing enterprise strategy.
•With the initial portfolio realignment and scale-up work largely completed, the Company shifted its focus to preparing for and accelerating organic growth, reapplying the 80/20 Front-to-Back process to optimize its scaled-up divisions for growth, first, to build a foundation of operational excellence, and second, to identify the best opportunities to drive organic growth.
Since implementing the Company's enterprise strategy in 2012, the Company has demonstrated the compelling performance potential of the ITW Business Model and superior 80/20 management, resulting in meaningful incremental improvement in margins and returns as evidenced by the Company's operating margin and after-tax return on invested capital. At the same time, these 80/20 initiatives may also result in restructuring initiatives that reduce costs and improve profitability and returns.
OUR NEXT PHASE: 2024 - 2030
In the Next Phase of the Company’s evolution, the ITW Business Model and the Enterprise Strategy framework will be as formidable of a competitive advantage and performance differentiator as it has been over the last decade, if not more so.
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Volatility, risk and the pace of change in the global operating environment will continue to increase, and a decentralized entrepreneurial culture allows the Company to be a fast adaptor – to read, react, respond and evolve. The Company’s ability to consistently execute and invest through the ups and downs of the business cycle is now a defining competitive advantage.
Throughout the Next Phase, the Company's focus is to build organic growth into a core ITW strength on par with the Company’s world-class financial performance and operational capabilities. Throughout this phase, the Company will sustain its foundational strengths built over the past decade, including the high-quality ITW Business Model practice. Customer-back Innovation ("CBI") is the most impactful driver to achieve high-quality organic growth through the cycle by establishing trusted problem solver relationships with key customers to effectively invent solutions that address customers' most critical pain points or tackle the biggest growth opportunities. CBI successes, coupled with underlying market growth and share gains, are how the Company intends to achieve its high-quality organic growth.
Portfolio Discipline
The Company only operates in industries where it can generate significant, long-term competitive advantage from the ITW Business Model. ITW businesses have the right "raw material" in terms of market and business attributes that best fit the ITW Business Model and have significant potential to drive above-market organic growth over the long-term.
The Company focuses on high-quality businesses, ensuring it operates in markets with positive long-term macro fundamentals and with customers that have critical needs and value ITW's differentiated products, services and solutions. ITW's portfolio operates in highly diverse end markets and geographies which makes the Company more resilient in the face of uncertain or volatile market environments.
The Company routinely evaluates its portfolio to ensure it delivers sustainable differentiation and drives consistent long-term performance. This includes both implementing portfolio refinements and assessing selective high-quality acquisitions to supplement ITW's long-term growth potential.
In the second quarter of 2022, plans were approved to divest two businesses, including one business in the Polymers & Fluids segment and one business in the Food Equipment segment. In the fourth quarter of 2022, both of these businesses were divested. The business in the Polymers & Fluids segment was sold for $220 million, subject to certain closing adjustments, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $156 million. The business in the Food Equipment segment was sold for $59 million, subject to certain closing adjustments, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $41 million. Operating revenue related to these divested businesses that was included in the Company's results of operations for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022 was $106 million.
In the fourth quarter of 2022, plans were approved to divest one business in the Specialty Products segment. This business was presented as held for sale beginning in the fourth quarter of 2022. This business was sold on April 3, 2023, with no significant gain or loss upon sale. Operating revenue related to this business that was included in the Company's results of operations was $9 million and $37 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Refer to Note 3. Divestitures in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information regarding the Company's divestitures.
On January 2, 2024, the Company completed the acquisition of one business in the Test & Measurement and Electronics segment for $57 million, net of cash acquired. On April 1, 2024, the Company completed the acquisition of one business in the Test & Measurement and Electronics segment for $59 million, net of cash acquired. The purchase price for both acquisitions was subject to certain closing adjustments. These acquisitions were not material, individually or in the aggregate, to the Company’s results of operations, financial position or cash flows. Refer to Note 2. Acquisitions in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information regarding the Company's acquisitions.
On August 5, 2024, the Company entered into a purchase agreement with affiliates of Clayton, Dubilier & Rice, LLC ("CD&R") for the sale of the Company’s noncontrolling equity interest in Wilsonart International Holdings LLC ("Wilsonart") for $398 million. The transaction closed immediately after the execution of the purchase agreement. Proceeds from the transaction, net of transaction costs, were $395 million, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $363 million which was included in Other income (expense) in the Statement of Income. Income taxes on the gain were more than offset by a discrete tax benefit of $107 million in the third quarter of 2024 related to the utilization of capital loss carryforwards upon the sale of Wilsonart. The sale of the Company’s equity interest in Wilsonart is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s financial results in subsequent periods. Refer to Note 5. Other Income (Expense) and Note 6. Income Taxes in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for additional information regarding this transaction.
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80/20 Front-to-Back Practice Excellence
ITW will continue to drive 80/20 Front-to-Back practice excellence in every division in the Company, every day. Driving strong operational excellence in the quality of 80/20 Front-to-Back practice across the Company, division by division, will produce further customer-facing performance improvement in a number of divisions and additional structural margin expansion at the enterprise level.
TERMS USED BY ITW
Management uses the following terms to describe the financial results of operations of the Company:
•Organic business - acquired businesses that have been included in the Company's results of operations for more than 12 months on a constant currency basis.
•Operating leverage - the estimated effect of the organic revenue volume changes on organic operating income, assuming variable margins remain the same as the prior period.
•Price/cost - represents the estimated net impact of increases or decreases in the cost of materials used in the Company's products versus changes in the selling price to the Company's customers.
•Product line simplification ("PLS") - focuses businesses on eliminating the complexity and overhead costs associated with smaller product lines and customers, and focuses businesses on supporting and growing their largest customers and product lines. In the short-term, PLS may result in a decrease in revenue and overhead costs while improving operating margin. In the long-term, PLS is expected to result in growth in revenue, profitability, and returns.
Unless otherwise stated, the changes in financial results in the consolidated results of operations and the results of operations by segment represent the current year period versus the comparable period in the prior year.
CONSOLIDATED RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
During the first quarter of 2022, Russian military forces invaded Ukraine. In response, the United States and several other countries imposed economic and other sanctions on Russia. The Company has four immaterial Russian subsidiaries with total assets of approximately $22 million as of December 31, 2024. The revenue for these four subsidiaries for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 was approximately $24 million. These subsidiaries were not material to the Company's results of operations or financial position.
In the second quarter of 2022, plans were approved to divest two businesses, including one business in the Polymers & Fluids segment and one business in the Food Equipment segment. These two businesses were classified as held for sale beginning in the second quarter of 2022. In the fourth quarter of 2022, both of these businesses were divested. On October 3, 2022, the business in the Polymers & Fluids segment was sold for $220 million, subject to certain closing adjustments, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $156 million. On December 1, 2022, the business in the Food Equipment segment was sold for $59 million, subject to certain closing adjustments, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $41 million. The pre-tax gains were included in Other income (expense) in the Statement of Income. Income taxes on the gains were mostly offset by the utilization of capital loss carryforwards of $32 million. Operating revenue related to these divested businesses that was included in the Company's results of operations for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022 was $106 million.
In the fourth quarter of 2022, plans were approved to divest one business in the Specialty Products segment. This business was presented as held for sale beginning in the fourth quarter of 2022. This business was sold on April 3, 2023, with no significant gain or loss upon sale. Operating revenue related to this business that was included in the Company's results of operations for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 was $9 million and $37 million, respectively. Refer to Note 3. Divestitures in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information regarding the Company's divestitures.
On January 2, 2024, the Company completed the acquisition of one business in the Test & Measurement and Electronics segment for $57 million, net of cash acquired. On April 1, 2024, the Company completed the acquisition of one business in the Test & Measurement and Electronics segment for $59 million, net of cash acquired. The purchase price for both acquisitions was subject to certain closing adjustments. These acquisitions were not material, individually or in the aggregate, to the Company’s results of operations, financial position or cash flows. The allocation of purchase price for these acquisitions will be completed as soon as practicable, but no later than one year from the acquisition date. Refer to Note 2.
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Acquisitions in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information regarding the Company's acquisitions.
During the first quarter of 2024, the Company changed the method used to determine the cost of inventory at certain U.S. businesses from the last-in, first-out ("LIFO") method to the first-in, first-out ("FIFO") method, as the Company believes the FIFO method is preferable because it provides a more consistent method for valuing inventory across the Company’s operations, improves comparability with peers, and better reflects the current value of inventories at the balance sheet date. The LIFO provision for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 was $6 million of expense and $7 million of income, respectively, and was not material to the Company’s results of operations, financial position or cash flows. Therefore, the Company recorded the pre-tax cumulative effect of this change in accounting method of $117 million as a reduction of Cost of revenue in the first quarter of 2024. Refer to Note 1. Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for additional information regarding this change in accounting method and the Company’s inventory balances.
On August 5, 2024, the Company entered into a purchase agreement with affiliates of CD&R for the sale of the Company’s noncontrolling equity interest in Wilsonart. The transaction closed immediately after the execution of the purchase agreement. Proceeds from the transaction, net of transaction costs, were $395 million, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $363 million which was included in Other income (expense) in the Statement of Income. Income taxes on the gain were more than offset by a discrete tax benefit of $107 million in the third quarter of 2024 related to the utilization of capital loss carryforwards upon the sale of Wilsonart. The sale of the Company’s equity interest in Wilsonart is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s financial results in subsequent periods. Refer to Note 5. Other Income (Expense) and Note 6. Income Taxes in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for additional information regarding this transaction.
In a challenging and dynamic environment, the Company delivered solid financial results in 2024 primarily due to the continued successful execution of enterprise initiatives and continued focus on the highly differentiated ITW Business Model.
Operating Revenue
Refer to the "Results of Operations for Total Company" and the "Results of Operations by Segment" sections for discussion of changes in operating revenue for 2024 compared to 2023 and 2023 compared to 2022.
Operating Expenses
| Dollars in millions | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Operating Revenue | $ | 15,898 | $ | 16,107 | $ | 15,932 | ||||
| Cost of revenue | $ | 8,858 | $ | 9,316 | $ | 9,429 | ||||
| Percent of operating revenue | 55.7 | % | 57.8 | % | 59.2 | % | ||||
| Selling, administrative, and research and development expenses | $ | 2,675 | $ | 2,638 | $ | 2,579 | ||||
| Percent of operating revenue | 16.8 | % | 16.4 | % | 16.2 | % | ||||
| Amortization and impairment of intangible assets | $ | 101 | $ | 113 | $ | 134 | ||||
| Percent of operating revenue | 0.6 | % | 0.7 | % | 0.8 | % |
Cost of revenue was $8.9 billion in 2024, $9.3 billion in 2023 and $9.4 billion in 2022. Cost of revenue was 4.9% lower in 2024 compared to 2023 primarily due to lower revenue and the first quarter 2024 LIFO accounting method change, which reduced cost of revenue by 3.1% and 1.3%, respectively. Cost of revenue as a percent of operating revenue improved in 2024 compared to 2023 primarily due to the LIFO accounting method change and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, partially offset by higher employee-related expenses. Cost of revenue was 1.2% lower in 2023 compared to 2022 primarily due to the impact of divestiture activity in the second quarter of 2023 and the fourth quarter of 2022, which reduced cost of revenue by 1.0%. Cost of revenue as a percent of operating revenue improved in 2023 compared to 2022 primarily due to benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and positive operating leverage, partially offset by higher employee-related expenses.
22
Selling, administrative, and research and development expenses were $2.7 billion in 2024, $2.6 billion in 2023 and $2.6 billion in 2022. Expenses in 2024 increased 1.4% compared to 2023 primarily driven by higher employee-related expenses and the impact of acquisitions in 2024. Selling, administrative, and research and development expenses as a percent of operating revenue were higher in 2024 compared to 2023, as higher employee-related expenses and the unfavorable impact of acquisitions in the first and second quarters of 2024 were partially offset by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives. Expenses in 2023 increased 2.3% compared to 2022 driven by a 3.0% increase resulting from higher organic revenue, partially offset by the impact of divestiture activity which reduced expenses by 0.7%. Selling, administrative, and research and development expenses as a percent of operating revenue were slightly higher in 2023 compared to 2022 primarily due to higher employee-related expenses and research and development expenses, partially offset by positive operating leverage and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives.
Amortization and impairment of intangible assets was $101 million in 2024, $113 million in 2023 and $134 million in 2022. The decreased expense in each respective period was primarily due to fully amortized intangible assets.
Refer to the "Results of Operations for Total Company" and the "Results of Operation by Segment" sections for additional discussion of operating results for 2024 compared to 2023 and 2023 compared to 2022.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS FOR TOTAL COMPANY
The Company's consolidated results of operations for 2024, 2023 and 2022 were as follows:
2024 compared to 2023
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2024 | 2023 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/ Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 15,898 | $ | 16,107 | (1.3) | % | (0.7) | % | 0.1 | % | — | % | (0.7) | % | (1.3) | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 4,264 | $ | 4,040 | 5.5 | % | 6.2 | % | (0.2) | % | 0.5 | % | (1.0) | % | 5.5 | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 26.8 | % | 25.1 | % | 170 bps | 170 bps | (10) bps | 10 bps | — | 170 bps |
•Operating revenue decreased primarily due to lower organic revenue and the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue declined 0.7% as a decrease in the Construction Products, Welding, Test & Measurement and Electronics and Automotive OEM segments was partially offset by growth in the Specialty Products, Food Equipment and Polymers & Fluids segments. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 60 basis points.
◦North American organic revenue decreased 2.4% as a decline in six segments was partially offset by growth in the Specialty Products segment.
◦Europe, Middle East and Africa organic revenue declined 0.3% as a decrease in the Automotive OEM, Construction Products and Test & Measurement and Electronics segments was partially offset by growth in the Specialty Products, Food Equipment, Polymers & Fluids and Welding segments.
◦Asia Pacific organic revenue grew 3.0% as growth in six segments was partially offset by a decline in the Construction Products segment. Organic revenue in China increased 6.9% as growth in five segments was partially offset by a decline in the Construction Products and Test & Measurement and Electronics segments.
•Operating income of $4.3 billion grew 5.5%, or 2.6% excluding the $117 million favorable impact of the LIFO accounting method changed discussed previously.
•Operating margin of 26.8% increased 170 basis points. Excluding the 70 basis points of favorable impact from the LIFO accounting method change in the first quarter of 2024, operating margin increased 100 basis points primarily driven by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives of 130 basis points and favorable price/cost of 40 basis points, partially offset by higher employee-related expenses.
•The Company's effective tax rate for 2024 and 2023 was 21.1% and 22.6%, respectively. The 2024 effective tax rate benefited from discrete income tax benefits during the third quarter of 2024 of $107 million related to the utilization of capital loss carryforwards upon the sale of Wilsonart and $87 million related to a reorganization of the Company's intellectual property, partially offset by a $73 million discrete tax expense related to the remeasurement of unrecognized tax benefits associated with various intercompany transactions. Refer to Note 5. Other Income
23
(Expense) and Note 6. Income Taxes in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for additional information regarding these transactions. The 2023 effective tax rate benefited from a discrete income tax benefit of $20 million in the second quarter of 2023 related to amended 2021 U.S. taxes. Additionally, the effective tax rates for 2024 and 2023 included discrete income tax benefits of $14 million and $20 million, respectively, related to excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation.
•Diluted earnings per share ("EPS") of $11.71 in 2024 increased 20.2%, or 4.2% excluding the favorable impact from the first quarter 2024 LIFO accounting method change of $0.30 and the favorable impact of $1.26 from the third quarter 2024 Wilsonart transaction.
•The Company repurchased approximately 5.9 million shares of its common stock in 2024 for approximately $1.5 billion.
•The Company increased the quarterly dividend on common stock from $1.40 to $1.50 per share in 2024, or from $5.60 to $6.00 per share on an annualized basis. Total cash dividends of approximately $1.7 billion were paid in 2024.
2023 compared to 2022
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/ Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 16,107 | $ | 15,932 | 1.1 | % | 2.0 | % | (0.8) | % | — | % | (0.1) | % | 1.1 | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 4,040 | $ | 3,790 | 6.6 | % | 7.6 | % | (0.5) | % | (0.2) | % | (0.3) | % | 6.6 | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 25.1 | % | 23.8 | % | 130 bps | 130 bps | 10 bps | (10) bps | — | 130 bps |
•Operating revenue increased due to higher organic revenue, partially offset by the impact of divestiture activity in the second quarter of 2023 and the fourth quarter of 2022, and the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue increased 2.0% as growth in five segments was partially offset by a decline in the Specialty Products and Construction Products segments. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 50 basis points.
◦North American organic revenue decreased 0.3% as a decline in the Test & Measurement and Electronics, Specialty Products, Automotive OEM, Welding and Construction Products segments was partially offset by growth in the Food Equipment and Polymers & Fluids segments.
◦Europe, Middle East and Africa organic revenue increased 3.9% as growth in three segments was partially offset by a decline in the Construction Products, Polymers & Fluids, Specialty Products and Welding segments.
◦Asia Pacific organic revenue increased 6.9% as growth in five segments was partially offset by a decline in the Specialty Products and Construction Products segments. Organic revenue in China increased 9.7% as growth in the Automotive OEM, Test & Measurement and Electronics, Welding, Construction Products and Polymers & Fluids segments was partially offset by a decline in the Specialty Products and Food Equipment segments.
•Operating income of $4.0 billion increased 6.6% compared to the prior year primarily due to higher organic revenue, partially offset by the impact of divestiture activity, the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation and higher restructuring expenses.
•Operating margin of 25.1% increased 130 basis points primarily driven by favorable price/cost of 210 basis points, benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives of 130 basis points and positive operating leverage of 40 basis points, partially offset by continued investments in the business and higher employee-related expenses.
•The Company's effective tax rate for 2023 and 2022 was 22.6% and 21.0%, respectively. The 2023 effective tax rate benefited from a discrete income tax benefit of $20 million in the second quarter of 2023 related to amended 2021 U.S. taxes. The 2022 effective tax rate benefited from discrete income tax benefits of $32 million in the fourth quarter of 2022 related to the utilization of capital loss carryforwards and $51 million in the second quarter of 2022 related to a decrease in unrecognized tax benefits resulting from the resolution of a U.S. tax audit. Additionally, the effective tax rates for 2023 and 2022 included discrete income tax benefits of $20 million and $12 million, respectively, related to excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation.
•Diluted earnings per share ("EPS") of $9.74 in 2023 decreased 0.3%. Excluding the favorable impact of $0.60 per diluted share in 2022 related to the pre-tax divestiture gains of $197 million in the fourth quarter of 2022, or $188 million after-tax including the impact of the $32 million discrete tax benefit noted above, EPS increased 6.2%.
24
•The Company repurchased approximately 6.4 million shares of its common stock in 2023 for approximately $1.5 billion.
•The Company increased the quarterly dividend on common stock from $1.31 to $1.40 per share in 2023, or from $5.24 to $5.60 per share on an annualized basis. Total cash dividends of approximately $1.6 billion were paid in 2023.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS BY SEGMENT
The reconciliation of segment operating revenue and operating income to total operating revenue and operating income is as follows:
| Operating Revenue | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| In millions | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | |||||||
| Automotive OEM | $ | 3,188 | $ | 3,235 | $ | 2,969 | ||||
| Food Equipment | 2,647 | 2,622 | 2,444 | |||||||
| Test & Measurement and Electronics | 2,818 | 2,832 | 2,828 | |||||||
| Welding | 1,851 | 1,902 | 1,894 | |||||||
| Polymers & Fluids | 1,764 | 1,804 | 1,905 | |||||||
| Construction Products | 1,909 | 2,033 | 2,113 | |||||||
| Specialty Products | 1,743 | 1,697 | 1,799 | |||||||
| Total segments | 15,920 | 16,125 | 15,952 | |||||||
| Intersegment revenue | (22) | (18) | (20) | |||||||
| Total | $ | 15,898 | $ | 16,107 | $ | 15,932 |
| Operating Income | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| In millions | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | |||||||
| Automotive OEM | $ | 625 | $ | 561 | $ | 499 | ||||
| Food Equipment | 719 | 713 | 618 | |||||||
| Test & Measurement and Electronics | 703 | 686 | 684 | |||||||
| Welding | 597 | 605 | 583 | |||||||
| Polymers & Fluids | 484 | 482 | 479 | |||||||
| Construction Products | 559 | 578 | 548 | |||||||
| Specialty Products | 528 | 449 | 481 | |||||||
| Total segments | 4,215 | 4,074 | 3,892 | |||||||
| Unallocated | 49 | (34) | (102) | |||||||
| Total | $ | 4,264 | $ | 4,040 | $ | 3,790 |
Segments are allocated a fixed overhead charge based on the segment's revenue. Expenses not charged to the segments are reported separately as Unallocated. Because the Unallocated category includes a variety of items, it is subject to fluctuations on a quarterly and annual basis. Unallocated expenses in 2024 included the favorable pre-tax cumulative effect of the LIFO accounting method change of $117 million in the first quarter of 2024. Refer to Note 1. Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for additional information regarding this change in accounting method and the Company’s inventory balances. Unallocated expenses in 2023 were lower as compared to 2022 primarily due to the impact of lower corporate expenses, including favorable health and welfare expenses, and an immaterial insurance recovery.
25
AUTOMOTIVE OEM
This segment is a global, niche supplier to top tier OEMs, providing unique innovation to address pain points for sophisticated customers with complex problems. Businesses in this segment produce components and fasteners for automotive-related applications. This segment primarily serves the automotive original equipment manufacturers and tiers market. Products in this segment include:
•plastic and metal components, fasteners and assemblies for automobiles, light trucks and other industrial uses.
The results of operations for the Automotive OEM segment for 2024, 2023 and 2022 were as follows:
2024 compared to 2023
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2024 | 2023 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 3,188 | $ | 3,235 | (1.5) | % | (0.4) | % | — | % | — | % | (1.1) | % | (1.5) | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 625 | $ | 561 | 11.4 | % | 9.6 | % | — | % | 3.0 | % | (1.2) | % | 11.4 | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 19.6 | % | 17.3 | % | 230 bps | 180 bps | — | 50 bps | — | 230 bps |
•Operating revenue decreased due to the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation and lower organic revenue.
•Organic revenue declined 0.4% compared to worldwide auto builds which decreased 1%. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 70 basis points.
◦North American revenue decreased 5.1% compared to North American auto builds which declined 1% primarily due to customer mix and product line simplification activities. Auto builds for the Detroit 3, where the Company has higher content, decreased 4%.
◦European organic revenue declined 3.4% compared to European auto builds which decreased 5% primarily due to market penetration gains.
◦Asia Pacific organic revenue grew 9.7%. China organic revenue increased 8.1%, including growth in the electric vehicles market and market penetration gains with Chinese original equipment manufacturers, versus China auto builds which grew 4%. Auto builds of foreign automotive manufacturers in China, where the Company has higher content per vehicle, decreased 17%.
•Operating margin of 19.6% increased 230 basis points primarily driven by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, lower restructuring expenses and favorable price/cost of 20 basis points, partially offset by higher employee-related expenses and continued investment in the business.
2023 compared to 2022
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 3,235 | $ | 2,969 | 9.0 | % | 8.8 | % | — | % | — | % | 0.2 | % | 9.0 | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 561 | $ | 499 | 12.4 | % | 11.7 | % | — | % | 1.1 | % | (0.4) | % | 12.4 | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 17.3 | % | 16.8 | % | 50 bps | 40 bps | — | 20 bps | (10) bps | 50 bps |
•Operating revenue grew due to higher organic revenue and the favorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue increased 8.8% compared to worldwide auto builds which grew 9%. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 50 basis points primarily in North America. Additionally, automotive industry labor actions in North America negatively impacted operating results in the second half of 2023.
◦North American organic revenue decreased 1.9% compared to North American auto builds which increased 9% primarily due to customer mix and product line simplification. Auto builds for the Detroit 3, where the Company has higher content, grew 1%.
26
◦European organic revenue grew 12.5% compared to European auto builds which increased 13%.
◦Asia Pacific organic revenue increased 21.4%. China organic revenue grew 21.9%, including growth in the electric vehicles market and higher content in the Chinese original equipment manufacturers, versus China auto builds which increased 9%.
•Operating margin of 17.3% increased 50 basis points primarily driven by positive operating leverage of 160 basis points, favorable price/cost of 140 basis points and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, partially offset by higher employee-related expenses and continued investments in the business, including the electric vehicles market, and product mix.
FOOD EQUIPMENT
This segment is a highly focused and branded industry leader in commercial food equipment differentiated by innovation and integrated service offerings. This segment primarily serves the food service, food retail and food institutional/restaurant markets. Products in this segment include:
•warewashing equipment;
•cooking equipment, including ovens, ranges and broilers;
•refrigeration equipment, including refrigerators, freezers and prep tables;
•food processing equipment, including slicers, mixers and scales;
•kitchen exhaust, ventilation and pollution control systems; and
•food equipment service, maintenance and repair.
The results of operations for the Food Equipment segment for 2024, 2023 and 2022 were as follows:
2024 compared to 2023
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2024 | 2023 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 2,647 | $ | 2,622 | 1.0 | % | 1.1 | % | — | % | — | % | (0.1) | % | 1.0 | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 719 | $ | 713 | 1.0 | % | 1.4 | % | — | % | (0.3) | % | (0.1) | % | 1.0 | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 27.2 | % | 27.2 | % | — | 10 bps | — | (10) bps | — | — |
•Operating revenue increased primarily due to higher organic revenue.
•Organic revenue grew 1.1% as equipment declined 0.8% and service organic revenue increased 4.8%.
◦North American organic revenue decreased 0.2%. Equipment organic revenue declined 2.4% primarily due to lower demand in the independent restaurant and food retail end markets, partially offset by growth in the institutional end market. Service organic revenue grew 3.9%.
◦International organic revenue grew 3.0%. Equipment organic revenue increased 1.6% primarily due to higher demand in the European warewash and cooking end markets and growth in Asia Pacific, partially offset by lower demand in the European refrigeration end market. Service organic revenue grew 6.4%.
•Operating margin of 27.2% was flat as benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, favorable price/cost of 30 basis points and positive operating leverage of 20 basis points were offset by higher operating expenses, including employee-related expenses and additional investment in the business.
27
2023 compared to 2022
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 2,622 | $ | 2,444 | 7.3 | % | 7.8 | % | (1.2) | % | — | % | 0.7 | % | 7.3 | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 713 | $ | 618 | 15.2 | % | 15.4 | % | (0.7) | % | (0.3) | % | 0.8 | % | 15.2 | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 27.2 | % | 25.3 | % | 190 bps | 180 bps | 20 bps | (10) bps | — | 190 bps |
•Operating revenue grew due to higher organic revenue and the favorable effect of foreign currency translation, partially offset by the impact of a divestiture in the fourth quarter of 2022. On December 1, 2022, the Company completed the sale of a business. Operating revenue for this business that was included in the Company's results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2022 was $30 million. Refer to Note 3. Divestitures in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information.
•Organic revenue increased 7.8% as equipment and service organic revenue grew 5.8% and 12.5%, respectively.
◦North American organic revenue increased 10.4% as equipment organic revenue grew 10.0% with growth in the institutional, food retail and restaurant end markets. Service organic revenue increased 12.0%.
◦International organic revenue increased 3.8%. Equipment organic revenue was flat as higher demand in the European warewash and refrigeration end markets was offset by lower demand in the European cooking end market and in China. Service organic revenue increased 13.4%.
•Operating margin of 27.2% increased 190 basis points primarily driven by favorable price/cost of 220 basis points, positive operating leverage of 150 basis points and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, partially offset by higher operating expenses, including employee-related expenses.
TEST & MEASUREMENT AND ELECTRONICS
This segment is a branded and innovative producer of test and measurement and electronic manufacturing and maintenance, repair, and operations, or "MRO" solutions that improve efficiency and quality for customers in diverse end markets. Businesses in this segment produce equipment, consumables, and related software for testing and measuring of materials and structures, as well as equipment and consumables used in the production of electronic subassemblies and microelectronics. This segment primarily serves the electronics, general industrial, automotive original equipment manufacturers and tiers, energy, industrial capital goods and consumer durables markets. Products in this segment include:
•equipment, consumables, and related software for testing and measuring of materials, structures, gases and fluids;
•electronic assembly equipment;
•electronic components and component packaging;
•static control equipment and consumables used for contamination control in clean room environments; and
•pressure sensitive adhesives and components for electronics, medical, transportation and telecommunications applications.
The results of operations for the Test & Measurement and Electronics segment for 2024, 2023 and 2022 were as follows:
2024 compared to 2023
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2024 | 2023 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 2,818 | $ | 2,832 | (0.5) | % | (1.0) | % | 0.9 | % | — | % | (0.4) | % | (0.5) | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 703 | $ | 686 | 2.5 | % | 4.0 | % | (1.0) | % | — | % | (0.5) | % | 2.5 | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 24.9 | % | 24.2 | % | 70 bps | 130 bps | (50) bps | — | (10) bps | 70 bps |
•Operating revenue decreased due to lower organic revenue and the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation, partially offset by revenue from acquisitions.
28
•The Company completed the acquisition of one business for $57 million, net of cash acquired, on January 2, 2024, and completed the acquisition of a second business for $59 million, net of cash acquired, on April 1, 2024. Refer to Note 2. Acquisitions in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for additional information regarding these acquisitions.
•Organic revenue decreased 1.0% primarily due to a decline in the semiconductor and electronics end markets, partially offset by growth in the MTS Test & Simulation business.
◦Organic revenue for the test and measurement businesses declined 1.0% primarily driven by lower demand in the semiconductor and general industrial end markets, primarily in North America and Asia Pacific, partially offset by growth in the MTS Test & Simulation business.
◦Electronics organic revenue decreased 1.3% primarily due to a decline in the consumer electronics end market, partially offset by higher demand in the consumable semiconductor end market. The electronics assembly businesses declined 11.1% primarily due to lower demand in North America. The other electronics businesses, which include the contamination control, static control and pressure sensitive adhesives businesses, grew 3.1% primarily due to higher demand across all major regions.
•Operating margin of 24.9% increased 70 basis points primarily driven by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, favorable price/cost of 60 basis points and lower intangible asset amortization expense, partially offset by product mix, the dilutive impact of 50 basis points from acquisitions in 2024, higher employee-related expenses and unfavorable operating leverage of 20 basis points.
2023 compared to 2022
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 2,832 | $ | 2,828 | 0.1 | % | 0.3 | % | — | % | — | % | (0.2) | % | 0.1 | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 686 | $ | 684 | 0.3 | % | 1.3 | % | — | % | (0.5) | % | (0.5) | % | 0.3 | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 24.2 | % | 24.2 | % | — | 20 bps | — | (10) bps | (10) bps | — |
•Operating revenue was essentially flat as higher organic revenue was offset by the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue increased 0.3% primarily due to growth in the general industrial end market, partially offset by a decline in the semiconductor end market.
◦Organic revenue for the test and measurement businesses increased 7.0% primarily driven by growth in the MTS Test & Simulation and Instron businesses and higher demand in the automotive, defense, and oil and gas end markets, partially offset by lower semiconductor demand in North America.
◦Electronics organic revenue decreased 10.8% primarily due to a decline in the consumer electronics and semiconductor end markets. The electronics assembly businesses decreased 19.3% primarily due to lower demand in North America and Asia Pacific. The other electronics businesses, which include the contamination control, static control and pressure sensitive adhesives businesses, decreased 6.4% primarily due to lower demand in the semiconductor end market, partially offset by higher demand in the automotive end market.
•Operating margin of 24.2% was flat compared to the prior year as favorable price/cost of 160 basis points, benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and lower intangible asset amortization expense were offset by higher employee-related expenses and product mix.
WELDING
This segment is a branded value-added equipment and specialty consumable manufacturer with innovative and leading technology. Businesses in this segment produce arc welding equipment, consumables and accessories for a wide array of industrial and commercial applications. This segment primarily serves the general industrial market, which includes fabrication, shipbuilding and other general industrial markets, and construction, energy, MRO, industrial capital goods and automotive original equipment manufacturers and tiers markets. Products in this segment include:
•arc welding equipment; and
•metal arc welding consumables and related accessories.
29
The results of operations for the Welding segment for 2024, 2023 and 2022 were as follows:
2024 compared to 2023
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2024 | 2023 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/ Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,851 | $ | 1,902 | (2.7) | % | (2.4) | % | — | % | — | % | (0.3) | % | (2.7) | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 597 | $ | 605 | (1.3) | % | (1.3) | % | — | % | 0.2 | % | (0.2) | % | (1.3) | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 32.3 | % | 31.8 | % | 50 bps | 40 bps | — | 10 bps | — | 50 bps |
•Operating revenue decreased due to lower organic revenue and the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue declined 2.4% as equipment and consumables decreased 2.1% and 3.0%, respectively.
◦North American organic revenue decreased 3.3% as the industrial and commercial end markets declined 2.3% and 6.0%, respectively.
◦International organic revenue grew 2.2% primarily due to higher equipment demand in the general industrial and oil and gas end markets in Europe and Asia Pacific.
•Operating margin of 32.3% increased 50 basis points primarily driven by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and favorable price/cost of 50 basis points, partially offset by higher employee-related expenses and unfavorable operating leverage of 40 basis points.
2023 compared to 2022
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,902 | $ | 1,894 | 0.4 | % | 0.3 | % | — | % | — | % | 0.1 | % | 0.4 | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 605 | $ | 583 | 3.7 | % | 3.4 | % | — | % | (0.1) | % | 0.4 | % | 3.7 | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 31.8 | % | 30.8 | % | 100 bps | 100 bps | — | — | — | 100 bps |
•Operating revenue grew due to higher organic revenue and the favorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue increased 0.3%, which had a challenging comparable in the prior year of 16.0% growth. Consumables grew 1.3% and equipment decreased 0.4%.
◦North American organic revenue decreased 0.2% primarily due to a decline in the commercial end markets, partially offset by growth in the industrial and aerospace end markets.
◦International organic revenue grew 2.7% primarily due to higher equipment demand in the general industrial and oil and gas end markets in Asia Pacific.
•Operating margin of 31.8% increased 100 basis points primarily driven by favorable price/cost of 300 basis points and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, partially offset by higher employee-related expenses and product mix.
POLYMERS & FLUIDS
This segment is a branded supplier to niche markets that require value-added, differentiated products. Businesses in this segment produce engineered adhesives, sealants, lubrication and cutting fluids, and fluids and polymers for auto aftermarket maintenance and appearance. This segment primarily serves the automotive aftermarket, general industrial and MRO markets. Products in this segment include:
•adhesives for industrial, construction and consumer purposes;
•chemical fluids which clean or add lubrication to machines;
•epoxy and resin-based coating products for industrial applications;
•hand wipes and cleaners for industrial applications;
30
•fluids, polymers and other supplies for auto aftermarket maintenance and appearance;
•fillers and putties for auto body repair; and
•polyester coatings and patch and repair products for the marine industry.
The results of operations for the Polymers & Fluids segment for 2024, 2023 and 2022 were as follows:
2024 compared to 2023
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2024 | 2023 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,764 | $ | 1,804 | (2.2) | % | 0.9 | % | — | % | — | % | (3.1) | % | (2.2) | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 484 | $ | 482 | 0.4 | % | 3.7 | % | — | % | 0.9 | % | (4.2) | % | 0.4 | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 27.4 | % | 26.7 | % | 70 bps | 80 bps | — | 20 bps | (30) bps | 70 bps |
•Operating revenue decreased due to the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation, partially offset by higher organic revenue.
•Organic revenue grew 0.9% due to increases in South America, Europe and Asia Pacific, partially offset by a decrease in North America. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 30 basis points.
◦Organic revenue for the polymers businesses grew 6.3% due to increases in South America, Europe and Asia Pacific, partially offset by a decrease in North America.
◦Organic revenue for the fluids businesses increased 1.9% primarily driven by higher demand in Europe, primarily due to growth in the life sciences end market, partially offset by lower demand in the North American and European industrial maintenance, repair and operations and hygiene end markets.
◦Organic revenue for the automotive aftermarket businesses declined 2.2% primarily due to lower demand in the North American car care, body repair and tire repair businesses, partially offset by growth in the North American engine repair business and the European additives and tire repair businesses.
•Operating margin of 27.4% increased 70 basis points primarily driven by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, favorable price/cost of 30 basis points, positive operating leverage of 20 basis points, lower restructuring expenses and lower intangible asset amortization expense, partially offset by higher employee-related expenses.
2023 compared to 2022
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,804 | $ | 1,905 | (5.3) | % | 0.3 | % | (4.0) | % | — | % | (1.6) | % | (5.3) | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 482 | $ | 479 | 0.6 | % | 7.6 | % | (3.3) | % | (0.8) | % | (2.9) | % | 0.6 | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 26.7 | % | 25.2 | % | 150 bps | 180 bps | 30 bps | (20) bps | (40) bps | 150 bps |
•Operating revenue declined due to the impact of a divestiture in the fourth quarter of 2022 and the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation, partially offset by higher organic revenue. On October 3, 2022, the Company completed the sale of a business. Operating revenue for this business that was included in the Company's results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2022 was $76 million. Refer to Note 3. Divestitures in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information.
•Organic revenue increased 0.3% as growth in North America was partially offset by a decline in Europe. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 70 basis points.
◦Organic revenue for the automotive aftermarket businesses increased 1.4% primarily due to an increase in the car care, tire repair and engine repair businesses in North America and growth in Europe, partially offset by a decline in the body repair business in North America.
◦Organic revenue for the polymers businesses increased 0.3% due to higher demand in North America, partially offset by a decline in Europe. Demand in Europe was negatively impacted by declines in the wind and industrial end markets.
31
◦Organic revenue for the fluids businesses declined 2.7% driven by lower demand in the European life sciences end market, the North American industrial maintenance, repair and operations end market, and the transportation and health and hygiene end markets.
•Operating margin of 26.7% increased 150 basis points primarily driven by favorable price/cost of 210 basis points, benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and lower intangible asset amortization expense, partially offset by higher employee-related expenses and product mix.
CONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS
This segment is a branded supplier of innovative engineered fastening systems and solutions. This segment primarily serves the residential construction, renovation/remodel and commercial construction markets. Products in this segment include:
•fasteners and related fastening tools for wood and metal applications;
•anchors, fasteners and related tools for concrete applications;
•metal plate truss components and related equipment and software; and
•packaged hardware, fasteners, anchors and other products for retail.
The results of operations for the Construction Products segment for 2024, 2023 and 2022 were as follows:
2024 compared to 2023
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2024 | 2023 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,909 | $ | 2,033 | (6.1) | % | (6.1) | % | — | % | — | % | — | % | (6.1) | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 559 | $ | 578 | (3.4) | % | (2.5) | % | — | % | (0.8) | % | (0.1) | % | (3.4) | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 29.3 | % | 28.4 | % | 90 bps | 110 bps | — | (20) bps | — | 90 bps |
•Operating revenue decreased due to lower organic revenue.
•Organic revenue declined 6.1% due to lower demand across all major regions. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 50 basis points.
◦North American organic revenue decreased 4.6% primarily due to lower demand in the residential and commercial end markets. Organic revenue in the United States residential and commercial end markets declined 4.5% and 9.5%, respectively. Organic revenue in Canada increased 3.9%.
◦International organic revenue declined 7.7%. European organic revenue decreased 6.3% primarily due to lower demand in the commercial and residential end markets. Asia Pacific organic revenue declined 9.2% primarily due to lower demand in the Australia and New Zealand residential end markets.
•Operating margin of 29.3% increased 90 basis points primarily driven by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and favorable price/cost of 10 basis points, partially offset by unfavorable operating leverage of 110 basis points, higher employee-related expenses and higher restructuring expenses.
2023 compared to 2022
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 2,033 | $ | 2,113 | (3.8) | % | (3.2) | % | — | % | — | % | (0.6) | % | (3.8) | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 578 | $ | 548 | 5.5 | % | 6.6 | % | — | % | (0.5) | % | (0.6) | % | 5.5 | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 28.4 | % | 25.9 | % | 250 bps | 270 bps | — | (20) bps | — | 250 bps |
•Operating revenue declined due to lower organic revenue and the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue declined 3.2%, which had a challenging comparable in the prior year period of 14.4% growth. Organic revenue declined primarily due to a decrease in Europe and Asia Pacific. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 50 basis points.
32
◦North American organic revenue decreased 0.2% primarily due to lower demand in the United States residential and commercial end markets of 0.2% and 0.1%, respectively. Organic revenue in Canada declined 2.7%.
◦International organic revenue decreased 6.4%. European organic revenue declined 9.9% primarily due to lower demand in the commercial and residential end markets. Asia Pacific organic revenue declined 2.3% primarily due to lower demand in the Australia and New Zealand residential end markets.
•Operating margin of 28.4% increased 250 basis points primarily driven by favorable price/cost of 350 basis points and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, partially offset by higher employee-related expenses and unfavorable operating leverage of 60 basis points.
SPECIALTY PRODUCTS
This segment is focused on diversified niche market opportunities with substantial patent protection producing beverage packaging equipment and consumables, product coding and marking equipment and consumables, and appliance components and fasteners. This segment primarily serves the food and beverage, consumer durables, general industrial, airlines, industrial capital goods and printing and publishing markets. Products in this segment include:
•conveyor systems and line automation for the food and beverage industries;
•plastic consumables that multi-pack cans and bottles and related equipment;
•foil, film and related equipment used to decorate consumer products;
•product coding and marking equipment and related consumables;
•plastic and metal closures and components for appliances;
•airport ground support equipment; and
•components for medical devices.
The results of operations for the Specialty Products segment for 2024, 2023 and 2022 were as follows:
2024 compared to 2023
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2024 | 2023 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,743 | $ | 1,697 | 2.7 | % | 3.5 | % | (0.6) | % | — | % | (0.2) | % | 2.7 | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 528 | $ | 449 | 17.6 | % | 17.3 | % | (0.1) | % | 0.7 | % | (0.3) | % | 17.6 | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 30.3 | % | 26.5 | % | 380 bps | 350 bps | 10 bps | 20 bps | — | 380 bps |
•Operating revenue increased due to higher organic revenue, partially offset by the impact of a divestiture in the second quarter of 2023 and the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•The Company divested a business on April 3, 2023. Operating revenue for this business in 2023 was $9 million.
•Organic revenue grew 3.5% as consumables increased 2.3% and equipment sales grew 8.2% due to higher demand across all major regions. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 270 basis points.
◦North American organic revenue increased 1.8% primarily driven by growth in the ground support equipment, appliance, consumer packaging and strength films businesses, partially offset by a decline in the decorative and thermal foils businesses.
◦International organic revenue grew 6.9% primarily due to an increase in Europe, primarily in the ground support equipment business, and growth in the appliance business in Asia Pacific, partially offset by a decline in the consumer packaging businesses.
•Operating margin of 30.3% increased 380 basis points primarily driven by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, positive operating leverage of 70 basis points, favorable price/cost of 70 basis points and lower restructuring expenses, partially offset by higher employee-related expenses and product mix.
33
2023 compared to 2022
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,697 | $ | 1,799 | (5.7) | % | (4.9) | % | (1.6) | % | — | % | 0.8 | % | (5.7) | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 449 | $ | 481 | (6.5) | % | (7.2) | % | (0.1) | % | (0.3) | % | 1.1 | % | (6.5) | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 26.5 | % | 26.7 | % | (20) bps | (60) bps | 40 bps | (10) bps | 10 bps | (20) bps |
•Operating revenue declined due to lower organic revenue and the impact of a divestiture in the second quarter of 2023, partially offset by the favorable effect of foreign currency translation. On April 3, 2023, the Company completed the sale of a business. Operating revenue for this business that was included in the Company's results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 was $9 million and $37 million, respectively. Refer to Note 3. Divestitures in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information.
•Organic revenue decreased 4.9%. Consumable sales decreased 7.8% due to lower demand in all major regions, including plastic consumables that multi-pack cans and bottles. Equipment sales increased 7.9% primarily driven by higher demand in Europe and North America. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 150 basis points.
◦North American organic revenue decreased 6.4% primarily driven by a decline in the consumer packaging, specialty films, strength films and decorating equipment businesses, partially offset by growth in the ground support equipment, appliance and filter medical businesses.
◦International organic revenue declined 1.6% primarily due to a decrease in Asia Pacific in the strength films, graphics and decorating equipment businesses, partially offset by growth in the ground support equipment and consumer packaging businesses in Europe.
•Operating margin of 26.5% decreased 20 basis points primarily driven by unfavorable operating leverage of 90 basis points, higher employee-related expenses and product mix, partially offset by favorable price/cost of 130 basis points, benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and the favorable impact of a divestiture in the second quarter of 2023.
OTHER FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
•Interest expense was $283 million in 2024, $266 million in 2023 and $203 million in 2022. Interest expense in 2024 was higher than 2023 primarily due to the issuance of the Euro notes in May of 2024, partially offset by the repayment of the $700 million notes due March 1, 2024. Interest expense in 2023 was higher than 2022 primarily due to higher interest rates, partially offset by the repayment of notes due May 22, 2023. Refer to Note 10. Debt in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information regarding the Company's debt.
•Other income (expense) was income of $441 million in 2024, $49 million in 2023 and $255 million in 2022. On August 5, 2024, the Company entered into a purchase agreement with affiliates of CD&R for the sale of the Company’s noncontrolling equity interest in Wilsonart. The transaction closed immediately after the execution of the purchase agreement. Proceeds from the transaction, net of transaction costs, were $395 million, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $363 million. The sale of the Company’s equity interest in Wilsonart is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s financial results in subsequent periods. Other income was higher in 2022 as compared to 2023 primarily due to net pre-tax gains of $191 million related to the sale of businesses in 2022. Refer to Note 3. Divestitures and Note 5. Other Income (Expense) for additional information regarding these transactions.
•The Company's effective tax rate for 2024, 2023, and 2022 was 21.1%, 22.6% and 21.0%, respectively. The 2024 effective tax rate benefited from discrete income tax benefits during the third quarter of 2024 of $107 million related to the utilization of capital loss carryforwards upon the sale of Wilsonart and $87 million related to a reorganization of the Company's intellectual property, partially offset by a $73 million discrete tax expense related to the remeasurement of unrecognized tax benefits associated with various intercompany transactions. The 2023 effective tax rate benefited from a discrete income tax benefit of $20 million in the second quarter of 2023 related to amended 2021 U.S. taxes. The 2022 effective tax rate benefited from discrete income tax benefits of $32 million in the fourth quarter of 2022 related to the utilization of capital loss carryforwards and $51 million in the second quarter of 2022 related to a decrease in unrecognized tax benefits resulting from the resolution of a U.S. tax audit. Additionally, the effective tax rates for 2024, 2023 and 2022 included discrete income tax benefits of $14 million, $20 million and $12 million, respectively, related to excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation. Refer to Note 6. Income Taxes in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information.
34
•The impact of foreign currencies against the U.S. Dollar in 2024 versus 2023 decreased operating revenue and income before taxes by approximately $115 million and $40 million, respectively. The impact of foreign currencies against the U.S. Dollar in 2023 versus 2022 decreased operating revenue and income before taxes by approximately $7 million and $15 million, respectively.
NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
Information regarding new accounting pronouncements is included in Note 1. Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
The Company's primary sources of liquidity are free cash flow and short-term credit facilities. As of December 31, 2024, the Company had $948 million of cash and equivalents on hand and no outstanding borrowings under its $3.0 billion revolving credit facility. The Company also has maintained strong access to public debt markets. Management believes that these sources are sufficient to service debt and to finance the Company's capital allocation priorities, which include:
•internal investments to support organic growth and sustain core businesses;
•payment of an attractive dividend to shareholders; and
•external investments in selective strategic acquisitions that support the Company's organic growth focus and an active share repurchase program.
The Company believes that, based on its operating revenue, operating margin, free cash flow, and credit ratings, it could readily obtain additional financing, if necessary.
The Company has certain contractual obligations, primarily the current portion of noncurrent income taxes payable, operating leases and long-term debt. Refer to Note 6. Income Taxes, Note 9. Leases and Note 10. Debt in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for details related to the Company's contractual obligations. The Company did not have any significant off-balance sheet commitments as of December 31, 2024.
Cash Flow
The Company uses free cash flow to measure cash flow generated by operations that is available for dividends, share repurchases, acquisitions and debt repayment. The Company believes this non-GAAP financial measure is useful to investors in evaluating the Company's financial performance and measures the Company's ability to generate cash internally to fund Company initiatives. Free cash flow represents net cash provided by operating activities less additions to plant and equipment. Free cash flow is a measurement that is not the same as net cash flow from operating activities per the statement of cash flows and may not be consistent with similarly titled measures used by other companies. Summarized cash flow information for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022 was as follows:
| In millions | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Net cash provided by operating activities | $ | 3,281 | $ | 3,539 | $ | 2,348 | ||||
| Additions to plant and equipment | (437) | (455) | (412) | |||||||
| Free cash flow | $ | 2,844 | $ | 3,084 | $ | 1,936 | ||||
| Cash dividends paid | $ | (1,695) | $ | (1,615) | $ | (1,542) | ||||
| Repurchases of common stock | (1,500) | (1,500) | (1,750) | |||||||
| Acquisition of businesses (excluding cash and equivalents) | (115) | — | (2) | |||||||
| Proceeds from sale of operations and affiliates | — | 7 | 278 | |||||||
| Proceeds from sale of noncontrolling interest in Wilsonart International Holdings LLC | 395 | — | — | |||||||
| Net proceeds from (repayments of) debt | (8) | 294 | 276 | |||||||
| Other | 27 | 84 | 42 | |||||||
| Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and equivalents | (65) | 3 | (57) | |||||||
| Net increase (decrease) in cash and equivalents | $ | (117) | $ | 357 | $ | (819) |
35
Net cash provided by operating activities improved in 2023 compared to 2022 as supply chains began to normalize in 2023 and the Company reduced its investment in working capital.
Stock Repurchase Programs
On August 3, 2018, the Company announced a stock repurchase program which provided for the repurchase of up to $3.0 billion of the Company's common stock over an open-ended period of time (the "2018 Program"). Under the 2018 Program, the Company repurchased approximately 6.7 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $158.11 per share during 2019, approximately 4.2 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $167.69 per share during 2020, approximately 4.4 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $227.29 per share during 2021 and approximately 1.2 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $216.62 per share during 2022. The 2018 Program was completed in the first quarter of 2022.
On May 7, 2021, the Company announced a stock repurchase program which provided for the repurchase of up to an additional $3.0 billion of the Company's common stock over an open-ended period of time (the "2021 Program"). Under the 2021 Program, the Company repurchased approximately 7.1 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $210.46 per share during 2022 and approximately 6.3 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $235.35 per share during 2023. The 2021 Program was completed in the fourth quarter of 2023.
On August 4, 2023, the Company announced a stock repurchase program which provides for the repurchase of up to an additional $5.0 billion of the Company's common stock over an open-ended period of time (the "2023 Program"). Under the 2023 Program, the Company repurchased approximately 38,000 shares of its common stock at an average price of $263.44 per share during the fourth quarter of 2023 and approximately 5.9 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $254.04 per share during 2024. As of December 31, 2024, there were approximately $3.5 billion of authorized repurchases remaining under the 2023 Program.
36
After-tax Return on Average Invested Capital
The Company uses after-tax return on average invested capital ("After-tax ROIC") to measure the effectiveness of its operations' use of invested capital to generate profits. After-tax ROIC is not defined under U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"). After-tax ROIC is a non-GAAP financial measure that the Company believes is a meaningful metric to investors in evaluating the Company's ability to generate returns from cash invested in its operations and may be different than the method used by other companies to calculate After-tax ROIC. The Company defines After-tax ROIC as operating income after taxes divided by average invested capital, which is annualized when presented in interim periods. Operating income after taxes is a non-GAAP measure consisting of net income before interest expense and other income (expense), on an after-tax basis, which are excluded as they do not represent returns generated by the Company's operations. For comparability, the Company also excluded the net discrete tax benefit of $121 million in the third quarter of 2024 from net income and the effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2024. Additionally, for comparability, the Company also excluded the discrete tax benefit of $20 million in the second quarter of 2023 from net income and the effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2023. Also, for comparability, the Company excluded the discrete tax benefits of $32 million in the fourth quarter of 2022 and $51 million in the second quarter of 2022 from net income and the effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2022. Total invested capital represents the net assets of the Company, other than cash and equivalents and outstanding debt which do not represent capital investment in the Company's operations. The most comparable GAAP measure to operating income after taxes is net income. Net income to average invested capital and After-tax ROIC for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022 were as follows:
| Dollars in millions | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Numerator: | ||||||||||
| Net income | $ | 3,488 | $ | 2,957 | $ | 3,034 | ||||
| Net discrete tax benefit related to the third quarter 2024 | (121) | — | — | |||||||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the second quarter 2023 | — | (20) | — | |||||||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the fourth quarter 2022 | — | — | (32) | |||||||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the second quarter 2022 | — | — | (51) | |||||||
| Interest expense, net of tax (1) | 215 | 204 | 156 | |||||||
| Other (income) expense, net of tax (1) | (336) | (38) | (196) | |||||||
| Operating income after taxes | $ | 3,246 | $ | 3,103 | $ | 2,911 | ||||
| Denominator: | ||||||||||
| Invested capital: | ||||||||||
| Cash and equivalents | $ | 948 | $ | 1,065 | $ | 708 | ||||
| Trade receivables | 2,991 | 3,123 | 3,171 | |||||||
| Inventories | 1,605 | 1,707 | 2,054 | |||||||
| Net assets held for sale | — | — | 7 | |||||||
| Net plant and equipment | 2,036 | 1,976 | 1,848 | |||||||
| Goodwill and intangible assets | 5,431 | 5,566 | 5,632 | |||||||
| Accounts payable and accrued expenses | (2,095) | (2,244) | (2,322) | |||||||
| Debt | (7,863) | (8,164) | (7,763) | |||||||
| Other, net | 264 | (16) | (246) | |||||||
| Total net assets (stockholders' equity) | 3,317 | 3,013 | 3,089 | |||||||
| Cash and equivalents | (948) | (1,065) | (708) | |||||||
| Debt | 7,863 | 8,164 | 7,763 | |||||||
| Total invested capital | $ | 10,232 | $ | 10,112 | $ | 10,144 | ||||
| Average invested capital (2) | $ | 10,419 | $ | 10,214 | $ | 10,017 | ||||
| Net income to average invested capital | 33.5 | % | 29.0 | % | 30.3 | % | ||||
| After-tax return on average invested capital | 31.2 | % | 30.4 | % | 29.1 | % |
(1) Effective tax rate used for interest expense and other (income) expense for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022 was 23.8 %, 23.2% and 23.2%, respectively.
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(2) Average invested capital is calculated using the total invested capital balances at the start of the period and at the end of each quarter within each of the periods presented.
After-tax ROIC increased 80 basis points for the twelve month period ended December 31, 2024 compared to the prior year period as a result of a 4.6% increase in after-tax operating income versus a 2.0% increase in average invested capital.
After-tax ROIC for the year ended December 31, 2024 included 90 basis points of favorable impact related to the cumulative effect of the change from the LIFO method of accounting to the FIFO method for certain U.S. businesses ($117 million pre-tax, or $88 million after-tax) in the first quarter of 2024. Refer to Note 1. Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies in Item 8. Financial Statements for additional information regarding this change in accounting method.
After-tax ROIC increased 130 basis points for the twelve month period ended December 31, 2023 compared to the prior year period as a result of a 6.6% increase in after-tax operating income versus a 2.0% increase in average invested capital.
A reconciliation of the 2024 effective tax rate excluding the third quarter 2024 net discrete tax benefit of $121 million, which included favorable discrete tax benefits of $107 million related to the utilization of capital loss carryforwards upon the sale of Wilsonart and $87 million related to a reorganization of the Company's intellectual property, partially offset by a $73 million discrete tax expense related to the remeasurement of unrecognized tax benefits associated with various intercompany transactions, is as follows:
| Twelve Months Ended | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 31, 2024 | ||||||
| Dollars in millions | Income Taxes | Tax Rate | ||||
| As reported | $ | 934 | 21.1 | % | ||
| Net discrete tax benefit related to the third quarter 2024 | 121 | 2.7 | % | |||
| As adjusted | $ | 1,055 | 23.8 | % |
A reconciliation of the 2023 effective tax rate excluding the second quarter 2023 discrete tax benefit of $20 million related to amended 2021 U.S. taxes is as follows:
| Twelve Months Ended | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 31, 2023 | ||||||
| Dollars in millions | Income Taxes | Tax Rate | ||||
| As reported | $ | 866 | 22.6 | % | ||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the second quarter 2023 | 20 | 0.6 | % | |||
| As adjusted | $ | 886 | 23.2 | % |
A reconciliation of the 2022 effective tax rate excluding the fourth quarter 2022 discrete tax benefit of $32 million related to the utilization of capital loss carryforwards and the second quarter 2022 discrete tax benefit of $51 million related to the resolution of a U.S. tax audit is as follows:
| Twelve Months Ended | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 31, 2022 | ||||||
| Dollars in millions | Income Taxes | Tax Rate | ||||
| As reported | $ | 808 | 21.0 | % | ||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the fourth quarter 2022 | 32 | 0.8 | % | |||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the second quarter 2022 | 51 | 1.4 | % | |||
| As adjusted | $ | 891 | 23.2 | % |
Refer to Note 6. Income Taxes in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information regarding the discrete tax items noted above.
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Working Capital
Management uses working capital as a measurement of the short-term liquidity of the Company. Net working capital as of December 31, 2024 and 2023 is summarized as follows:
| In millions | 2024 | 2023 | Increase (Decrease) | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Current Assets: | ||||||||||
| Cash and equivalents | $ | 948 | $ | 1,065 | $ | (117) | ||||
| Trade receivables | 2,991 | 3,123 | (132) | |||||||
| Inventories | 1,605 | 1,707 | (102) | |||||||
| Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 312 | 340 | (28) | |||||||
| Total current assets | 5,856 | 6,235 | (379) | |||||||
| Current Liabilities: | ||||||||||
| Short-term debt | 1,555 | 1,825 | (270) | |||||||
| Accounts payable and accrued expenses | 2,095 | 2,244 | (149) | |||||||
| Other | 658 | 606 | 52 | |||||||
| Total current liabilities | 4,308 | 4,675 | (367) | |||||||
| Net Working Capital | $ | 1,548 | $ | 1,560 | $ | (12) |
As of December 31, 2024, a significant portion of the Company's cash and equivalents was held by international subsidiaries. Cash and equivalents held internationally may be subject to foreign withholding taxes if repatriated to the U.S. Cash and equivalents held internationally are typically used for international operating needs or reinvested to fund expansion of existing international businesses. International funds may also be used to fund international acquisitions or, if not considered permanently invested, may be repatriated to the U.S. The Company has accrued for foreign withholding taxes related to foreign held cash and equivalents that are not permanently invested.
In the U.S., the Company utilizes cash flows from operations to fund domestic cash needs and the Company's capital allocation priorities. This includes operating needs of the U.S. businesses, dividend payments, share repurchases, acquisitions, servicing of domestic debt obligations, reinvesting to fund expansion of existing U.S. businesses and general corporate needs. The Company may also use its commercial paper program, which is supported by a long-term credit facility, for short-term liquidity needs. The Company believes cash generated by operations and liquidity provided by the Company's commercial paper program will continue to be sufficient to fund cash requirements in the U.S.
Debt
Total debt as of December 31, 2024 and 2023 was as follows:
| In millions | 2024 | 2023 | Increase (Decrease) | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Short-term debt | $ | 1,555 | $ | 1,825 | $ | (270) | ||||
| Long-term debt | 6,308 | 6,339 | (31) | |||||||
| Total debt | $ | 7,863 | $ | 8,164 | $ | (301) |
As of December 31, 2024, short-term debt included $777 million related to the Euro-denominated credit agreement entered into on May 5, 2023 (the "Euro Credit Agreement"), which was reclassified to Short-term debt in the second quarter of 2024 since the debt, including the options to extend the termination date, is due in April 2025. As of December 31, 2023, Short-term debt included $700 million related to the 3.50% notes due March 1, 2024 and $661 million related to the 0.25% Euro notes due December 5, 2024, both of which were repaid on their respective due dates. Additionally, Short-term debt included $778 million and $464 million of commercial paper as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
As of December 31, 2023, the Company had €1.3 billion outstanding under the Euro Credit Agreement with an interest rate of 4.59%, which was included in Long-term debt as the Company intended to exercise its options to extend the termination date. The first and second options to extend the termination date were both exercised in 2024. On May 22, 2024, the Company repaid €550 million of the term loans under the Euro Credit Agreement using a portion of the proceeds from the
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Euro notes issued on May 17, 2024, as discussed below. As of December 31, 2024, the Company had €750 million outstanding under the Euro Credit Agreement with an interest rate of 3.61%, which was reclassified to Short-term debt in the second quarter of 2024 since the debt, including the options to extend the termination date, is due in April 2025.
In May 2024, the Company issued €650 million of 3.25% Euro notes due May 17, 2028 at 99.525% of face value and €850 million of 3.375% Euro notes due May 17, 2032 at 99.072% of face value. Proceeds from the issuance were used for general corporate purposes, including the repayment of a portion of the indebtedness under the commercial paper program and the Euro Credit Agreement.
The Company may issue commercial paper to fund general corporate needs, share repurchases, and small and medium-sized acquisitions. During the fourth quarter of 2022, the Company entered into a $3.0 billion, five-year revolving credit facility with a termination date of October 21, 2027, which is available to provide additional liquidity, including to support the potential issuances of commercial paper. No amounts were outstanding under the revolving credit facility as of December 31, 2024 or 2023. The maximum outstanding commercial paper balance during 2024 was $1.9 billion, while the average daily balance was $906 million.
As of December 31, 2024, the Company had unused capacity of approximately $170 million under international debt facilities. In the ordinary course of business, the Company also had approximately $250 million outstanding in guarantees, letters of credit and other similar arrangements with financial institutions as of December 31, 2024. Refer to Note 10. Debt in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for additional details regarding the Company's outstanding debt obligations.
Total Debt to EBITDA
The Company uses the ratio of total debt to EBITDA as a measure of its ability to repay its outstanding debt obligations. EBITDA and the ratio of total debt to EBITDA are non-GAAP financial measures. The Company believes that total debt to EBITDA is a meaningful metric to investors in evaluating the Company's long term financial liquidity and may be different than the method used by other companies to calculate total debt to EBITDA. The ratio of total debt to EBITDA represents total debt divided by net income before interest expense, other income (expense), income taxes, depreciation, and amortization and impairment of intangible assets on a trailing twelve month basis. Total debt to EBITDA for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022 was as follows:
| Dollars in millions | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total debt | $ | 7,863 | $ | 8,164 | $ | 7,763 | ||||
| Net income | $ | 3,488 | $ | 2,957 | $ | 3,034 | ||||
| Add: | ||||||||||
| Interest expense | 283 | 266 | 203 | |||||||
| Other (income) expense | (441) | (49) | (255) | |||||||
| Income taxes | 934 | 866 | 808 | |||||||
| Depreciation | 301 | 282 | 276 | |||||||
| Amortization and impairment of intangible assets | 101 | 113 | 134 | |||||||
| EBITDA | $ | 4,666 | $ | 4,435 | $ | 4,200 | ||||
| Total debt to EBITDA ratio | 1.7 | 1.8 | 1.8 |
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Stockholders' Equity
The changes to stockholders' equity during 2024 and 2023 were as follows:
| In millions | 2024 | 2023 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beginning balance | $ | 3,013 | $ | 3,089 | ||
| Net income | 3,488 | 2,957 | ||||
| Cash dividends declared | (1,717) | (1,634) | ||||
| Repurchases of common stock | (1,500) | (1,500) | ||||
| Other comprehensive income (loss) | (43) | 7 | ||||
| Other | 76 | 94 | ||||
| Ending balance | $ | 3,317 | $ | 3,013 |
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES
The Company has three accounting estimates that it believes are most important to the Company's financial condition and results of operations, and which require the Company to make judgments about matters that are inherently uncertain. Management bases its estimates on historical experience, and in some cases on observable market information. Various assumptions are also used that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances and form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
The Company's critical accounting estimates are as follows:
Income Taxes— The Company provides deferred income tax assets and liabilities based on the estimated future tax effects of differences between the financial and tax bases of assets and liabilities based on currently enacted tax laws. The Company's deferred and other tax balances are based on management's interpretation of the tax regulations and rulings in numerous taxing jurisdictions. Income tax expense, assets and liabilities recognized by the Company also reflect its best estimates and assumptions regarding, among other things, the level of future taxable income, the effect of the Company's various tax planning strategies and uncertain tax positions. Future tax authority rulings and changes in tax laws, changes in projected levels of taxable income and future tax planning strategies could affect the actual effective tax rate and tax balances recorded by the Company.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets— The Company's business acquisitions typically result in recording goodwill and other intangible assets, which are a significant portion of the Company's total assets and affect the amount of amortization expense and impairment charges that the Company could incur in future periods. The Company follows the guidance prescribed in the accounting standards to test goodwill and intangible assets for impairment. On an annual basis, or more frequently if triggering events occur, the Company compares the estimated fair value of its reporting units to the carrying value of each reporting unit to determine if a potential goodwill impairment exists. If the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value, a goodwill impairment loss is recorded for the difference. In calculating the fair value of the reporting units or specific intangible assets, management relies on a number of factors, including business plans, economic projections, anticipated future cash flows, comparable transactions and other market data. There are inherent uncertainties related to these factors and management's judgment in applying them in the impairment tests of goodwill and other intangible assets.
As of December 31, 2024, the Company had total goodwill and intangible assets of approximately $5.4 billion allocated to its reporting units. Although there can be no assurance that the Company will not incur additional impairment charges related to its goodwill and other intangible assets, the Company generally believes the risk of significant impairment charges is lessened by the number of diversified businesses and end markets represented by its reporting units that have goodwill and other intangible assets. In addition, the individual businesses in many of the reporting units have been acquired over a long period of time, and in many cases have been able to improve their performance, primarily as a result of the application of the Company's 80/20 Front-to-Back process. The amount of goodwill and other intangible assets allocated to individual reporting units ranges from approximately $232 million to $1.4 billion, with the average amount equal to $542 million. In all cases, the fair value of the individual reporting unit significantly exceeds its carrying value. Fair value determinations require considerable judgment and are sensitive to changes in the factors described above. Due to the inherent uncertainties associated with these factors and economic conditions in the Company's global end markets, impairment charges related to one or more reporting units could occur in future periods.
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Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits— The Company has various company-sponsored defined benefit retirement plans covering a number of U.S. employees and many employees outside the U.S. Pension and other postretirement benefit expense and obligations are determined based on actuarial valuations. Pension benefit obligations are generally based on each participant's years of service, future compensation, and age at retirement or termination. Important assumptions in determining pension and postretirement expense and obligations are the discount rate, the expected long-term return on plan assets, life expectancy, and health care cost trend rates. Future changes in any of these assumptions could materially affect the amounts recorded related to the Company's pension and other postretirement benefit plans. See Note 11. Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for additional discussion of actuarial assumptions used in determining pension and postretirement health care liabilities and expenses.
The Company determines the discount rate used to measure plan liabilities as of the year-end measurement date for the U.S. primary pension plan. The discount rate reflects the current rate at which the associated liabilities could theoretically be effectively settled at the end of the year. In estimating this rate, the Company looks at rates of return on high-quality fixed income investments, with similar duration to the liabilities in the plan. A 25 basis point decrease in the discount rate would increase the present value of the U.S. primary pension plan obligation by approximately $24 million. The Company estimates the service and interest cost components of net periodic benefit cost by applying specific spot rates along the yield curve to the projected cash flows rather than a single weighted-average rate. See Note 11. Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for information on the Company's pension and other postretirement benefit plans and related assumptions.
The expected long-term return on plan assets is based on historical and expected long-term returns for similar investment allocations among asset classes. For the U.S. primary pension plan, a 25 basis point decrease in the expected return on plan assets would increase the annual pension expense by approximately $3 million.
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FY 2023 10-K MD&A
SEC filing source: 0000049826-24-000008.
ITEM 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
INTRODUCTION
Illinois Tool Works Inc. (the "Company" or "ITW") is a global manufacturer of a diversified range of industrial products and equipment with 84 divisions in 51 countries. As of December 31, 2023, the Company employed approximately 45,000 people.
The Company's operations are organized and managed based on similar product offerings and end markets, and are reported to senior management as the following seven segments: Automotive OEM; Food Equipment; Test & Measurement and Electronics; Welding; Polymers & Fluids; Construction Products; and Specialty Products.
Due to the large number of diverse businesses and the Company's decentralized operating structure, the Company does not require its businesses to provide detailed information on operating results. Instead, the Company's corporate management collects data on several key measurements: operating revenue, operating income, operating margin, overhead costs, number of months on hand in inventory, days sales outstanding in accounts receivable, past due receivables and return on invested capital. These key measures are monitored by management and significant changes in operating results versus current trends in end markets and variances from forecasts are discussed with operating unit management.
THE ITW BUSINESS MODEL
The powerful and highly differentiated ITW Business Model is the Company's core source of value creation. It is the Company's competitive advantage and defines how ITW creates value for its shareholders. The ITW Business Model is comprised of three unique elements:
•ITW's 80/20 Front-to-Back process is the operating system that is applied in every ITW business. Initially introduced as a manufacturing efficiency tool in the 1980s, ITW has continually refined, improved and expanded 80/20 into a proprietary, holistic business management process that generates significant value for the Company and its customers. Through the application of data driven insights generated by 80/20 practice, ITW focuses on its largest and best opportunities (the "80") and eliminates cost, complexity and distractions associated with the less
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profitable opportunities (the "20"). 80/20 enables ITW businesses to consistently achieve world-class operational excellence in product availability, quality, and innovation, while generating superior financial performance;
•Customer-back Innovation has fueled decades of profitable growth at ITW. The Company's unique innovation approach is built on insight gathered from the 80/20 Front-to-Back process. Working from the customer back, ITW businesses position themselves as the go-to problem solver for their "80" customers. ITW's innovation efforts are focused on understanding customer needs, particularly those in "80" markets with solid long-term growth fundamentals, and creating unique solutions to address those needs. These customer insights and learnings drive innovation at ITW and have contributed to a portfolio of approximately 19,600 granted and pending patents;
•ITW's Decentralized, Entrepreneurial Culture enables ITW businesses to be fast, focused, and responsive. ITW businesses have significant flexibility within the framework of the ITW Business Model to customize their approach in order to best serve their specific customers' needs. ITW colleagues recognize their unique responsibilities to execute the Company's strategy and values. As a result, the Company maintains a focused and simple organizational structure that, combined with outstanding execution, delivers best-in-class services and solutions adapted to each business' customers and end markets.
ENTERPRISE STRATEGY: 2012 - 2023
In late 2012, ITW began its strategic framework transitioning the Company to fully leverage the unique and powerful set of capabilities and operating practices of the ITW Business Model. The Company undertook a complete review of its performance, focusing on its businesses delivering consistent above-market growth with best-in-class margins and returns, and developing a strategy to replicate that performance across its operations. ITW determined that solid and consistent above-market organic growth is the core growth engine to deliver world-class financial performance and compelling long-term returns for its shareholders.
Key initiatives in the Company's enterprise strategy included portfolio management, business structure simplification, strategic sourcing and the diligent re-application of ITW's proprietary 80/20 Front-to-Back process.
•As part of the Portfolio Management initiative, ITW exited businesses that were operating in commoditized market spaces and prioritized sustainable differentiation as a must-have requirement for all ITW businesses. This process included both divesting entire businesses and exiting commoditized product lines and customers inside otherwise highly differentiated ITW divisions.
•Business Structure Simplification was implemented to simplify and scale up ITW's operating structure to support increased engineering, marketing, and sales resources, and improve global reach and competitiveness, all of which were critical to driving accelerated organic growth. ITW now has 84 scaled-up divisions with significantly enhanced focus on growth investments, core customers and products, and customer-back innovation.
•The Strategic Sourcing initiative established sourcing as a core strategic and operational capability at ITW, delivering an average of one percent reduction in spend each year since 2013 and continues to be a key contributor to the Company's ongoing enterprise strategy.
•With the initial portfolio realignment and scale-up work largely completed, the Company shifted its focus to preparing for and accelerating organic growth, reapplying the 80/20 Front-to-Back process to optimize its scaled-up divisions for growth, first, to build a foundation of operational excellence, and second, to identify the best opportunities to drive organic growth.
Since implementing the Company's enterprise strategy in 2012, the Company has demonstrated the compelling performance potential of the ITW Business Model and superior 80/20 management, resulting in meaningful incremental improvement in margins and returns as evidenced by the Company's operating margin and after-tax return on invested capital. At the same time, these 80/20 initiatives can also result in restructuring initiatives that reduce costs and improve profitability and returns.
OUR NEXT PHASE: 2024-2030
In the Next Phase of the Company’s evolution, the ITW Business Model and the Enterprise Strategy framework will be as formidable of a competitive advantage and performance differentiator as it has been over the last decade, if not more so. Volatility, risk and the pace of change in the global operating environment will continue to increase, and a decentralized
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entrepreneurial culture allows the Company to be a fast adaptor – to read, react, respond and evolve. The Company’s ability to consistently execute and invest through the ups and downs of the business cycle is now a defining competitive advantage.
Throughout the Next Phase, the Company's focus is to build organic growth into a core ITW strength on par with the Company’s world-class financial performance and operational capabilities. Throughout this phase, the Company will sustain its foundational strengths built over the past decade, including the high-quality ITW Business Model practice. Customer-back Innovation (CBI) is the most impactful driver to achieve high-quality organic growth through the cycle by establishing trusted problem solver relationships with key customers to effectively invent solutions that address customers' most critical pain points or tackle the biggest growth opportunities. CBI successes, coupled with underlying market growth and share gains, are how the Company intends to achieve its high-quality organic growth.
Portfolio Discipline
The Company only operates in industries where it can generate significant, long-term competitive advantage from the ITW Business Model. ITW businesses have the right "raw material" in terms of market and business attributes that best fit the ITW Business Model and have significant potential to drive above-market organic growth over the long-term.
The Company focuses on high-quality businesses, ensuring it operates in markets with positive long-term macro fundamentals and with customers that have critical needs and value ITW's differentiated products, services and solutions. ITW's portfolio operates in highly diverse end markets and geographies which makes the Company more resilient in the face of uncertain or volatile market environments.
The Company routinely evaluates its portfolio to ensure it delivers sustainable differentiation and drives consistent long-term performance. This includes both implementing portfolio refinements and assessing selective high-quality acquisitions to supplement ITW's long-term growth potential.
The Company previously communicated its intent to explore options, including potential divestitures, for certain businesses with annual revenues totaling up to $1.0 billion. In the fourth quarter of 2019, the Company completed the divestitures of three businesses. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Company chose to defer any significant divestiture activity in 2020 and 2021. The Company reinitiated the divestiture process in 2022 for certain businesses with combined annual revenues of approximately $0.5 billion, subject to approval by the Company's Board of Directors. In the second quarter of 2022, plans were approved to divest two businesses, including one business in the Polymers & Fluids segment and one business in the Food Equipment segment. In the fourth quarter of 2022, both of these businesses were divested. The business in the Polymers & Fluids segment was sold for $220 million, subject to certain closing adjustments, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $156 million. The business in the Food Equipment segment was sold for $59 million, subject to certain closing adjustments, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $41 million. Operating revenue related to these divested businesses that was included in the Company's results of operations for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021 was $106 million and $115 million, respectively.
In the fourth quarter of 2022, plans were approved to divest one business in the Specialty Products segment. This business was presented as held for sale in the Statement of Financial Position as of December 31, 2022 and had assets and liabilities held for sale of $8 million and $1 million, respectively. This business was sold on April 3, 2023, with no significant gain or loss upon sale. Operating revenue related to this business that was included in the Company's results of operations was $9 million, $37 million and $35 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Refer to Note 4. Divestitures in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information regarding the Company's divestitures.
As the Company continues to make progress toward its full potential, the Company will explore opportunities to reinforce or further expand the long-term organic growth potential of ITW through the addition of selective high-quality acquisitions, such as the acquisition of the Test & Simulation business of MTS Systems Corporation ("MTS") from Amphenol Corporation on December 1, 2021. The operating results of the MTS Test & Simulation business were reported within the Company's Test & Measurement and Electronics segment. Refer to Note 3. Acquisitions in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information regarding this acquisition.
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80/20 Front-to-Back Practice Excellence
ITW will continue to drive 80/20 Front-to-Back practice excellence in every division in the Company, every day. Driving strong operational excellence in the quality of 80/20 Front-to-Back practice across the Company, division by division, will produce further customer-facing performance improvement in a number of divisions and additional structural margin expansion at the enterprise level.
TERMS USED BY ITW
Management uses the following terms to describe the financial results of operations of the Company:
•Organic business - acquired businesses that have been included in the Company's results of operations for more than 12 months on a constant currency basis.
•Operating leverage - the estimated effect of the organic revenue volume changes on organic operating income, assuming variable margins remain the same as the prior period.
•Price/cost - represents the estimated net impact of increases or decreases in the cost of materials used in the Company's products versus changes in the selling price to the Company's customers.
•Product line simplification (PLS) - focuses businesses on eliminating the complexity and overhead costs associated with smaller product lines and customers, and focuses businesses on supporting and growing their largest customers and product lines. In the short-term, PLS may result in a decrease in revenue and overhead costs while improving operating margin. In the long-term, PLS is expected to result in growth in revenue, profitability, and returns.
Unless otherwise stated, the changes in financial results in the consolidated results of operations and the results of operations by segment represent the current year period versus the comparable period in the prior year.
CONSOLIDATED RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Starting in early 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic and the measures taken to reduce its spread negatively impacted the global economy and caused significant disruptions in the Company's global operations as COVID-19 spread and impacted the countries in which the Company operates and the markets the Company serves.
Despite the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Company experienced solid recovery progress in many of its end markets during the past three years. However, new epidemics and pandemics (including any resurgence of COVID-19) could similarly adversely impact the operations of the Company and its customers and suppliers. A description of the risks relating to the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on the Company's business, operations and financial condition is contained in Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors.
On December 1, 2021, the Company completed the acquisition of the MTS Test & Simulation business for a purchase price of $750 million, subject to certain closing adjustments. The MTS Test & Simulation business had operating revenue of $46 million for the one month ended December 31, 2021 and $422 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022. The Company expects the MTS Test & Simulation business to improve operating margin performance in later years through the application of the Company's 80/20 Front-to-Back process. The operating results of the MTS Test & Simulation business were reported within the Test & Measurement and Electronics segment. Refer to Note 3. Acquisitions in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information.
During the first quarter of 2022, Russian military forces invaded Ukraine. In response, the United States and several other countries imposed economic and other sanctions on Russia. The Company has four immaterial Russian subsidiaries with total assets of approximately $22 million as of December 31, 2023. The revenue for these four subsidiaries for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023 was approximately $26 million. These subsidiaries were not material to the Company's results of operations or financial position.
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In the second quarter of 2022, plans were approved to divest two businesses, including one business in the Polymers & Fluids segment and one business in the Food Equipment segment. These two businesses were classified as held for sale beginning in the second quarter of 2022. In the fourth quarter of 2022, both of these businesses were divested. On October 3, 2022, the business in the Polymers & Fluids segment was sold for $220 million, subject to certain closing adjustments, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $156 million. On December 1, 2022, the business in the Food Equipment segment was sold for $59 million, subject to certain closing adjustments, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $41 million. The pre-tax gains were included in Other income (expense) in the Statement of Income. Income taxes on the gains were mostly offset by the utilization of capital loss carryforwards of $32 million. Operating revenue related to these divested businesses that was included in the Company's results of operations for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022 and 2021 was $106 million and $115 million, respectively.
In the fourth quarter of 2022, plans were approved to divest one business in the Specialty Products segment. This business was presented as held for sale in the Statement of Financial Position as of December 31, 2022 and had assets and liabilities held for sale of $8 million and $1 million, respectively. This business was sold on April 3, 2023, with no significant gain or loss upon sale. Operating revenue related to this business that was included in the Company's results of operations was $9 million, $37 million and $35 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
In a challenging and dynamic environment, the Company delivered strong financial results in 2023 primarily due to the continued successful execution of enterprise initiatives and continued focus on the highly differentiated ITW Business Model.
Operating Revenue
Refer to the "Results of Operations for Total Company" and the "Results of Operations by Segment" sections for discussion of changes in operating revenue for 2023 compared to 2022 and 2022 compared to 2021.
Operating Expenses
| Dollars in millions | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Operating Revenue | $ | 16,107 | $ | 15,932 | $ | 14,455 | ||||
| Cost of revenue | $ | 9,316 | $ | 9,429 | $ | 8,489 | ||||
| Percent of operating revenue | 57.8 | % | 59.2 | % | 58.7 | % | ||||
| Selling, administrative, and research and development expenses | $ | 2,638 | $ | 2,579 | $ | 2,356 | ||||
| Percent of operating revenue | 16.4 | % | 16.2 | % | 16.3 | % | ||||
| Amortization and impairment of intangible assets | $ | 113 | $ | 134 | $ | 133 | ||||
| Percent of operating revenue | 0.7 | % | 0.8 | % | 0.9 | % |
Cost of revenue was $9.3 billion in 2023, $9.4 billion in 2022 and $8.5 billion in 2021. Cost of revenue was 1.2% lower in 2023 compared to 2022 primarily due to the impact of divestiture activity in the second quarter of 2023 and the fourth quarter of 2022, which reduced cost of revenue by 1.0%. Cost of revenue as a percent of operating revenue improved in 2023 compared to 2022 primarily due to benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and positive operating leverage, partially offset by higher employee-related expenses. Cost of revenue was 11.1% higher in 2022 compared to 2021 primarily due to a 12.8% increase resulting from higher organic revenue and a 3.0% increase due to the impact of the MTS Test & Simulation acquisition, which was completed on December 1, 2021, partially offset by the effect of foreign currency translation which reduced cost of revenue by 4.5%. Cost of revenue as a percent of operating revenue increased in 2022 compared to 2021 primarily due to higher raw material costs and increased employee-related expenses, partially offset by positive operating leverage and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives.
22
Selling, administrative, and research and development expenses were $2.6 billion in 2023, $2.6 billion in 2022 and $2.4 billion in 2021. Expenses in 2023 increased 2.3% compared to 2022 driven by a 3.0% increase resulting from higher organic revenue, partially offset by the impact of divestiture activity which reduced expenses by 0.7%. Selling, administrative, and research and development expenses as a percent of operating revenue were slightly higher in 2023 compared to 2022 primarily due to higher employee-related expenses and research and development expenses, partially offset by positive operating leverage and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives. Expenses in 2022 increased 9.5% compared to 2021 primarily due to a 9.2% increase resulting from higher organic revenue and a 4.3% increase due to the impact of the MTS Test & Simulation acquisition, partially offset by the effect of foreign currency translation which reduced expenses by 3.9%. Selling, administrative, and research and development expenses as a percent of operating revenue improved in 2022 compared to 2021 primarily due to positive operating leverage and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, partially offset by higher employee-related expenses and research and development expenses.
Amortization and impairment of intangible assets was lower in 2023 compared to 2022 primarily due to fully amortized intangible assets, but was essentially flat in 2022 compared to 2021 as additional amortization expense from the acquisition of the MTS Test & Simulation business was offset by fully amortized intangible assets.
Refer to the "Results of Operations for Total Company" and the "Results of Operation by Segment" sections for additional discussion of operating results for 2023 compared to 2022 and 2022 compared to 2021.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS FOR TOTAL COMPANY
The Company's consolidated results of operations for 2023, 2022 and 2021 were as follows:
2023 compared to 2022
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/ Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 16,107 | $ | 15,932 | 1.1 | % | 2.0 | % | (0.8) | % | — | % | (0.1) | % | 1.1 | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 4,040 | $ | 3,790 | 6.6 | % | 7.6 | % | (0.5) | % | (0.2) | % | (0.3) | % | 6.6 | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 25.1 | % | 23.8 | % | 130 bps | 130 bps | 10 bps | (10) bps | — | 130 bps |
•Operating revenue increased due to higher organic revenue, partially offset by the impact of divestiture activity in the second quarter of 2023 and the fourth quarter of 2022, and the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue increased 2.0% as growth in five segments was partially offset by a decline in the Specialty Products and Construction Products segments. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 50 basis points.
◦North American organic revenue decreased 0.3% as a decline in the Test & Measurement and Electronics, Specialty Products, Automotive OEM, Welding and Construction Products segments was partially offset by growth in the Food Equipment and Polymers & Fluids segments.
◦Europe, Middle East and Africa organic revenue increased 3.9% as growth in three segments was partially offset by a decline in the Construction Products, Polymers & Fluids, Specialty Products and Welding segments.
◦Asia Pacific organic revenue increased 6.9% as growth in five segments was partially offset by a decline in the Specialty Products and Construction Products segments. Organic revenue in China increased 9.7% as growth in the Automotive OEM, Test & Measurement and Electronics, Welding, Construction Products and Polymers & Fluids segments was partially offset by a decline in the Specialty Products and Food Equipment segments.
•Operating income of $4.0 billion increased 6.6% compared to the prior year primarily due to higher organic revenue, partially offset by the impact of divestiture activity, the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation and higher restructuring expenses.
•Operating margin of 25.1% increased 130 basis points primarily driven by favorable price/cost of 210 basis points, benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives of 130 basis points and positive operating leverage of 40 basis points, partially offset by continued investments in the business and higher employee-related expenses.
•The Company's effective tax rate for 2023 and 2022 was 22.6% and 21.0%, respectively. The 2023 effective tax rate benefited from a discrete income tax benefit of $20 million in the second quarter of 2023 related to amended 2021 U.S. taxes. The 2022 effective tax rate benefited from discrete income tax benefits of $32 million in the fourth
23
quarter of 2022 related to the utilization of capital loss carryforwards and $51 million in the second quarter of 2022 related to a decrease in unrecognized tax benefits resulting from the resolution of a U.S. tax audit. Additionally, the effective tax rates for 2023 and 2022 included discrete income tax benefits of $20 million and $12 million, respectively, related to excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation.
•Diluted earnings per share (EPS) of $9.74 in 2023 decreased 0.3%. Excluding the favorable impact of $0.60 per diluted share in 2022 related to the pre-tax divestiture gains of $197 million in the fourth quarter of 2022, or $188 million after-tax including the impact of the $32 million discrete tax benefit noted above, EPS increased 6.2%.
•The Company repurchased approximately 6.4 million shares of its common stock in 2023 for approximately $1.5 billion.
•The Company increased the quarterly dividend on common stock from $1.31 to $1.40 per share in 2023, or from $5.24 to $5.60 per share on an annualized basis. Total cash dividends of approximately $1.6 billion were paid in 2023.
2022 compared to 2021
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2022 | 2021 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/ Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 15,932 | $ | 14,455 | 10.2 | % | 12.1 | % | 2.4 | % | — | % | (4.3) | % | 10.2 | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 3,790 | $ | 3,477 | 9.0 | % | 14.3 | % | (0.1) | % | (0.7) | % | (4.5) | % | 9.0 | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 23.8 | % | 24.1 | % | (30) bps | 40 bps | (60) bps | (10) bps | — | (30) bps |
•Operating revenue increased due to higher organic revenue and the MTS Test & Simulation acquisition, which was completed on December 1, 2021, partially offset by the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation and the impact of divestiture activity in the fourth quarter of 2022.
•Organic revenue grew 12.1% with growth in all seven segments. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 40 basis points.
◦North American organic revenue increased 14.3% with growth in all seven segments primarily driven by the Food Equipment, Welding and Construction Products segments.
◦Europe, Middle East and Africa organic revenue increased 9.7% with growth in all seven segments primarily driven by the Food Equipment and Automotive OEM segments.
◦Asia Pacific organic revenue increased 8.3% due to growth in six segments, partially offset by a decline in the Specialty Products segment. China organic revenue increased 5.6% as growth in the Automotive OEM, Test & Measurement and Electronics, Welding and Polymers & Fluids segments was partially offset by a decline in the Specialty Products, Food Equipment and Construction Products segments. The results in 2022 were negatively impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak and government stay-at-home orders in China.
•Operating income of $3.8 billion increased 9.0% primarily due to higher organic revenue, partially offset by unfavorable foreign currency translation.
•Operating margin of 23.8% decreased 30 basis points primarily driven by higher operating expenses, including employee-related expenses and freight costs, unfavorable price/cost of 90 basis points and the dilutive impact of 60 basis points from the MTS Test & Simulation acquisition, partially offset by positive operating leverage of 220 basis points and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives of 90 basis points.
•The Company's effective tax rate for 2022 and 2021 was 21.0% and 19.0%, respectively. The 2022 effective tax rate benefited from discrete income tax benefits of $32 million in the fourth quarter of 2022 related to the utilization of capital loss carryforwards and $51 million in the second quarter of 2022 related to a decrease in unrecognized tax benefits resulting from the resolution of a U.S. tax audit. The 2021 effective tax rate benefited from discrete income tax benefits of $21 million in the third quarter of 2021 related to the utilization of capital loss carryforwards and $112 million in the second quarter of 2021 related to the remeasurement of net deferred tax assets due to the enactment of the U.K. Finance Bill 2021, which increased the U.K. income tax rate from 19% to 25% effective April 1, 2023. Additionally, the effective tax rates for 2022 and 2021 included discrete income tax benefits of $12 million and $17 million, respectively, related to excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation.
•Diluted earnings per share (EPS) of $9.77 in 2022 increased 14.8%. Excluding the favorable impact of $0.60 per diluted share related to the pre-tax divestiture gains of $197 million in the fourth quarter of 2022, or $188 million after-tax including the impact of the $32 million discrete tax benefit noted above, EPS increased 7.8%.
•The Company repurchased approximately 8.3 million shares of its common stock in 2022 for approximately $1.75 billion.
•The Company increased the quarterly dividend on common stock from $1.22 to $1.31 per share in 2022, or from $4.88 to $5.24 per share on an annualized basis. Total cash dividends of approximately $1.5 billion were paid in 2022.
24
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS BY SEGMENT
The reconciliation of segment operating revenue and operating income to total operating revenue and operating income is as follows:
| Operating Revenue | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| In millions | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | |||||||
| Automotive OEM | $ | 3,235 | $ | 2,969 | $ | 2,800 | ||||
| Food Equipment | 2,622 | 2,444 | 2,078 | |||||||
| Test & Measurement and Electronics | 2,832 | 2,828 | 2,346 | |||||||
| Welding | 1,902 | 1,894 | 1,650 | |||||||
| Polymers & Fluids | 1,804 | 1,905 | 1,804 | |||||||
| Construction Products | 2,033 | 2,113 | 1,945 | |||||||
| Specialty Products | 1,697 | 1,799 | 1,854 | |||||||
| Intersegment revenue | (18) | (20) | (22) | |||||||
| Total | $ | 16,107 | $ | 15,932 | $ | 14,455 |
| Operating Income | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| In millions | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | |||||||
| Automotive OEM | $ | 561 | $ | 499 | $ | 545 | ||||
| Food Equipment | 713 | 618 | 469 | |||||||
| Test & Measurement and Electronics | 686 | 684 | 643 | |||||||
| Welding | 605 | 583 | 490 | |||||||
| Polymers & Fluids | 482 | 479 | 457 | |||||||
| Construction Products | 578 | 548 | 530 | |||||||
| Specialty Products | 449 | 481 | 504 | |||||||
| Total Segments | 4,074 | 3,892 | 3,638 | |||||||
| Unallocated | (34) | (102) | (161) | |||||||
| Total | $ | 4,040 | $ | 3,790 | $ | 3,477 |
Segments are allocated a fixed overhead charge based on the segment's revenue. Expenses not charged to the segments are reported separately as Unallocated. Because the Unallocated category includes a variety of items, it is subject to fluctuations on a quarterly and annual basis. Unallocated expenses in 2023 were lower as compared to 2022 primarily due to the impact of lower corporate expenses, including favorable health and welfare expenses, and an immaterial insurance recovery. Unallocated expenses in 2021 included transaction costs related to the previously discussed acquisition of the MTS Test & Simulation business.
AUTOMOTIVE OEM
This segment is a global, niche supplier to top tier OEMs, providing unique innovation to address pain points for sophisticated customers with complex problems. Businesses in this segment produce components and fasteners for automotive-related applications. This segment primarily serves the automotive original equipment manufacturers and tiers market. Products in this segment include:
•plastic and metal components, fasteners and assemblies for automobiles, light trucks and other industrial uses.
25
The results of operations for the Automotive OEM segment for 2023, 2022 and 2021 were as follows:
2023 compared to 2022
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 3,235 | $ | 2,969 | 9.0 | % | 8.8 | % | — | % | — | % | 0.2 | % | 9.0 | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 561 | $ | 499 | 12.4 | % | 11.7 | % | — | % | 1.1 | % | (0.4) | % | 12.4 | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 17.3 | % | 16.8 | % | 50 bps | 40 bps | — | 20 bps | (10) bps | 50 bps |
•Operating revenue grew due to higher organic revenue and the favorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue increased 8.8% compared to worldwide auto builds which grew 9%. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 50 basis points primarily in North America. Additionally, automotive industry labor actions in North America negatively impacted operating results in the second half of 2023.
◦North American organic revenue decreased 1.9% compared to North American auto builds which increased 9% primarily due to customer mix and product line simplification. Auto builds for the Detroit 3, where the Company has higher content, grew 1%.
◦European organic revenue grew 12.5% compared to European auto builds which increased 13%.
◦Asia Pacific organic revenue increased 21.4%. China organic revenue grew 21.9%, including growth in the electric vehicles market and higher content in the Chinese original equipment manufacturers, versus China auto builds which increased 9%.
•Operating margin of 17.3% increased 50 basis points primarily driven by positive operating leverage of 160 basis points, favorable price/cost of 140 basis points and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, partially offset by higher employee-related expenses and continued investments in the business, including the electric vehicles market, and product mix.
2022 compared to 2021
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2022 | 2021 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 2,969 | $ | 2,800 | 6.0 | % | 11.7 | % | — | % | — | % | (5.7) | % | 6.0 | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 499 | $ | 545 | (8.6) | % | 1.5 | % | — | % | (4.8) | % | (5.3) | % | (8.6) | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 16.8 | % | 19.5 | % | (270) bps | (180) bps | — | (90) bps | — | (270) bps |
•Operating revenue grew due to higher organic revenue, partially offset by the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue increased 11.7% compared to worldwide auto builds which grew 6%. The impact of Automotive OEM customers adjusting production schedules to account for the shortage of semiconductor chips and other components continued to negatively impact operating results in 2022. Auto builds for North America, Europe and China, where the Company has a higher concentration of revenue as compared to the other geographic regions, grew 5%.
◦North American organic revenue increased 14.1% compared to North American auto builds which grew 10%.
◦European organic revenue grew 7.1% compared to European auto builds which decreased 1%.
◦Asia Pacific organic revenue increased 14.7%. China organic revenue grew 12.2%, including growth in the electric vehicles market, versus China auto builds which increased 6%. Auto builds of foreign automotive manufacturers in China, where the Company has higher content, increased 1%.
•Operating margin of 16.8% decreased 270 basis points primarily driven by unfavorable price/cost of 200 basis points, higher restructuring expenses, higher operating expenses and continued investment in the business, including the electric vehicles market, partially offset by positive operating leverage of 190 basis points and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives.
26
FOOD EQUIPMENT
This segment is a highly focused and branded industry leader in commercial food equipment differentiated by innovation and integrated service offerings. This segment primarily serves the food service, food retail and food institutional/restaurant markets. Products in this segment include:
•warewashing equipment;
•cooking equipment, including ovens, ranges and broilers;
•refrigeration equipment, including refrigerators, freezers and prep tables;
•food processing equipment, including slicers, mixers and scales;
•kitchen exhaust, ventilation and pollution control systems; and
•food equipment service, maintenance and repair.
The results of operations for the Food Equipment segment for 2023, 2022 and 2021 were as follows:
2023 compared to 2022
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 2,622 | $ | 2,444 | 7.3 | % | 7.8 | % | (1.2) | % | — | % | 0.7 | % | 7.3 | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 713 | $ | 618 | 15.2 | % | 15.4 | % | (0.7) | % | (0.3) | % | 0.8 | % | 15.2 | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 27.2 | % | 25.3 | % | 190 bps | 180 bps | 20 bps | (10) bps | — | 190 bps |
•Operating revenue grew due to higher organic revenue and the favorable effect of foreign currency translation, partially offset by the impact of a divestiture in the fourth quarter of 2022. On December 1, 2022, the Company completed the sale of a business. Operating revenue for this business that was included in the Company's results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2022 was $30 million. Refer to Note 4. Divestitures in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information.
•Organic revenue increased 7.8% as equipment and service organic revenue grew 5.8% and 12.5%, respectively.
◦North American organic revenue increased 10.4% as equipment organic revenue grew 10.0% with growth in the institutional, food retail and restaurant end markets. Service organic revenue increased 12.0%.
◦International organic revenue increased 3.8%. Equipment organic revenue was flat as higher demand in the European warewash and refrigeration end markets was offset by lower demand in the European cooking end market and in China. Service organic revenue increased 13.4%.
•Operating margin of 27.2% increased 190 basis points primarily driven by favorable price/cost of 220 basis points, positive operating leverage of 150 basis points and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, partially offset by higher operating expenses, including employee-related expenses.
2022 compared to 2021
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2022 | 2021 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 2,444 | $ | 2,078 | 17.6 | % | 22.9 | % | (0.1) | % | — | % | (5.2) | % | 17.6 | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 618 | $ | 469 | 31.7 | % | 38.1 | % | (0.1) | % | (0.4) | % | (5.9) | % | 31.7 | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 25.3 | % | 22.6 | % | 270 bps | 280 bps | — | (10) bps | — | 270 bps |
•Operating revenue grew due to higher organic revenue, partially offset by the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation and the impact of a divestiture in the fourth quarter of 2022. On December 1, 2022, the Company completed the sale of a business. Operating revenue for this business that was included in the Company's results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021 was $30 million and $28 million, respectively. Refer to Note 4. Divestitures in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information.
•Organic revenue increased 22.9% as equipment and service organic revenue grew 25.2% and 18.5%, respectively.
27
◦North American organic revenue increased 26.1%. Equipment organic revenue grew 31.5% primarily due to growth in the restaurant, institutional and food retail end markets. Service organic revenue increased 17.2%.
◦International organic revenue increased 18.8%. Equipment organic revenue grew 17.8% primarily due to higher demand in the European warewash, refrigeration and cooking end markets. Service organic revenue increased 20.8%.
•Operating margin of 25.3% increased 270 basis points primarily due to positive operating leverage of 430 basis points, benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and favorable price/cost of 90 basis points, partially offset by higher operating expenses, including employee-related expenses.
TEST & MEASUREMENT AND ELECTRONICS
This segment is a branded and innovative producer of test and measurement and electronic manufacturing and maintenance, repair, and operations, or "MRO" solutions that improve efficiency and quality for customers in diverse end markets. Businesses in this segment produce equipment, consumables, and related software for testing and measuring of materials and structures, as well as equipment and consumables used in the production of electronic subassemblies and microelectronics. This segment primarily serves the electronics, general industrial, energy, automotive original equipment manufacturers and tiers, industrial capital goods and consumer durables markets. Products in this segment include:
•equipment, consumables, and related software for testing and measuring of materials, structures, gases and fluids;
•electronic assembly equipment;
•electronic components and component packaging;
•static control equipment and consumables used for contamination control in clean room environments; and
•pressure sensitive adhesives and components for electronics, medical, transportation and telecommunications applications.
The results of operations for the Test & Measurement and Electronics segment for 2023, 2022 and 2021 were as follows:
2023 compared to 2022
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 2,832 | $ | 2,828 | 0.1 | % | 0.3 | % | — | % | — | % | (0.2) | % | 0.1 | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 686 | $ | 684 | 0.3 | % | 1.3 | % | — | % | (0.5) | % | (0.5) | % | 0.3 | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 24.2 | % | 24.2 | % | — | 20 bps | — | (10) bps | (10) bps | — |
•Operating revenue was essentially flat as higher organic revenue was offset by the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue increased 0.3% primarily due to growth in the general industrial end market, partially offset by a decline in the semiconductor end market.
◦Organic revenue for the test and measurement businesses increased 7.0% primarily driven by growth in the MTS Test & Simulation and Instron businesses and higher demand in the automotive, defense, and oil and gas end markets, partially offset by lower semiconductor demand in North America.
◦Electronics organic revenue decreased 10.8% primarily due to a decline in the consumer electronics and semiconductor end markets. The electronics assembly businesses decreased 19.3% primarily due to lower demand in North America and Asia Pacific. The other electronics businesses, which include the contamination control, static control and pressure sensitive adhesives businesses, decreased 6.4% primarily due to lower demand in the semiconductor end market, partially offset by higher demand in the automotive end market.
•Operating margin of 24.2% was flat compared to the prior year as favorable price/cost of 160 basis points, benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and lower intangible asset amortization expense were offset by higher employee-related expenses and product mix.
28
2022 compared to 2021
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2022 | 2021 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 2,828 | $ | 2,346 | 20.6 | % | 9.0 | % | 15.9 | % | — | % | (4.3) | % | 20.6 | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 684 | $ | 643 | 6.3 | % | 10.1 | % | — | % | 0.1 | % | (3.9) | % | 6.3 | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 24.2 | % | 27.4 | % | (320) bps | 30 bps | (350) bps | — | — | (320) bps |
•Operating revenue grew due to the MTS Test & Simulation acquisition, which was completed on December 1, 2021, and higher organic revenue, partially offset by the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue increased 9.0%.
◦Organic revenue for the test and measurement businesses increased 12.7% primarily driven by higher semiconductor demand in North America and Asia Pacific and the impact of a stronger capital spending environment. Instron, where demand is more closely tied to the capital spending environment, had organic revenue growth of 12.8%.
◦Electronics organic revenue increased 4.6% primarily due to higher demand in the semiconductor end market, partially offset by a decline in the consumer electronics end market. The electronics assembly businesses increased 1.3% primarily due to growth in Asia Pacific, partially offset by lower demand in North America in the first half of 2022. The other electronics businesses, which include the contamination control, static control and pressure sensitive adhesives businesses, increased 6.3% with growth across all major regions.
•Operating margin of 24.2% decreased 320 basis points primarily driven by the dilutive impact of 350 basis points from the MTS Test & Simulation acquisition, unfavorable price/cost of 120 basis points, and higher operating expenses, including employee-related expenses, partially offset by positive operating leverage of 190 basis points and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives.
WELDING
This segment is a branded value-added equipment and specialty consumable manufacturer with innovative and leading technology. Businesses in this segment produce arc welding equipment, consumables and accessories for a wide array of industrial and commercial applications. This segment primarily serves the general industrial market, which includes fabrication, shipbuilding and other general industrial markets, and construction, energy, MRO, industrial capital goods and automotive original equipment manufacturers and tiers markets. Products in this segment include:
•arc welding equipment; and
•metal arc welding consumables and related accessories.
The results of operations for the Welding segment for 2023, 2022 and 2021 were as follows:
2023 compared to 2022
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/ Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,902 | $ | 1,894 | 0.4 | % | 0.3 | % | — | % | — | % | 0.1 | % | 0.4 | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 605 | $ | 583 | 3.7 | % | 3.4 | % | — | % | (0.1) | % | 0.4 | % | 3.7 | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 31.8 | % | 30.8 | % | 100 bps | 100 bps | — | — | — | 100 bps |
•Operating revenue grew due to higher organic revenue and the favorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue increased 0.3%, which had a challenging comparable in the prior year of 16.0% growth. Consumables grew 1.3% and equipment decreased 0.4%.
◦North American organic revenue decreased 0.2% primarily due to a decline in the commercial end markets, partially offset by growth in the industrial and aerospace end markets.
29
◦International organic revenue grew 2.7% primarily due to higher equipment demand in the general industrial and oil and gas end markets in Asia Pacific.
•Operating margin of 31.8% increased 100 basis points primarily driven by favorable price/cost of 300 basis points and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, partially offset by higher employee-related expenses and product mix.
2022 compared to 2021
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2022 | 2021 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,894 | $ | 1,650 | 14.7 | % | 16.0 | % | — | % | — | % | (1.3) | % | 14.7 | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 583 | $ | 490 | 19.0 | % | 19.1 | % | — | % | 0.6 | % | (0.7) | % | 19.0 | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 30.8 | % | 29.7 | % | 110 bps | 80 bps | — | 10 bps | 20 bps | 110 bps |
•Operating revenue grew due to higher organic revenue, partially offset by the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue grew 16.0% as equipment increased 16.2% and consumables increased 15.8% primarily due to higher demand in the industrial end markets related to heavy equipment for agriculture, infrastructure and mining, and in the commercial end markets related to construction, light fabrication and farm and ranch customers.
◦North American organic revenue grew 16.6% due to growth in the industrial and commercial end markets of 25.6% and 3.9%, respectively.
◦International organic revenue grew 13.3% primarily due to higher equipment demand in the oil and gas end markets in Europe and Asia.
•Operating margin of 30.8% increased 110 basis points primarily driven by positive operating leverage of 220 basis points and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, partially offset by higher operating expenses, including employee-related expenses and freight costs, and unfavorable price/cost of 80 basis points.
POLYMERS & FLUIDS
This segment is a branded supplier to niche markets that require value-added, differentiated products. Businesses in this segment produce engineered adhesives, sealants, lubrication and cutting fluids, and fluids and polymers for auto aftermarket maintenance and appearance. This segment primarily serves the automotive aftermarket, general industrial and MRO markets. Products in this segment include:
•adhesives for industrial, construction and consumer purposes;
•chemical fluids which clean or add lubrication to machines;
•epoxy and resin-based coating products for industrial applications;
•hand wipes and cleaners for industrial applications;
•fluids, polymers and other supplies for auto aftermarket maintenance and appearance;
•fillers and putties for auto body repair; and
•polyester coatings and patch and repair products for the marine industry.
The results of operations for the Polymers & Fluids segment for 2023, 2022 and 2021 were as follows:
2023 compared to 2022
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,804 | $ | 1,905 | (5.3) | % | 0.3 | % | (4.0) | % | — | % | (1.6) | % | (5.3) | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 482 | $ | 479 | 0.6 | % | 7.6 | % | (3.3) | % | (0.8) | % | (2.9) | % | 0.6 | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 26.7 | % | 25.2 | % | 150 bps | 180 bps | 30 bps | (20) bps | (40) bps | 150 bps |
30
•Operating revenue declined due to the impact of a divestiture in the fourth quarter of 2022 and the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation, partially offset by higher organic revenue. On October 3, 2022, the Company completed the sale of a business. Operating revenue for this business that was included in the Company's results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2022 was $76 million. Refer to Note 4. Divestitures in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information.
•Organic revenue increased 0.3% as growth in North America was partially offset by a decline in Europe. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 70 basis points.
◦Organic revenue for the automotive aftermarket businesses increased 1.4% primarily due to an increase in the car care, tire repair and engine repair businesses in North America and growth in Europe, partially offset by a decline in the body repair business in North America.
◦Organic revenue for the polymers businesses increased 0.3% due to higher demand in North America, partially offset by a decline in Europe. Demand in Europe was negatively impacted by declines in the wind and industrial end markets.
◦Organic revenue for the fluids businesses declined 2.7% driven by lower demand in the European life sciences end market, the North American industrial maintenance, repair and operations end market, and the transportation and health and hygiene end markets.
•Operating margin of 26.7% increased 150 basis points primarily driven by favorable price/cost of 210 basis points, benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and lower intangible asset amortization expense, partially offset by higher employee-related expenses and product mix.
2022 compared to 2021
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2022 | 2021 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,905 | $ | 1,804 | 5.6 | % | 10.5 | % | (1.2) | % | — | % | (3.7) | % | 5.6 | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 479 | $ | 457 | 4.8 | % | 9.6 | % | (0.7) | % | — | % | (4.1) | % | 4.8 | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 25.2 | % | 25.4 | % | (20) bps | (30) bps | 20 bps | — | (10) bps | (20) bps |
•Operating revenue grew due to higher organic revenue, partially offset by the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation and the impact of a divestiture in the fourth quarter of 2022. On October 3, 2022, the Company completed the sale of a business. Operating revenue for this business that was included in the Company's results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021 was $76 million and $87 million, respectively. Refer to Note 4. Divestitures in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information.
•Organic revenue increased 10.5% with growth across all major regions. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 50 basis points.
◦Organic revenue for the polymers businesses increased 17.2% with growth across all major regions, primarily in the heavy industrial and wind end markets.
◦Organic revenue for the automotive aftermarket businesses increased 8.5% with growth in the car care, body repair, engine repair and tire repair businesses in North America and growth in the European additives and tire repair businesses.
◦Organic revenue for the fluids businesses grew 4.6% primarily due to growth in the hygiene and industrial maintenance, repair and operations end markets in North America and Europe.
•Operating margin of 25.2% decreased 20 basis points primarily driven by higher operating expenses, including employee-related expenses and freight costs, and unfavorable price/cost of 50 basis points, partially offset by positive operating leverage of 170 basis points, benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, lower intangible asset amortization expense and the impact of a divestiture.
CONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS
This segment is a branded supplier of innovative engineered fastening systems and solutions. This segment primarily serves the residential construction, renovation/remodel and commercial construction markets. Products in this segment include:
•fasteners and related fastening tools for wood and metal applications;
•anchors, fasteners and related tools for concrete applications;
•metal plate truss components and related equipment and software; and
•packaged hardware, fasteners, anchors and other products for retail.
31
The results of operations for the Construction Products segment for 2023, 2022 and 2021 were as follows:
2023 compared to 2022
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 2,033 | $ | 2,113 | (3.8) | % | (3.2) | % | — | % | — | % | (0.6) | % | (3.8) | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 578 | $ | 548 | 5.5 | % | 6.6 | % | — | % | (0.5) | % | (0.6) | % | 5.5 | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 28.4 | % | 25.9 | % | 250 bps | 270 bps | — | (20) bps | — | 250 bps |
•Operating revenue declined due to lower organic revenue and the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue declined 3.2%, which had a challenging comparable in the prior year period of 14.4% growth. Organic revenue declined primarily due to a decrease in Europe and Asia Pacific. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 50 basis points.
◦North American organic revenue decreased 0.2% primarily due to lower demand in the United States residential and commercial end markets of 0.2% and 0.1%, respectively. Organic revenue in Canada declined 2.7%.
◦International organic revenue decreased 6.4%. European organic revenue declined 9.9% primarily due to lower demand in the commercial and residential end markets. Asia Pacific organic revenue declined 2.3% primarily due to lower demand in the Australia and New Zealand residential end markets.
•Operating margin of 28.4% increased 250 basis points primarily driven by favorable price/cost of 350 basis points and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, partially offset by higher employee-related expenses and unfavorable operating leverage of 60 basis points.
2022 compared to 2021
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2022 | 2021 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 2,113 | $ | 1,945 | 8.6 | % | 14.4 | % | — | % | — | % | (5.8) | % | 8.6 | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 548 | $ | 530 | 3.5 | % | 8.8 | % | — | % | (0.2) | % | (5.1) | % | 3.5 | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 25.9 | % | 27.2 | % | (130) bps | (130) bps | — | — | — | (130) bps |
•Operating revenue grew due to higher organic revenue, partially offset by the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue grew 14.4% with growth across all major regions. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 40 basis points.
◦North American organic revenue increased 26.0% driven by higher demand in the United States residential and commercial end markets of 30.4% and 11.5%, respectively.
◦International organic revenue increased 5.1%. European organic revenue increased 6.2% primarily driven by higher demand in the commercial and residential end markets in the first half of 2022. Asia Pacific organic revenue increased 3.8% primarily due to higher demand in the Australia and New Zealand residential end markets.
•Operating margin of 25.9% decreased 130 basis points primarily driven by unfavorable price/cost of 260 basis points and higher operating expenses, including employee-related expenses, partially offset by positive operating leverage of 220 basis points and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives.
32
SPECIALTY PRODUCTS
This segment is focused on diversified niche market opportunities with substantial patent protection producing beverage packaging equipment and consumables, product coding and marking equipment and consumables, and appliance components and fasteners. This segment primarily serves the food and beverage, consumer durables, general industrial, industrial capital goods, airlines and printing and publishing markets. Products in this segment include:
•conveyor systems and line automation for the food and beverage industries;
•plastic consumables that multi-pack cans and bottles and related equipment;
•foil, film and related equipment used to decorate consumer products;
•product coding and marking equipment and related consumables;
•plastic and metal closures and components for appliances;
•airport ground support equipment; and
•components for medical devices.
The results of operations for the Specialty Products segment for 2023, 2022 and 2021 were as follows:
2023 compared to 2022
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,697 | $ | 1,799 | (5.7) | % | (4.9) | % | (1.6) | % | — | % | 0.8 | % | (5.7) | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 449 | $ | 481 | (6.5) | % | (7.2) | % | (0.1) | % | (0.3) | % | 1.1 | % | (6.5) | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 26.5 | % | 26.7 | % | (20) bps | (60) bps | 40 bps | (10) bps | 10 bps | (20) bps |
•Operating revenue declined due to lower organic revenue and the impact of a divestiture in the second quarter of 2023, partially offset by the favorable effect of foreign currency translation. On April 3, 2023, the Company completed the sale of a business. Operating revenue for this business that was included in the Company's results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 was $9 million and $37 million, respectively. Refer to Note 4. Divestitures in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information.
•Organic revenue decreased 4.9%. Consumable sales decreased 7.8% due to lower demand in all major regions, including plastic consumables that multi-pack cans and bottles. Equipment sales increased 7.9% primarily driven by higher demand in Europe and North America. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 150 basis points.
◦North American organic revenue decreased 6.4% primarily driven by a decline in the consumer packaging, specialty films, strength films and decorating equipment businesses, partially offset by growth in the ground support equipment, appliance and filter medical businesses.
◦International organic revenue declined 1.6% primarily due to a decrease in Asia Pacific in the strength films, graphics and decorating equipment businesses, partially offset by growth in the ground support equipment and consumer packaging businesses in Europe.
•Operating margin of 26.5% decreased 20 basis points primarily driven by unfavorable operating leverage of 90 basis points, higher employee-related expenses and product mix, partially offset by favorable price/cost of 130 basis points, benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and the favorable impact of a divestiture in the second quarter of 2023.
33
2022 compared to 2021
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2022 | 2021 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,799 | $ | 1,854 | (2.9) | % | 0.4 | % | — | % | — | % | (3.3) | % | (2.9) | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 481 | $ | 504 | (4.5) | % | (1.8) | % | — | % | 0.1 | % | (2.8) | % | (4.5) | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 26.7 | % | 27.2 | % | (50) bps | (60) bps | — | — | 10 bps | (50) bps |
•Operating revenue declined due to the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation, partially offset by higher organic revenue.
•Organic revenue increased 0.4% as consumable sales increased 3.0% and equipment sales declined 9.5%. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 170 basis points.
◦North American organic revenue increased 2.5% primarily due to growth in the foils and thermal films, consumer packaging, specialty films, filter medical and ground support businesses, partially offset by a decline in the appliance and strength films businesses.
◦International organic revenue declined 3.2% primarily due to a decline in Asia Pacific of 22.8% primarily driven by decreases in the strength films, appliance, foils and thermal films, and graphics businesses. The results in 2022 were negatively impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak and government stay-at-home orders in China. Europe organic revenue grew 2.8% primarily due to an increase in the consumer packaging, specialty films and filter medical businesses, partially offset by a decline in the appliance business.
•Operating margin of 26.7% decreased 50 basis points primarily driven by higher operating expenses, including employee-related expenses, partially offset by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and favorable price/cost of 10 basis points.
OTHER FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
•Interest expense was $266 million in 2023, $203 million in 2022 and $202 million in 2021. Interest expense in 2023 was higher than 2022 primarily due to higher interest rates, partially offset by the repayment of notes due May 22, 2023. Interest expense in 2022 was $1 million higher than 2021 primarily due to higher average outstanding commercial paper and higher interest rates, partially offset by the repayment of notes due September 15, 2021 and May 20, 2022. Refer to Note 11. Debt in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information regarding the repayment of notes.
•Other income (expense) was income of $49 million in 2023, $255 million in 2022 and $51 million in 2021. Other income was higher in 2022 as compared to 2023 and 2021 primarily due to net pre-tax gains of $191 million related to the sale of businesses in 2022.
•The Company's effective tax rate for 2023, 2022, and 2021 was 22.6%, 21.0% and 19.0%, respectively. The 2023 effective tax rate benefited from a discrete income tax benefit of $20 million in the second quarter of 2023 related to amended 2021 U.S. taxes. The 2022 effective tax rate benefited from discrete income tax benefits of $32 million in the fourth quarter of 2022 related to the utilization of capital loss carryforwards and $51 million in the second quarter of 2022 related to a decrease in unrecognized tax benefits resulting from the resolution of a U.S. tax audit. The 2021 effective tax rate benefited from discrete income tax benefits of $21 million in the third quarter of 2021 related to the utilization of capital loss carryforwards and $112 million in the second quarter of 2021 related to the remeasurement of net deferred tax assets due to the enactment of the U.K. Finance Bill 2021, which increased the U.K. income tax rate from 19% to 25% effective April 1, 2023. Additionally, the effective tax rates for 2023, 2022 and 2021 included discrete income tax benefits of $20 million, $12 million and $17 million, respectively, related to excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation. Refer to Note 7. Income Taxes in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information.
•The impact of the Euro and other foreign currencies against the U.S. Dollar in 2023 versus 2022 decreased operating revenue and income before taxes by approximately $7 million and $15 million, respectively. The impact of the Euro and other foreign currencies against the U.S. Dollar in 2022 versus 2021 decreased operating revenue and income before taxes by approximately $628 million and $157 million, respectively.
NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
Information regarding new accounting pronouncements is included in Note 1. Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
34
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
The Company's primary sources of liquidity are free cash flow and short-term credit facilities. As of December 31, 2023, the Company had $1.1 billion of cash and equivalents on hand and no outstanding borrowings under its $3.0 billion revolving credit facility. The Company also has maintained strong access to public debt markets. Management believes that these sources are sufficient to service debt and to finance the Company's capital allocation priorities, which include:
•internal investments to support organic growth and sustain core businesses;
•payment of an attractive dividend to shareholders; and
•external investments in selective strategic acquisitions that support the Company's organic growth focus, such as the acquisition of the MTS Test & Simulation business on December 1, 2021, and an active share repurchase program. Refer to Note 3. Acquisitions in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information regarding this acquisition.
The Company believes that, based on its operating revenue, operating margin, free cash flow, and credit ratings, it could readily obtain additional financing, if necessary.
The Company has certain contractual obligations, primarily noncurrent income taxes payable, operating leases and long-term debt. Refer to Note 7. Income Taxes, Note 10. Leases and Note 11. Debt in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for details related to the Company's contractual obligations. The Company did not have any significant off-balance sheet commitments as of December 31, 2023.
Cash Flow
The Company uses free cash flow to measure cash flow generated by operations that is available for dividends, share repurchases, acquisitions and debt repayment. The Company believes this non-GAAP financial measure is useful to investors in evaluating the Company's financial performance and measures the Company's ability to generate cash internally to fund Company initiatives. Free cash flow represents net cash provided by operating activities less additions to plant and equipment. Free cash flow is a measurement that is not the same as net cash flow from operating activities per the statement of cash flows and may not be consistent with similarly titled measures used by other companies. Summarized cash flow information for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 was as follows:
| In millions | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Net cash provided by operating activities | $ | 3,539 | $ | 2,348 | $ | 2,557 | ||||
| Additions to plant and equipment | (455) | (412) | (296) | |||||||
| Free cash flow | $ | 3,084 | $ | 1,936 | $ | 2,261 | ||||
| Cash dividends paid | $ | (1,615) | $ | (1,542) | $ | (1,463) | ||||
| Repurchases of common stock | (1,500) | (1,750) | (1,000) | |||||||
| Acquisition of businesses (excluding cash and equivalents) | — | (2) | (731) | |||||||
| Proceeds from sale of operations and affiliates | 7 | 278 | — | |||||||
| Net proceeds from (repayments of) debt | 294 | 276 | (141) | |||||||
| Other | 84 | 42 | 83 | |||||||
| Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and equivalents | 3 | (57) | (46) | |||||||
| Net increase (decrease) in cash and equivalents | $ | 357 | $ | (819) | $ | (1,037) |
Operating cash flow improved in 2023 compared to 2022 as supply chains began to normalize in 2023 and the Company reduced its investment in working capital. Operating cash flow decreased in 2022 and 2021 primarily due to higher working capital investments to support revenue growth, including increased inventory levels to help mitigate supply chain risk and sustain customer service levels.
Stock Repurchase Programs
On August 3, 2018, the Company announced a stock repurchase program which provided for the repurchase of up to $3.0 billion of the Company's common stock over an open-ended period of time (the "2018 Program"). Under the 2018 Program, the Company repurchased approximately 6.7 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $158.11 per share
35
during 2019, approximately 4.2 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $167.69 per share during 2020, approximately 4.4 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $227.29 per share during 2021 and approximately 1.2 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $216.62 per share during 2022. The 2018 Program was completed in the first quarter of 2022.
On May 7, 2021, the Company announced a stock repurchase program which provided for the repurchase of up to an additional $3.0 billion of the Company's common stock over an open-ended period of time (the "2021 Program"). Under the 2021 program, the Company repurchased approximately 7.1 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $210.46 per share during 2022 and approximately 6.3 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $235.35 per share during 2023. The 2021 Program was completed in the fourth quarter of 2023.
On August 4, 2023, the Company announced a new stock repurchase program which provides for the repurchase of up to an additional $5.0 billion of the Company's common stock over an open-ended period of time (the "2023 Program"). Under the 2023 program, the Company repurchased approximately 38,000 shares of its common stock at an average price of $263.44 per share during 2023. As of December 31, 2023, there were approximately $5.0 billion of authorized repurchases remaining under the 2023 program.
36
After-tax Return on Average Invested Capital
The Company uses after-tax return on average invested capital ("After-tax ROIC") to measure the effectiveness of its operations' use of invested capital to generate profits. After-tax ROIC is not defined under U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"). After-tax ROIC is a non-GAAP financial measure that the Company believes is a meaningful metric to investors in evaluating the Company's ability to generate returns from cash invested in its operations and may be different than the method used by other companies to calculate After-tax ROIC. The Company defines After-tax ROIC as operating income after taxes divided by average invested capital, which is annualized when presented in interim periods. Operating income after taxes is a non-GAAP measure consisting of net income before interest expense and other income (expense), on an after-tax basis, which are excluded as they do not represent returns generated by the Company's operations. For comparability, the Company also excluded the discrete tax benefit of $20 million in the second quarter of 2023 from net income and the effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2023. Additionally, for comparability, the Company also excluded the discrete tax benefits of $32 million in the fourth quarter of 2022 and $51 million in the second quarter of 2022 from net income and the effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2022. Also, for comparability, the Company excluded the discrete tax benefits of $21 million in the third quarter of 2021 and $112 million in the second quarter of 2021 from net income and the effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2021. Total invested capital represents the net assets of the Company, other than cash and equivalents and outstanding debt which do not represent capital investment in the Company's operations. The most comparable GAAP measure to operating income after taxes is net income. Net income to average invested capital and After-tax ROIC for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021 were as follows:
| Dollars in millions | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Numerator: | ||||||||||
| Net income | $ | 2,957 | $ | 3,034 | $ | 2,694 | ||||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the second quarter 2023 | (20) | — | — | |||||||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the fourth quarter 2022 | — | (32) | — | |||||||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the second quarter 2022 | — | (51) | — | |||||||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the third quarter 2021 | — | — | (21) | |||||||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the second quarter 2021 | — | — | (112) | |||||||
| Interest expense, net of tax (1) | 204 | 156 | 157 | |||||||
| Other (income) expense, net of tax (1) | (38) | (196) | (40) | |||||||
| Operating income after taxes | $ | 3,103 | $ | 2,911 | $ | 2,678 | ||||
| Denominator: | ||||||||||
| Invested capital: | ||||||||||
| Cash and equivalents | $ | 1,065 | $ | 708 | $ | 1,527 | ||||
| Trade receivables | 3,123 | 3,171 | 2,840 | |||||||
| Inventories | 1,707 | 2,054 | 1,694 | |||||||
| Net assets held for sale | — | 7 | — | |||||||
| Net plant and equipment | 1,976 | 1,848 | 1,809 | |||||||
| Goodwill and intangible assets | 5,566 | 5,632 | 5,937 | |||||||
| Accounts payable and accrued expenses | (2,244) | (2,322) | (2,233) | |||||||
| Debt | (8,164) | (7,763) | (7,687) | |||||||
| Other, net | (16) | (246) | (261) | |||||||
| Total net assets (stockholders' equity) | 3,013 | 3,089 | 3,626 | |||||||
| Cash and equivalents | (1,065) | (708) | (1,527) | |||||||
| Debt | 8,164 | 7,763 | 7,687 | |||||||
| Total invested capital | $ | 10,112 | $ | 10,144 | $ | 9,786 | ||||
| Average invested capital (2) | $ | 10,214 | $ | 10,017 | $ | 9,087 | ||||
| Net income to average invested capital | 29.0 | % | 30.3 | % | 29.6 | % | ||||
| After-tax return on average invested capital | 30.4 | % | 29.1 | % | 29.5 | % |
37
(1) Effective tax rate used for interest expense and other (income) expense for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021 was 23.2%, 23.2% and 23.0%, respectively.
(2) Average invested capital is calculated using the total invested capital balances at the start of the period and at the end of each quarter within each of the periods presented.
After-tax ROIC increased 130 basis points for the twelve month period ended December 31, 2023 compared to the prior year period as a result of a 6.6% increase in after-tax operating income versus a 2.0% increase in average invested capital.
After-tax ROIC decreased 40 basis points for the twelve month period ended December 31, 2022 compared to the prior year period as a result of a 10.2% increase in average invested capital versus an 8.7% increase in after-tax operating income.
A reconciliation of the 2023 effective tax rate excluding the second quarter 2023 discrete tax benefit of $20 million related to amended 2021 U.S. taxes is as follows:
| Twelve Months Ended | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 31, 2023 | ||||||
| Dollars in millions | Income Taxes | Tax Rate | ||||
| As reported | $ | 866 | 22.6 | % | ||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the second quarter 2023 | 20 | 0.6 | % | |||
| As adjusted | $ | 886 | 23.2 | % |
A reconciliation of the 2022 effective tax rate excluding the fourth quarter 2022 discrete tax benefit of $32 million related to the utilization of capital loss carryforwards and the second quarter 2022 discrete tax benefit of $51 million related to the resolution of a U.S. tax audit is as follows:
| Twelve Months Ended | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 31, 2022 | ||||||
| Dollars in millions | Income Taxes | Tax Rate | ||||
| As reported | $ | 808 | 21.0 | % | ||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the fourth quarter 2022 | 32 | 0.8 | % | |||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the second quarter 2022 | 51 | 1.4 | % | |||
| As adjusted | $ | 891 | 23.2 | % |
A reconciliation of the 2021 effective tax rate excluding the third quarter 2021 discrete tax benefit of $21 million related to the utilization of capital loss carryforwards and the second quarter 2021 discrete tax benefit of $112 million related to a change in the U.K. income tax rate is as follows:
| Twelve Months Ended | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 31, 2021 | ||||||
| Dollars in millions | Income Taxes | Tax Rate | ||||
| As reported | $ | 632 | 19.0 | % | ||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the third quarter 2021 | 21 | 0.6 | % | |||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the second quarter 2021 | 112 | 3.4 | % | |||
| As adjusted | $ | 765 | 23.0 | % |
Refer to Note 7. Income Taxes in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information regarding the discrete tax items noted above.
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Working Capital
Management uses working capital as a measurement of the short-term liquidity of the Company. Net working capital as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 is summarized as follows:
| In millions | 2023 | 2022 | Increase (Decrease) | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Current Assets: | ||||||||||
| Cash and equivalents | $ | 1,065 | $ | 708 | $ | 357 | ||||
| Trade receivables | 3,123 | 3,171 | (48) | |||||||
| Inventories | 1,707 | 2,054 | (347) | |||||||
| Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 340 | 329 | 11 | |||||||
| Assets held for sale | — | 8 | (8) | |||||||
| 6,235 | 6,270 | (35) | ||||||||
| Current Liabilities: | ||||||||||
| Short-term debt | 1,825 | 1,590 | 235 | |||||||
| Accounts payable and accrued expenses | 2,244 | 2,322 | (78) | |||||||
| Liabilities held for sale | — | 1 | (1) | |||||||
| Other | 606 | 547 | 59 | |||||||
| 4,675 | 4,460 | 215 | ||||||||
| Net Working Capital | $ | 1,560 | $ | 1,810 | $ | (250) |
As of December 31, 2023, a significant portion of the Company's cash and equivalents was held by international subsidiaries. Cash and equivalents held internationally may be subject to foreign withholding taxes if repatriated to the U.S. Cash and equivalents held internationally are typically used for international operating needs or reinvested to fund expansion of existing international businesses. International funds may also be used to fund international acquisitions or, if not considered permanently invested, may be repatriated to the U.S. The Company has accrued for foreign withholding taxes related to foreign held cash and equivalents that are not permanently invested.
In the U.S., the Company utilizes cash flows from operations to fund domestic cash needs and the Company's capital allocation priorities. This includes operating needs of the U.S. businesses, dividend payments, share repurchases, acquisitions, servicing of domestic debt obligations, reinvesting to fund expansion of existing U.S. businesses and general corporate needs. The Company may also use its commercial paper program, which is supported by a long-term credit facility, for short-term liquidity needs. The Company believes cash generated by operations and liquidity provided by the Company's commercial paper program will continue to be sufficient to fund cash requirements in the U.S.
Debt
Total debt as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 was as follows:
| In millions | 2023 | 2022 | Increase (Decrease) | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Short-term debt | $ | 1,825 | $ | 1,590 | $ | 235 | ||||
| Long-term debt | 6,339 | 6,173 | 166 | |||||||
| Total debt | $ | 8,164 | $ | 7,763 | $ | 401 |
As of December 31, 2023, short-term debt included $700 million related to the 3.50% notes due March 1, 2024, which were reclassified from Long-term debt to Short-term debt in the first quarter of 2023, $661 million related to the 0.25% Euro notes due December 5, 2024, which were reclassified from Long-term debt to Short-term debt in the fourth quarter of 2023, and commercial paper of $464 million. As of December 31, 2022, short-term debt included $535 million related to the 1.25% Euro notes due May 22, 2023, which were repaid on the due date, and commercial paper of $1.1 billion.
On May 5, 2023, the Company entered into a €1.3 billion Euro-denominated credit agreement (the "Euro Credit Agreement") with a termination date of May 3, 2024; provided, however, that the Company may extend the termination date by six months on up to two occasions. On May 12, 2023, the Company borrowed €1.3 billion of Euro term loans under the Euro Credit
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Agreement. Proceeds from the borrowing were used for general corporate purposes, including the repayment of outstanding debt. Any loan under the Euro Credit Agreement may not be re-borrowed once repaid, in full or in part, and will bear interest at a per annum rate equal to the applicable EURIBOR (adjusted for any statutory reserves) plus 0.75% for the interest period selected by the Company of one, three or six months. As of December 31, 2023, the Company had €1.3 billion outstanding under the Euro Credit Agreement with an interest rate of 4.59%, which was included in Long-term debt as the Company intends to exercise its options to extend the termination date.
The Company may issue commercial paper to fund general corporate needs, share repurchases, and small and medium-sized acquisitions. During the fourth quarter of 2022, the Company entered into a $3.0 billion, five-year revolving credit facility with a termination date of October 21, 2027, which is available to provide additional liquidity, including to support the potential issuances of commercial paper. No amounts were outstanding under the revolving credit facility as of December 31, 2023 or 2022. The maximum outstanding commercial paper balance during 2023 was $1.9 billion, while the average daily balance was $1.0 billion.
As of December 31, 2023, the Company had unused capacity of approximately $158 million under international debt facilities. In the ordinary course of business, the Company also had approximately $231 million outstanding in guarantees, letters of credit and other similar arrangements with financial institutions as of December 31, 2023. Refer to Note 11. Debt in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for additional details regarding the Company's outstanding debt obligations.
Total Debt to EBITDA
The Company uses the ratio of total debt to EBITDA as a measure of its ability to repay its outstanding debt obligations. EBITDA and the ratio of total debt to EBITDA are non-GAAP financial measures. The Company believes that total debt to EBITDA is a meaningful metric to investors in evaluating the Company's long term financial liquidity and may be different than the method used by other companies to calculate total debt to EBITDA. The ratio of total debt to EBITDA represents total debt divided by net income before interest expense, other income (expense), income taxes, depreciation, and amortization and impairment of intangible assets on a trailing twelve month basis. Total debt to EBITDA for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 was as follows:
| Dollars in millions | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total debt | $ | 8,164 | $ | 7,763 | $ | 7,687 | ||||
| Net income | $ | 2,957 | $ | 3,034 | $ | 2,694 | ||||
| Add: | ||||||||||
| Interest expense | 266 | 203 | 202 | |||||||
| Other (income) expense | (49) | (255) | (51) | |||||||
| Income taxes | 866 | 808 | 632 | |||||||
| Depreciation | 282 | 276 | 277 | |||||||
| Amortization and impairment of intangible assets | 113 | 134 | 133 | |||||||
| EBITDA | $ | 4,435 | $ | 4,200 | $ | 3,887 | ||||
| Total debt to EBITDA ratio | 1.8 | 1.8 | 2.0 |
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Stockholders' Equity
The changes to stockholders' equity during 2023 and 2022 were as follows:
| In millions | 2023 | 2022 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beginning balance | $ | 3,089 | $ | 3,626 | ||
| Net income | 2,957 | 3,034 | ||||
| Cash dividends declared | (1,634) | (1,560) | ||||
| Repurchases of common stock | (1,500) | (1,750) | ||||
| Other comprehensive income (loss) | 7 | (339) | ||||
| Other | 94 | 78 | ||||
| Ending balance | $ | 3,013 | $ | 3,089 |
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES
The Company has three accounting estimates that it believes are most important to the Company's financial condition and results of operations, and which require the Company to make judgments about matters that are inherently uncertain. Management bases its estimates on historical experience, and in some cases on observable market information. Various assumptions are also used that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances and form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
The Company's critical accounting estimates are as follows:
Income Taxes— The Company provides deferred income tax assets and liabilities based on the estimated future tax effects of differences between the financial and tax bases of assets and liabilities based on currently enacted tax laws. The Company's deferred and other tax balances are based on management's interpretation of the tax regulations and rulings in numerous taxing jurisdictions. Income tax expense, assets and liabilities recognized by the Company also reflect its best estimates and assumptions regarding, among other things, the level of future taxable income, the effect of the Company's various tax planning strategies and uncertain tax positions. Future tax authority rulings and changes in tax laws, changes in projected levels of taxable income and future tax planning strategies could affect the actual effective tax rate and tax balances recorded by the Company.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets— The Company's business acquisitions typically result in recording goodwill and other intangible assets, which are a significant portion of the Company's total assets and affect the amount of amortization expense and impairment charges that the Company could incur in future periods. The Company follows the guidance prescribed in the accounting standards to test goodwill and intangible assets for impairment. On an annual basis, or more frequently if triggering events occur, the Company compares the estimated fair value of its reporting units to the carrying value of each reporting unit to determine if a potential goodwill impairment exists. If the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value, a goodwill impairment loss is recorded for the difference. In calculating the fair value of the reporting units or specific intangible assets, management relies on a number of factors, including business plans, economic projections, anticipated future cash flows, comparable transactions and other market data. There are inherent uncertainties related to these factors and management's judgment in applying them in the impairment tests of goodwill and other intangible assets.
As of December 31, 2023, the Company had total goodwill and intangible assets of approximately $5.6 billion allocated to its reporting units. Although there can be no assurance that the Company will not incur additional impairment charges related to its goodwill and other intangible assets, the Company generally believes the risk of significant impairment charges is lessened by the number of diversified businesses and end markets represented by its reporting units that have goodwill and other intangible assets. In addition, the individual businesses in many of the reporting units have been acquired over a long period of time, and in many cases have been able to improve their performance, primarily as a result of the application of the Company's 80/20 Front-to-Back process. The amount of goodwill and other intangible assets allocated to individual reporting units ranges from approximately $215 million to $1.4 billion, with the average amount equal to $556 million. In all cases, the fair value of the individual reporting unit significantly exceeds its carrying value. Fair value determinations require considerable judgment and are sensitive to changes in the factors described above. Due to the inherent uncertainties associated with these factors and economic conditions in the Company's global end markets, impairment charges related to one or more reporting units could occur in future periods.
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Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits— The Company has various company-sponsored defined benefit retirement plans covering a number of U.S. employees and many employees outside the U.S. Pension and other postretirement benefit expense and obligations are determined based on actuarial valuations. Pension benefit obligations are generally based on each participant's years of service, future compensation, and age at retirement or termination. Important assumptions in determining pension and postretirement expense and obligations are the discount rate, the expected long-term return on plan assets, life expectancy, and health care cost trend rates. Future changes in any of these assumptions could materially affect the amounts recorded related to the Company's pension and other postretirement benefit plans. See Note 12. Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for additional discussion of actuarial assumptions used in determining pension and postretirement health care liabilities and expenses.
The Company determines the discount rate used to measure plan liabilities as of the year-end measurement date for the U.S. primary pension plan. The discount rate reflects the current rate at which the associated liabilities could theoretically be effectively settled at the end of the year. In estimating this rate, the Company looks at rates of return on high-quality fixed income investments, with similar duration to the liabilities in the plan. A 25 basis point decrease in the discount rate would increase the present value of the U.S. primary pension plan obligation by approximately $24 million. The Company estimates the service and interest cost components of net periodic benefit cost by applying specific spot rates along the yield curve to the projected cash flows rather than a single weighted-average rate. See Note 12. Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for information on the Company's pension and other postretirement benefit plans and related assumptions.
The expected long-term return on plan assets is based on historical and expected long-term returns for similar investment allocations among asset classes. For the U.S. primary pension plan, a 25 basis point decrease in the expected return on plan assets would increase the annual pension expense by approximately $4 million.
FY 2022 10-K MD&A
SEC filing source: 0000049826-23-000008.
ITEM 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
INTRODUCTION
Illinois Tool Works Inc. (the "Company" or "ITW") is a global manufacturer of a diversified range of industrial products and equipment with 84 divisions in 51 countries. As of December 31, 2022, the Company employed approximately 46,000 people.
The Company's operations are organized and managed based on similar product offerings and end markets, and are reported to senior management as the following seven segments: Automotive OEM; Food Equipment; Test & Measurement and Electronics; Welding; Polymers & Fluids; Construction Products; and Specialty Products.
Due to the large number of diverse businesses and the Company's decentralized operating structure, the Company does not require its businesses to provide detailed information on operating results. Instead, the Company's corporate management collects data on several key measurements: operating revenue, operating income, operating margin, overhead costs, number of months on hand in inventory, days sales outstanding in accounts receivable, past due receivables and return on invested capital. These key measures are monitored by management and significant changes in operating results versus current trends in end markets and variances from forecasts are discussed with operating unit management.
THE ITW BUSINESS MODEL
The powerful and highly differentiated ITW Business Model is the Company's core source of value creation. It is the Company's competitive advantage and defines how ITW creates value for its shareholders. The ITW Business Model is comprised of three unique elements:
•ITW's 80/20 Front-to-Back process is the operating system that is applied in every ITW business. Initially introduced as a manufacturing efficiency tool in the 1980s, ITW has continually refined, improved and expanded 80/20 into a proprietary, holistic business management process that generates significant value for the Company and its customers. Through the application of data driven insights generated by 80/20 practice, ITW focuses on its largest and best opportunities (the "80") and eliminates cost, complexity and distractions associated with the less profitable opportunities (the "20"). 80/20 enables ITW businesses to consistently achieve world-class operational excellence in product availability, quality, and innovation, while generating superior financial performance;
•Customer-back Innovation has fueled decades of profitable growth at ITW. The Company's unique innovation approach is built on insight gathered from the 80/20 Front-to-Back process. Working from the customer back, ITW businesses position themselves as the go-to problem solver for their "80" customers. ITW's innovation efforts are focused on understanding customer needs, particularly those in "80" markets with solid long-term growth fundamentals, and creating unique solutions to address those needs. These customer insights and learnings drive innovation at ITW and have contributed to a portfolio of approximately 19,200 granted and pending patents;
•ITW's Decentralized, Entrepreneurial Culture enables ITW businesses to be fast, focused, and responsive. ITW businesses have significant flexibility within the framework of the ITW Business Model to customize their approach in order to best serve their specific customers' needs. ITW colleagues recognize their unique responsibilities to
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execute the Company's strategy and values. As a result, the Company maintains a focused and simple organizational structure that, combined with outstanding execution, delivers best-in-class services and solutions adapted to each business' customers and end markets.
ENTERPRISE STRATEGY
In late 2012, ITW began its strategic framework transitioning the Company on its current path to fully leverage the compelling performance potential of the ITW Business Model. The Company undertook a complete review of its performance, focusing on its businesses delivering consistent above-market growth with best-in-class margins and returns, and developing a strategy to replicate that performance across its operations.
ITW determined that solid and consistent above-market organic growth is the core growth engine to deliver world-class financial performance and compelling long-term returns for its shareholders. To shift its primary growth engine to organic, the Company began executing a multi-step approach.
•The first step was to narrow the focus and improve the quality of ITW's business portfolio. As part of the Portfolio Management initiative, ITW exited businesses that were operating in commoditized market spaces and prioritized sustainable differentiation as a must-have requirement for all ITW businesses. This process included both divesting entire businesses and exiting commoditized product lines and customers inside otherwise highly differentiated ITW divisions.
As a result of this work, ITW's business portfolio now has significantly higher organic growth potential. ITW segments and divisions now possess attractive and differentiated product lines and end markets as they continue to improve operating margins and generate price/cost increases. The Company achieved this through product line simplification, or eliminating the complexity and overhead costs associated with smaller product lines and customers, while supporting and growing the businesses' largest / most profitable customers and product lines.
•Step two, Business Structure Simplification, was implemented to simplify and scale up ITW's operating structure to support increased engineering, marketing, and sales resources, and improve global reach and competitiveness, all of which were critical to driving accelerated organic growth. ITW now has 84 scaled-up divisions with significantly enhanced focus on growth investments, core customers and products, and customer-back innovation.
•The Strategic Sourcing initiative established sourcing as a core strategic and operational capability at ITW, delivering an average of one percent reduction in spend each year from 2013 through 2022 and continues to be a key contributor to the Company's ongoing enterprise strategy.
•With the initial portfolio realignment and scale-up work largely complete, the Company shifted its focus to preparing for and accelerating organic growth, reapplying the 80/20 Front-to-Back process to optimize its newly scaled-up divisions for growth, first, to build a foundation of operational excellence, and second, to identify the best opportunities to drive organic growth.
ITW has clearly demonstrated superior 80/20 management, resulting in meaningful incremental improvement in margins and returns as evidenced by the Company's operating margin and after-tax return on invested capital. At the same time, these 80/20 initiatives can also result in restructuring initiatives that reduce costs and improve profitability and returns.
PATH TO FULL POTENTIAL
Since the launch of the enterprise strategy, the Company has made considerable progress on our path to full potential. The ITW Business Model and unique set of capabilities are a source of strong and enduring competitive advantage, but for the Company to truly reach its full potential, every one of its divisions must also be operating at its full potential. To do so, the Company remains focused on its core principles:
•Portfolio discipline
•80/20 Front-to-Back practice excellence
•Full-potential organic growth
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Portfolio Discipline
The Company only operates in industries where it can generate significant, long-term competitive advantage from the ITW Business Model. ITW businesses have the right "raw material" in terms of market and business attributes that best fit the ITW Business Model and have significant potential to drive above-market organic growth over the long-term.
The Company focuses on high-quality businesses, ensuring it operates in markets with positive long-term macro fundamentals and with customers that have critical needs and value ITW's differentiated products, services and solutions. ITW's portfolio operates in highly diverse end markets and geographies which makes the Company more resilient in the face of uncertain or volatile market environments.
The Company routinely evaluates its portfolio to ensure it delivers sustainable differentiation and drives consistent long-term performance. This includes both implementing portfolio refinements and assessing selective high-quality acquisitions to supplement ITW's long-term growth potential.
The Company previously communicated its intent to explore options, including potential divestitures, for certain businesses with annual revenues totaling up to $1.0 billion. In the fourth quarter of 2019, the Company completed the divestitures of three businesses. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Company chose to defer any significant divestiture activity in 2020 and 2021. The Company reinitiated the divestiture process in 2022 for certain businesses with combined annual revenues of approximately $0.5 billion, subject to approval by the Company's Board of Directors. In the second quarter of 2022, plans were approved to divest two businesses, including one business in the Polymers & Fluids segment and one business in the Food Equipment segment. In the fourth quarter of 2022, both of these businesses were divested. The business in the Polymers & Fluids segment was sold for $220 million, subject to certain closing adjustments, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $156 million. The business in the Food Equipment segment was sold for $59 million, subject to certain closing adjustments, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $41 million. Operating revenue related to these divested businesses that was included in the Company's results of operations for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022, 2021 and 2020 was $106 million, $115 million and $113 million, respectively. Refer to Note 4. Divestitures in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information regarding the Company's divestitures.
80/20 Front-to-Back Practice Excellence
The 80/20 Front-to-Back process is a rigorous, iterative and highly data-driven approach to identify where the Company has true differentiation and the ability to drive sustainable, high-quality organic growth. The Company simplifies and eliminates complexity and redesigns every aspect of its business to ensure focused execution on key opportunities, markets, customers, and products.
ITW will continue to drive 80/20 Front-to-Back practice excellence in every division in the Company, every day. Driving strong operational excellence in the quality of 80/20 Front-to-Back practice across the Company, division by division, will produce further customer-facing performance improvement in a number of divisions and additional structural margin expansion at the enterprise level.
Pandemic Priorities and "Win the Recovery"
While it was the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic that dominated the Company's attention starting in 2020, it was the collection of capabilities and competitive advantages that have been built and honed since 2012 through the execution of ITW's enterprise strategy that provided the Company with the options to respond. This, coupled with the proprietary and powerful ITW Business Model, diversified high-quality business portfolio and diligent execution put the Company in a position of strength in dealing with the global pandemic.
Throughout the global pandemic, the Company has focused its efforts on (1) protecting the health and supporting the well-being of ITW's colleagues; (2) serving the Company's customers with excellence; (3) maintaining financial strength, liquidity and strategic optionality; and (4) leveraging the Company's strengths to position it to fully participate in the recovery.
"Win the Recovery" is an execution component of the Company's enterprise strategy, not a separate initiative, with every one of the Company's divisions identifying specific opportunities presented by the pandemic to capture sustainable share gains that are aligned with the ITW long-term enterprise strategy. The Company expects these efforts to contribute meaningfully to accelerate its progress toward full-potential organic growth. The Company continues to focus on delivering strong results in any environment while executing its long-term strategy to achieve and sustain ITW's full potential performance.
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Full-Potential Organic Growth
Reaching full potential means that every division is positioned for sustainable, high-quality organic growth. The Company has clearly defined action plans aimed at leveraging the performance power of the ITW Business Model to achieve full-potential organic growth in every division, with specific focus on:
•"80" focused Market Penetration - fully leveraging the considerable growth potential that resides in the Company's largest and most differentiated product offerings and customer relationships
•Customer-back Innovation - strengthening the Company's commitment to serial innovation and delivering a continuous flow of differentiated new products to its key customers
•Strategic Sales Excellence - deploying a high-performance sales function in every division
As the Company continues to make progress toward its full potential, the Company will explore opportunities to reinforce or further expand the long-term organic growth potential of ITW through the addition of selective high-quality acquisitions, such as the acquisition of the Test & Simulation business of MTS Systems Corporation ("MTS") from Amphenol Corporation on December 1, 2021. The operating results of the MTS Test & Simulation business were reported within the Company's Test & Measurement and Electronics segment. Refer to Note 3. Acquisitions in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information regarding this acquisition.
TERMS USED BY ITW
Management uses the following terms to describe the financial results of operations of the Company:
•Organic business - acquired businesses that have been included in the Company's results of operations for more than 12 months on a constant currency basis.
•Operating leverage - the estimated effect of the organic revenue volume changes on organic operating income, assuming variable margins remain the same as the prior period.
•Price/cost - represents the estimated net impact of increases or decreases in the cost of materials used in the Company's products versus changes in the selling price to the Company's customers.
•Product line simplification (PLS) - focuses businesses on eliminating the complexity and overhead costs associated with smaller product lines and customers, and focuses businesses on supporting and growing their largest customers and product lines. In the short-term, PLS may result in a decrease in revenue and overhead costs while improving operating margin. In the long-term, PLS is expected to result in growth in revenue, profitability, and returns.
Unless otherwise stated, the changes in financial results in the consolidated results of operations and the results of operations by segment represent the current year period versus the comparable period in the prior year.
CONSOLIDATED RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
In early 2020, an outbreak of a novel strain of coronavirus (COVID-19) occurred in China and other jurisdictions. The COVID-19 outbreak was subsequently declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organization on March 11, 2020. In response to the outbreak, governments around the globe took various actions to reduce its spread, including travel restrictions, shutdowns of businesses deemed nonessential, and stay-at-home or similar orders. The COVID-19 pandemic and the measures taken globally to reduce its spread have negatively impacted the global economy, causing significant disruptions in the Company's global operations starting primarily in the latter part of the first quarter of 2020 as COVID-19 spread and impacted the countries in which the Company operates and the markets the Company serves.
Throughout the global pandemic, the Company has focused on the following priorities: (1) protecting the health and supporting the well-being of ITW's colleagues; (2) continuing to serve the Company's customers with excellence to the best of its ability; (3) maintaining financial strength, liquidity and strategic optionality; and (4) leveraging the Company's strengths to position it to fully participate in the recovery. To support ITW's colleagues, among its many actions and initiatives, the Company redesigned production processes to ensure proper social distancing practices, adjusted shift schedules and assignments to help colleagues who have child and elder care needs, and implemented aggressive new workplace sanitation practices and a coordinated response to ensure access to personal protective equipment to minimize infection risk. To support its customers, the Company worked diligently to keep its facilities open and operating safely. The Company also adapted customer service systems and practices to seamlessly serve its customers under "work from home" requirements in many parts of the world.
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In areas around the world where governments issued stay-at-home or similar orders, the vast majority of ITW's businesses were designated as critical or essential businesses and, as such, they remained open and operational. In some cases, this was because the Company's products directly impacted the COVID-19 response effort. In other cases, the Company's businesses were designated as critical because they played a vital role in serving and supporting industries that were deemed essential to the physical and economic health of our communities.
While the vast majority of the Company's facilities remained open and operational during the pandemic, many of these facilities were operating at a reduced capacity at various times since the outset of the pandemic. Despite the ongoing disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Company experienced solid recovery progress in many of its end markets during 2021 and, to a greater extent, in 2022 as vaccines became widely available and many governments reduced restrictions related to COVID-19. The full extent of the COVID-19 outbreak and its impact on the markets served by the Company and on the Company's operations and financial position continues to be highly uncertain as conditions continue to fluctuate around the world, with vaccine administration rising in certain regions, spikes in infections (including the spread of variants) continuing to be experienced and certain jurisdictions continuing to impose stay-at-home orders. The pandemic and resurgence of outbreaks could continue to adversely impact the operations of the Company and its customers and suppliers. A description of the risks relating to the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on the Company's business, operations and financial condition is contained in Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors.
During the first quarter of 2022, Russian military forces invaded Ukraine. In response, the United States and several other countries imposed economic and other sanctions on Russia. The Company has four immaterial Russian subsidiaries with total assets of approximately $25 million as of December 31, 2022. The revenue for these four subsidiaries for the year ended December 31, 2022 was approximately $38 million. Sales to customers in Russia represented less than one percent of ITW's total consolidated revenue and were not material to the Company's results of operations or financial position.
On December 1, 2021, the Company completed the acquisition of the MTS Test & Simulation business for a purchase price of $750 million, subject to certain closing adjustments. The MTS Test & Simulation business had operating revenue of $46 million for the one month ended December 31, 2021 and $422 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022. The Company expects the MTS Test & Simulation business to improve operating margin performance in later years through the application of the Company's 80/20 Front-to-Back process. The operating results of the MTS Test & Simulation business were reported within the Test & Measurement and Electronics segment. Refer to Note 3. Acquisitions in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information.
In the second quarter of 2022, plans were approved to divest two businesses, including one business in the Polymers & Fluids segment and one business in the Food Equipment segment. These two businesses were classified as held for sale beginning in the second quarter of 2022. In the fourth quarter of 2022, both of these businesses were divested. On October 3, 2022, the business in the Polymers & Fluids segment was sold for $220 million, subject to certain closing adjustments, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $156 million. On December 1, 2022, the business in the Food Equipment segment was sold for $59 million, subject to certain closing adjustments, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $41 million. The pre-tax gains were included in Other income (expense) in the Statement of Income. Income taxes on the gains were mostly offset by the utilization of capital loss carryforwards of $32 million. Operating revenue related to these divested businesses that was included in the Company's results of operations for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022, 2021 and 2020 was $106 million, $115 million and $113 million, respectively.
In the fourth quarter of 2022, plans were approved to divest one business in the Specialty Products segment. This business was presented as held for sale in the Statement of Financial Position as of December 31, 2022 and had assets and liabilities held for sale of $8 million and $1 million, respectively. Operating revenue for this business was approximately $37 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2022. The Company expects to sell this business within one year.
In a challenging and dynamic environment, the Company delivered strong financial results in 2022 primarily due to the continued successful execution of enterprise initiatives, including the "Win the Recovery" actions initiated over the course of the past year, and continued focus on the highly differentiated ITW Business Model. Despite rising costs and a challenging global supply chain environment, the Company generated operating revenue growth of 10.2 percent and organic revenue growth of 12.1 percent, as all seven segments achieved worldwide organic revenue growth in 2022. Operating income was $3.8 billion in 2022, an increase of 9.0 percent. Operating margin was 23.8 percent in 2022.
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The Company's consolidated results of operations for 2022, 2021 and 2020 were as follows:
2022 compared to 2021
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2022 | 2021 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/ Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 15,932 | $ | 14,455 | 10.2 | % | 12.1 | % | 2.4 | % | — | % | (4.3) | % | 10.2 | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 3,790 | $ | 3,477 | 9.0 | % | 14.3 | % | (0.1) | % | (0.7) | % | (4.5) | % | 9.0 | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 23.8 | % | 24.1 | % | (30) bps | 40 bps | (60) bps | (10) bps | — | (30) bps |
•Operating revenue increased due to higher organic revenue and the MTS Test & Simulation acquisition, which was completed on December 1, 2021, partially offset by the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation and the impact of divestiture activity in the fourth quarter of 2022.
•Organic revenue grew 12.1% with growth in all seven segments. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 40 basis points.
◦North American organic revenue increased 14.3% with growth in all seven segments primarily driven by the Food Equipment, Welding and Construction Products segments.
◦Europe, Middle East and Africa organic revenue increased 9.7% with growth in all seven segments primarily driven by the Food Equipment and Automotive OEM segments.
◦Asia Pacific revenue increased 8.3% due to growth in six segments, partially offset by a decline in the Specialty Products segment. China organic revenue increased 5.6% as growth in the Automotive OEM, Test & Measurement and Electronics, Welding and Polymers & Fluids segments was partially offset by a decline in the Specialty Products, Food Equipment and Construction Products segments. The results in 2022 were negatively impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak and government stay-at-home orders in China.
•Operating income of $3.8 billion increased 9.0% primarily due to higher organic revenue, partially offset by unfavorable foreign currency translation.
•Operating margin of 23.8% decreased 30 basis points primarily driven by higher operating expenses, including employee-related expenses and freight costs, unfavorable price/cost of 90 basis points and the dilutive impact of 60 basis points from the MTS Test & Simulation acquisition, partially offset by positive operating leverage of 220 basis points and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives of 90 basis points.
•The Company's effective tax rate for 2022 and 2021 was 21.0% and 19.0%, respectively. The 2022 effective tax rate benefited from discrete income tax benefits of $32 million in the fourth quarter of 2022 related to the utilization of capital loss carryforwards and $51 million in the second quarter of 2022 related to a decrease in unrecognized tax benefits resulting from the resolution of a U.S. tax audit. The 2021 effective tax rate benefited from discrete income tax benefits of $21 million in the third quarter of 2021 related to the utilization of capital loss carryforwards and $112 million in the second quarter of 2021 related to the remeasurement of net deferred tax assets due to the enactment of the U.K. Finance Bill 2021, which increases the U.K. income tax rate from 19% to 25% effective April 1, 2023. Additionally, the effective tax rates for 2022 and 2021 included discrete income tax benefits of $12 million and $17 million, respectively, related to excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation.
•Diluted earnings per share (EPS) of $9.77 in 2022 increased 14.8%. Excluding the favorable impact of $0.60 per diluted share related to the pre-tax divestiture gains of $197 million in the fourth quarter of 2022, or $188 million after-tax including the impact of the $32 million discrete tax benefit noted above, EPS increased 7.8%.
•Operating cash flow was $2.3 billion and free cash flow was $1.9 billion for 2022. Refer to the Cash Flow section of Liquidity and Capital Resources for a reconciliation of free cash flow, which is a non-GAAP measure.
•The Company repurchased approximately 8.3 million shares of its common stock in 2022 for approximately $1.75 billion.
•The Company increased the quarterly dividend on common stock from $1.22 to $1.31 per share in 2022, or from $4.88 to $5.24 per share on an annualized basis. Total cash dividends of approximately $1.5 billion were paid in 2022.
23
2021 compared to 2020
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2021 | 2020 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/ Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 14,455 | $ | 12,574 | 15.0 | % | 12.3 | % | 0.4 | % | — | % | 2.3 | % | 15.0 | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 3,477 | $ | 2,882 | 20.6 | % | 17.0 | % | 0.2 | % | 0.8 | % | 2.6 | % | 20.6 | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 24.1 | % | 22.9 | % | 120 bps | 100 bps | — | 20 bps | — | 120 bps |
•Operating revenue increased due to higher organic and acquisition revenue and the favorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue increased 12.3% as the Company saw continued improvement in both the breadth and pace of the recovery. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 20 basis points.
◦North American organic revenue increased 13.5% due to growth in all segments, primarily driven by the Welding, Test & Measurement and Electronics and Food Equipment segments.
◦Europe, Middle East and Africa organic revenue increased 8.7% due to growth in six segments, primarily driven by the Food Equipment and Construction Products segments. The Automotive OEM segment was essentially flat.
◦Asia Pacific organic revenue increased 13.5% due to growth in all segments. China organic revenue grew 15.1% with growth in six segments, partially offset by a decline in the Construction Products segment.
•Operating income of $3.5 billion increased 20.6% primarily due to higher organic revenue.
•Operating margin of 24.1% increased 120 basis points primarily due to positive operating leverage of 250 basis points and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives of 110 basis points, partially offset by unfavorable price/cost of 150 basis points and higher operating expenses, including employee-related expenses.
•The Company's effective tax rate was 19.0% in 2021 compared to 22.0% in 2020. The 2021 effective tax rate benefited from a discrete income tax benefit of $21 million in the third quarter related to the utilization of capital loss carryforwards and a discrete income tax benefit of $112 million in the second quarter of 2021 related to the remeasurement of net deferred tax assets due to the enactment of the U.K. Finance Bill 2021, which increases the U.K. income tax rate from 19% to 25% effective April 1, 2023. Additionally, the effective tax rate included discrete income tax benefits related to excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation of $17 million and $27 million for 2021 and 2020, respectively.
•Diluted earnings per share (EPS) of $8.51 increased 28.4%. Excluding the favorable impact of the $21 million discrete income tax benefit in the third quarter of 2021 and the $112 million discrete income tax benefit in the second quarter of 2021, EPS increased 22.0%.
•Operating cash flow was $2.6 billion and free cash flow was $2.3 billion for 2021. Refer to the Cash Flow section of Liquidity and Capital Resources for a reconciliation of free cash flow, which is a non-GAAP measure.
•The Company repurchased approximately 4.4 million shares of its common stock in 2021 for approximately $1.0 billion.
•The Company increased the quarterly dividend on common stock from $1.14 to $1.22 per share in 2021, or from $4.56 to $4.88 per share on an annualized basis. Total cash dividends of approximately $1.5 billion were paid in 2021.
24
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS BY SEGMENT
The reconciliation of segment operating revenue and operating income to total operating revenue and operating income is as follows:
| Operating Revenue | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| In millions | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Automotive OEM | $ | 2,969 | $ | 2,800 | $ | 2,571 | ||||
| Food Equipment | 2,444 | 2,078 | 1,739 | |||||||
| Test & Measurement and Electronics | 2,828 | 2,346 | 1,963 | |||||||
| Welding | 1,894 | 1,650 | 1,384 | |||||||
| Polymers & Fluids | 1,905 | 1,804 | 1,622 | |||||||
| Construction Products | 2,113 | 1,945 | 1,652 | |||||||
| Specialty Products | 1,799 | 1,854 | 1,660 | |||||||
| Intersegment revenue | (20) | (22) | (17) | |||||||
| Total | $ | 15,932 | $ | 14,455 | $ | 12,574 |
| Operating Income | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| In millions | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Automotive OEM | $ | 499 | $ | 545 | $ | 457 | ||||
| Food Equipment | 618 | 469 | 342 | |||||||
| Test & Measurement and Electronics | 684 | 643 | 507 | |||||||
| Welding | 583 | 490 | 376 | |||||||
| Polymers & Fluids | 479 | 457 | 402 | |||||||
| Construction Products | 548 | 530 | 421 | |||||||
| Specialty Products | 481 | 504 | 432 | |||||||
| Total Segments | 3,892 | 3,638 | 2,937 | |||||||
| Unallocated | (102) | (161) | (55) | |||||||
| Total | $ | 3,790 | $ | 3,477 | $ | 2,882 |
Segments are allocated a fixed overhead charge based on the segment's revenue. Expenses not charged to the segments are reported separately as Unallocated. Because the Unallocated category includes a variety of items, it is subject to fluctuations on a quarterly and annual basis. Unallocated expenses in 2021 were higher as compared to 2020 primarily due to higher employee-related expenses and transaction costs related to the previously discussed acquisition of the MTS Test & Simulation business.
25
AUTOMOTIVE OEM
This segment is a global, niche supplier to top tier OEMs, providing unique innovation to address pain points for sophisticated customers with complex problems. Businesses in this segment produce components and fasteners for automotive-related applications. This segment primarily serves the automotive original equipment manufacturers and tiers market. Products in this segment include:
•plastic and metal components, fasteners and assemblies for automobiles, light trucks and other industrial uses.
The results of operations for the Automotive OEM segment for 2022, 2021 and 2020 were as follows:
2022 compared to 2021
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2022 | 2021 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 2,969 | $ | 2,800 | 6.0 | % | 11.7 | % | — | % | — | % | (5.7) | % | 6.0 | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 499 | $ | 545 | (8.6) | % | 1.5 | % | — | % | (4.8) | % | (5.3) | % | (8.6) | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 16.8 | % | 19.5 | % | (270) bps | (180) bps | — | (90) bps | — | (270) bps |
•Operating revenue grew due to higher organic revenue, partially offset by the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue increased 11.7% compared to worldwide auto builds which grew 6%. The impact of Automotive OEM customers adjusting production schedules to account for the shortage of semiconductor chips and other components continued to negatively impact operating results in 2022. Auto builds for North America, Europe and China, where the Company has a higher concentration of revenue as compared to the other geographic regions, grew 5%.
◦North American organic revenue increased 14.1% compared to North American auto builds which grew 10%.
◦European organic revenue grew 7.1% compared to European auto builds which decreased 1%.
◦Asia Pacific organic revenue increased 14.7%. China organic revenue grew 12.2%, including growth in the electric vehicles market, versus China auto builds which increased 6%. Auto builds of foreign automotive manufacturers in China, where the Company has higher content, increased 1%.
•Operating margin of 16.8% decreased 270 basis points primarily driven by unfavorable price/cost of 200 basis points, higher restructuring expenses, higher operating expenses and continued investment in the business, including the electric vehicles market, partially offset by positive operating leverage of 190 basis points and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives.
2021 compared to 2020
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2021 | 2020 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 2,800 | $ | 2,571 | 8.9 | % | 5.8 | % | — | % | — | % | 3.1 | % | 8.9 | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 545 | $ | 457 | 19.3 | % | 13.0 | % | — | % | 3.0 | % | 3.3 | % | 19.3 | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 19.5 | % | 17.8 | % | 170 bps | 120 bps | — | 50 bps | — | 170 bps |
•Operating revenue increased due to higher organic revenue and the favorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue increased 5.8%. The impact of Automotive OEM customers adjusting production schedules to account for the shortage of semiconductor chips and other components negatively impacted organic revenue in 2021, especially during the second half of the year. Worldwide auto builds increased 2%. Auto builds for North America, Europe and China, where the Company has a higher concentration of revenue as compared to the other geographic regions, were flat.
26
◦North American organic revenue increased 5.3% compared to North American auto builds which were flat. Auto builds for the Detroit 3, where the Company has higher content, decreased 5%.
◦European organic revenue was essentially flat compared to European auto builds which declined 5%.
◦Asia Pacific organic revenue increased 17.2%. China organic revenue grew 13.9% versus China auto builds which increased 4%. Auto builds of foreign automotive manufacturers in China, where the Company has higher content, declined 8%.
•Operating margin was 19.5%. The increase of 170 basis points was primarily driven by positive operating leverage of 120 basis points, the net benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and cost management, and lower restructuring expenses, partially offset by unfavorable price/cost of 250 basis points.
FOOD EQUIPMENT
This segment is a highly focused and branded industry leader in commercial food equipment differentiated by innovation and integrated service offerings. This segment primarily serves the food service, food retail and food institutional/restaurant markets. Products in this segment include:
•warewashing equipment;
•cooking equipment, including ovens, ranges and broilers;
•refrigeration equipment, including refrigerators, freezers and prep tables;
•food processing equipment, including slicers, mixers and scales;
•kitchen exhaust, ventilation and pollution control systems; and
•food equipment service, maintenance and repair.
The results of operations for the Food Equipment segment for 2022, 2021 and 2020 were as follows:
2022 compared to 2021
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2022 | 2021 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 2,444 | $ | 2,078 | 17.6 | % | 22.9 | % | (0.1) | % | — | % | (5.2) | % | 17.6 | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 618 | $ | 469 | 31.7 | % | 38.1 | % | (0.1) | % | (0.4) | % | (5.9) | % | 31.7 | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 25.3 | % | 22.6 | % | 270 bps | 280 bps | — | (10) bps | — | 270 bps |
•Operating revenue grew due to higher organic revenue, partially offset by the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation and the impact of a divestiture in the fourth quarter of 2022.
•On December 1, 2022, the Company completed the sale of a business. Operating revenue for this business that was included in the Company's results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2022 and 2021 was $30 million and $28 million, respectively. Refer to Note 4. Divestitures in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information.
•Organic revenue increased 22.9% as equipment and service organic revenue grew 25.2% and 18.5%, respectively.
◦North American organic revenue increased 26.1%. Equipment organic revenue grew 31.5% primarily due to growth in the restaurant, institutional and food retail end markets. Service organic revenue increased 17.2%.
◦International organic revenue increased 18.8%. Equipment organic revenue grew 17.8% primarily due to higher demand in the European warewash, refrigeration and cooking end markets. Service organic revenue increased 20.8%.
•Operating margin of 25.3% increased 270 basis points primarily due to positive operating leverage of 430 basis points, benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and favorable price/cost of 90 basis points, partially offset by higher operating expenses, including employee-related expenses.
27
2021 compared to 2020
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2021 | 2020 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 2,078 | $ | 1,739 | 19.5 | % | 16.7 | % | — | % | — | % | 2.8 | % | 19.5 | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 469 | $ | 342 | 37.4 | % | 31.7 | % | — | % | 2.4 | % | 3.3 | % | 37.4 | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 22.6 | % | 19.6 | % | 300 bps | 260 bps | — | 40 bps | — | 300 bps |
•Operating revenue grew due to higher organic revenue and the favorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue increased 16.7% as equipment and service organic revenue grew 21.4% and 8.5%, respectively.
◦North American organic revenue increased 16.2%. Equipment organic revenue grew 20.1% primarily due to growth in the restaurant and institutional end markets, partially offset by a decline in the food retail end markets. Service organic revenue increased 10.3%.
◦International organic revenue increased 17.4%. Equipment organic revenue grew 22.9% primarily due to higher demand in the European warewash, refrigeration and cooking end markets. Service organic revenue increased 5.5%.
•Operating margin was 22.6%. The increase of 300 basis points was primarily driven by positive operating leverage of 370 basis points, benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and lower restructuring expenses, partially offset by unfavorable price/cost of 90 basis points and higher overhead expenses.
TEST & MEASUREMENT AND ELECTRONICS
This segment is a branded and innovative producer of test and measurement and electronic manufacturing and maintenance, repair, and operations, or "MRO" solutions that improve efficiency and quality for customers in diverse end markets. Businesses in this segment produce equipment, consumables, and related software for testing and measuring of materials and structures, as well as equipment and consumables used in the production of electronic subassemblies and microelectronics. This segment primarily serves the electronics, general industrial, automotive original equipment manufacturers and tiers, energy, consumer durables and industrial capital goods markets. Products in this segment include:
•equipment, consumables, and related software for testing and measuring of materials, structures, gases and fluids;
•electronic assembly equipment;
•electronic components and component packaging;
•static control equipment and consumables used for contamination control in clean room environments; and
•pressure sensitive adhesives and components for electronics, medical, transportation and telecommunications applications.
The results of operations for the Test & Measurement and Electronics segment for 2022, 2021 and 2020 were as follows:
2022 compared to 2021
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2022 | 2021 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 2,828 | $ | 2,346 | 20.6 | % | 9.0 | % | 15.9 | % | — | % | (4.3) | % | 20.6 | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 684 | $ | 643 | 6.3 | % | 10.1 | % | — | % | 0.1 | % | (3.9) | % | 6.3 | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 24.2 | % | 27.4 | % | (320) bps | 30 bps | (350) bps | — | — | (320) bps |
•Operating revenue grew due to the MTS Test & Simulation acquisition, which was completed on December 1, 2021, and higher organic revenue, partially offset by the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue increased 9.0%.
◦Organic revenue for the test and measurement businesses increased 12.7% primarily driven by higher semiconductor demand in North America and Asia Pacific and the impact of a stronger capital spending
28
environment. Instron, where demand is more closely tied to the capital spending environment, had organic revenue growth of 12.8%.
◦Electronics organic revenue increased 4.6% primarily due to higher demand in the semiconductor end market, partially offset by a decline in the consumer electronics end market. The electronics assembly businesses increased 1.3% primarily due to growth in Asia Pacific, partially offset by lower demand in North America in the first half of 2022. The other electronics businesses, which include the contamination control, static control and pressure sensitive adhesives businesses, increased 6.3% with growth across all major regions.
•Operating margin of 24.2% decreased 320 basis points primarily driven by the dilutive impact of 350 basis points from the MTS Test & Simulation acquisition, unfavorable price/cost of 120 basis points, and higher operating expenses, including employee-related expenses, partially offset by positive operating leverage of 190 basis points and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives.
2021 compared to 2020
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2021 | 2020 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 2,346 | $ | 1,963 | 19.5 | % | 15.3 | % | 2.3 | % | — | % | 1.9 | % | 19.5 | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 643 | $ | 507 | 26.9 | % | 23.1 | % | 0.9 | % | 0.8 | % | 2.1 | % | 26.9 | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 27.4 | % | 25.8 | % | 160 bps | 180 bps | (40) bps | 20 bps | — | 160 bps |
•Operating revenue grew due to higher organic revenue, the MTS Test & Simulation acquisition and the favorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue increased 15.3%.
◦Organic revenue for the test and measurement businesses increased 14.8% primarily driven by higher semiconductor demand in North America, the impact of a stronger capital spending environment, and higher demand in the oil and gas end markets in North America. Instron, where demand is more closely tied to the capital spending environment, had organic revenue growth of 14.0%.
◦Electronics organic revenue increased 15.9% driven by higher demand in consumer electronics, automotive applications and semiconductor end markets. The electronics assembly businesses grew 26.6% primarily due to higher demand in North America and Asia Pacific. The other electronics businesses, which include the contamination control, static control and pressure sensitive adhesives businesses, increased 10.8% with growth in all major regions.
•On December 1, 2021, the Company completed the acquisition of the MTS Test & Simulation business, which had operating revenue of $46 million for the one month ended December 31, 2021 and increased Test & Measurement and Electronics operating revenue by 2.3%.
•Operating margin was 27.4%. The increase of 160 basis points was primarily driven by positive operating leverage of 340 basis points and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, partially offset by unfavorable price/cost of 40 basis points, the dilutive impact from the MTS acquisition, higher overhead expenses and higher freight costs. Additionally, the prior year included the recapture of amortization and depreciation expense related to a business previously classified as held for sale.
WELDING
This segment is a branded value-added equipment and specialty consumable manufacturer with innovative and leading technology. Businesses in this segment produce arc welding equipment, consumables and accessories for a wide array of industrial and commercial applications. This segment primarily serves the general industrial market, which includes fabrication, shipbuilding and other general industrial markets, and construction, energy, MRO, industrial capital goods and automotive original equipment manufacturers and tiers markets. Products in this segment include:
•arc welding equipment; and
•metal arc welding consumables and related accessories.
29
The results of operations for the Welding segment for 2022, 2021 and 2020 were as follows:
2022 compared to 2021
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2022 | 2021 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/ Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,894 | $ | 1,650 | 14.7 | % | 16.0 | % | — | % | — | % | (1.3) | % | 14.7 | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 583 | $ | 490 | 19.0 | % | 19.1 | % | — | % | 0.6 | % | (0.7) | % | 19.0 | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 30.8 | % | 29.7 | % | 110 bps | 80 bps | — | 10 bps | 20 bps | 110 bps |
•Operating revenue grew due to higher organic revenue, partially offset by the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue grew 16.0% as equipment increased 16.2% and consumables increased 15.8% primarily due to higher demand in the industrial end markets related to heavy equipment for agriculture, infrastructure and mining, and in the commercial end markets related to construction, light fabrication and farm and ranch customers.
◦North American organic revenue grew 16.6% due to growth in the industrial and commercial end markets of 25.6% and 3.9%, respectively.
◦International organic revenue grew 13.3% primarily due to higher equipment demand in the oil and gas end markets in Europe and Asia.
•Operating margin of 30.8% increased 110 basis points primarily driven by positive operating leverage of 220 basis points and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, partially offset by higher operating expenses, including employee-related expenses and freight costs, and unfavorable price/cost of 80 basis points.
2021 compared to 2020
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2021 | 2020 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,650 | $ | 1,384 | 19.2 | % | 18.1 | % | — | % | — | % | 1.1 | % | 19.2 | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 490 | $ | 376 | 30.5 | % | 29.8 | % | — | % | (0.2) | % | 0.9 | % | 30.5 | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 29.7 | % | 27.1 | % | 260 bps | 270 bps | — | — | (10) bps | 260 bps |
•Operating revenue grew due to higher organic revenue and the favorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue grew 18.1% as equipment increased 20.5% and consumables increased 14.3% primarily due to higher demand in the industrial end markets related to heavy equipment for agriculture, infrastructure and mining, and in the commercial end markets related to construction, light fabrication and farm and ranch customers.
◦North American organic revenue increased 19.6% primarily driven by growth in the industrial and commercial end markets of 22.6% and 17.0%, respectively.
◦International organic revenue grew 10.7% primarily due to higher equipment demand in the oil and gas end markets in Europe and Asia.
•Operating margin was 29.7%. The increase of 260 basis points was primarily driven by positive operating leverage of 260 basis points and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, partially offset by higher overhead expenses.
POLYMERS & FLUIDS
This segment is a branded supplier to niche markets that require value-added, differentiated products. Businesses in this segment produce engineered adhesives, sealants, lubrication and cutting fluids, and fluids and polymers for auto aftermarket maintenance and appearance. This segment primarily serves the automotive aftermarket, general industrial and MRO markets. Products in this segment include:
•adhesives for industrial, construction and consumer purposes;
•chemical fluids which clean or add lubrication to machines;
•epoxy and resin-based coating products for industrial applications;
30
•hand wipes and cleaners for industrial applications;
•fluids, polymers and other supplies for auto aftermarket maintenance and appearance;
•fillers and putties for auto body repair; and
•polyester coatings and patch and repair products for the marine industry.
The results of operations for the Polymers & Fluids segment for 2022, 2021 and 2020 were as follows:
2022 compared to 2021
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2022 | 2021 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,905 | $ | 1,804 | 5.6 | % | 10.5 | % | (1.2) | % | — | % | (3.7) | % | 5.6 | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 479 | $ | 457 | 4.8 | % | 9.6 | % | (0.7) | % | — | % | (4.1) | % | 4.8 | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 25.2 | % | 25.4 | % | (20) bps | (30) bps | 20 bps | — | (10) bps | (20) bps |
•Operating revenue grew due to higher organic revenue, partially offset by the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation and the impact of a divestiture in the fourth quarter of 2022.
•On October 3, 2022, the Company completed the sale of a business. Operating revenue for this business that was included in the Company's results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, was $76 million and $87 million, respectively. Refer to Note 4. Divestitures in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information.
•Organic revenue increased 10.5% with growth across all major regions. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 50 basis points.
◦Organic revenue for the polymers businesses increased 17.2% with growth across all major regions, primarily in the heavy industrial and wind end markets.
◦Organic revenue for the automotive aftermarket businesses increased 8.5% with growth in the car care, body repair, engine repair and tire repair businesses in North America and growth in the European additives and tire repair businesses.
◦Organic revenue for the fluids businesses grew 4.6% primarily due to growth in the hygiene and industrial maintenance, repair and operations end markets in North America and Europe.
•Operating margin of 25.2% decreased 20 basis points primarily driven by higher operating expenses, including employee-related expenses and freight costs, and unfavorable price/cost of 50 basis points, partially offset by positive operating leverage of 170 basis points, benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, lower intangible asset amortization expense and the impact of a divestiture.
2021 compared to 2020
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2021 | 2020 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,804 | $ | 1,622 | 11.2 | % | 10.0 | % | — | % | — | % | 1.2 | % | 11.2 | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 457 | $ | 402 | 13.7 | % | 12.2 | % | — | % | 0.3 | % | 1.2 | % | 13.7 | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 25.4 | % | 24.8 | % | 60 bps | 50 bps | — | 10 bps | — | 60 bps |
•Operating revenue grew due to higher organic revenue and the favorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue increased 10.0% driven by higher demand across all major regions. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 80 basis points.
◦Organic revenue for the automotive aftermarket businesses increased 11.4% primarily driven by growth in the car care, body repair and tire repair businesses in North America and growth in the European additives and tire repair businesses.
◦Organic revenue for the polymers businesses increased 15.5% with growth across all major regions and end markets.
◦Organic revenue for the fluids businesses decreased 1.0% primarily due to a decline in the industrial maintenance, repair and operations end markets in North America.
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•Operating margin was 25.4%. The increase of 60 basis points was primarily due to positive operating leverage of 200 basis points, benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and lower intangible asset amortization expense, partially offset by unfavorable price/cost of 200 basis points, higher overhead expenses and higher freight costs.
CONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS
This segment is a branded supplier of innovative engineered fastening systems and solutions. This segment primarily serves the residential construction, renovation/remodel and commercial construction markets. Products in this segment include:
•fasteners and related fastening tools for wood and metal applications;
•anchors, fasteners and related tools for concrete applications;
•metal plate truss components and related equipment and software; and
•packaged hardware, fasteners, anchors and other products for retail.
The results of operations for the Construction Products segment for 2022, 2021 and 2020 were as follows:
2022 compared to 2021
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2022 | 2021 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 2,113 | $ | 1,945 | 8.6 | % | 14.4 | % | — | % | — | % | (5.8) | % | 8.6 | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 548 | $ | 530 | 3.5 | % | 8.8 | % | — | % | (0.2) | % | (5.1) | % | 3.5 | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 25.9 | % | 27.2 | % | (130) bps | (130) bps | — | — | — | (130) bps |
•Operating revenue grew due to higher organic revenue, partially offset by the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue grew 14.4% with growth across all major regions. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 40 basis points.
◦North American organic revenue increased 26.0% driven by higher demand in the United States residential and commercial end markets of 30.4% and 11.5%, respectively.
◦International organic revenue increased 5.1%. European organic revenue increased 6.2% primarily driven by higher demand in the commercial and residential end markets in the first half of 2022. Asia Pacific organic revenue increased 3.8% primarily due to higher demand in the Australia and New Zealand residential end markets.
•Operating margin of 25.9% decreased 130 basis points primarily driven by unfavorable price/cost of 260 basis points and higher operating expenses, including employee-related expenses, partially offset by positive operating leverage of 220 basis points and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives.
2021 compared to 2020
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2021 | 2020 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,945 | $ | 1,652 | 17.7 | % | 13.6 | % | (0.1) | % | — | % | 4.2 | % | 17.7 | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 530 | $ | 421 | 25.7 | % | 20.9 | % | — | % | 0.2 | % | 4.6 | % | 25.7 | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 27.2 | % | 25.5 | % | 170 bps | 160 bps | — | 10 bps | — | 170 bps |
•Operating revenue grew primarily due to higher organic revenue and the favorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue increased 13.6% with growth across all major regions. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 40 basis points.
◦North American organic revenue grew 13.6% due to higher demand in the United States residential and commercial end markets of 12.7% and 14.7%, respectively, and growth in Canada.
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◦International organic revenue increased 13.6%. European organic revenue grew 19.4% primarily driven by higher demand in the commercial and residential end markets. Asia Pacific organic revenue increased 7.3% primarily due to higher demand in the Australia and New Zealand residential end markets.
•Operating margin was 27.2%. The increase of 170 basis points was primarily due to positive operating leverage of 240 basis points and the net benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and cost management, partially offset by unfavorable price/cost of 250 basis points.
SPECIALTY PRODUCTS
This segment is focused on diversified niche market opportunities with substantial patent protection producing beverage packaging equipment and consumables, product coding and marking equipment and consumables, and appliance components and fasteners. This segment primarily serves the food and beverage, consumer durables, general industrial, industrial capital goods and printing and publishing markets. Products in this segment include:
•conveyor systems and line automation for the food and beverage industries;
•plastic consumables that multi-pack cans and bottles and related equipment;
•foil, film and related equipment used to decorate consumer products;
•product coding and marking equipment and related consumables;
•plastic and metal closures and components for appliances;
•airport ground support equipment; and
•components for medical devices.
The results of operations for the Specialty Products segment for 2022, 2021 and 2020 were as follows:
2022 compared to 2021
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2022 | 2021 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,799 | $ | 1,854 | (2.9) | % | 0.4 | % | — | % | — | % | (3.3) | % | (2.9) | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 481 | $ | 504 | (4.5) | % | (1.8) | % | — | % | 0.1 | % | (2.8) | % | (4.5) | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 26.7 | % | 27.2 | % | (50) bps | (60) bps | — | — | 10 bps | (50) bps |
•Operating revenue declined due to the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation, partially offset by higher organic revenue.
•Organic revenue increased 0.4% as consumable sales increased 3.0% and equipment sales declined 9.5%. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 170 basis points.
◦North American organic revenue increased 2.5% primarily due to growth in the foils and thermal films, consumer packaging, specialty films, filter medical and ground support businesses, partially offset by a decline in the appliance and strength films businesses.
◦International organic revenue declined 3.2% primarily due to a decline in Asia Pacific of 22.8% primarily driven by decreases in the strength films, appliance, foils and thermal films, and graphics businesses. The results in 2022 were negatively impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak and government stay-at-home orders in China. Europe organic revenue grew 2.8% primarily due to an increase in the consumer packaging, specialty films and filter medical businesses, partially offset by a decline in the appliance business.
•Operating margin of 26.7% decreased 50 basis points primarily driven by higher operating expenses, including employee-related expenses, partially offset by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and favorable price/cost of 10 basis points.
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2021 compared to 2020
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2021 | 2020 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,854 | $ | 1,660 | 11.7 | % | 9.8 | % | — | % | — | % | 1.9 | % | 11.7 | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 504 | $ | 432 | 16.6 | % | 15.6 | % | — | % | (1.0) | % | 2.0 | % | 16.6 | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 27.2 | % | 26.0 | % | 120 bps | 140 bps | — | (20) bps | — | 120 bps |
•Operating revenue grew due to higher organic revenue and the favorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue increased 9.8% as consumables increased 10.8% and equipment increased 6.4% primarily due to higher demand in North America. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 20 basis points.
◦North American organic revenue increased 11.2% primarily driven by growth in the consumer packaging, strength films, appliance, filter medical, and product coding and marking businesses.
◦International organic revenue increased 6.8% primarily due to growth in the appliance businesses in Europe and Asia Pacific and the ground support equipment businesses in Europe, partially offset by a decline in the consumer packaging businesses in Europe and the strength films businesses in Asia Pacific.
•Operating margin was 27.2%. The increase of 120 basis points was primarily due to positive operating leverage of 190 basis points and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, partially offset by unfavorable price/cost of 200 basis points, higher overhead expenses and higher freight costs. Additionally, the prior year included an unfavorable impact of a one-time customer cost-sharing settlement.
OTHER FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
•Interest expense was $203 million in 2022, $202 million in 2021 and $206 million in 2020. Interest expense in 2022 was $1 million higher than 2021 primarily due to higher average outstanding commercial paper and higher interest rates, partially offset by the repayment of notes due September 15, 2021 and May 20, 2022. Refer to Note 11. Debt in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information regarding the repayment of notes.
•Other income (expense) was income of $255 million in 2022, $51 million in 2021 and $28 million in 2020. The income in 2022 increased $204 million compared to 2021 primarily due to net pre-tax gains of $191 million related to the sale of operations in 2022. The income in 2021 increased $23 million compared to 2020 primarily due to higher investment income and higher other net periodic benefit income in 2021.
•The Company's effective tax rate for 2022, 2021 and 2020 was 21.0%, 19.0% and 22.0%, respectively. The 2022 effective tax rate benefited from discrete income tax benefits of $32 million in the fourth quarter of 2022 related to the utilization of capital loss carryforwards and $51 million in the second quarter of 2022 related to a decrease in unrecognized tax benefits resulting from the resolution of a U.S. tax audit. The 2021 effective tax rate benefited from discrete income tax benefits of $21 million in the third quarter of 2021 related to the utilization of capital loss carryforwards and $112 million in the second quarter of 2021 related to the remeasurement of net deferred tax assets due to the enactment of the U.K. Finance Bill 2021, which increases the U.K. income tax rate from 19% to 25% effective April 1, 2023. Additionally, the effective tax rates for 2022, 2021 and 2020 included discrete income tax benefits of $12 million, $17 million and $27 million, respectively, related to excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation. Refer to Note 7. Income Taxes in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information.
•The impact of the Euro and other foreign currencies against the U.S. Dollar in 2022 versus 2021 decreased operating revenue and income before taxes by approximately $628 million and $157 million, respectively. The impact of the Euro and other foreign currencies against the U.S. Dollar in 2021 versus 2020 increased operating revenue and income before taxes by approximately $301 million and $77 million, respectively.
NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
Information regarding new accounting pronouncements is included in Note 1. Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
The Company's primary sources of liquidity are free cash flow and short-term credit facilities. As of December 31, 2022, the Company had $708 million of cash and equivalents on hand and no outstanding borrowings under its $3.0 billion revolving
34
credit facility. The Company also has maintained strong access to public debt markets. Management believes that these sources are sufficient to service debt and to finance the Company's capital allocation priorities, which include:
•internal investments to support organic growth and sustain core businesses;
•payment of an attractive dividend to shareholders; and
•external investments in selective strategic acquisitions that support the Company's organic growth focus, such as the acquisition of the MTS Test & Simulation business on December 1, 2021, and an active share repurchase program. Refer to Note 3. Acquisitions in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information regarding this acquisition.
The Company believes that, based on its operating revenue, operating margin, free cash flow, and credit ratings, it could readily obtain additional financing, if necessary. A description of the potential risks to the Company related to the COVID-19 pandemic is contained in Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors.
The Company has certain contractual obligations, primarily noncurrent income taxes payable, operating leases and long-term debt. Refer to Note 7. Income Taxes, Note 10. Leases and Note 11. Debt in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for details related to the Company's contractual obligations. The Company did not have any significant off-balance sheet commitments as of December 31, 2022.
Cash Flow
The Company uses free cash flow to measure cash flow generated by operations that is available for dividends, share repurchases, acquisitions and debt repayment. The Company believes this non-GAAP financial measure is useful to investors in evaluating the Company's financial performance and measures the Company's ability to generate cash internally to fund Company initiatives. Free cash flow represents net cash provided by operating activities less additions to plant and equipment. Free cash flow is a measurement that is not the same as net cash flow from operating activities per the statement of cash flows and may not be consistent with similarly titled measures used by other companies. Summarized cash flow information for the years ended December 31, 2022, 2021 and 2020 was as follows:
| In millions | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Net cash provided by operating activities | $ | 2,348 | $ | 2,557 | $ | 2,807 | ||||
| Additions to plant and equipment | (412) | (296) | (236) | |||||||
| Free cash flow | $ | 1,936 | $ | 2,261 | $ | 2,571 | ||||
| Cash dividends paid | $ | (1,542) | $ | (1,463) | $ | (1,379) | ||||
| Repurchases of common stock | (1,750) | (1,000) | (706) | |||||||
| Acquisition of businesses (excluding cash and equivalents) | (2) | (731) | — | |||||||
| Proceeds from sale of operations and affiliates | 278 | — | 1 | |||||||
| Net proceeds from (repayments of) debt | 276 | (141) | (4) | |||||||
| Other | 42 | 83 | 61 | |||||||
| Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and equivalents | (57) | (46) | 39 | |||||||
| Net increase (decrease) in cash and equivalents | $ | (819) | $ | (1,037) | $ | 583 |
Free cash flow decreased in 2022 and 2021 primarily due to higher working capital investments to support revenue growth, including increased inventory levels to help mitigate supply chain risk and sustain customer service levels.
Stock Repurchase Programs
On August 3, 2018, the Company's Board of Directors authorized a stock repurchase program which provided for the repurchase of up to $3.0 billion of the Company's common stock over an open-ended period of time (the "2018 Program"). Under the 2018 Program, the Company repurchased approximately 6.7 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $158.11 per share during 2019, approximately 4.2 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $167.69 per share during 2020, approximately 4.4 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $227.29 per share during 2021 and approximately 1.2 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $216.62 per share during 2022. The 2018 Program was completed in the first quarter of 2022.
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On May 7, 2021, the Company's Board of Directors authorized a new stock repurchase program which provides for the repurchase of up to an additional $3.0 billion of the Company's common stock over an open-ended period of time (the "2021 Program"). Under the 2021 program, the Company repurchased approximately 7.1 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $210.46 per share during 2022. As of December 31, 2022, there were approximately $1.5 billion of authorized repurchases remaining under the 2021 Program.
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After-tax Return on Average Invested Capital
The Company uses after-tax return on average invested capital ("After-tax ROIC") to measure the effectiveness of its operations' use of invested capital to generate profits. After-tax ROIC is not defined under U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"). After-tax ROIC is a non-GAAP financial measure that the Company believes is a meaningful metric to investors in evaluating the Company's ability to generate returns from cash invested in its operations and may be different than the method used by other companies to calculate After-tax ROIC. The Company defines After-tax ROIC as operating income after taxes divided by average invested capital, which is annualized when presented in interim periods. Operating income after taxes is a non-GAAP measure consisting of net income before interest expense and other income (expense), on an after-tax basis, which are excluded as they do not represent returns generated by the Company's operations. For comparability, the Company also excluded the discrete tax benefits of $32 million in the fourth quarter of 2022 and $51 million in the second quarter of 2022 from net income and the effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2022. Additionally, for comparability, the Company excluded the discrete tax benefits of $21 million in the third quarter of 2021 and $112 million in the second quarter of 2021 from net income and the effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2021. Total invested capital represents the net assets of the Company, other than cash and equivalents and outstanding debt which do not represent capital investment in the Company's operations. The most comparable GAAP measure to operating income after taxes is net income. Net income to average invested capital and After-tax ROIC for the years ended December 31, 2022, 2021, and 2020 were as follows:
| Dollars in millions | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Numerator: | ||||||||||
| Net income | $ | 3,034 | $ | 2,694 | $ | 2,109 | ||||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the fourth quarter 2022 | (32) | — | — | |||||||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the second quarter 2022 | (51) | — | — | |||||||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the third quarter 2021 | — | (21) | — | |||||||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the second quarter 2021 | — | (112) | — | |||||||
| Interest expense, net of tax (1) | 156 | 157 | 162 | |||||||
| Other (income) expense, net of tax (1) | (196) | (40) | (22) | |||||||
| Operating income after taxes | $ | 2,911 | $ | 2,678 | $ | 2,249 | ||||
| Denominator: | ||||||||||
| Invested capital: | ||||||||||
| Cash and equivalents | $ | 708 | $ | 1,527 | $ | 2,564 | ||||
| Trade receivables | 3,171 | 2,840 | 2,506 | |||||||
| Inventories | 2,054 | 1,694 | 1,189 | |||||||
| Net assets held for sale | 7 | — | — | |||||||
| Net plant and equipment | 1,848 | 1,809 | 1,777 | |||||||
| Goodwill and intangible assets | 5,632 | 5,937 | 5,471 | |||||||
| Accounts payable and accrued expenses | (2,322) | (2,233) | (1,818) | |||||||
| Debt | (7,763) | (7,687) | (8,122) | |||||||
| Other, net | (246) | (261) | (385) | |||||||
| Total net assets (stockholders' equity) | 3,089 | 3,626 | 3,182 | |||||||
| Cash and equivalents | (708) | (1,527) | (2,564) | |||||||
| Debt | 7,763 | 7,687 | 8,122 | |||||||
| Total invested capital | $ | 10,144 | $ | 9,786 | $ | 8,740 | ||||
| Average invested capital (2) | $ | 10,017 | $ | 9,087 | $ | 8,576 | ||||
| Net income to average invested capital | 30.3 | % | 29.6 | % | 24.6 | % | ||||
| After-tax return on average invested capital | 29.1 | % | 29.5 | % | 26.2 | % |
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(1) Effective tax rate used for interest expense and other (income) expense for the years ended December 31, 2022, 2021, and 2020 was 23.2%, 23.0% and 22.0%, respectively.
(2) Average invested capital is calculated using the total invested capital balances at the start of the period and at the end of each quarter within each of the periods presented.
After-tax ROIC decreased 40 basis points for the twelve month period ended December 31, 2022 compared to the prior year period as a result of a 10.2% increase in average invested capital versus an 8.7% increase in after-tax operating income.
After-tax ROIC increased 330 basis points for the twelve month period ended December 31, 2021 compared to the prior year period as a result of a 19.1% increase in after-tax operating income versus a 5.9% increase in average invested capital.
A reconciliation of the 2022 effective tax rate excluding the fourth quarter 2022 discrete tax benefit of $32 million related to the utilization of capital loss carryforwards and the second quarter 2022 discrete tax benefit of $51 million related to the resolution of a U.S. tax audit is as follows:
| Twelve Months Ended | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 31, 2022 | ||||||
| Dollars in millions | Income Taxes | Tax Rate | ||||
| As reported | $ | 808 | 21.0 | % | ||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the fourth quarter 2022 | 32 | 0.8 | % | |||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the second quarter 2022 | 51 | 1.4 | % | |||
| As adjusted | $ | 891 | 23.2 | % |
A reconciliation of the 2021 effective tax rate excluding the third quarter 2021 discrete tax benefit of $21 million related to the utilization of capital loss carryforwards and the second quarter 2021 discrete tax benefit of $112 million related to a change in the U.K. income tax rate is as follows:
| Twelve Months Ended | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 31, 2021 | ||||||
| Dollars in millions | Income Taxes | Tax Rate | ||||
| As reported | $ | 632 | 19.0 | % | ||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the third quarter 2021 | 21 | 0.6 | % | |||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the second quarter 2021 | 112 | 3.4 | % | |||
| As adjusted | $ | 765 | 23.0 | % |
Refer to Note 7. Income Taxes in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information regarding the discrete tax items noted above.
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Working Capital
Management uses working capital as a measurement of the short-term liquidity of the Company. Net working capital as of December 31, 2022 and 2021 is summarized as follows:
| In millions | 2022 | 2021 | Increase (Decrease) | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Current Assets: | ||||||||||
| Cash and equivalents | $ | 708 | $ | 1,527 | $ | (819) | ||||
| Trade receivables | 3,171 | 2,840 | 331 | |||||||
| Inventories | 2,054 | 1,694 | 360 | |||||||
| Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 329 | 313 | 16 | |||||||
| Assets held for sale | 8 | — | 8 | |||||||
| 6,270 | 6,374 | (104) | ||||||||
| Current Liabilities: | ||||||||||
| Short-term debt | 1,590 | 778 | 812 | |||||||
| Accounts payable and accrued expenses | 2,322 | 2,233 | 89 | |||||||
| Liabilities held for sale | 1 | — | 1 | |||||||
| Other | 547 | 459 | 88 | |||||||
| 4,460 | 3,470 | 990 | ||||||||
| Net Working Capital | $ | 1,810 | $ | 2,904 | $ | (1,094) |
As of December 31, 2022, a significant portion of the Company's cash and equivalents was held by international subsidiaries. Cash and equivalents held internationally may be subject to foreign withholding taxes if repatriated to the U.S. Cash and equivalents held internationally are typically used for international operating needs or reinvested to fund expansion of existing international businesses. International funds may also be used to fund international acquisitions or, if not considered permanently invested, may be repatriated to the U.S. The Company has accrued for foreign withholding taxes related to foreign held cash and equivalents that are not permanently invested.
In the U.S., the Company utilizes cash flows from operations to fund domestic cash needs and the Company's capital allocation priorities. This includes operating needs of the U.S. businesses, dividend payments, share repurchases, acquisitions, servicing of domestic debt obligations, reinvesting to fund expansion of existing U.S. businesses and general corporate needs. The Company may also use its commercial paper program, which is backed by a long-term credit facility, for short-term liquidity needs. The Company believes cash generated by operations and liquidity provided by the Company's commercial paper program will continue to be sufficient to fund cash requirements in the U.S.
Debt
Total debt as of December 31, 2022 and 2021 was as follows:
| In millions | 2022 | 2021 | Increase (Decrease) | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Short-term debt | $ | 1,590 | $ | 778 | $ | 812 | ||||
| Long-term debt | 6,173 | 6,909 | (736) | |||||||
| Total debt | $ | 7,763 | $ | 7,687 | $ | 76 |
As of December 31, 2022, short-term debt included $535 million related to the 1.25% Euro notes due May 22, 2023, which were reclassified from Long-term debt to Short-term debt in the second quarter of 2022, and commercial paper of $1.1 billion. As of December 31, 2021, short-term debt included $568 million related to the 1.75% Euro notes due May 20, 2022, which were redeemed in full at face value on February 22, 2022, and commercial paper of $210 million.
The Company may issue commercial paper to fund general corporate needs, share repurchases, and small and medium-sized acquisitions. During the fourth quarter of 2022, the Company entered into a $3.0 billion, five-year revolving credit facility with a termination date of October 21, 2027, which is available to provide additional liquidity, including to support the potential issuances of commercial paper. This agreement replaced the existing $2.5 billion, five-year revolving credit facility
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with a termination date of September 27, 2024. No amounts were outstanding under the revolving credit facility as of December 31, 2022. The maximum outstanding commercial paper balance during 2022 was $2.1 billion, while the average daily balance was $1.1 billion.
As of December 31, 2022, the Company had unused capacity of approximately $184 million under international debt facilities. In the ordinary course of business, the Company also had approximately $182 million outstanding in guarantees, letters of credit and other similar arrangements with financial institutions as of December 31, 2022. Refer to Note 11. Debt in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for additional details regarding the Company's outstanding debt obligations.
Total Debt to EBITDA
The Company uses the ratio of total debt to EBITDA as a measure of its ability to repay its outstanding debt obligations. EBITDA and the ratio of total debt to EBITDA are non-GAAP financial measures. The Company believes that total debt to EBITDA is a meaningful metric to investors in evaluating the Company's long term financial liquidity and may be different than the method used by other companies to calculate total debt to EBITDA. The ratio of total debt to EBITDA represents total debt divided by net income before interest expense, other income (expense), income taxes, depreciation, and amortization and impairment of intangible assets on a trailing twelve month basis. Total debt to EBITDA for the years ended December 31, 2022, 2021 and 2020 was as follows:
| Dollars in millions | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total debt | $ | 7,763 | $ | 7,687 | $ | 8,122 | ||||
| Net income | $ | 3,034 | $ | 2,694 | $ | 2,109 | ||||
| Add: | ||||||||||
| Interest expense | 203 | 202 | 206 | |||||||
| Other (income) expense | (255) | (51) | (28) | |||||||
| Income taxes | 808 | 632 | 595 | |||||||
| Depreciation | 276 | 277 | 273 | |||||||
| Amortization and impairment of intangible assets | 134 | 133 | 154 | |||||||
| EBITDA | $ | 4,200 | $ | 3,887 | $ | 3,309 | ||||
| Total debt to EBITDA ratio | 1.8 | 2.0 | 2.5 |
Stockholders' Equity
The changes to stockholders' equity during 2022 and 2021 were as follows:
| In millions | 2022 | 2021 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beginning balance | $ | 3,626 | $ | 3,182 | ||
| Net income | 3,034 | 2,694 | ||||
| Cash dividends declared | (1,560) | (1,483) | ||||
| Repurchases of common stock | (1,750) | (1,000) | ||||
| Other comprehensive income (loss) | (339) | 140 | ||||
| Other | 78 | 93 | ||||
| Ending balance | $ | 3,089 | $ | 3,626 |
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES
The Company has three accounting estimates that it believes are most important to the Company's financial condition and results of operations, and which require the Company to make judgments about matters that are inherently uncertain. Management bases its estimates on historical experience, and in some cases on observable market information. Various assumptions are also used that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances and form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
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The Company's critical accounting estimates are as follows:
Income Taxes— The Company provides deferred income tax assets and liabilities based on the estimated future tax effects of differences between the financial and tax bases of assets and liabilities based on currently enacted tax laws. The Company's deferred and other tax balances are based on management's interpretation of the tax regulations and rulings in numerous taxing jurisdictions. Income tax expense, assets and liabilities recognized by the Company also reflect its best estimates and assumptions regarding, among other things, the level of future taxable income, the effect of the Company's various tax planning strategies and uncertain tax positions. Future tax authority rulings and changes in tax laws, changes in projected levels of taxable income and future tax planning strategies could affect the actual effective tax rate and tax balances recorded by the Company.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets— The Company's business acquisitions typically result in recording goodwill and other intangible assets, which are a significant portion of the Company's total assets and affect the amount of amortization expense and impairment charges that the Company could incur in future periods. The Company follows the guidance prescribed in the accounting standards to test goodwill and intangible assets for impairment. On an annual basis, or more frequently if triggering events occur, the Company compares the estimated fair value of its reporting units to the carrying value of each reporting unit to determine if a potential goodwill impairment exists. If the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value, a goodwill impairment loss is recorded for the difference. In calculating the fair value of the reporting units or specific intangible assets, management relies on a number of factors, including business plans, economic projections, anticipated future cash flows, comparable transactions and other market data. There are inherent uncertainties related to these factors and management's judgment in applying them in the impairment tests of goodwill and other intangible assets.
As of December 31, 2022, the Company had total goodwill and intangible assets of approximately $5.6 billion allocated to its reporting units. Although there can be no assurance that the Company will not incur additional impairment charges related to its goodwill and other intangible assets, the Company generally believes the risk of significant impairment charges is lessened by the number of diversified businesses and end markets represented by its reporting units that have goodwill and other intangible assets. In addition, the individual businesses in many of the reporting units have been acquired over a long period of time, and in many cases have been able to improve their performance, primarily as a result of the application of the Company's 80/20 Front-to-Back process. The amount of goodwill and other intangible assets allocated to individual reporting units ranges from approximately $212 million to $1.4 billion, with the average amount equal to $562 million. Fair value determinations require considerable judgment and are sensitive to changes in the factors described above. Due to the inherent uncertainties associated with these factors and economic conditions in the Company's global end markets, impairment charges related to one or more reporting units could occur in future periods.
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits— The Company has various company-sponsored defined benefit retirement plans covering a number of U.S. employees and many employees outside the U.S. Pension and other postretirement benefit expense and obligations are determined based on actuarial valuations. Pension benefit obligations are generally based on each participant's years of service, future compensation, and age at retirement or termination. Important assumptions in determining pension and postretirement expense and obligations are the discount rate, the expected long-term return on plan assets, life expectancy, and health care cost trend rates. Future changes in any of these assumptions could materially affect the amounts recorded related to the Company's pension and other postretirement benefit plans. See Note 12. Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for additional discussion of actuarial assumptions used in determining pension and postretirement health care liabilities and expenses.
The Company determines the discount rate used to measure plan liabilities as of the year-end measurement date for the U.S. primary pension plan. The discount rate reflects the current rate at which the associated liabilities could theoretically be effectively settled at the end of the year. In estimating this rate, the Company looks at rates of return on high-quality fixed income investments, with similar duration to the liabilities in the plan. A 25 basis point decrease in the discount rate would increase the present value of the U.S. primary pension plan obligation by approximately $27 million. The Company estimates the service and interest cost components of net periodic benefit cost by applying specific spot rates along the yield curve to the projected cash flows rather than a single weighted-average rate. See Note 12. Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for information on the Company's pension and other postretirement benefit plans and related assumptions.
The expected long-term return on plan assets is based on historical and expected long-term returns for similar investment allocations among asset classes. For the U.S. primary pension plan, a 25 basis point decrease in the expected return on plan assets would increase the annual pension expense by approximately $4 million.
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FY 2021 10-K MD&A
SEC filing source: 0000049826-22-000006.
ITEM 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
INTRODUCTION
Illinois Tool Works Inc. (the "Company" or "ITW") is a global manufacturer of a diversified range of industrial products and equipment with 83 divisions in 52 countries. As of December 31, 2021, the Company employed approximately 45,000 people.
The Company's operations are organized and managed based on similar product offerings and end markets, and are reported to senior management as the following seven segments: Automotive OEM; Food Equipment; Test & Measurement and Electronics; Welding; Polymers & Fluids; Construction Products; and Specialty Products.
Due to the large number of diverse businesses and the Company's decentralized operating structure, the Company does not require its businesses to provide detailed information on operating results. Instead, the Company's corporate management collects data on several key measurements: operating revenue, operating income, operating margin, overhead costs, number of months on hand in inventory, days sales outstanding in accounts receivable, past due receivables and return on invested capital. These key measures are monitored by management and significant changes in operating results versus current trends in end markets and variances from forecasts are discussed with operating unit management.
THE ITW BUSINESS MODEL
The powerful and highly differentiated ITW Business Model is the Company's core source of value creation. The ITW Business Model is the Company's competitive advantage and defines how ITW creates value for its shareholders. It is comprised of three unique elements:
•ITW's 80/20 Front-to-Back process is the operating system that is applied in every ITW business. Initially introduced as a manufacturing efficiency tool in the 1980s, ITW has continually refined, improved and expanded 80/20 into a proprietary, holistic business management process that generates significant value for the Company and its customers. Through the application of data driven insights generated by 80/20 practice, ITW focuses on its largest and best opportunities (the "80") and eliminates cost, complexity and distractions associated with the less profitable opportunities (the "20"). 80/20 enables ITW businesses to consistently achieve world-class operational excellence in product availability, quality, and innovation, while generating superior financial performance;
•Customer-back Innovation has fueled decades of profitable growth at ITW. The Company's unique innovation approach is built on insight gathered from the 80/20 Front-to-Back process. Working from the customer back, ITW businesses position themselves as the go-to problem solver for their "80" customers. ITW's innovation efforts are
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focused on understanding customer needs, particularly those in "80" markets with solid long-term growth fundamentals, and creating unique solutions to address those needs. These customer insights and learnings drive innovation at ITW and have contributed to a portfolio of approximately 19,300 granted and pending patents;
•ITW's Decentralized, Entrepreneurial Culture enables ITW businesses to be fast, focused, and responsive. ITW businesses have significant flexibility within the framework of the ITW Business Model to customize their approach in order to best serve their specific customers' needs. ITW colleagues recognize their unique responsibilities to execute the Company's strategy and values. As a result, the Company maintains a focused and simple organizational structure that, combined with outstanding execution, delivers best-in-class services and solutions adapted to each business' customers and end markets.
ENTERPRISE STRATEGY
In late 2012, ITW began its strategic framework transitioning the Company on its current path to fully leverage the compelling performance potential of the ITW Business Model. The Company undertook a complete review of its performance, focusing on its businesses delivering consistent above-market growth with best-in-class margins and returns, and developing a strategy to replicate that performance across its operations.
ITW determined that solid and consistent above-market organic growth is the core growth engine to deliver world-class financial performance and compelling long-term returns for its shareholders. To shift its primary growth engine to organic, the Company began executing a multi-step approach.
•The first step was to narrow the focus and improve the quality of ITW's business portfolio. As part of the Portfolio Management initiative, ITW exited businesses that were operating in commoditized market spaces and prioritized sustainable differentiation as a must-have requirement for all ITW businesses. This process included both divesting entire businesses and exiting commoditized product lines and customers inside otherwise highly differentiated ITW divisions.
As a result of this work, ITW's business portfolio now has significantly higher organic growth potential. ITW segments and divisions now possess attractive and differentiated product lines and end markets as they continue to improve operating margins and generate price/cost increases. The Company achieved this through product line simplification, or eliminating the complexity and overhead costs associated with smaller product lines and customers, while supporting and growing the businesses' largest / most profitable customers and product lines.
•Step two, Business Structure Simplification, was implemented to simplify and scale up ITW's operating structure to support increased engineering, marketing, and sales resources, and improve global reach and competitiveness, all of which were critical to driving accelerated organic growth. ITW now has 83 scaled-up divisions with significantly enhanced focus on growth investments, core customers and products, and customer-back innovation.
•The Strategic Sourcing initiative established sourcing as a core strategic and operational capability at ITW, delivering an average of one percent reduction in spend each year from 2013 through 2021 and continues to be a key contributor to the Company's ongoing enterprise strategy.
•With the initial portfolio realignment and scale-up work largely complete, the Company shifted its focus to preparing for and accelerating organic growth, reapplying the 80/20 Front-to-Back process to optimize its newly scaled-up divisions for growth, first, to build a foundation of operational excellence, and second, to identify the best opportunities to drive organic growth.
ITW has clearly demonstrated superior 80/20 management, resulting in meaningful incremental improvement in margins and returns as evidenced by the Company's operating margin and after-tax return on invested capital. At the same time, these 80/20 initiatives can also result in restructuring initiatives that reduce costs and improve profitability and returns.
PATH TO FULL POTENTIAL
Since the launch of the enterprise strategy, the Company has made considerable progress to position itself to reach full potential. The ITW Business Model and unique set of capabilities are a source of strong and enduring competitive advantage,
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but for the Company to truly reach its full potential, every one of its divisions must also be operating at its full potential. To do so, the Company remains focused on its core principles to position ITW to perform to its full potential:
•Portfolio discipline
•80/20 Front-to-Back practice excellence
•Full-potential organic growth
Portfolio Discipline
The Company only operates in industries where it can generate significant, long-term competitive advantage from the ITW Business Model. ITW businesses have the right "raw material" in terms of market and business attributes that best fit the ITW Business Model and have significant potential to drive above-market organic growth over the long-term.
The Company focuses on high-quality businesses, ensuring it operates in markets with positive long-term macro fundamentals and with customers that have critical needs and value ITW's differentiated products, services and solutions. ITW's portfolio operates in highly diverse end markets and geographies which makes the Company more resilient in the face of uncertain or volatile market environments.
The Company routinely evaluates its portfolio to ensure it delivers sustainable differentiation and drives consistent long-term performance. This includes both implementing portfolio refinements and assessing selective high-quality acquisitions to supplement ITW's long-term growth potential.
The Company previously communicated its intent to explore options, including potential divestitures, for certain businesses with revenues totaling up to $1 billion. In the fourth quarter of 2019, the Company completed the divestitures of three businesses and continues to evaluate options for certain other businesses. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Company deferred any further significant divestiture activity until 2022 or later. The Company intends to reinitiate the divestiture process in 2022 for certain businesses with combined annual revenues of approximately $0.5 billion. Refer to Note 4. Divestitures in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information regarding divestiture activity.
80/20 Front-to-Back Practice Excellence
The 80/20 Front-to-Back process is a rigorous, iterative and highly data-driven approach to identify where the Company has true differentiation and the ability to drive sustainable, high-quality organic growth. The Company simplifies and eliminates complexity and redesigns every aspect of its business to ensure focused execution on key opportunities, markets, customers, and products.
ITW will continue to drive 80/20 Front-to-Back practice excellence in every division in the Company, every day. Driving strong operational excellence in the quality of 80/20 Front-to-Back practice across the Company, division by division, will produce further customer-facing performance improvement in a number of divisions and additional structural margin expansion at the enterprise level.
Near-term Priorities
While it was the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic that dominated the Company's attention starting in 2020, it was the collection of capabilities and competitive advantages that have been built and honed over the past nine years through the execution of ITW's enterprise strategy that provided the Company with the options to respond. This, coupled with the proprietary and powerful ITW Business Model, diversified high-quality business portfolio and diligent execution put the Company in a position of strength in dealing with the global pandemic.
As the global pandemic continues, the Company continues to focus its efforts on (1) protecting the health and support the well-being of ITW's colleagues; (2) serving the Company's customers with excellence; (3) maintain financial strength, liquidity and strategic optionality; and (4) leverage the Company's strengths to position it to fully participate in the recovery.
"Win the Recovery" is an execution component of the Company's enterprise strategy, not a separate initiative, with every one of the Company's divisions identifying specific opportunities presented by the pandemic to capture sustainable share gains that are aligned with the ITW long-term enterprise strategy. The Company expects these efforts to contribute meaningfully to
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accelerate its progress toward full-potential organic growth. The Company continues to focus on delivering strong results in any environment while executing its long-term strategy to achieve and sustain ITW's full potential performance.
Full-Potential Organic Growth
Reaching full potential means that every division is positioned for sustainable, high-quality organic growth. The Company has clearly defined action plans aimed at leveraging the performance power of the ITW Business Model to achieve full-potential organic growth in every division, with specific focus on:
•"80" focused Market Penetration - fully leveraging the considerable growth potential that resides in the Company's largest and most differentiated product offerings and customer relationships
•Customer-back Innovation - strengthening the Company's commitment to serial innovation and delivering a continuous flow of differentiated new products to its key customers
•Strategic Sales Excellence - deploying a high-performance sales function in every division
As the Company continues to make progress toward its full potential, the Company will explore opportunities to reinforce or further expand the long-term organic growth potential of ITW through the addition of selective high-quality acquisitions, such as the acquisition of the Test & Simulation business of MTS Systems Corporation ("MTS") from Amphenol Corporation on December 1, 2021. The operating results of the MTS Test & Simulation business were reported within the Company's Test & Measurement and Electronics segment. Refer to Note 3. Acquisitions in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information regarding this acquisition.
TERMS USED BY ITW
Management uses the following terms to describe the financial results of operations of the Company:
•Organic business - acquired businesses that have been included in the Company's results of operations for more than 12 months on a constant currency basis.
•Operating leverage - the estimated effect of the organic revenue volume changes on organic operating income, assuming variable margins remain the same as the prior period.
•Price/cost - represents the estimated net impact of increases or decreases in the cost of materials used in the Company's products versus changes in the selling price to the Company's customers.
•Product line simplification (PLS) - focuses businesses on eliminating the complexity and overhead costs associated with smaller product lines and customers, and focuses businesses on supporting and growing their largest customers and product lines. In the short-term, PLS may result in a decrease in revenue and overhead costs while improving operating margin. In the long-term, PLS is expected to result in growth in revenue, profitability, and returns.
Unless otherwise stated, the changes in financial results in the consolidated results of operations and the results of operations by segment represent the current year period versus the comparable period in the prior year.
CONSOLIDATED RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
In early 2020, an outbreak of a novel strain of coronavirus (COVID-19) occurred in China and other jurisdictions. The COVID-19 outbreak was subsequently declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organization on March 11, 2020. In response to the outbreak, governments around the globe have taken various actions to reduce its spread, including travel restrictions, shutdowns of businesses deemed nonessential, and stay-at-home or similar orders. The COVID-19 pandemic and the measures taken globally to reduce its spread have negatively impacted the global economy, causing significant disruptions in the Company's global operations starting primarily in the latter part of the first quarter of 2020 as COVID-19 continued to spread and impact the countries in which the Company operates and the markets the Company serves.
For the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Company is focusing on the following priorities: (1) protect the health and support the well-being of ITW's colleagues; (2) continue to serve the Company's customers with excellence to the best of its ability; (3) maintain financial strength, liquidity and strategic optionality; and (4) leverage the Company's strengths to position it to fully participate in the recovery. To support ITW's colleagues, among its many actions and initiatives, the Company redesigned production processes to ensure proper social distancing practices, adjusted shift schedules and assignments to help colleagues who have child and elder care needs, and implemented aggressive new workplace sanitation practices and a coordinated response to ensure access to personal protective equipment to minimize infection risk. To support its customers, the Company has worked diligently to keep its facilities open and operating safely. The Company has adapted
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customer service systems and practices to seamlessly serve its customers under "work from home" requirements in many parts of the world.
In areas around the world where governments issued stay-at-home or similar orders, the vast majority of ITW's businesses were designated as critical or essential businesses and, as such, they remained open and operational. In some cases, this is because the Company's products directly impact the COVID-19 response effort. In other cases, the Company's businesses are designated as critical because they play a vital role in serving and supporting industries that are deemed essential to the physical and economic health of our communities.
While the vast majority of the Company's facilities have remained open and operational during the pandemic, many of these facilities were operating at a reduced capacity at various times since the outset of the pandemic. The full extent of the COVID-19 outbreak and its impact on the markets served by the Company and on the Company's operations and financial position continues to be highly uncertain as conditions continue to fluctuate around the world, with vaccine administration rising in certain regions and spikes in infections (including the spread of variants) also being experienced. A prolonged outbreak could continue to interrupt the operations of the Company and its customers and suppliers. A description of the risks relating to the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on the Company's business, operations and financial condition is contained in Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors.
Separately, the Company does not believe that tariffs imposed in recent years have had a material impact on its operating results. As the global trade environment, including the regulatory environment, continues to evolve, the Company will continue to evaluate the impact of enacted and proposed tariffs on its businesses, as well as pricing actions to mitigate the impact of any raw material cost increases resulting from these tariffs.
The Company delivered strong financial results in 2021 primarily due to the continued successful execution of enterprise initiatives, including the "Win the Recovery" actions initiated over the course of the past year, and continued focus on the highly differentiated ITW Business Model. Despite rising raw material costs and a challenging global supply chain environment, the Company generated operating revenue growth of 15.0 percent and organic revenue growth of 12.3 percent, as all segments had organic revenue growth in 2021. Organic revenue for the Automotive OEM segment grew mid-single digits, but was adversely impacted by auto production reductions associated with the supply chain challenges affecting its customers, especially during the second half of 2021. Operating income grew 20.6 percent in 2021. Operating margin was 24.1 percent in 2021 as all segments achieved margin expansion compared to the prior year period.
On December 1, 2021, the Company completed the acquisition of the MTS Test & Simulation business for a purchase price of $750 million, subject to certain closing adjustments. The MTS Test & Simulation business had operating revenue of $46 million for the one month ended December 31, 2021. The Company expects the MTS Test & Simulation business to be neutral to diluted earnings per share in the next twelve months, but expects improved earnings and operating margin performance in later years through the application of the Company's 80/20 Front-to-Back process. The operating results of the MTS Test & Simulation business were reported within the Test & Measurement and Electronics segment. The acquisition of the MTS Test & Simulation business did not have a material impact on the Company's results of operations or financial position for any period presented. Refer to Note 3. Acquisitions in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information.
The Company's consolidated results of operations for 2021, 2020 and 2019 were as follows:
2021 compared to 2020
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2021 | 2020 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/ Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 14,455 | $ | 12,574 | 15.0 | % | 12.3 | % | 0.4 | % | — | % | 2.3 | % | 15.0 | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 3,477 | $ | 2,882 | 20.6 | % | 17.0 | % | 0.2 | % | 0.8 | % | 2.6 | % | 20.6 | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 24.1 | % | 22.9 | % | 120 bps | 100 bps | — | 20 bps | — | 120 bps |
•Operating revenue increased due to higher organic and acquisition revenue and the favorable effect of foreign currency translation.
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•Organic revenue increased 12.3% as the Company saw continued improvement in both the breadth and pace of the recovery. Additionally, product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 20 basis points.
◦North American organic revenue increased 13.5% due to growth in all segments, primarily driven by the Welding, Test & Measurement and Electronics and Food Equipment segments.
◦Europe, Middle East and Africa organic revenue increased 8.7% due to growth in six segments, primarily driven by the Food Equipment and Construction Products segments. The Automotive OEM segment was essentially flat.
◦Asia Pacific organic revenue increased 13.5% due to growth in all segments. China organic revenue grew 15.1% with growth in six segments, partially offset by a decline in the Construction Products segment.
•Operating income of $3.5 billion increased 20.6% primarily due to higher organic revenue.
•Operating margin of 24.1% increased 120 basis points primarily due to positive operating leverage of 250 basis points and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives of 110 basis points, partially offset by unfavorable price/cost of 150 basis points and higher overhead expenses, including employee-related expenses.
•The Company's effective tax rate was 19.0% in 2021 compared to 22.0% in 2020. The 2021 effective tax rate benefited from a discrete income tax benefit of $21 million in the third quarter related to the utilization of capital losses and a discrete income tax benefit of $112 million in the second quarter of 2021 related to the remeasurement of net deferred tax assets due to the enactment of the U.K. Finance Bill 2021, which increases the U.K. income tax rate from 19% to 25% effective April 1, 2023. Additionally, the effective tax rate included discrete income tax benefits related to excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation of $17 million and $27 million for 2021 and 2020, respectively.
•Diluted earnings per share (EPS) of $8.51 increased 28.4%. Excluding the favorable impact of the $21 million discrete income tax benefit in the third quarter of 2021 and the $112 million discrete income tax benefit in the second quarter of 2021, EPS increased 22.0%.
•Operating cash flow was $2.6 billion and free cash flow was $2.3 billion for 2021. Refer to the Cash Flow section of Liquidity and Capital Resources for a reconciliation of free cash flow, which is a non-GAAP measure.
•The Company repurchased approximately 4.4 million shares of its common stock in 2021 for approximately $1.0 billion.
•The Company increased the quarterly dividend on common stock from $1.14 to $1.22 per share in 2021, or from $4.56 to $4.88 per share on an annualized basis. Total cash dividends of approximately $1.5 billion were paid in 2021.
2020 compared to 2019
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2020 | 2019 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/ Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 12,574 | $ | 14,109 | (10.9) | % | (9.8) | % | (0.9) | % | — | % | (0.2) | % | (10.9) | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 2,882 | $ | 3,402 | (15.3) | % | (16.0) | % | (0.3) | % | 1.1 | % | (0.1) | % | (15.3) | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 22.9 | % | 24.1 | % | (120) bps | (160) bps | 10 bps | 30 bps | — | (120) bps |
•Operating revenue decreased due to lower organic revenue, the impact of 2019 divestitures and the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue decreased 9.8% primarily due to disruptions in the Company's global operations resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic as organic revenue declined in six of the seven segments. The Food Equipment, Automotive OEM and Welding segments had more pronounced unfavorable impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The Construction Products segment grew 1.5% primarily due to growth in North America. Product line simplification activities reduced the Company's organic revenue by 30 basis points.
◦North American organic revenue decreased 9.7% as a decline in six segments, primarily driven by the Automotive OEM, Food Equipment and Welding segments, was partially offset by growth in the Construction Products segment.
◦Europe, Middle East and Africa organic revenue decreased 13.8% as all seven segments had a decline in organic revenue primarily driven by the Automotive OEM and Food Equipment segments.
◦Asia Pacific organic revenue decreased 2.0% as a decline in the Food Equipment, Welding, Specialty Products and Construction Products segments was offset by growth in the Automotive OEM, Test & Measurement and Electronics and Polymers & Fluids segments. China organic revenue grew 0.3% as an increase in the Automotive OEM, Polymers & Fluids and Test & Measurement and Electronics segments was partially offset by a decline in the Food Equipment, Welding, Specialty Products and Construction Products segments.
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•Operating income of $2.9 billion decreased 15.3% primarily due to lower organic revenue. Additionally, operating income for 2019 included $11.8 million related to the businesses divested in 2019.
•Operating margin of 22.9% decreased 120 basis points primarily driven by negative operating leverage of 230 basis points and product mix, partially offset by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives of 120 basis points and lower overhead expenses, such as travel and bonuses, and lower restructuring expenses.
•The effective tax rate was 22.0% in 2020 compared to 23.3% in 2019. The 2019 effective tax rate benefited from a discrete tax benefit of $21 million in the third quarter for the U.S. federal provision to return adjustment resulting primarily from changes in estimates related to the "Tax Cuts and Jobs Act." Additionally, the effective tax rates for 2020 and 2019 included $27 million and $28 million, respectively, related to excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation. Refer to Note 7. Income Taxes in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information.
•Diluted earnings per share (EPS) were $6.63 for 2020.
•Operating cash flow was $2.8 billion and free cash flow was $2.6 billion for 2020. Refer to the Cash Flow section of Liquidity and Capital Resources for a reconciliation of free cash flow, which is a non-GAAP measure.
•The Company repurchased approximately 4.2 million shares of its common stock in 2020 for approximately $706 million. The Company temporarily suspended its share repurchase program starting in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and resumed share repurchases in 2021.
•The Company increased the quarterly dividend on common stock from $1.07 to $1.14 per share in 2020, or from $4.28 to $4.56 per share on an annualized basis. Total cash dividends of approximately $1.4 billion were paid in 2020.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS BY SEGMENT
The reconciliation of segment operating revenue and operating income to total operating revenue and operating income is as follows:
| Operating Revenue | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| In millions | 2021 | 2020 | 2019 | |||||||
| Automotive OEM | $ | 2,800 | $ | 2,571 | $ | 3,063 | ||||
| Food Equipment | 2,078 | 1,739 | 2,188 | |||||||
| Test & Measurement and Electronics | 2,346 | 1,963 | 2,121 | |||||||
| Welding | 1,650 | 1,384 | 1,638 | |||||||
| Polymers & Fluids | 1,804 | 1,622 | 1,669 | |||||||
| Construction Products | 1,945 | 1,652 | 1,625 | |||||||
| Specialty Products | 1,854 | 1,660 | 1,825 | |||||||
| Intersegment revenue | (22) | (17) | (20) | |||||||
| Total | $ | 14,455 | $ | 12,574 | $ | 14,109 |
| Operating Income | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| In millions | 2021 | 2020 | 2019 | |||||||
| Automotive OEM | $ | 545 | $ | 457 | $ | 659 | ||||
| Food Equipment | 469 | 342 | 578 | |||||||
| Test & Measurement and Electronics | 643 | 507 | 542 | |||||||
| Welding | 490 | 376 | 453 | |||||||
| Polymers & Fluids | 457 | 402 | 381 | |||||||
| Construction Products | 530 | 421 | 383 | |||||||
| Specialty Products | 504 | 432 | 472 | |||||||
| Total Segments | 3,638 | 2,937 | 3,468 | |||||||
| Unallocated | (161) | (55) | (66) | |||||||
| Total | $ | 3,477 | $ | 2,882 | $ | 3,402 |
Segments are allocated a fixed overhead charge based on the segment's revenue. Expenses not charged to the segments are reported separately as Unallocated. Because the Unallocated category includes a variety of items, it is subject to fluctuations
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on a quarterly and annual basis. Unallocated expenses in 2021 are higher primarily due to higher employee-related expenses and transaction costs related to the previously discussed acquisition of the MTS Test & Simulation business.
AUTOMOTIVE OEM
This segment is a global, niche supplier to top tier OEMs, providing unique innovation to address pain points for sophisticated customers with complex problems. Businesses in this segment produce components and fasteners for automotive-related applications. This segment primarily serves the automotive original equipment manufacturers and tiers market. Products in this segment include:
•plastic and metal components, fasteners and assemblies for automobiles, light trucks and other industrial uses.
The results of operations for the Automotive OEM segment for 2021, 2020 and 2019 were as follows:
2021 compared to 2020
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2021 | 2020 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 2,800 | $ | 2,571 | 8.9 | % | 5.8 | % | — | % | — | % | 3.1 | % | 8.9 | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 545 | $ | 457 | 19.3 | % | 13.0 | % | — | % | 3.0 | % | 3.3 | % | 19.3 | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 19.5 | % | 17.8 | % | 170 bps | 120 bps | — | 50 bps | — | 170 bps |
•Operating revenue increased due to higher organic revenue and the favorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue increased 5.8%. The impact of Automotive OEM customers adjusting production schedules to account for the shortage of semiconductor chips and other components negatively impacted organic revenue in 2021, especially during the second half of the year. Worldwide auto builds increased 2%. Auto builds for North America, Europe and China, where the Company has a higher concentration of revenue as compared to the other geographic regions, were flat.
◦North American organic revenue increased 5.3% compared to North American auto builds which were flat. Auto builds for the Detroit 3, where the Company has higher content, decreased 5%.
◦European organic revenue was essentially flat compared to European auto builds which declined 5%.
◦Asia Pacific organic revenue increased 17.2%. China organic revenue grew 13.9% versus China auto builds which increased 4%. Auto builds of foreign automotive manufacturers in China, where the Company has higher content, declined 8%.
•Operating margin was 19.5%. The increase of 170 basis points was primarily driven by positive operating leverage of 120 basis points, the net benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and cost management, and lower restructuring expenses, partially offset by unfavorable price/cost of 250 basis points.
2020 compared to 2019
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2020 | 2019 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 2,571 | $ | 3,063 | (16.1) | % | (16.0) | % | — | % | — | % | (0.1) | % | (16.1) | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 457 | $ | 659 | (30.6) | % | (32.3) | % | — | % | 1.5 | % | 0.2 | % | (30.6) | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 17.8 | % | 21.5 | % | (370) bps | (420) bps | — | 40 bps | 10 bps | (370) bps |
•Operating revenue declined due to lower organic revenue.
•Organic revenue declined 16.0% versus worldwide auto builds which decreased 16%. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 80 basis points.
◦North American organic revenue decreased 22.3% compared to North American auto builds which declined 20% due to customer mix. Auto builds for the Detroit 3, where the Company has higher content, decreased 23%.
25
◦European organic revenue was down 16.8% compared to European auto builds which decreased 22%.
◦Asia Pacific organic revenue increased 0.7%. China organic revenue grew 6.1% versus China auto builds which decreased 4%. Auto builds of foreign automotive manufacturers in China, where the Company has higher content, decreased 8%.
•Operating margin of 17.8% in 2020 decreased 370 basis points primarily due to negative operating leverage of 330 basis points, product mix and unfavorable price/cost of 20 basis points, partially offset by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and lower restructuring expenses.
FOOD EQUIPMENT
This segment is a highly focused and branded industry leader in commercial food equipment differentiated by innovation and integrated service offerings. This segment primarily serves the food service, food retail and food institutional/restaurant markets. Products in this segment include:
•warewashing equipment;
•cooking equipment, including ovens, ranges and broilers;
•refrigeration equipment, including refrigerators, freezers and prep tables;
•food processing equipment, including slicers, mixers and scales;
•kitchen exhaust, ventilation and pollution control systems; and
•food equipment service, maintenance and repair.
The results of operations for the Food Equipment segment for 2021, 2020 and 2019 were as follows:
2021 compared to 2020
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2021 | 2020 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 2,078 | $ | 1,739 | 19.5 | % | 16.7 | % | — | % | — | % | 2.8 | % | 19.5 | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 469 | $ | 342 | 37.4 | % | 31.7 | % | — | % | 2.4 | % | 3.3 | % | 37.4 | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 22.6 | % | 19.6 | % | 300 bps | 260 bps | — | 40 bps | — | 300 bps |
•Operating revenue grew due to higher organic revenue and the favorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue increased 16.7% as equipment and service organic revenue grew 21.4% and 8.5%, respectively.
◦North American organic revenue increased 16.2%. Equipment organic revenue grew 20.1% primarily due to growth in the restaurant and institutional end markets, partially offset by a decline in the food retail end markets. Service organic revenue increased 10.3%.
◦International organic revenue increased 17.4%. Equipment organic revenue grew 22.9% primarily due to higher demand in the European warewash, refrigeration and cooking end markets. Service organic revenue increased 5.5%.
•Operating margin was 22.6%. The increase of 300 basis points was primarily driven by positive operating leverage of 370 basis points, benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and lower restructuring expenses, partially offset by unfavorable price/cost of 90 basis points and higher overhead expenses.
2020 compared to 2019
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2020 | 2019 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,739 | $ | 2,188 | (20.5) | % | (20.6) | % | — | % | — | % | 0.1 | % | (20.5) | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 342 | $ | 578 | (40.9) | % | (41.1) | % | — | % | (0.1) | % | 0.3 | % | (40.9) | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 19.6 | % | 26.4 | % | (680) bps | (680) bps | — | — | — | (680) bps |
•Operating revenue declined due to lower organic revenue.
26
•Organic revenue declined 20.6% as equipment and service organic revenue decreased 21.8% and 18.5%, respectively.
◦North American organic revenue declined 19.2% as equipment organic revenue decreased 20.4%, primarily driven by lower demand in the restaurant and institutional end markets, partially offset by growth in the food retail end markets. Service organic revenue decreased 17.3%.
◦International organic revenue decreased 22.5%. Equipment organic revenue declined 23.5% primarily due to lower demand in the European warewash, cooking and refrigeration end markets and lower demand in Asia. Service organic revenue decreased 20.4%.
•Operating margin of 19.6% in 2020 decreased 680 basis points primarily due to negative operating leverage of 540 basis points and product mix, partially offset by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and favorable price/cost of 50 basis points.
TEST & MEASUREMENT AND ELECTRONICS
This segment is a branded and innovative producer of test and measurement and electronic manufacturing and maintenance, repair, and operations, or "MRO" solutions that improve efficiency and quality for customers in diverse end markets. Businesses in this segment produce equipment, consumables, and related software for testing and measuring of materials and structures, as well as equipment and consumables used in the production of electronic subassemblies and microelectronics. This segment primarily serves the electronics, general industrial, automotive original equipment manufacturers and tiers, industrial capital goods, energy and consumer durables markets. Products in this segment include:
•equipment, consumables, and related software for testing and measuring of materials, structures, gases and fluids;
•electronic assembly equipment;
•electronic components and component packaging;
•static control equipment and consumables used for contamination control in clean room environments; and
•pressure sensitive adhesives and components for electronics, medical, transportation and telecommunications applications.
The results of operations for the Test & Measurement and Electronics segment for 2021, 2020 and 2019 were as follows:
2021 compared to 2020
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2021 | 2020 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 2,346 | $ | 1,963 | 19.5 | % | 15.3 | % | 2.3 | % | — | % | 1.9 | % | 19.5 | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 643 | $ | 507 | 26.9 | % | 23.1 | % | 0.9 | % | 0.8 | % | 2.1 | % | 26.9 | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 27.4 | % | 25.8 | % | 160 bps | 180 bps | (40) bps | 20 bps | — | 160 bps |
•Operating revenue grew due to higher organic revenue, the MTS Test & Simulation acquisition and the favorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue increased 15.3%.
◦Organic revenue for the test and measurement businesses increased 14.8% primarily driven by higher semiconductor demand in North America, the impact of a stronger capital spending environment, and higher demand in the oil and gas end markets in North America. Instron, where demand is more closely tied to the capital spending environment, had organic revenue growth of 14.0%.
◦Electronics organic revenue increased 15.9% driven by higher demand in consumer electronics, automotive applications and semiconductor end markets. The electronics assembly businesses grew 26.6% primarily due to higher demand in North America and Asia Pacific. The other electronics businesses, which include the contamination control, static control and pressure sensitive adhesives businesses, increased 10.8% with growth in all major regions.
•On December 1, 2021, the Company completed the acquisition of the MTS Test & Simulation business, which had operating revenue of $46 million for the one month ended December 31, 2021 and increased Test & Measurement and Electronics operating revenue by 2.3%.
•Operating margin was 27.4%. The increase of 160 basis points was primarily driven by positive operating leverage of 340 basis points and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, partially offset by unfavorable price/cost of 40 basis points, the dilutive impact from the MTS acquisition, higher overhead expenses and higher freight costs.
27
Additionally, the prior year included the recapture of amortization and depreciation expense related to a business previously classified as held for sale.
2020 compared to 2019
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2020 | 2019 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,963 | $ | 2,121 | (7.4) | % | (4.9) | % | (2.8) | % | — | % | 0.3 | % | (7.4) | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 507 | $ | 542 | (6.5) | % | (5.2) | % | (1.3) | % | (0.2) | % | 0.2 | % | (6.5) | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 25.8 | % | 25.6 | % | 20 bps | (10) bps | 40 bps | (10) bps | — | 20 bps |
•Operating revenue declined due to lower organic revenue and the impact of a 2019 divestiture, partially offset by the favorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue decreased 4.9% in 2020.
◦Organic revenue for the test and measurement businesses decreased 7.2% primarily driven by the impact of a soft capital spending environment in North America and Europe, partially offset by higher semi-conductor demand in North America. Instron, where demand is more closely tied to the capital spending environment, had an organic revenue decline of 14.1% in 2020.
◦Electronics organic revenue declined 2.1%. The electronics assembly businesses decreased 6.9% primarily due to lower demand in North America. The other electronics businesses, which include the contamination control, static control and pressure sensitive adhesives businesses, grew 0.9% primarily due to an increase in North America, partially offset by a decrease in Europe and Asia Pacific.
•Operating margin of 25.8% in 2020 increased 20 basis points primarily due to the net benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and cost management, the impact of a 2019 divestiture and favorable price/cost of 30 basis points, partially offset by negative operating leverage of 130 basis points and the recapture of amortization and depreciation expense related to a business previously classified as held for sale.
WELDING
This segment is a branded value-added equipment and specialty consumable manufacturer with innovative and leading technology. Businesses in this segment produce arc welding equipment, consumables and accessories for a wide array of industrial and commercial applications. This segment primarily serves the general industrial market, which includes fabrication, shipbuilding and other general industrial markets, and energy, construction, MRO, automotive original equipment manufacturers and tiers, and industrial capital goods markets. Products in this segment include:
•arc welding equipment; and
•metal arc welding consumables and related accessories.
The results of operations for the Welding segment for 2021, 2020 and 2019 were as follows:
2021 compared to 2020
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2021 | 2020 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/ Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,650 | $ | 1,384 | 19.2 | % | 18.1 | % | — | % | — | % | 1.1 | % | 19.2 | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 490 | $ | 376 | 30.5 | % | 29.8 | % | — | % | (0.2) | % | 0.9 | % | 30.5 | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 29.7 | % | 27.1 | % | 260 bps | 270 bps | — | — | (10) bps | 260 bps |
•Operating revenue grew due to higher organic revenue and the favorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue grew 18.1% as equipment increased 20.5% and consumables increased 14.3% primarily due to higher demand in the industrial end markets related to heavy equipment for agriculture, infrastructure and mining and in the commercial end markets related to construction, light fabrication and farm and ranch customers.
28
◦North American organic revenue increased 19.6% primarily driven by growth in the industrial and commercial end markets of 22.6% and 17.0%, respectively.
◦International organic revenue grew 10.7% primarily due to higher equipment demand in the oil and gas end markets in Europe and Asia.
•Operating margin was 29.7%. The increase of 260 basis points was primarily driven by positive operating leverage of 260 basis points and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, partially offset by higher overhead expenses.
2020 compared to 2019
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2020 | 2019 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,384 | $ | 1,638 | (15.5) | % | (11.8) | % | (3.7) | % | — | % | — | % | (15.5) | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 376 | $ | 453 | (17.1) | % | (16.8) | % | (1.6) | % | 1.4 | % | (0.1) | % | (17.1) | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 27.1 | % | 27.7 | % | (60) bps | (160) bps | 60 bps | 40 bps | — | (60) bps |
•Operating revenue decreased due to lower organic revenue and the impact of a 2019 divestiture.
•Organic revenue declined 11.8% driven by decreases in equipment of 12.2% and consumables of 11.2%, primarily due to lower demand in the industrial end markets.
◦North American organic revenue decreased 10.8% primarily due to a decline in the industrial end markets of 19.8%, partially offset by growth in the commercial end markets of 2.1%.
◦International organic revenue decreased 16.4% primarily due to a decline in the European oil and gas end markets.
•Operating margin of 27.1% in 2020 decreased 60 basis points primarily driven by negative operating leverage of 220 basis points and product mix, partially offset by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, the impact of a 2019 divestiture and lower restructuring expenses.
POLYMERS & FLUIDS
This segment is a branded supplier to niche markets that require value-added, differentiated products. Businesses in this segment produce engineered adhesives, sealants, lubrication and cutting fluids, and fluids and polymers for auto aftermarket maintenance and appearance. This segment primarily serves the automotive aftermarket, general industrial, MRO and construction markets. Products in this segment include:
•adhesives for industrial, construction and consumer purposes;
•chemical fluids which clean or add lubrication to machines;
•epoxy and resin-based coating products for industrial applications;
•hand wipes and cleaners for industrial applications;
•fluids, polymers and other supplies for auto aftermarket maintenance and appearance;
•fillers and putties for auto body repair; and
•polyester coatings and patch and repair products for the marine industry.
The results of operations for the Polymers & Fluids segment for 2021, 2020 and 2019 were as follows:
2021 compared to 2020
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2021 | 2020 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,804 | $ | 1,622 | 11.2 | % | 10.0 | % | — | % | — | % | 1.2 | % | 11.2 | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 457 | $ | 402 | 13.7 | % | 12.2 | % | — | % | 0.3 | % | 1.2 | % | 13.7 | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 25.4 | % | 24.8 | % | 60 bps | 50 bps | — | 10 bps | — | 60 bps |
29
•Operating revenue grew due to higher organic revenue and the favorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue increased 10.0% driven by higher demand across all major regions. Additionally, product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 80 basis points.
◦Organic revenue for the automotive aftermarket businesses increased 11.4% primarily driven by growth in the car care, body repair and tire repair businesses in North America and growth in the European additives and tire repair businesses.
◦Organic revenue for the polymers businesses increased 15.5% with growth across all major regions and end markets.
◦Organic revenue for the fluids businesses decreased 1.0% primarily due to a decline in the industrial maintenance, repair and operations end markets in North America.
•Operating margin was 25.4%. The increase of 60 basis points was primarily due to positive operating leverage of 200 basis points, benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and lower intangible asset amortization expense, partially offset by unfavorable price/cost of 200 basis points, higher overhead expenses and higher freight costs.
2020 compared to 2019
| For the Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2020 | 2019 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,622 | $ | 1,669 | (2.8) | % | (1.4) | % | — | % | — | % | (1.4) | % | (2.8) | % | ||||||||
| Operating income | $ | 402 | $ | 381 | 5.6 | % | 5.2 | % | — | % | 1.5 | % | (1.1) | % | 5.6 | % | ||||||||
| Operating margin % | 24.8 | % | 22.8 | % | 200 bps | 150 bps | — | 40 bps | 10 bps | 200 bps |
•Operating revenue decreased due to lower organic revenue and the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue declined 1.4% in 2020. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 50 basis points.
◦Organic revenue for the polymers businesses decreased 5.3% primarily driven by a decline in the heavy industrial end markets in North America and Europe.
◦Organic revenue for the automotive aftermarket businesses declined 0.5% primarily driven by a decrease in the car care and body repair businesses in North America and the additives businesses in Europe, partially offset by growth in the tire and engine repair businesses in North America.
◦Organic revenue for the fluids businesses grew 3.3% primarily due to an increase in the industrial maintenance, repair, and operations end markets in Europe and North America.
•Operating margin of 24.8% in 2020 increased 200 basis points primarily due to the net benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and cost management, favorable price/cost of 50 basis points and lower restructuring expenses, partially offset by negative operating leverage of 30 basis points.
CONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS
This segment is a branded supplier of innovative engineered fastening systems and solutions. This segment primarily serves the residential construction, renovation/remodel and commercial construction markets. Products in this segment include:
•fasteners and related fastening tools for wood and metal applications;
•anchors, fasteners and related tools for concrete applications;
•metal plate truss components and related equipment and software; and
•packaged hardware, fasteners, anchors and other products for retail.
30
The results of operations for the Construction Products segment for 2021, 2020 and 2019 were as follows:
2021 compared to 2020
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2021 | 2020 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,945 | $ | 1,652 | 17.7 | % | 13.6 | % | (0.1) | % | — | % | 4.2 | % | 17.7 | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 530 | $ | 421 | 25.7 | % | 20.9 | % | — | % | 0.2 | % | 4.6 | % | 25.7 | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 27.2 | % | 25.5 | % | 170 bps | 160 bps | — | 10 bps | — | 170 bps |
•Operating revenue grew primarily due to higher organic revenue and the favorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue increased 13.6% with growth across all major regions. Additionally, product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 40 basis points.
◦North American organic revenue grew 13.6% due to higher demand in the United States residential and commercial end markets of 12.7% and 14.7%, respectively, and growth in Canada.
◦International organic revenue increased 13.6%. European organic revenue grew 19.4% primarily driven by higher demand in the commercial and residential end markets. Asia Pacific organic revenue increased 7.3% primarily due to higher demand in Australia and New Zealand in the residential end markets.
•Operating margin was 27.2%. The increase of 170 basis points was primarily due to positive operating leverage of 240 basis points and the net benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and cost management, partially offset by unfavorable price/cost of 250 basis points.
2020 compared to 2019
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2020 | 2019 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,652 | $ | 1,625 | 1.7 | % | 1.5 | % | — | % | — | % | 0.2 | % | 1.7 | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 421 | $ | 383 | 10.0 | % | 8.4 | % | — | % | 1.5 | % | 0.1 | % | 10.0 | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 25.5 | % | 23.6 | % | 190 bps | 160 bps | — | 30 bps | — | 190 bps |
•Operating revenue increased due to higher organic revenue and the favorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue grew 1.5% as an increase in North America was partially offset by declines in Europe and Asia Pacific.
◦North American organic revenue grew 7.8% as increases of 11.4% in the United States residential end markets and 13.0% in Canada were partially offset by a decrease of 11.4% in the commercial end markets.
◦International organic revenue decreased 3.3% in 2020. Asia Pacific organic revenue decreased 0.7% primarily due to a decline in the commercial end markets in Australia and New Zealand. European organic revenue decreased 5.5% driven by a decline in continental Europe and the United Kingdom.
•Operating margin of 25.5% in 2020 increased 190 basis points primarily driven by the net benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and cost management, positive operating leverage of 30 basis points and lower restructuring expenses, partially offset by unfavorable price/cost of 50 basis points.
SPECIALTY PRODUCTS
This segment is focused on diversified niche market opportunities with substantial patent protection producing beverage packaging equipment and consumables, product coding and marking equipment and consumables, and appliance components and fasteners. This segment primarily serves the food and beverage, consumer durables, general industrial, industrial capital goods and printing and publishing markets. Products in this segment include:
•line integration, conveyor systems and line automation for the food and beverage industries;
•plastic consumables that multi-pack cans and bottles and related equipment;
31
•foil, film and related equipment used to decorate consumer products;
•product coding and marking equipment and related consumables;
•plastic and metal closures and components for appliances;
•airport ground support equipment; and
•components for medical devices.
The results of operations for the Specialty Products segment for 2021, 2020 and 2019 were as follows:
2021 compared to 2020
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2021 | 2020 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,854 | $ | 1,660 | 11.7 | % | 9.8 | % | — | % | — | % | 1.9 | % | 11.7 | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 504 | $ | 432 | 16.6 | % | 15.6 | % | — | % | (1.0) | % | 2.0 | % | 16.6 | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 27.2 | % | 26.0 | % | 120 bps | 140 bps | — | (20) bps | — | 120 bps |
•Operating revenue grew due to higher organic revenue and the favorable effect of foreign currency translation.
•Organic revenue increased 9.8% as consumables increased 10.8% and equipment increased 6.4% primarily due to higher demand in North America. Additionally, product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 20 basis points.
◦North American organic revenue increased 11.2% primarily driven by growth in the consumer packaging, strength film, appliance, filter medical, and product coding and marking businesses.
◦International organic revenue increased 6.8% primarily due to growth in the appliance businesses in Europe and Asia Pacific and the ground support equipment businesses in Europe, partially offset by a decline in the consumer packaging businesses in Europe and the strength film businesses in Asia Pacific.
•Operating margin was 27.2%. The increase of 120 basis points was primarily due to positive operating leverage of 190 basis points and benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, partially offset by unfavorable price/cost of 200 basis points, higher overhead expenses and higher freight costs. Additionally, the prior year included an unfavorable impact of a one-time customer cost-sharing settlement.
2020 compared to 2019
| For the Years Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollars in millions | December 31, | Components of Increase (Decrease) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| 2020 | 2019 | Inc (Dec) | Organic | Acquisition/Divestiture | Restructuring | Foreign Currency | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Operating revenue | $ | 1,660 | $ | 1,825 | (9.1) | % | (8.2) | % | (0.8) | % | — | % | (0.1) | % | (9.1) | % | |||||||
| Operating income | $ | 432 | $ | 472 | (8.5) | % | (11.2) | % | 0.7 | % | 2.2 | % | (0.2) | % | (8.5) | % | |||||||
| Operating margin % | 26.0 | % | 25.9 | % | 10 bps | (90) bps | 40 bps | 60 bps | — | 10 bps |
•Operating revenue decreased primarily due to lower organic revenue and the impact of 2019 divestitures.
•Organic revenue decreased 8.2% as equipment sales declined 17.7% and consumables declined 5.2%. Additionally, product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 30 basis points.
◦North American organic revenue decreased 7.3% primarily due to a decline in the ground support equipment, appliance and specialty films businesses, partially offset by an increase in the consumer packaging businesses.
◦International organic revenue decreased 10.0% primarily due to a decline in the consumer packaging, ground support equipment, appliance, specialty films and marking coding businesses in Europe.
•Operating margin of 26.0% in 2020 increased 10 basis points primarily due to benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives, lower restructuring expenses and the impact of 2019 divestitures, partially offset by negative operating leverage of 180 basis points, unfavorable price/cost of 60 basis points and the unfavorable impact of a one-time customer cost-sharing settlement.
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OTHER FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
•Interest expense was $202 million in 2021, $206 million in 2020 and $221 million in 2019. Interest expense in 2020 was $15 million lower than 2019 primarily driven by the repayment of the $700 million notes due April 1, 2019 and the $650 million notes due March 1, 2019, and outstanding commercial paper in 2019, partially offset by the issuance of the €1.6 billion Euro notes in June of 2019.
•Other income (expense) was income of $51 million in 2021, $28 million in 2020 and $107 million in 2019. The income in 2021 increased $23 million compared to 2020 primarily due to higher investment income and higher other net periodic benefit income in 2021. The income in 2020 decreased $79 million compared to 2019 primarily due to the net pre-tax gain on the disposal of operations and affiliates of $44 million in 2019, lower interest and investment income, and lower other net periodic benefit income.
•The Company's effective tax rate for 2021, 2020 and 2019 was 19.0%, 22.0% and 23.3%, respectively. The 2021 effective tax rate benefited from discrete income tax benefits of $21 million in the third quarter of 2021 related to the utilization of capital losses and $112 million in the second quarter of 2021 related to the remeasurement of net deferred tax assets due to the enactment of the U.K. Finance Bill 2021, which increases the U.K. income tax rate from 19% to 25% effective April 1, 2023. The 2019 effective tax rate benefited from a discrete income tax benefit of $21 million in the third quarter for the U.S. federal provision to return adjustment. Additionally, the effective tax rates for 2021, 2020 and 2019 included discrete income tax benefits of $17 million, $27 million and $28 million, respectively, related to excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation. Refer to Note 7. Income Taxes in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information.
•The impact of the Euro and other foreign currencies against the U.S. Dollar in 2021 versus 2020 increased operating revenue and income before taxes by approximately $301 million and $77 million, respectively. The impact of the Euro and other foreign currencies against the U.S. Dollar in 2020 versus 2019 decreased operating revenue and income before taxes by approximately $20 million and $3 million, respectively.
NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
Information regarding new accounting pronouncements is included in Note 1. Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
The Company's primary sources of liquidity are free cash flow and short-term credit facilities. As of December 31, 2021, the Company had $1.5 billion of cash and equivalents on hand and no outstanding borrowings under its $2.5 billion revolving credit facility. The Company also has maintained strong access to public debt markets. Management believes that these sources are sufficient to service debt and to finance the Company's capital allocation priorities, which include:
•internal investments to support organic growth and sustain core businesses;
•payment of an attractive dividend to shareholders; and
•external investments in selective strategic acquisitions that support the Company's organic growth focus, such as the recently completed acquisition of the MTS Test & Simulation business, and an active share repurchase program. Refer to Note 3. Acquisitions in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information regarding this acquisition.
The Company believes that, based on its operating revenue, operating margin, free cash flow, and credit ratings, it could readily obtain additional financing, if necessary. A description of the risks related to the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on the financial and capital markets and the related potential risks to the Company is contained in Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors.
The Company has certain contractual obligations, primarily noncurrent income taxes payable, operating leases and long-term debt. Refer to Note 7. Income Taxes, Note 10. Leases and Note 11. Debt in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for details related to the Company's contractual obligations. The Company did not have any significant off-balance sheet commitments as of December 31, 2021.
Cash Flow
The Company uses free cash flow to measure cash flow generated by operations that is available for dividends, share repurchases, acquisitions and debt repayment. The Company believes this non-GAAP financial measure is useful to investors in evaluating the Company's financial performance and measures the Company's ability to generate cash internally to fund
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Company initiatives. Free cash flow represents net cash provided by operating activities less additions to plant and equipment. Free cash flow is a measurement that is not the same as net cash flow from operating activities per the statement of cash flows and may not be consistent with similarly titled measures used by other companies. Summarized cash flow information for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 was as follows:
| In millions | 2021 | 2020 | 2019 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Net cash provided by operating activities | $ | 2,557 | $ | 2,807 | $ | 2,995 | ||||
| Additions to plant and equipment | (296) | (236) | (326) | |||||||
| Free cash flow | $ | 2,261 | $ | 2,571 | $ | 2,669 | ||||
| Cash dividends paid | $ | (1,463) | $ | (1,379) | $ | (1,321) | ||||
| Repurchases of common stock | (1,000) | (706) | (1,500) | |||||||
| Acquisition of businesses (excluding cash and equivalents) | (731) | — | (4) | |||||||
| Proceeds from sale of operations and affiliates | — | 1 | 120 | |||||||
| Net proceeds from (repayments of) debt | (141) | (4) | 422 | |||||||
| Other | 83 | 61 | 100 | |||||||
| Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and equivalents | (46) | 39 | (9) | |||||||
| Net increase (decrease) in cash and equivalents | $ | (1,037) | $ | 583 | $ | 477 |
Free cash flow decreased in 2021 due to higher working capital investments to support revenue growth, including increased inventory levels to help mitigate supply chain risk and sustain customer service levels.
Stock Repurchase Programs
On February 13, 2015, the Company's Board of Directors authorized a stock repurchase program which provided for the repurchase of up to $6.0 billion of the Company's common stock over an open-ended period of time (the "2015 Program"). Under the 2015 Program, the Company repurchased approximately 6.1 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $91.78 per share during 2015, approximately 18.7 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $107.17 per share during 2016, approximately 7.1 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $140.56 per share during 2017, approximately 13.9 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $143.66 per share during 2018 and approximately 3.1 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $143.23 per share during 2019. The 2015 Program was completed in the second quarter of 2019.
On August 3, 2018, the Company's Board of Directors authorized a new stock repurchase program which provides for the repurchase of up to an additional $3.0 billion of the Company's common stock over an open-ended period of time (the "2018 Program"). Under the 2018 Program, the Company repurchased approximately 6.7 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $158.11 per share during 2019, approximately 4.2 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $167.69 per share during 2020 and repurchased approximately 4.4 million shares of its common stock at an average price of $227.29 per share during 2021. As of December 31, 2021, there were approximately $240 million of authorized repurchases remaining under the 2018 Program.
On May 7, 2021, the Company's Board of Directors authorized a new stock repurchase program which provides for the repurchase of up to an additional $3.0 billion of the Company's common stock over an open-ended period of time (the "2021 Program"). As of December 31, 2021, there were $3.0 billion of authorized repurchases remaining under the 2021 Program.
After-tax Return on Average Invested Capital
The Company uses after-tax return on average invested capital ("After-tax ROIC") to measure the effectiveness of its operations' use of invested capital to generate profits. After-tax ROIC is not defined under U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"). After-tax ROIC is a non-GAAP financial measure that the Company believes is a meaningful metric to investors in evaluating the Company's ability to generate returns from cash invested in its operations and may be different than the method used by other companies to calculate After-tax ROIC. The Company defines After-tax ROIC as operating income after taxes divided by average invested capital, which is annualized when presented in interim periods. Operating income after taxes is a non-GAAP measure consisting of net income before interest expense and other income (expense), on an after-tax basis, which are excluded as they do not represent returns generated by the Company's operations. For
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comparability, the Company also excluded the discrete tax benefit of $21 million in the third quarter of 2021 and the discrete tax benefit of $112 million in the second quarter of 2021 from net income and the effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2021. Additionally, for comparability, the Company excluded the discrete tax benefit of $21 million in the third quarter of 2019 from net income and the effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2019. Total invested capital represents the net assets of the Company, other than cash and equivalents and outstanding debt which do not represent capital investment in the Company's operations. The most comparable GAAP measure to operating income after taxes is net income. Net income to average invested capital and After-tax ROIC for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020, and 2019 were as follows:
| Dollars in millions | 2021 | 2020 | 2019 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Numerator: | ||||||||||
| Net income | $ | 2,694 | $ | 2,109 | $ | 2,521 | ||||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the third quarter 2021 | (21) | — | — | |||||||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the second quarter 2021 | (112) | — | — | |||||||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the third quarter 2019 | — | — | (21) | |||||||
| Interest expense, net of tax (1) | 157 | 162 | 168 | |||||||
| Other (income) expense, net of tax (1) | (40) | (22) | (81) | |||||||
| Operating income after taxes | $ | 2,678 | $ | 2,249 | $ | 2,587 | ||||
| Denominator: | ||||||||||
| Invested capital: | ||||||||||
| Cash and equivalents | $ | 1,527 | $ | 2,564 | $ | 1,981 | ||||
| Trade receivables | 2,840 | 2,506 | 2,461 | |||||||
| Inventories | 1,694 | 1,189 | 1,164 | |||||||
| Net assets held for sale | — | — | 280 | |||||||
| Net plant and equipment | 1,809 | 1,777 | 1,729 | |||||||
| Goodwill and intangible assets | 5,937 | 5,471 | 5,343 | |||||||
| Accounts payable and accrued expenses | (2,233) | (1,818) | (1,689) | |||||||
| Debt | (7,687) | (8,122) | (7,758) | |||||||
| Other, net | (261) | (385) | (481) | |||||||
| Total net assets (stockholders' equity) | 3,626 | 3,182 | 3,030 | |||||||
| Cash and equivalents | (1,527) | (2,564) | (1,981) | |||||||
| Debt | 7,687 | 8,122 | 7,758 | |||||||
| Total invested capital | $ | 9,786 | $ | 8,740 | $ | 8,807 | ||||
| Average invested capital (2) | $ | 9,087 | $ | 8,576 | $ | 9,028 | ||||
| Net income to average invested capital | 29.6 | % | 24.6 | % | 27.9 | % | ||||
| After-tax return on average invested capital | 29.5 | % | 26.2 | % | 28.7 | % |
(1) Effective tax rate used for interest expense and other (income) expense for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020, and 2019 was 23.0%, 22.0% and 24.0%, respectively.
(2) Average invested capital is calculated using the total invested capital balances at the start of the period and at the end of each quarter within each of the periods presented.
After-tax ROIC increased 330 basis points for the twelve month period ended December 31, 2021 compared to the prior year period as a result of a 19.1% increase in after-tax operating income versus a 5.9% increase in average invested capital. After-tax ROIC decreased 250 basis points for the twelve month period ended December 31, 2020 compared to the prior year period as a result of a 13.1% decrease in after-tax operating income versus a 5.0% decrease in average invested capital.
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A reconciliation of the 2021 effective tax rate excluding the third quarter 2021 discrete tax benefit of $21 million related to the utilization of capital losses and the second quarter 2021 discrete tax benefit of $112 million related to a change in the U.K. income tax rate is as follows:
| Twelve Months Ended | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 31, 2021 | ||||||
| Dollars in millions | Income Taxes | Tax Rate | ||||
| As reported | $ | 632 | 19.0 | % | ||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the third quarter 2021 | 21 | 0.6 | % | |||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the second quarter 2021 | 112 | 3.4 | % | |||
| As adjusted | $ | 765 | 23.0 | % |
A reconciliation of the 2019 effective tax rate excluding the third quarter 2019 discrete tax benefit of $21 million for the U.S. federal provision to return adjustment is as follows:
| Twelve Months Ended | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 31, 2019 | ||||||
| Dollars in millions | Income Taxes | Tax Rate | ||||
| As reported | $ | 767 | 23.3 | % | ||
| Discrete tax benefit related to the third quarter 2019 | 21 | 0.7 | % | |||
| As adjusted | $ | 788 | 24.0 | % |
Refer to Note 7. Income Taxes in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information regarding the discrete tax items noted above.
Working Capital
Management uses working capital as a measurement of the short-term liquidity of the Company. Net working capital as of December 31, 2021 and 2020 is summarized as follows:
| In millions | 2021 | 2020 | Increase (Decrease) | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Current Assets: | ||||||||||
| Cash and equivalents | $ | 1,527 | $ | 2,564 | $ | (1,037) | ||||
| Trade receivables | 2,840 | 2,506 | 334 | |||||||
| Inventories | 1,694 | 1,189 | 505 | |||||||
| Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 313 | 264 | 49 | |||||||
| 6,374 | 6,523 | (149) | ||||||||
| Current Liabilities: | ||||||||||
| Short-term debt | 778 | 350 | 428 | |||||||
| Accounts payable and accrued expenses | 2,233 | 1,818 | 415 | |||||||
| Other | 459 | 421 | 38 | |||||||
| 3,470 | 2,589 | 881 | ||||||||
| Net Working Capital | $ | 2,904 | $ | 3,934 | $ | (1,030) |
As of December 31, 2021, a significant portion of the Company's cash and equivalents was held by international subsidiaries. Cash and equivalents held internationally may be subject to foreign withholding taxes if repatriated to the U.S. Cash and equivalents held internationally are typically used for international operating needs or reinvested to fund expansion of existing international businesses. International funds may also be used to fund international acquisitions or, if not considered permanently invested, may be repatriated to the U.S. The Company has accrued for foreign withholding taxes related to foreign held cash and equivalents that are not permanently invested.
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In the U.S., the Company utilizes cash flows from operations to fund domestic cash needs and the Company's capital allocation priorities. This includes operating needs of the U.S. businesses, dividend payments, share repurchases, acquisitions, servicing of domestic debt obligations, reinvesting to fund expansion of existing U.S. businesses and general corporate needs. The Company may also use its commercial paper program, which is backed by a long-term credit facility, for short-term liquidity needs. The Company believes cash generated by operations and liquidity provided by the Company's commercial paper program will continue to be sufficient to fund cash requirements in the U.S.
Debt
Total debt as of December 31, 2021 and 2020 was as follows:
| In millions | 2021 | 2020 | Increase (Decrease) | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Short-term debt | $ | 778 | $ | 350 | $ | 428 | ||||
| Long-term debt | 6,909 | 7,772 | (863) | |||||||
| Total debt | $ | 7,687 | $ | 8,122 | $ | (435) |
As of December 31, 2021, short-term debt included $568 million related to the 1.75% Euro notes due May 20, 2022, which the Company intends to redeem in full in February 2022, and commercial paper of $210 million. As of December 31, 2020, short-term debt included $350 million related to the 3.375% notes due September 15, 2021, which were redeemed in full on June 15, 2021. There was no commercial paper outstanding as of December 31, 2020.
The Company may issue commercial paper to fund general corporate needs, share repurchases, and small and medium-sized acquisitions. During the third quarter of 2019, the Company entered into a $2.5 billion, five-year revolving credit facility with a termination date of September 27, 2024, which is available to provide additional liquidity, including to support the potential issuances of commercial paper. On September 22, 2021, due to the anticipated LIBOR transition, the Company agreed to suspend its right to borrow in Euro, British Pounds Sterling and Japanese Yen currencies under the revolving credit facility, effective December 31, 2021. The Company may continue to borrow in U.S. Dollars under the credit facility. This change is not expected to have a significant impact on the Company's liquidity or its commercial paper program. No amounts were outstanding under the revolving credit facility at December 31, 2021. The maximum outstanding commercial paper balance during 2021 was $300 million, while the average daily balance was $49 million.
As of December 31, 2021, the Company had unused capacity of approximately $201 million under international debt facilities. In the ordinary course of business, the Company also had approximately $210 million outstanding in guarantees, letters of credit and other similar arrangements with financial institutions as of December 31, 2021. Refer to Note 11. Debt in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for additional details regarding the Company's outstanding debt obligations.
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Total Debt to EBITDA
The Company uses the ratio of total debt to EBITDA as a measure of its ability to repay its outstanding debt obligations. EBITDA and the ratio of total debt to EBITDA are non-GAAP financial measures. The Company believes that total debt to EBITDA is a meaningful metric to investors in evaluating the Company's long term financial liquidity and may be different than the method used by other companies to calculate total debt to EBITDA. The ratio of total debt to EBITDA represents total debt divided by net income before interest expense, other income (expense), income taxes, depreciation, and amortization and impairment of intangible assets on a trailing twelve month basis. Total debt to EBITDA for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 was as follows:
| Dollars in millions | 2021 | 2020 | 2019 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total debt | $ | 7,687 | $ | 8,122 | $ | 7,758 | ||||
| Net income | $ | 2,694 | $ | 2,109 | $ | 2,521 | ||||
| Add: | ||||||||||
| Interest expense | 202 | 206 | 221 | |||||||
| Other (income) expense | (51) | (28) | (107) | |||||||
| Income taxes | 632 | 595 | 767 | |||||||
| Depreciation | 277 | 273 | 267 | |||||||
| Amortization and impairment of intangible assets | 133 | 154 | 159 | |||||||
| EBITDA | $ | 3,887 | $ | 3,309 | $ | 3,828 | ||||
| Total debt to EBITDA ratio | 2.0 | 2.5 | 2.0 |
Stockholders' Equity
The changes to stockholders' equity during 2021 and 2020 were as follows:
| In millions | 2021 | 2020 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beginning balance | $ | 3,182 | $ | 3,030 | ||
| Net income | 2,694 | 2,109 | ||||
| Cash dividends declared | (1,483) | (1,398) | ||||
| Repurchases of common stock | (1,000) | (706) | ||||
| Other comprehensive income (loss) | 140 | 63 | ||||
| Other | 93 | 84 | ||||
| Ending balance | $ | 3,626 | $ | 3,182 |
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES
The Company has three accounting estimates that it believes are most important to the Company's financial condition and results of operations, and which require the Company to make judgments about matters that are inherently uncertain. Management bases its estimates on historical experience, and in some cases on observable market information. Various assumptions are also used that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances and form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
The Company's critical accounting estimates are as follows:
Income Taxes— The Company provides deferred income tax assets and liabilities based on the estimated future tax effects of differences between the financial and tax bases of assets and liabilities based on currently enacted tax laws. The Company's deferred and other tax balances are based on management's interpretation of the tax regulations and rulings in numerous taxing jurisdictions. Income tax expense, assets and liabilities recognized by the Company also reflect its best estimates and assumptions regarding, among other things, the level of future taxable income, the effect of the Company's various tax planning strategies and uncertain tax positions. Future tax authority rulings and changes in tax laws, changes in projected
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levels of taxable income and future tax planning strategies could affect the actual effective tax rate and tax balances recorded by the Company.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets— The Company's business acquisitions typically result in recording goodwill and other intangible assets, which are a significant portion of the Company's total assets and affect the amount of amortization expense and impairment charges that the Company could incur in future periods. The Company follows the guidance prescribed in the accounting standards to test goodwill and intangible assets for impairment. On an annual basis, or more frequently if triggering events occur, the Company compares the estimated fair value of its reporting units to the carrying value of each reporting unit to determine if a potential goodwill impairment exists. If the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value, a goodwill impairment loss is recorded for the difference. In calculating the fair value of the reporting units or specific intangible assets, management relies on a number of factors, including business plans, economic projections, anticipated future cash flows, comparable transactions and other market data. There are inherent uncertainties related to these factors and management's judgment in applying them in the impairment tests of goodwill and other intangible assets.
As of December 31, 2021, the Company had total goodwill and intangible assets of approximately $5.9 billion allocated to its reporting units. Although there can be no assurance that the Company will not incur additional impairment charges related to its goodwill and other intangible assets, the Company generally believes the risk of significant impairment charges is lessened by the number of diversified businesses and end markets represented by its reporting units that have goodwill and other intangible assets. In addition, the individual businesses in many of the reporting units have been acquired over a long period of time, and in many cases have been able to improve their performance, primarily as a result of the application of the Company's 80/20 Front-to-Back process. The amount of goodwill and other intangible assets allocated to individual reporting units ranges from approximately $222 million to $1.4 billion, with the average amount equal to $588 million. Fair value determinations require considerable judgment and are sensitive to changes in the factors described above. Due to the inherent uncertainties associated with these factors and economic conditions in the Company's global end markets, impairment charges related to one or more reporting units could occur in future periods.
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits— The Company has various company-sponsored defined benefit retirement plans covering a number of U.S. employees and many employees outside the U.S. Pension and other postretirement benefit expense and obligations are determined based on actuarial valuations. Pension benefit obligations are generally based on each participant's years of service, future compensation, and age at retirement or termination. Important assumptions in determining pension and postretirement expense and obligations are the discount rate, the expected long-term return on plan assets, life expectancy, and health care cost trend rates. Future changes in any of these assumptions could materially affect the amounts recorded related to the Company's pension and other postretirement benefit plans. See Note 12. Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for additional discussion of actuarial assumptions used in determining pension and postretirement health care liabilities and expenses.
The Company determines the discount rate used to measure plan liabilities as of the year-end measurement date for the U.S. primary pension plan. The discount rate reflects the current rate at which the associated liabilities could theoretically be effectively settled at the end of the year. In estimating this rate, the Company looks at rates of return on high-quality fixed income investments, with similar duration to the liabilities in the plan. A 25 basis point decrease in the discount rate would increase the present value of the U.S. primary pension plan obligation by approximately $37 million. The Company estimates the service and interest cost components of net periodic benefit cost by applying specific spot rates along the yield curve to the projected cash flows rather than a single weighted-average rate. See Note 12. Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for information on the Company's pension and other postretirement benefit plans and related assumptions.
The expected long-term return on plan assets is based on historical and expected long-term returns for similar investment allocations among asset classes. For the U.S. primary pension plan, a 25 basis point decrease in the expected return on plan assets would increase the annual pension expense by approximately $4 million.