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Illinois Tool Works
Annual Report 2020

ITW · NYSE Industrials
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FY2020 Annual Report · Illinois Tool Works
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Illinois Tool Works Inc. 2020

Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
About ITW  

Founded in 1912, ITW (NYSE: ITW) is  

a global industrial company built around  

a differentiated and proprietary business  

model. The company’s seven industry- 

leading segments leverage the  

ITW Business Model to generate solid  

growth with best-in-class margins and  

returns in markets where highly innovative,  

customer-focused solutions are required.  

ITW’s approximately 43,000 dedicated  

colleagues around the world thrive  

in the company’s decentralized,  

entrepreneurial culture. In 2020,  

the company achieved revenues  

of $12.6 billion, with roughly half  

coming from outside North America.  

To learn more, please visit www.itw.com.

Contents

1

4

5

6

8

INSIDE BACK COVER

Letter to 

Our Business Model Is Our 

ITW’s Performance 

Overview of ITW’s 

Corporate Executives 

Shareholder 

Shareholders 

Competitive Advantage

Since the Launch  

Operating Segments

and Board of Directors

Information

of Our Current 

Enterprise Strategy

Please note all photography used in this report was taken prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.

To Our Fellow Shareholders

In an unprecedented year, we leveraged the power and  

leadership in support of these two key pandemic priorities. 

resilience of the ITW Business Model to navigate the 

Their dedication to keeping themselves and their colleagues 

challenges brought about by the global pandemic and deliver 

safe while continuing to deliver excellent service to our 

strong operational performance and continued progress in  

customers was truly inspiring. There is no question that  

the execution of our long-term enterprise strategy. 

we differentiated ourselves with many of our key customers 

In the face of economic challenges that included temporary 

customer shutdowns across many of our end markets,  

the ITW team effectively leveraged our position of strength  

as a result of our ability to sustain our best-in-class quality 

and delivery performance throughout 2020 thanks to 

their efforts.

to deliver robust financial performance, including GAAP  

We also did our best to take full advantage of ITW’s position 

EPS of $6.63, operating margin of 22.9 percent, after-tax 

of strength as we thought through how we should manage 

ROIC of 26.2 percent1, and $2.6 billion in free cash flow1. 

the company through the pandemic.

Throughout the year, ITW’s balance sheet and liquidity 

remained rock-solid.

Leveraging the Strength and Resilience  
of the ITW Business Model to Navigate  
the Unprecedented Challenges of the  
Global Pandemic...

While it was the challenges brought about by the pandemic 

that dominated our attention in 2020, it was the collection  

of capabilities and competitive advantages that we have built 

and honed over the past eight years through the execution  

...While Remaining Committed to Executing 
Our Strategy to Deliver Differentiated 
Performance Over the Long Term

Back in the spring, as we analyzed and stress tested the 

company’s financial performance across a wide range of 

pandemic scenarios, it became clear that the operational 

and competitive advantages that we had built up over  

the past eight years had resulted in a very strong and  

highly resilient company. As a result, this was a unique 

opportunity for ITW to react smartly and to stay focused  

of our enterprise strategy that provided us with the options  

on the long term.

to respond to them as we did.

Early on as the pandemic unfolded, we refocused the entire 

company on two core imperatives:

1. Protect the health, safety, and well-being  

    of our people.

2. Continue to serve our customers  

    with excellence.

The strength and resilience of ITW enabled us to make two 

key decisions regarding how we were going to manage 

the company through the pandemic crisis. First, we chose 

to leverage the strong financial foundation that we’d built 

over the last eight years to reinforce our commitment to our 

people. We provided full compensation and benefit support 

to all ITW colleagues through the entirety of the second 

quarter when the economic effects of the pandemic were at 

Our people around the world executed extremely well on both. 

their most widespread and severe. We also decided that we 

Our manufacturing, supply chain and customer service teams 

would not initiate any enterprise-wide employment reduction 

deserve special recognition for their extraordinary efforts and 

mandates or programs at any point in 2020. These were 

1  After-tax return on average invested capital (after-tax ROIC) and free cash flow are non-GAAP measures. Refer to Item 7. Management’s 

Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in the 2020 Form 10-K for information regarding these non-GAAP 

measures, including reconciliations to the most comparable GAAP measures.

I L L I N O I S   T O O L   W O R K S   I N C .

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not obvious or easy decisions given the unprecedented 

Looking Ahead

circumstances we were confronting, but we believed 

that they were the right decisions for our company. Many 

companies, including ITW, often talk about the fact that 

their people are their greatest asset. In our view, having 

our people’s backs during one of the most challenging and 

uncertain periods we have ever experienced was a critical 

opportunity for us to prove it.

Second, we chose to leverage our position of strength 

by implementing our “Win the Recovery” agenda and 

mindset across the company. “Win the Recovery” is not an 

opportunistic new strategy. Rather, it is a commitment to 

staying the course and continuing to prioritize the execution 

of our long-term enterprise strategy despite the unique  

and unprecedented challenges brought about by the  

global pandemic.

“Win the Recovery” does not mean ignore the pandemic, 

as across the company we have to continue to read and 

react to the realities of the near-term situation as we always 

do. But it does mean that we are committed to protecting 

key investments supporting the execution of our long-term 

strategy and that we have, from very early on, given our 

divisional leadership teams the mandate to continue to  

think long-term and to remain aggressive through the 

pandemic. As we move forward in 2021, our “Win the 

Recovery” posture and mindset continue on and serve  

as the key driver of the operating plans for every one of  

our divisions.

In January 2021, we announced the acquisition of the  

MTS Test & Simulation business. This business is an 

excellent addition to our Test & Measurement and 

Electronics segment that will further enhance ITW’s long-

term organic growth potential. We expect the acquisition  

to close in 2021 and look forward to welcoming the  

MTS Test & Simulation team to the ITW family.

As we ended 2020, demand levels had essentially returned 

to year-ago levels and ITW was once again delivering 

record financial performance, indicating good momentum 

heading into 2021. While significant uncertainty remains, the 

combined strengths of the ITW Business Model, our people, 

and our dynamic, entrepreneurial culture put your company 

in a very strong position to deal with whatever lies ahead.  

Like many of you, we are hopeful for a return to somewhere 

in the vicinity of normal at some point in 2021 and with that, 

getting back to giving our full attention to executing our  

long-term enterprise strategy. Speaking on behalf of the 

entire ITW team, we remain firmly committed to taking ITW 

all the way to the company’s considerable full potential and 

in doing so, further solidifying ITW’s position as one of the 

world’s best performing, highest-quality, and most respected 

industrial companies.

ITW’s Long-Term Performance Targets

~28%  

Operating 
Margin

~40% 

After-Tax 
ROIC

3-5% 

Organic 
Growth 

~35% 

Incremental 
Margin

7-10% 

EPS 
Growth

100+%  

Free Cash Flow  
as % of 
Net Income

~50% 

Dividend  
Payout Ratio

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E. Scott Santi

Christopher A. O’Herlihy

In closing, we thank all of our ITW colleagues around  

the world for their exceptional performance and dedication 

in the face of the most challenging and unprecedented 

circumstances of the past year. Their performance in 2020 

provides another proof point that ITW is a company that  

has the enduring competitive advantages, resilience, and 

agility necessary to deliver consistent top-tier performance 

in any environment. 

We also thank you, our fellow shareholders, for your  

continued support.

Sincerely, 

E. Scott Santi 

Chairman & Chief Executive Officer

Christopher A. O’Herlihy 

Vice Chairman

March 26, 2021

Our CSR Commitment

Our commitment to corporate social 

responsibility (CSR) is a key component of our 

aim to be one of the world’s best performing, 

highest-quality, and most respected industrial 

companies. Through the execution of our 

holistic CSR strategy, we are dedicated to 

making a positive impact on our people, our 

communities, and the environment, while 

remaining grounded in sound governance  

and the highest ethical standards.

We are working toward aggressively reducing 

our environmental footprint and we are also 

making an enhanced commitment to diversity 

and inclusion, including our “Do More” Agenda, 

which is focused on finding ways to make 

meaningful and tangible contributions toward 

achieving a more just and equitable society. 

Our full 2020 CSR Report can be found at  

www.itw.com/social-responsibility.

I L L I N O I S   T O O L   W O R K S   I N C .

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Our Business Model  
Is Our Competitive Advantage

The ITW Business Model is comprised of three elements:

80/20 Front-to-Back defines how we operate. It is a unique 

set of proprietary tools and methodologies that our divisions 

use to structure and operate their businesses to (a) maximize 

the performance, execution, and value-add they provide to 

their largest and most profitable customers, and (b) minimize 

the costs, complexity, and distractions associated with 

serving small customers. Through the application of  

ITW’s 80/20 Front-to-Back process, our divisions deliver 

best-in-class customer-facing execution, high-quality 

organic growth, and superior profitability and return on 

capital performance.

Our Decentralized, Entrepreneurial Culture is the key 

Customer-Back Innovation drives how we innovate.  

to how we execute. Our people are clear about what is 

At ITW, we innovate from the customer back, not from the 

expected of them with regard to our business model, our 

research and development center out. Our divisions partner 

strategy, and our values. Within this framework, we empower 

with their key customers to create unique solutions that  

our business teams to make decisions and customize their 

solve difficult technical challenges and improve business 

approach in order to maximize the relevance and impact of 

performance. The deep capabilities and creativity of our 

the ITW Business Model for their specific customers and 

people in this regard are evidenced by our portfolio of 

end markets. Our people thrive in ITW’s “flexibility within the 

approximately 18,500 granted and pending patents, including 

framework” culture; they think and act like entrepreneurs, 

more than 1,900 new patent applications filed in 2020.

they are accountable, and they deliver.

2020 Operating Margin by 
Segment vs. Peer Average1

   ITW

   Peers

At ITW, we believe operating margin is the best indicator 
of relative competitive advantage, as it incorporates both 
the level of value-add in the solutions a business provides 
to its customers and the efficiency of its processes to 
produce and distribute them.

28%

27%

28%

26%

26%

18%

20%

10%

9%

14%

Automotive OEM

Food Equipment

Test & 
Measurement
and Electronics2

1	 See	appendix	for	segment	peer	group	definition.

6%

5%

10%

9%

Welding

Polymers & Fluids2

Construction 
Products

Specialty Products

2	 Test	&	Measurement	and	Electronics	and	Polymers	&	Fluids	exclude	250	bps	and	330	bps,	respectively,	of	unfavorable	operating	margin	impact	of	amortization	expense	related	to	intangible	assets.

4         2 0 2 0   A N N U A L   R E P O R T

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ITW’s Performance Since the Launch of 
Our Current Enterprise Strategy

Earnings Per Share

Operating Margin

After-Tax ROIC1

9%  
CAGR

$6.63

$3.21

+700  
bps

22.9%

15.9%

+1170 
bps

26.2%

14.5%

  20121 

2020

  20122 

2020

  2012 

2020

Annual Dividend

Total Shareholder Returns

+3x 

$4.56

$1.52

  2012 

2020

303%

210% 210%

S&P 500

Proxy
Peer Group3

ITW

1  After-tax return on average invested capital (after-tax ROIC) and 2012 Adjusted EPS are non-GAAP measures. Refer to Item 7.  

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in the 2020 Form 10-K and the 

appendix included in this Annual Report for information regarding these non-GAAP measures, including reconciliations to  

the most comparable GAAP measures.

2     As reported in the 2012 Form 10-K.

3   See appendix for proxy peer group definition.

I L L I N O I S   T O O L   W O R K S   I N C .

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ITW’s 
Diversified High-Quality

ITW’s business portfolio criteria:

(cid:31)  End markets with strong  

(cid:31)  Positive long-term 

(cid:31)  Strong and durable  

and sustainable  
differentiation attributes 

macro fundamentals

competitive advantages  
with relevance to key  
end market trends

ITW’s  
Seven  
Operating  
Segments

Automotive OEM

Food Equipment

Highly focused, global,  

niche supplier of solutions  

to top-tier OEMs and  

their suppliers

Industry-leading global positions 

through differentiated innovation in 

commercial dishwashing, cooking, 

refrigeration, retail, and integrated 

service offerings

Test & Measurement  
and Electronics

Leading global supplier of production  

and laboratory testing and assembly 

equipment, accessories, consumables,  

and aftermarket parts and service

2020 revenues

2020 revenues

2020 revenues

$2.6 billion
2020 operating margin

$1.7 billion
2020 operating margin

17.8%

19.6%

$2.0 billion
2020 operating margin

1

28.3%

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Business Portfolio

(cid:31)  Significant potential for  
above-market organic 
growth over the long term

(cid:31)  Ability to leverage the ITW  

Business Model to generate  
consistent, best-in-class  
margins and returns

Welding

Polymers & Fluids

Construction Products

Specialty Products

Highly focused supplier of value-

Specialized adhesives, lubricants,  

Global provider of innovative fastening  

Innovative, value-added  

added welding equipment and 

and additives for industrial- and  

solutions that improve contractor  

solutions for consumer  

specialty consumables for a 

consumer-related end markets

productivity and building quality in  

packaging, product branding, 

variety of commercial, industrial, 

and infrastructure applications

residential and commercial construction

and other niche applications

2020 revenues

2020 revenues

2020 revenues

2020 revenues

$1.4 billion
2020 operating margin

$1.6 billion
2020 operating margin

$1.7 billion
2020 operating margin

$1.7 billion
2020 operating margin

27.1%

1

28.1%

25.5%

26.0%

1  Test & Measurement and Electronics and Polymers & Fluids exclude 250 bps and 330 bps, respectively, 

of unfavorable operating margin impact of amortization expense related to intangible assets.

I L L I N O I S   T O O L   W O R K S   I N C .

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Corporate Executives

PICTURED  

Michael R. Zimmerman, Sharon A. Szafranski, Axel R. J. Beck, Steven L. Martindale, Mary K. Lawler, Michael M. Larsen, Christopher A. O’Herlihy, E. Scott Santi,  

LEFT TO RIGHT

Norman D. Finch Jr., Lei Zhang Schlitz, T. Kenneth Escoe, John R. Hartnett 

Axel R. J. Beck
Executive Vice President,  
Food Equipment

T. Kenneth Escoe
Executive Vice President,  
Specialty Products

John R. Hartnett
Executive Vice President,  
Welding

Steven L. Martindale
Executive Vice President,  
Test & Measurement and Electronics

Lei Zhang Schlitz
Executive Vice President,  
Automotive OEM

Sharon A. Szafranski
Executive Vice President,  
Construction Products

Michael R. Zimmerman
Executive Vice President, 
Polymers & Fluids

Jay L. Henderson
Retired Vice Chairman, Client Service,
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Richard H. Lenny
Non-Executive Chairman, 
Conagra Brands, Inc.

E. Scott Santi
Chairman & Chief Executive Officer,
Illinois Tool Works Inc.

David B. Smith Jr.
Executive Vice President for Policy &  
Legal Affairs and General Counsel,
Mutual Fund Directors Forum

Pamela B. Strobel
Retired Executive Vice President and
Chief Administrative Officer,
Exelon Corporation 
Retired President,
Exelon Business Services Company

Kevin M. Warren
Chief Marketing Officer,
UPS International

Anré D. Williams
Group President,  
Global Merchant & Network Services,
American Express Company

E. Scott Santi
Chairman & Chief Executive Officer

Christopher A. O’Herlihy
Vice Chairman

Norman D. Finch Jr.
Senior Vice President,  
General Counsel & Secretary

Michael M. Larsen
Senior Vice President &  
Chief Financial Officer

Mary K. Lawler
Senior Vice President &  
Chief Human Resources Officer

Board of Directors

Daniel J. Brutto
Retired President,
UPS International  
Retired Senior Vice President,  
United Parcel Service, Inc.

Susan Crown
Chairman & Chief Executive Officer,
Owl Creek Partners, LLC 

James W. Griffith
Retired President &  
Chief Executive Officer,
The Timken Company

8

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UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K

☒ ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020

OR

☐

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from                    to                    

Commission file number 1-4797
ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC.

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)

Delaware
(State or Other Jurisdiction of
Incorporation or Organization)

155 Harlem Avenue Glenview Illinois

(Address of Principal Executive Offices)

36-1258310
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
60025
(Zip Code)
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (847) 724-7500

Title of Each Class

Common Stock

1.75% Euro Notes due 2022

1.25% Euro Notes due 2023

0.250% Euro Notes due 2024

0.625% Euro Notes due 2027

2.125% Euro Notes due 2030

1.00% Euro Notes due 2031

3.00% Euro Notes due 2034

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Trading Symbol(s)

Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered

ITW

ITW22

ITW23

ITW24A

ITW27

ITW30

ITW31

ITW34

New York Stock Exchange

New York Stock Exchange

New York Stock Exchange

New York Stock Exchange

New York Stock Exchange

New York Stock Exchange

New York Stock Exchange

New York Stock Exchange

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.

Yes   ☒    No  ☐

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.

Yes  ☐    No  ☒
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months 
(or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

Yes  ☒    No  ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the 
preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files).
Yes  ☒    No  ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See 
the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer," "smaller reporting company," and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large accelerated filer

Non-accelerated filer

Emerging growth company

☒

☐

☐

Accelerated filer

Smaller reporting company

☐

☐

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting 
standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management's assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under 
Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report.   ☒ 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

Yes  ☐    No  ☒

The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant as of June 30, 2020 was approximately $55.1 billion based on the New York Stock Exchange 
closing sales price as of June 30, 2020.

Shares of common stock outstanding at January 31, 2021: 316,662,263.

Documents Incorporated by Reference

Portions of the 2021 Proxy Statement for Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on May 7, 2021.

Part III

 
Table of Contents

PART I

Business

Item 1.
Item 1A. Risk Factors
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments
Item 2.

Properties

Legal Proceedings

Item 3.
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

Item 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity 

PART II

Securities
Selected Financial Data

Item 6.
Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
Item 8.

Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

Item 9.
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures
Item 9B. Other Information

PART III
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
Item 11. Executive Compensation
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
Item 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services

Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
Item 16. Form 10-K Summary
Signatures

PART IV

3

11

16

16

16

16

17

18

19

40

42

79

79

79

80

80

80

80

80

81

84

85

ITEM 1. Business

General

PART I

Illinois Tool Works Inc. (the "Company" or "ITW") was founded in 1912 and incorporated in 1915. The Company's ticker 
symbol is ITW. The Company is a global manufacturer of a diversified range of industrial products and equipment with 83 
divisions in 52 countries. As of December 31, 2020, 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. The following is a description of 
the Company's seven segments:

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.

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.

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, industrial capital 
goods, automotive original equipment manufacturers and tiers, 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.

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.

3

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.

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.
•

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;
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 information set forth below is applicable to all segments of the Company unless otherwise noted.

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 
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 18,500 granted and pending patents;

4

•

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 2020 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, 
but for the Company to truly finish the job and 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

5

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. The Company expects any earnings per share dilution from divestitures would be 
offset by incremental share repurchases. 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 in 2020, 
the Company has deferred any further significant divestiture activity until market conditions normalize. Refer to Note 3. 
Divestitures in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for more 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 the Company's 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 in 2020, it 
was the collection of capabilities and competitive advantages that have been built and honed over the past eight 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.

From the early days of the pandemic, the Company focused its efforts 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.

"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. These efforts are just beginning to take hold and the Company 
expects them 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.

6

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 recently announced agreement with Amphenol Corporation ("Amphenol"), whereby the Company will acquire the 
Test & Simulation business of MTS Systems Corporation ("MTS") following the closing of Amphenol's acquisition of MTS. 
Upon completion of this acquisition, this business will be reported within the Company's Test & Measurement and 
Electronics segment.

Current Year Developments

Refer to Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

Distribution Methods

The Company's businesses primarily distribute their products directly to industrial manufacturers and through independent 
distributors.

Backlog

Backlog generally is not considered a significant factor in the Company's businesses as relatively short delivery periods and 
rapid inventory turnover are characteristic of most of their products. Total backlog was $1.6 billion and $1.5 billion as of 
December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Due to the predominately short-term nature of the Company's arrangements with 
its customers, backlog orders scheduled for shipment beyond calendar year 2021 were not material as of December 31, 2020.

Competition

With operations in 52 countries, the Company offers a wide range of products in a myriad of markets, many of which are 
fragmented, and the Company encounters a variety of competitors that vary by product line, end market and geographic area. 
The Company's competitors include many regional or specialized companies, as well as large U.S. and non-U.S. companies 
or divisions of large companies. Each of the Company's segments generally has several main competitors and numerous 
smaller ones in most of their end markets and geographic areas. In addition to numerous smaller regional competitors, the 
Welding segment competes globally with Lincoln Electric and ESAB.

In virtually all segments, the Company differentiates its businesses from its competitors based on product innovation, product 
quality, brand preference and service delivery. Technical capability is also a competitive factor in most segments. The 
Company believes that each segment's primary competitive advantages derive from the ITW Business Model and 
decentralized operating structure, which creates a strong focus on end markets and customers at the local level, enabling its 
businesses to respond rapidly to market dynamics. This structure enables the Company's businesses to drive operational 
excellence utilizing the Company's 80/20 Front-to-Back process and leveraging its product innovation capabilities. The 
Company also believes that its global footprint is a competitive advantage in many of its markets, especially in its 
Automotive OEM segment.

Raw Materials

The Company uses raw materials of various types, primarily steel, resins and chemicals, that are available from numerous 
commercial sources. The availability of materials and energy has not resulted in any significant business interruptions or 
other major problems, and no such problems are currently anticipated.

7

Intellectual Property

The Company owns approximately 3,800 unexpired U.S. patents and 9,000 foreign patents covering articles, methods and 
machines. In addition, the Company has approximately 1,500 applications for patents pending in the U.S. Patent Office and 
4,200 applications pending in foreign patent offices. There is no assurance that any of these patents will be issued. The 
Company maintains a patent group for the administration of patents and processing of patent applications.

The Company believes that many of its patents are valuable and important; however, the expiration of any one of the 
Company's patents would not have a material effect on the Company's results of operations or financial position. The 
Company also credits its success in the markets it serves to engineering capability; manufacturing techniques; skills and 
efficiency; marketing and sales promotion; and service and delivery of quality products to its customers.

In addition to patents, many of the Company's products and services are sold under various owned or licensed trademarks, 
which are important to the Company in the aggregate. Some of the Company's more significant trademarks include ITW, 
which is also used in conjunction with the trademarks of many of the Company's businesses; Deltar and Shakeproof in the 
Automotive OEM segment; Hobart in the Food Equipment segment; Instron in the Test & Measurement and Electronics 
segment; Miller in the Welding segment; Rain-X and Permatex in the Polymers & Fluids segment; Paslode in the 
Construction Products segment; and Hi-Cone in the Specialty Products segment.

Government Regulations

The Company believes that its businesses and operations, including its manufacturing plants and equipment, are in substantial 
compliance with all applicable government laws and regulations, including those related to environmental, consumer 
protection, international trade, labor and employment, human rights, tax, anti-bribery and competition matters. Any additional 
measures to maintain compliance are not expected to materially affect the Company's capital expenditures (including 
expenditures for environmental control facilities), competitive position, financial position or results of operations.

Various legislative and administrative regulations applicable to the Company in the matters noted above have become 
effective or are under consideration in many parts of the world. To date, such developments have not had a substantial 
adverse impact on the Company's revenues, earnings or cash flows. However, if new or amended laws or regulations impose 
significant operational restrictions and compliance requirements upon the Company or its products, the Company's business, 
capital expenditures, results of operations, financial condition and competitive position could be negatively impacted. Refer 
to Item 1A. Risk Factors for further information.

Human Capital Management

As of December 31, 2020, the Company employed approximately 43,000 people, with approximately 16,000 people located 
in the United States and the remainder in multiple other countries where the Company's businesses operate. The Company 
strives to be a great employer through its demonstrated commitment to talent development, employee safety, workplace 
culture, compensation and benefits, and diversity and inclusion.

Talent Development. The Company's Great ITW Leader Framework defines the leadership capabilities and attributes that 
guide all leadership talent assessment, development and selection decisions. Great ITW Leaders are expected to be experts in 
the practice of the ITW Business Model, make great strategic choices, deliver great results, be great talent managers and 
provide strong leadership. Great ITW Leaders who have expertise in the ITW Business Model are the critical factor in 
translating the potential of the ITW Business Model into full performance. Because this expertise develops over time and 
through specific experiences, the Company focuses on developing and promoting its own talent to ensure the Company's 
sustained business success over the long term.

Employee Safety. The safety and well-being of ITW's colleagues around the world has been, and always will be, its top 
priority. Guided by the Company's Enterprise Safety Strategy and the philosophy that every accident is preventable, ITW 
strives every day to foster a proactive safety culture. ITW's Enterprise Safety Strategy is based on the following core 
principles: (i) a goal of zero accidents, (ii) shared ownership for safety (business and individual); (iii) proactive approach 
focused on accident prevention; and (iv) continuous improvement philosophy.

Consistent with these commitments, employee health and safety has been a top priority during the COVID-19 pandemic. 
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 workplace sanitation practices and a coordinated response to ensure access to personal protective equipment to 

8

minimize infection risk. Moreover, the Company's commitment to its employees was reinforced when the Company chose to 
leverage its strong financial foundation by continuing to employ all ITW colleagues through the entirety of the second quarter 
of 2020 when the economic effects of the pandemic were at their most widespread and severe. The Company also decided not 
to initiate any enterprise-wide employment reduction mandates or programs at any point in 2020.

Workplace Culture. The Company operates under a decentralized, entrepreneurial culture that is crucial to the Company's 
performance and is one of the three unique elements of the ITW Business Model. ITW believes its colleagues around the 
world thrive in this culture, as it allows them to experience significant autonomy, a sense of shared ownership with their 
colleagues, and a work atmosphere deeply rooted in the Company's core values of Integrity, Respect, Trust, Shared Risk and 
Simplicity.

Compensation and Benefits. As a global employer, the Company is committed to providing market-competitive compensation 
and benefits to attract and retain great talent across its global divisions. Specific compensation and benefits vary worldwide 
and are based on regional practices. In the U.S., the Company focuses on providing a comprehensive, competitive benefits 
package that supports the health and wellness, educational endeavors, community involvement and financial stability of its 
colleagues.

Diversity and Inclusion. ITW believes it is at its best when it brings together unique perspectives, experiences and ideas. 
Rooted in ITW’s core values of Respect and Integrity, the Company is committed to equal employment opportunity, fair 
treatment and creating diverse and inclusive workplaces where all ITW colleagues can perform to their full potential. ITW 
remains committed to achieving its diversity and inclusion goals and enhancing the diversity of its global leadership teams. 
ITW drives progress through a comprehensive enterprise Diversity and Inclusion Framework, which focuses on (i) leadership 
commitment and accountability; (ii) attracting and retaining global, diverse talent; (iii) creating inclusive workplaces; and (iv) 
striving to be a great employer.

Labor Relations. Less than three percent of the Company's U.S. employees are represented by a labor union, while outside 
the U.S., employees in certain countries are represented by an employee representative organization, such as a union, works 
council or employee association. The Company considers its employee relations to be excellent.

The Company's Corporate Social Responsibility Report, published annually and available on the Company's website 
(www.itw.com), contains more information about the Company's human capital and its programs, goals and progress. 
Information on the Company's website is not incorporated herein by reference.

9

Information About Our Executive Officers

The executive officers of the Company serve at the discretion of the Board of Directors. Set forth below is information 
regarding the principal occupations and employment and business experience over the past five years for each executive 
officer. Unless otherwise stated, employment is by the Company.

Executive Officers of the Company as of February 12, 2021 were as follows:

Name

Age

Present Position

E. Scott Santi . . . . . . . .  59 Chairman & Chief Executive Officer . 

Year 
Elected to 
Present 
Position
2015

Axel Beck . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Executive Vice President . . . . . . . . . . .

2020

Kenneth Escoe . . . . . . .

45 Executive Vice President . . . . . . . . . . .

2020

Norman D. Finch Jr. . . . 56 Senior Vice President, General 

2017

Counsel & Secretary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

John R. Hartnett . . . . . .

60 Executive Vice President . . . . . . . . . . .

Michael M. Larsen . . . .

52 Senior Vice President & Chief 

Financial Officer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mary K. Lawler . . . . . .  55 Senior Vice President & Chief Human 
Resources Officer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Steven L. Martindale . .  64 Executive Vice President . . . . . . . . . . .

Christopher O'Herlihy .  57 Vice Chairman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Randall J. Scheuneman 

53 Vice President & Chief Accounting 

Officer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lei Schlitz . . . . . . . . . .  54 Executive Vice President . . . . . . . . . . .

Sharon Szafranski . . . . 

54 Executive Vice President . . . . . . . . . . .

2012

2013

2014

2008

2015

2009

2015

2020

Other Positions Held During 2016-2020

Vice President/General Manager, food 
equipment businesses, 2011-2016, Group 
President, food equipment businesses, 
2016-2020

Vice President/General Manager, welding 
businesses, 2014-2016, Vice President/
General Manager, specialty products 
businesses, 2016-2019, Group President, 
specialty products businesses, 2019-2020
Vice President, General Counsel and 
Secretary, Sealed Air Corporation, a 
global manufacturer of products related to 
food safety and security, facility hygiene 
and product protection, 2013-2017

Vice President/General Manager, food 
equipment businesses, 2010-2016, Vice 
President/General Manager, test & 
measurement and electronics businesses, 
2016-2019, Group President, test & 
measurement and electronics businesses, 
2019-2020

Michael R. Zimmerman

60 Executive Vice President . . . . . . . . . . .

2015

Available Information

The Company electronically files reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). The SEC maintains a 
website (www.sec.gov) that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers that 
file electronically with the SEC. Copies of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q 
and Current Reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of 
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 are also available free of charge through the Company's website (www.itw.com), as 
soon as reasonably practicable after electronically filing with or otherwise furnishing such information to the SEC. The 
Company's Code of Ethics for the CEO and key financial and accounting personnel is also posted on the Company's website.

10

ITEM 1A. Risk Factors

The Company's business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows are subject to various risks, including, but 
not limited to, those set forth below, which could cause actual results to vary materially from recent results or from 
anticipated future results. These risk factors should be considered together with information included elsewhere in this 
Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Economic Risks

The COVID-19 pandemic has adversely affected the Company's business, financial condition and results of operations 
and could affect the Company's liquidity. The full and long-term extent of the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on 
our business depend on future events that continue to be highly uncertain and cannot be predicted.

The COVID-19 pandemic and the continued measures taken globally to reduce its spread have negatively impacted the global 
economy, disrupted consumer/customer demand and global supply chains, and created significant volatility and disruption of 
financial markets. These measures and the continued volatility of the global economy adversely affected our results of 
operations for 2020, and while we expect that our results will continue to be adversely impacted beyond 2020, we are 
currently unable to quantify the full and long-term impact of the pandemic on our financial condition, results of operations 
and liquidity.

The Company has implemented numerous actions in order to focus on the needs of its colleagues and customers, such as 
redesigning production processes, adjusting shift schedules and assignments and implementing aggressive new workplace 
sanitation practices and a coordinated response to ensure access to personal protective equipment to minimize infection risk. 
Further actions may be required in response to evolving conditions such as renewed travel restrictions, quarantine, and stay-
at-home orders as well as uncertainty regarding the timing of widespread availability of a vaccine. In addition, because the 
pandemic has decreased customer demand in certain of our end markets, some of our businesses are operating at reduced 
capacity. We cannot predict when or whether these businesses will resume full operations or whether there will be related or 
unrelated facility closures in the future.

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to have the potential to significantly and extendedly alter demand for our products and to 
disrupt our supply chain as a result of shifts in demand, illness, quarantine, travel restrictions or financial hardship. We have 
been able to procure the critical raw materials and components necessary to continue production, but there is no guarantee 
that we will be able to do so in the future. A prolonged extension of the conditions resulting from the pandemic could force 
both customer and supplier bankruptcies, which we expect would adversely impact our results; however, given the 
uncertainty around the continued duration and breadth of the COVID-19 pandemic, we cannot reasonably estimate the extent 
of these adverse effects on our operations.

The Company has sought to implement a differentiated strategy to manage through the pandemic, including a focus on 
thoughtful cost management and continued investment in areas of strategic importance in order to maintain optionality and 
fully participate in the recovery phase. Although some opportunities have already emerged from this strategy, the Company 
cannot estimate the extent or the timing of the benefits from this strategy, if any. If the Company's strategy does not generate 
the expected benefits, the Company's long-term financial results could be adversely impacted.

Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has the potential to impact the proper functioning of financial and capital markets. If 
the economic recovery is protracted, we may not be able to access our short-term credit facilities and may be required to seek 
additional financing sources, which may not be available on reasonable terms or at all. If the Company suffers a liquidity 
shortage, we may be forced to reduce our workforce, decrease or suspend dividend payments to our stockholders or adopt 
other measures. We cannot predict the likelihood, timing or the consequences of a future liquidity shortage in our business.

The ultimate significance of the COVID-19 pandemic on our business will depend on events that are beyond our control and 
that we cannot predict. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial 
may also affect our business, financial condition or results of operations.

The Company's results are impacted by global economic conditions. Downturns in the markets served by the 
Company could adversely affect its businesses, results of operations or financial condition.

The Company's businesses are impacted by economic conditions around the globe. Slower economic growth, financial 
market instability, natural disasters, public health crises (such as the COVID-19 pandemic), high unemployment, government 

11

deficit reduction, sequestration and other austerity measures impacting the markets the Company serves can adversely affect 
the Company’s businesses by reducing demand for the Company's products and services, limiting financing available to the 
Company's customers, causing production delays, increasing order cancellations and the difficulty in collecting accounts 
receivable, increasing price competition, or increasing the risk that counterparties to the Company's contractual arrangements 
will become insolvent or otherwise unable to fulfill their obligations.

The global nature of the Company's operations subjects it to political, economic and social risks that could adversely 
affect its business, results of operations or financial condition.

Over 50% of the Company's net sales are derived from customers outside the United States, and the Company currently 
operates in 52 countries. The risks inherent in the Company's global operations include:

•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

•
•
•
•
•
•

fluctuation in currency exchange rates;
limitations on ownership or participation in local enterprises;
price controls, exchange controls and limitations on repatriation of earnings;
transportation delays and interruptions;
political, social and economic instability and disruptions;
acts of terrorism;
the impact of widespread public health crises (such as the COVID-19 pandemic);
government embargoes or foreign trade restrictions;
the imposition of duties and tariffs and other trade barriers and retaliatory countermeasures;
government actions impacting international trade agreements, including the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation 
Agreement;
import and export controls;
social and labor unrest and current and changing regulatory environments;
the potential for expropriation or nationalization of enterprises;
difficulties in staffing and managing multi-national operations;
limitations on its ability to enforce legal rights and remedies; and
potentially adverse tax consequences.

The recent global geopolitical and trade environment has resulted in raw material inflation and potential for increased 
escalation of domestic and international tariffs and retaliatory trade policies. Further changes in U.S. trade policy (including 
new or additional increases in duties or tariffs) and retaliatory actions by U.S. trade partners could result in a worsening of 
economic conditions. If the Company is unable to successfully manage the risks associated with managing and expanding its 
international businesses, the Company's business, results of operations or financial condition may be adversely impacted.

A significant fluctuation between the U.S. Dollar and other currencies could adversely impact the Company's 
operating income.

Although the Company's financial results are reported in U.S. Dollars, a significant portion of its sales and operating costs are 
realized in other currencies, with the largest concentration of foreign sales occurring in Europe. The Company's profitability 
is affected by movements of the U.S. Dollar against the Euro and other foreign currencies in which it generates revenues and 
incurs expenses. Significant long-term fluctuations in relative currency values, and in particular, an increase in the value of 
the U.S. Dollar against foreign currencies, has had and could have an adverse effect on profitability and financial condition.

12

Business and Operational Risks

The benefits from the Company's enterprise strategy may not be as expected and the Company's financial results 
could be adversely impacted, or the Company may not meet its long-term financial performance targets.

As the Company continues to execute on its enterprise strategy initiatives, it remains focused on the core principles of 
portfolio discipline, 80/20 Front-to-Back practice excellence, and organic growth. Product line and customer base 
simplification activities, which are core elements of the Company's 80/20 Front-to-Back process, continue to be applied by 
the Company's operating divisions and are active elements of the enterprise strategy. Although these activities are expected to 
improve future operating margins and organic revenue growth, they are also expected to have a negative impact on the 
Company's overall organic revenue growth in the short term. Additionally, other core activities of the enterprise strategy 
related to portfolio discipline and organic growth, including customer-back innovation and strategic sales excellence, may not 
have the desired impact on future operating results. If the Company is unable to realize the expected benefits from its 
enterprise strategy initiatives, the Company's financial results could be adversely impacted, or the Company may not meet its 
long-term financial performance targets.

The timing and amount of the Company's share repurchases are subject to a number of uncertainties.

Share repurchases, which the Company plans to resume in 2021 after they were temporarily suspended in March of 2020, 
constitute a significant component of the Company’s capital allocation strategy. The Company has historically funded its 
share repurchases with free cash flow and short-term borrowings. The amount and timing of share repurchases will be based 
on a variety of factors. Important factors that could cause the Company to limit, suspend or delay its share repurchases 
include unfavorable trading market conditions, the price of the Company's common stock, the nature of other investment 
opportunities presented to the Company from time to time, the ability to obtain financing at attractive rates and the 
availability of U.S. cash.

If the Company is unable to successfully introduce new products, its future growth may be adversely affected.

The Company's ability to develop new products based on innovation can affect its competitive position and sometimes 
requires the investment of significant time and resources. Difficulties or delays in research, development, production or 
commercialization of new products and services may reduce future revenues and adversely affect the Company's competitive 
position. If the Company is unable to create sustainable product differentiation, its organic growth may be adversely affected.

If the Company is unable to adequately protect its intellectual property, its competitive position and results of 
operations may be adversely impacted.

Protecting the Company's intellectual property is critical to its innovation efforts. The Company owns patents, trade secrets, 
copyrights, trademarks and/or other intellectual property rights related to many of its products, and also has exclusive and 
non-exclusive license rights under intellectual property owned by others. The Company's intellectual property rights may be 
challenged or infringed upon by third parties, particularly in countries where property rights are not highly developed or 
protected, or the Company may be unable to maintain, renew or enter into new license agreements with third-party owners of 
intellectual property on reasonable terms. Unauthorized use of the Company's intellectual property rights or inability to 
preserve existing intellectual property rights could adversely impact the Company's competitive position and results of 
operations.

The Company has significant goodwill and other intangible assets, and future impairment of these assets could have a 
material adverse impact on the Company's financial results.

The Company has recorded significant goodwill and other identifiable intangible assets on its balance sheet as a result of 
acquisitions. A number of factors may result in impairments to goodwill and other intangible assets, including significant 
negative industry or economic trends, disruptions to our business, increased competition and significant changes in the use of 
the assets. Impairment charges could adversely affect the Company's financial condition or results of operations in the periods 
recognized.

Raw material price increases and supply shortages could adversely affect results.

The supply of raw materials to the Company and to its component parts suppliers could be interrupted for a variety of 
reasons, including availability and pricing. Significant disruptions to the supply chain could adversely affect the Company's 

13

ability to meet commitments to customers. Prices for raw materials necessary for production have fluctuated significantly in 
the past and significant increases could adversely affect the Company's results of operations and profit margins. In particular, 
changes in trade policies, the imposition of duties and tariffs, potential retaliatory countermeasures, public health crises (such 
as the COVID-19 pandemic) and severe weather events could adversely impact the price or availability of raw materials. Due 
to pricing pressure or other factors, the Company may not be able to pass along increased raw material and components parts 
prices to its customers in the form of price increases or its ability to do so could be delayed. Consequently, its results of 
operations and financial condition may be adversely affected.

The Company's defined benefit pension plans are subject to financial market risks that could adversely affect its 
results of operations and cash flows.

The performance of financial markets and interest rates impact the Company's funding obligations under its defined benefit 
pension plans. Significant changes in market interest rates, decreases in the fair value of plan assets and investment losses on 
plan assets may increase the Company's funding obligations and adversely impact its results of operations and cash flows.

If the Company is unable to protect its information technology infrastructure against service interruptions, data 
corruption, cyber-based attacks or network security breaches, or if there is a violation of data privacy laws, there 
could be a negative impact on operating results or the Company may suffer financial or reputational damage.

The Company relies on information technology networks and systems, including the Internet, to process, transmit and store 
electronic information, and to manage or support a variety of business processes and activities, including procurement, 
manufacturing, distribution, invoicing and collection. These technology networks and systems may be susceptible to damage, 
disruptions or shutdowns due to failures during the process of upgrading or replacing software, databases or components; 
power outages; hardware failures; computer viruses; employee error or malfeasance; and attacks by computer hackers, which 
have continued to increase on a global scale in both magnitude and frequency, taken on novel and unprecedented forms and 
become more difficult to detect. In addition, security breaches could result in unauthorized disclosure of confidential 
information or personal data belonging to our employees, partners, customers or suppliers, which could cause reputational 
and legal harm as we are subject to data privacy laws, including the EU General Data Protection Regulation, in the various 
countries in which we operate. If our information technology systems suffer severe damage, disruption, or shutdown, and 
business continuity plans do not effectively resolve the issues in a timely manner, or if we violate data privacy laws, there 
could be a negative impact on operating results or the Company may suffer financial or reputational damage.

Strategic Transaction Risks

The Company's acquisition of businesses could negatively impact its profitability and returns.

The Company has engaged in various acquisitions in the past, and could choose to acquire additional businesses in the future, 
such as the recently announced agreement with Amphenol Corporation ("Amphenol"), whereby the Company will acquire the 
Test & Simulation business of MTS Systems Corporation ("MTS") following the closing of Amphenol's acquisition of MTS. 
Acquisitions involve a number of risks and financial, accounting, managerial and operational challenges, including the 
following, any of which could adversely affect the Company's profitability and returns:

•

•

•
•

•

•

The acquired business' inability to adapt to the ITW Business Model or otherwise perform in accordance with the 
Company's anticipated results or timetable, could cause it to under-perform relative to the Company's expectations 
and the price paid for it.
The acquired business could cause the Company's financial results to differ from expectations in any given fiscal 
period, or over the long term.
Acquisition-related earnings charges could adversely impact operating results.
The acquired business could place unanticipated demands on the Company's management, operational resources and 
financial and internal control systems.
The Company may assume unknown liabilities, known contingent liabilities that become realized or known 
liabilities that prove greater than anticipated, internal control deficiencies or exposure to regulatory sanctions 
resulting from the activities of the acquired business. The realization of any of these liabilities or deficiencies may 
increase the Company's expenses, adversely affect its financial position or cause noncompliance with its financial 
reporting obligations.
As a result of acquisitions, the Company has in the past recorded significant goodwill and other identifiable 
intangible assets on its balance sheet. If the Company is not able to realize the value of these assets, it may recognize 
charges relating to the impairment of these assets.

14

Divestitures pose the risk of retained liabilities that could adversely affect the Company's financial results.

The Company had significant divestiture activity in 2012, 2013 and 2014 in accordance with its portfolio management 
initiative, and it divested additional businesses in 2019 as it continues portfolio refinements to maintain portfolio discipline. 
The Company has retained certain liabilities directly or through indemnifications made to the buyers against known and 
unknown contingent liabilities such as lawsuits, tax liabilities, product liability claims and environmental matters, which 
could adversely affect the Company's financial results.

Tax, Legal and Regulatory Risks

Unfavorable tax law changes and tax authority rulings may adversely affect results.

The Company is subject to income taxes in the U.S. and in various foreign jurisdictions. Domestic and international tax 
liabilities are based on the income and expenses in various tax jurisdictions. The Company's effective tax rate could be 
adversely affected by changes in the mix of earnings among countries with differing statutory tax rates, changes in the 
valuation allowance of deferred tax assets or changes in tax laws. The amount of income taxes is subject to ongoing audits by 
U.S. federal, state and local tax authorities and by non-U.S. authorities. If these audits result in assessments different from 
amounts recorded, future financial results may include unfavorable tax adjustments.

Potential adverse outcomes in legal proceedings may adversely affect results.

The Company's businesses expose it to potential toxic tort and other types of product liability claims that are inherent in the 
design, manufacture and sale of its products and the products of third-party vendors. The Company currently maintains 
insurance programs consisting of self-insurance up to certain limits and excess insurance coverage for claims over established 
limits. There can be no assurance that the Company will be able to obtain insurance on acceptable terms or that its insurance 
programs will provide adequate protection against actual losses. In addition, the Company is subject to the risk that one or 
more of its insurers may become insolvent and become unable to pay claims that may be made in the future. Even if it 
maintains adequate insurance programs, claims could have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial condition, 
liquidity and results of operations and on its ability to obtain suitable, adequate or cost-effective insurance in the future.

Uncertainty related to environmental regulation and industry standards, as well as physical risks of climate change, 
could impact the Company's results of operations and financial position.

Increased public awareness and concern regarding environmental risks, including global climate change, may result in more 
international, regional and/or federal requirements or industry standards to reduce or mitigate global warming and other 
environmental risks. These regulations or standards could mandate even more restrictive requirements, such as stricter limits 
on greenhouse gas emissions and production of single use plastics, than the voluntary commitments that the Company has 
made or require such changes on a more accelerated time frame. There continues to be a lack of consistent climate legislation, 
which creates economic and regulatory uncertainty. In addition, the physical risks of climate change may impact the 
availability and cost of materials and natural resources, sources and supply of energy, product demand and manufacturing and 
could increase insurance and other operating costs. If environmental laws or regulations or industry standards are either 
changed or adopted and impose significant operational restrictions and compliance requirements upon the Company or its 
products, or the Company's operations are disrupted due to physical impacts of climate change, the Company's business, 
capital expenditures, results of operations, financial condition and competitive position could be negatively impacted.

The Company may incur fines or penalties, damage to its reputation or other adverse consequences if its employees, 
agents or business partners violate anti-bribery, competition, export and import, environmental, human rights or 
other laws.

The Company has a decentralized operating structure under which its individual businesses are allowed significant decision-
making autonomy within the Company's strategic framework and internal financial and compliance controls. The Company 
cannot ensure that its internal controls will always protect against reckless or criminal acts committed by its employees, 
agents or business partners that might violate U.S. and/or non-U.S. laws, including anti-bribery, competition, export and 
import, environmental and human rights laws. Any such improper actions could subject the Company to civil or criminal 
investigations, could lead to substantial civil or criminal monetary and non-monetary penalties against the Company or its 
subsidiaries, or could damage its reputation.

15

Forward-Looking Statements

This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities 
Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as "believe," 
"expect," "plan," "intend," "may," "strategy," "prospects," "estimate," "will," "should," "could," "project," "target," 
"anticipate," "guidance," "forecast," and other similar words, including, without limitation, statements regarding the potential 
effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, related government actions and the Company's strategy in response thereto on the 
Company's business, future financial performance, economic and regulatory conditions in various geographic regions, the 
impact of foreign currency fluctuations, the timing and amount of benefits from the Company's enterprise strategy initiatives, 
the timing and amount of share repurchases, the protection of the Company's intellectual property, the likelihood of future 
goodwill or intangible asset impairment charges, the impact of adopting new accounting pronouncements, the adequacy of 
internally generated funds and credit facilities to service debt and finance the Company's capital allocation priorities, the 
sufficiency of U.S. generated cash to fund cash requirements in the U.S., the cost and availability of additional financing, the 
availability of raw materials and energy and the impact of tariffs and raw material cost inflation, the Company's portion of 
future benefit payments related to pension and postretirement benefits, the Company’s information technology infrastructure, 
potential acquisitions and divestitures and the expected performance of acquired businesses and impact of divested 
businesses, the impact of U.S. tax legislation and the estimated timing and amount related to the resolution of tax matters, the 
cost of compliance with environmental regulations, the impact of failure of the Company's employees to comply with 
applicable laws and regulations, and the outcome of outstanding legal proceedings. These statements are subject to certain 
risks, uncertainties, and other factors, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. Important 
risks that may influence future results include those risks described above. These risks are not all inclusive and given these 
and other possible risks and uncertainties, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as a 
prediction of actual results.

Any forward-looking statements made by ITW speak only as of the date on which they are made. ITW is under no obligation 
to, and expressly disclaims any obligation to, update or alter its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new 
information, subsequent events or otherwise.

ITW practices fair disclosure for all interested parties. Investors should be aware that while ITW regularly communicates 
with securities analysts and other investment professionals, it is against ITW's policy to disclose to them any material non-
public information or other confidential commercial information. Investors should not assume that ITW agrees with any 
statement or report issued by any analyst irrespective of the content of the statement or report.

ITEM 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments

None.

ITEM 2. Properties

Due to the Company's decentralized operating structure and global operations, the Company operates out of a large number 
of facilities worldwide, none of which are individually significant to the Company or its segments. As of December 31, 2020, 
the Company operated approximately 440 plants and office facilities, excluding regional sales offices and warehouse 
facilities. Approximately 290 of the facilities were located outside of the United States. Principal foreign countries include 
China, Germany, France, and the United Kingdom.

The Company's properties are well suited for the purposes for which they were designed and are maintained in good 
operating condition. Production capacity, in general, currently exceeds operating levels. Capacity levels are somewhat 
flexible based on the number of shifts operated and on the number of overtime hours worked. The Company adds production 
capacity from time to time as required by increased demand. Additions to capacity can be made within a reasonable period of 
time due to the nature of the Company's businesses.

ITEM 3. Legal Proceedings

None. The Company's threshold for disclosing environmental legal proceedings involving a governmental authority where 
potential monetary sanctions are involved is $1 million.

ITEM 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

None.

16

PART II

ITEM 5. Market For Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity 
Securities

Common Stock Data— The Company's common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange. There were 
approximately 5,245 holders of record of common stock as of January 31, 2021. This number does not include beneficial 
owners of the Company's securities held in the name of nominees.

*Assumes $100 invested on 12/31/15 in stock or index, including reinvestment of dividends. Fiscal years ended December 31.
Copyright© 2021 Standard & Poor's, a division of S&P Global. All rights reserved.

The 2020 Peer Group consists of the following 17 public companies:

3M Company

Caterpillar Inc.

Cummins Inc.

Deere & Company

Dover Corporation

Eaton Corporation plc

Ecolab Inc.

Emerson Electric Co.

Fortive Corporation

Parker-Hannifin Corporation

PPG Industries, Inc.

Rockwell Automation, Inc.

General Dynamics Corporation

Stanley Black & Decker, Inc.

Honeywell International Inc.

Trane Technologies plc

Johnson Controls International plc

The Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company reviews the peer group annually and from time to 
time changes the composition of the peer group where changes are appropriate. In 2020, the Compensation Committee added 
Ecolab Inc. as it meets the Company's industry and size criteria, and Trane Technologies plc, which is the company resulting 
from the spin-off of Ingersoll-Rand plc and its combination with certain businesses of Gardner Denver, Inc. As a result, 
Ingersoll-Rand plc was removed, as well as Raytheon Company, which merged with United Technologies Corporation and 
no longer meets the Company's industry and size criteria. Although Fortive Corporation was added to the Company's peer 
group in 2017, it was excluded from the five year cumulative total return as there was insufficient historical data due to its 
spin-off from Danaher Corporation in 2016.

17

Repurchases of Common Stock— On August 3, 2018, the Company's Board of Directors authorized a new stock repurchase 
program which provides 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"). As of December 31, 2020, there were approximately $1.2 billion of authorized repurchases 
remaining under the 2018 program. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Company temporarily suspended its share 
repurchase program starting in March 2020.

ITEM 6. Selected Financial Data

In millions except per share amounts
Operating revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
Income from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . .
Income per share from continuing operations:

Basic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Diluted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Total assets at year-end . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Long-term debt at year-end . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Cash dividends declared per common share . . . 

2020

2019

2018

2017

2016

12,574  $ 
2,109 

14,109  $ 
2,521 

14,768  $ 
2,563 

14,314  $ 
1,687 

13,599 
2,035 

6.66 
6.63 
15,612 
7,772 
4.42 

7.78 
7.74 
15,068 
7,754 
4.14 

7.65 
7.60 
14,870 
6,029 
3.56 

4.90 
4.86 
16,780 
7,478 
2.86 

5.73 
5.70 
15,201 
7,177 
2.40 

In the fourth quarter of 2017, the Company recorded a one-time additional income tax expense of $658 million, or $1.90 per 
diluted share, related to the enactment of the United States "Tax Cuts and Jobs Act" (the "Act") on December 22, 2017. The 
provisions of the Act significantly revised the U.S. corporate income tax rules. The additional tax expense recorded in the 
fourth quarter of 2017 primarily related to a one-time repatriation tax of $676 million on the deemed repatriation of post-1986 
undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries and $53 million of additional foreign withholding taxes related to the expected 
repatriation of foreign held cash and equivalents. These additional tax charges were partially offset by an $82 million one-
time income tax benefit related to the remeasurement of deferred tax assets and liabilities in the fourth quarter of 2017 due to 
the reduction of the U.S. corporate federal tax rate from a maximum of 35% to a flat rate of 21% beginning in 2018 under the 
Act.

Certain reclassifications of prior year data have been made to conform to current year reporting, including the adoption of 
new accounting guidance as discussed below.

In March 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the "FASB") issued authoritative guidance that included several 
changes to simplify the accounting for stock-based compensation, including the accounting for income taxes, forfeitures, 
statutory tax withholding requirements and classification of tax benefits in the statement of cash flows. Among the more 
significant changes, the new guidance requires that the income tax effects associated with the settlement of stock-based 
awards after adoption of the guidance be recognized through income tax expense rather than directly in equity. Excess tax 
benefits recognized in equity under the prior guidance were $29 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. The 
Company adopted the new guidance effective January 1, 2017 and applied the new guidance prospectively. Excess tax 
benefits of $27 million, $28 million, $10 million and $50 million were included in Income taxes in the statement of income 
for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively. The expected effect on income tax expense or net 
cash provided from operating activities related to future stock-based award settlements will vary each period and will depend 
on inputs such as the stock price at the time of settlement and the number of awards settled in the period presented.

Additional information on the comparability of results is included in Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of 
Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

18

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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, 2020, 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, 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 
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 18,500 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.

19

•

•

•

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 2020 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, 
but for the Company to truly finish the job and 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. The Company expects any earnings per share dilution from divestitures would be 

20

offset by incremental share repurchases. 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 in 2020, 
the Company has deferred any further significant divestiture activity until market conditions normalize. Refer to Note 3. 
Divestitures in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for more 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 the Company's 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 in 2020, it 
was the collection of capabilities and competitive advantages that have been built and honed over the past eight 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.

From the early days of the pandemic, the Company focused its efforts 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.

"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. These efforts are just beginning to take hold and the Company 
expects them 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.

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 recently announced agreement with Amphenol Corporation ("Amphenol"), whereby the Company will acquire the 
Test & Simulation business of MTS Systems Corporation ("MTS") following the closing of Amphenol's acquisition of MTS. 
Upon completion of this acquisition, this business will be reported within the Company's Test & Measurement and 
Electronics segment.

21

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.

The Company delivered solid financial results in 2020 despite the extraordinary challenges posed by the COVID-19 
pandemic, as the Company experienced solid recovery progress in many of its end markets in the third and fourth quarters of 
2020 versus the second quarter. The primary driver of the Company's financial performance is the continued successful 
execution of enterprise initiatives and continued focus on the highly differentiated ITW Business Model. In 2020, despite the 
decline in operating revenue of 10.9 percent, the Company generated operating income of $2.9 billion, operating margin was 
22.9 percent, free cash flow was $2.6 billion and after-tax return on average invested capital was 26.2 percent. Additionally, 
all segments, other than the Food Equipment, Automotive OEM and Welding segments, which had more pronounced impacts 
from the COVID-19 pandemic, had operating margins that improved compared to the prior year. Refer to the Cash Flow and 
After-tax Return on Average Invested Capital sections of Liquidity and Capital Resources for a reconciliation of these non-
GAAP measures.

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 phase. 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 
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.

22

While the vast majority of the Company's facilities remained open and operational during the pandemic in 2020, many of 
these facilities were operating at a reduced capacity. 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. A 
prolonged outbreak will 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. 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's consolidated results of operations for 2020, 2019 and 2018 were as follows:

2020 compared to 2019

Dollars in millions

For the Years Ended

December 31,

2020

2019

Inc (Dec)

Organic

Components of Increase (Decrease)

Acquisition/
Divestiture

Restructuring

Foreign 
Currency

Total

Operating revenue

$ 12,574 

$ 14,109 

Operating income

$  2,882 

$  3,402 

 (10.9) %

 (15.3) %

 (9.8) %

 (16.0) %

Operating margin %

 22.9 %

 24.1 % (120) bps

(160) bps

 (0.9) %

 (0.3) %

10 bps

 — %

 1.1 %

 (0.2) %  (10.9) %

 (0.1) %  (15.3) %

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 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.

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 6. Income Taxes in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further 
information.
Diluted earnings per share (EPS) were $6.63 for 2020.
Free cash flow was $2.6 billion for 2020. Refer to the Cash Flow section of Liquidity and Capital Resources for a 
reconciliation of this 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.

23

•

•

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.
After-tax return on average invested capital was 26.2% for 2020. Refer to the After-tax Return on Average Invested 
Capital section of Liquidity and Capital Resources for a reconciliation of this non-GAAP measure.

2019 compared to 2018

Dollars in millions

For the Years Ended

December 31,

2019

2018

Inc (Dec)

Organic

Components of Increase (Decrease)

Acquisition/
Divestiture

Restructuring

Foreign 
Currency

Operating revenue

$ 14,109 

$ 14,768 

Operating income

$  3,402 

$  3,584 

 (4.5) %

 (5.1) %

 (1.9) %

 (1.3) %

Operating margin %

 24.1 %

 24.3 %

(20) bps

10 bps  

 (0.3) %

 (0.1) %

— 

 — %

 (1.4) %

 (2.3) %

 (2.3) %

Total

 (4.5) %

 (5.1) %

(30) bps  

— 

(20) bps

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Operating revenue declined due to the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation, lower organic revenue and 
divestitures.
Organic revenue decreased 1.9% primarily driven by a decline in the Automotive OEM, Specialty Products, 
Welding and Construction Products segments. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 60 
basis points.
◦

North American organic revenue decreased 1.8% as a decline in the Automotive OEM, Specialty Products, 
Welding and Polymers & Fluids segments was partially offset by growth in the Food Equipment, Test & 
Measurement and Electronics and Construction Products segments.
Europe, Middle East and Africa organic revenue decreased 2.2% as five segments declined, partially offset 
by growth in the Food Equipment and Construction Products segments.
Asia Pacific organic revenue declined 1.6% as a decrease in the Construction Products, Automotive OEM, 
Food Equipment and Test & Measurement and Electronics segments was partially offset by an increase in 
the Welding, Polymers & Fluids and Specialty Products segments.

◦

◦

Operating income of $3.4 billion decreased 5.1% primarily due to unfavorable foreign currency translation, higher 
restructuring expenses and lower organic revenue.
Operating margin of 24.1% decreased 20 basis points. Excluding the unfavorable impact of higher restructuring 
expenses of 30 basis points, operating margin increased 10 basis points primarily due to benefits from the 
Company's enterprise initiatives that contributed 120 basis points and favorable price/cost of 10 basis points, 
partially offset by negative operating leverage of 50 basis points, product mix and higher employee-related 
expenses.
The effective tax rate for 2019 was 23.3% compared to 24.5% in 2018. 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." The 2018 effective tax rate benefited 
from a discrete tax benefit of $37 million in the third quarter related to the release of a valuation allowance against 
the deferred tax assets of a non-U.S. subsidiary, which was partially offset by a discrete tax charge of $22 million in 
the third quarter related to foreign tax credits. Additionally, the effective tax rates for 2019 and 2018 included $28 
million and $10 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.
Diluted earnings per share (EPS) of $7.74, an increase of 1.8%, included a $0.09 gain in 2019 from the disposal of 
businesses.
Free cash flow was $2.7 billion for 2019. Refer to the Cash Flow section of Liquidity and Capital Resources for a 
reconciliation of this non-GAAP measure.
The Company repurchased approximately 9.8 million shares of its common stock in 2019 for approximately $1.5 
billion. 
The Company increased the quarterly dividend by 7.0% in 2019. Total cash dividends of approximately $1.3 billion 
were paid in 2019.
After-tax return on average invested capital was 28.7% for 2019. Refer to the After-tax Return on Average Invested 
Capital section of Liquidity and Capital Resources for a reconciliation of this non-GAAP measure.

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:

In millions
Automotive OEM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
Food Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Test & Measurement and Electronics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Welding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Polymers & Fluids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Construction Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Specialty Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intersegment revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

In millions

Operating Revenue

2020

2019

2018

2,571  $ 
1,739 
1,963 
1,384 
1,622 
1,652 
1,660 

(17)   
12,574  $ 

3,063  $ 
2,188 
2,121 
1,638 
1,669 
1,625 
1,825 

(20)   
14,109  $ 

3,338 
2,214 
2,171 
1,691 
1,724 
1,700 
1,951 
(21) 
14,768 

Operating Income

2020

2019

2018

Automotive OEM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 

457  $ 

659  $ 

Food Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Test & Measurement and Electronics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Welding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Polymers & Fluids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Construction Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Specialty Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total Segments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Unallocated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

342 

507 

376 

402 

421 

432 

578 

542 

453 

381 

383 

472 

2,937 

(55)   

2,882  $ 

3,468 

(66)   

3,402  $ 

751 

572 

523 

474 

369 

414 

522 

3,625 

(41) 

3,584 

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.

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 2020, 2019 and 2018 were as follows:

2020 compared to 2019

Dollars in millions

For the Years Ended

December 31,

2020

2019

Inc (Dec)

Organic

Components of Increase (Decrease)

Acquisition/
Divestiture

Restructuring

Foreign 
Currency

Operating revenue

$  2,571 

$  3,063 

Operating income

$ 

457 

$ 

659 

 (16.1) %

 (30.6) %

 (16.0) %

 (32.3) %

Operating margin %

 17.8 %

 21.5 % (370) bps

(420) bps  

 — %

 — %

— 

 — %

 1.5 %

40 bps

 (0.1) %

 0.2 %

Total

 (16.1) %

 (30.6) %

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%.
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.

2019 compared to 2018

Dollars in millions

For the Years Ended

December 31,

2019

2018

Inc (Dec)

Organic

Components of Increase (Decrease)

Acquisition/
Divestiture

Restructuring

Foreign 
Currency

Operating revenue

$  3,063 

$  3,338 

Operating income

$ 

659 

$ 

751 

 (8.2) %

 (12.2) %

 (5.4) %

 (7.0) %

Operating margin %

 21.5 %

 22.5 % (100) bps

(40) bps  

 — %

 — %

— 

 — %

 (2.6) %

 (2.8) %

 (2.6) %

Total

 (8.2) %

 (12.2) %

(60) bps  

— 

(100) bps

•
•

•

Operating revenue declined due to lower organic revenue and the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation.
Organic revenue declined 5.4% versus worldwide auto builds which decreased 6%. Auto builds for North America, 
Europe and China, where the Company has a higher concentration of revenue as compared to other geographic 
regions, declined 6%. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 120 basis points. 
Additionally, organic revenue was negatively impacted by approximately 100 basis points due to unexpected 
customer shutdowns in North America in the second half of 2019.

◦

◦

◦

North American organic revenue decreased 7.8% compared to North American auto builds which were 
down 4% due to customer mix. Auto builds for the Detroit 3, where the Company has higher content, 
decreased 8%. Additionally, 2019 was negatively impacted by unexpected customer shutdowns.
European organic revenue declined 4.5% compared to European auto builds which declined 4% in 2019 
due to customer mix.
Asia Pacific organic revenue declined 2.2% in 2019. China organic revenue declined 1.0% versus Chinese 
auto builds which declined 8% in 2019.

Operating margin was 21.5% in 2019. The decrease of 100 basis points was primarily due to negative operating 
leverage of 90 basis points, unfavorable price/cost of 60 basis points, higher restructuring expenses and product mix, 
partially offset by 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 2020, 2019 and 2018 were as follows:

2020 compared to 2019

Dollars in millions

For the Years Ended

December 31,

2020

2019

Inc (Dec)

Organic

Components of Increase (Decrease)

Acquisition/
Divestiture

Restructuring

Foreign 
Currency

Operating revenue

$  1,739 

$  2,188 

Operating income

$ 

342 

$ 

578 

 (20.5) %

 (40.9) %

 (20.6) %

 (41.1) %

Operating margin %

 19.6 %

 26.4 % (680) bps

(680) bps  

 — %

 — %

— 

 — %

 (0.1) %

— 

Total

 (20.5) %

 (40.9) %

 0.1 %

 0.3 %

— 

(680) bps

•
•

•

Operating revenue declined due to lower organic revenue.
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.

2019 compared to 2018

Dollars in millions

For the Years Ended

December 31,

2019

2018

Inc (Dec)

Organic

Components of Increase (Decrease)

Acquisition/
Divestiture

Restructuring

Foreign 
Currency

Operating revenue

$  2,188 

$  2,214 

Operating income

$ 

578 

$ 

572 

Operating margin %

 26.4 %

 25.8 %

 (1.2) %

 1.1 %

60 bps

 1.1 %

 4.5 %

90 bps  

 — %

 — %

— 

 — %

 (1.2) %

 (2.3) %

 (2.2) %

(30) bps  

— 

Total

 (1.2) %

 1.1 %

60 bps

•

•

Operating revenue declined due to the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation, partially offset by higher 
organic revenue.
Organic revenue increased 1.1% as equipment organic revenue decreased 0.2% and service organic revenue 
increased 3.5%.

◦

North American organic revenue grew 1.1%. Equipment organic revenue declined 0.4% primarily driven 
by lower demand in the restaurant and institutional end markets, partially offset by higher demand in food 
retail. Service organic revenue increased 3.6%.

27

 
 
◦

International organic revenue grew 1.1% as equipment organic revenue increased 0.2% primarily due to 
higher demand in the European warewash, cooking and retail end markets, partially offset by lower demand 
in Asia. Service organic revenue increased 3.5%.

•

Operating margin of 26.4% in 2019 increased 60 basis points primarily driven by benefits from the Company's 
enterprise initiatives, favorable price/cost of 40 basis points and positive operating leverage of 30 basis points, 
partially offset by product mix, higher employee-related expenses and higher restructuring 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, industrial capital goods, automotive original equipment 
manufacturers and tiers, 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 2020, 2019 and 2018 were as follows:

2020 compared to 2019

Dollars in millions

For the Years Ended

December 31,

2020

2019

Inc (Dec)

Organic

Components of Increase (Decrease)

Acquisition/
Divestiture

Restructuring

Foreign 
Currency

Operating revenue

$  1,963 

$  2,121 

Operating income

$ 

507 

$ 

542 

 (7.4) %

 (6.5) %

 (4.9) %

 (5.2) %

Operating margin %

 25.8 %

 25.6 %

20 bps

(10) bps

 (2.8) %

 (1.3) %

40 bps

 — %

 (0.2) %

(10) bps  

 0.3 %

 0.2 %

— 

Total

 (7.4) %

 (6.5) %

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.

28

2019 compared to 2018

Dollars in millions

For the Years Ended

December 31,

2019

2018

Inc (Dec)

Organic

Components of Increase (Decrease)

Acquisition/
Divestiture

Restructuring

Foreign 
Currency

Operating revenue

$  2,121 

$  2,171 

Operating income

$ 

542 

$ 

523 

 (2.3) %

 3.7 %

 (0.3) %

 5.7 %

Operating margin %

 25.6 %

 24.1 % 150 bps

140 bps

 (0.2) %

 — %

10 bps  

 — %

 (0.2) %

— 

 (1.8) %

 (1.8) %

Total

 (2.3) %

 3.7 %

— 

150 bps

•

•
•

•

Operating revenue declined due to the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation, lower organic revenue and 
a divestiture.
Operating revenue for 2019 included $58 million related to the business divested in 2019.
Organic revenue decreased 0.3% in 2019.

◦

◦

Organic revenue for the test and measurement businesses decreased 0.8% primarily driven by lower semi-
conductor end market demand in North America. Excluding semi-conductor, the test and measurement 
businesses increased 3.5%. Instron, where demand is more closely tied to the capital spending environment, 
had organic revenue growth of 6.4%.
Electronics organic revenue grew 0.4%. The other electronics businesses, which include the contamination 
control, static control and pressure sensitive adhesives businesses, grew 1.5% primarily due to growth in 
North America and Asia, partially offset by a decline in Europe. The electronics assembly businesses 
decreased 1.4% primarily due to lower demand in Asia. 

Operating margin of 25.6% in 2019 increased 150 basis points primarily driven by benefits from the Company's 
enterprise initiatives, lower intangible asset amortization expense and favorable price/cost of 50 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 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 2020, 2019 and 2018 were as follows:

2020 compared to 2019

Dollars in millions

For the Years Ended

December 31,

2020

2019

Inc (Dec)

Organic

Components of Increase (Decrease)

Acquisition/
Divestiture

Restructuring

Foreign 
Currency

Operating revenue

$  1,384 

$  1,638 

Operating income

$ 

376 

$ 

453 

 (15.5) %

 (17.1) %

 (11.8) %

 (16.8) %

Operating margin %

 27.1 %

 27.7 % (60) bps

(160) bps

 (3.7) %

 (1.6) %

60 bps

 — %

 1.4 %

 — %

 (0.1) %

Total

 (15.5) %

 (17.1) %

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%.

29

 
◦

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.

2019 compared to 2018

Dollars in millions

For the Years Ended

December 31,

2019

2018

Inc (Dec)

Organic

Components of Increase (Decrease)

Acquisition/
Divestiture

Restructuring

Foreign 
Currency

Operating revenue

$  1,638 

$  1,691 

Operating income

$ 

453 

$ 

474 

 (3.1) %

 (4.4) %

 (1.2) %

 (2.1) %

Operating margin %

 27.7 %

 28.0 % (30) bps

(20) bps

 (1.1) %

 (0.4) %

20 bps

 — %

 (1.7) %

(50) bps

 (0.8) %

 (0.2) %

20 bps

Total

 (3.1) %

 (4.4) %

(30) bps

•

•
•

•

Operating revenue decreased due to lower organic revenue, the impact of divestiture activity and the unfavorable 
effect of foreign currency translation.
Operating revenue for 2019 included $62 million related to the business divested in 2019.
Organic revenue decreased 1.2% as equipment declined 2.6%, partially offset by growth in consumables of 0.8%. 
North American organic revenue declined 1.1% as a decrease in the industrial end markets was partially 
offset by growth in the commercial and oil and gas end markets.
International organic revenue decreased 1.6% primarily due to a decline in Europe, partially offset by 
higher demand in Asia in the oil and gas end markets.

◦

◦

Operating margin of 27.7% decreased 30 basis points compared to the prior year primarily driven by higher 
restructuring expenses of 50 basis points, product mix, negative operating leverage of 20 basis points and higher 
employee-related expenses, partially offset by benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives and favorable price/
cost of 70 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, 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 2020, 2019 and 2018 were as follows:

2020 compared to 2019

Dollars in millions

For the Years Ended

December 31,

2020

2019

Inc (Dec)

Organic

Components of Increase (Decrease)

Acquisition/
Divestiture

Restructuring

Foreign 
Currency

Operating revenue

$  1,622 

$  1,669 

Operating income

$ 

402 

$ 

381 

 (2.8) %

 5.6 %

 (1.4) %

 5.2 %

Operating margin %

 24.8 %

 22.8 % 200 bps

150 bps  

 — %

 — %

— 

 — %

 1.5 %

40 bps

 (1.4) %

 (1.1) %

10 bps

Total

 (2.8) %

 5.6 %

200 bps

30

•

•

•

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.

2019 compared to 2018

Dollars in millions

For the Years Ended

December 31,

2019

2018

Inc (Dec)

Organic

Components of Increase (Decrease)

Acquisition/
Divestiture

Restructuring

Foreign 
Currency

Operating revenue

$  1,669 

$  1,724 

Operating income

$ 

381 

$ 

369 

 (3.2) %

 3.1 %

 — %

 7.9 %

Operating margin %

 22.8 %

 21.4 % 140 bps

170 bps  

 (0.4) %

 (0.1) %

— 

 — %

 (1.5) %

 (2.8) %

 (3.2) %

Total

 (3.2) %

 3.1 %

(30) bps  

— 

140 bps

•
•

•

Operating revenue decreased primarily due to the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation.
Organic revenue was flat as growth in the polymers businesses was offset by declines in the automotive aftermarket 
and fluids businesses.

◦

◦

◦

Organic revenue for the automotive aftermarket businesses declined 0.7% primarily due to lower demand in 
the tire repair businesses in North America and the additives businesses in Europe, partially offset by 
stronger demand in the car care businesses in North America.
Organic revenue for the polymers businesses increased 2.4% primarily driven by growth in Asia and North 
America, primarily in the heavy industrial end markets.
Organic revenue for the fluids businesses decreased 2.0% primarily due to a decline in the industrial 
maintenance, repair, and operations end markets in North America. 

Operating margin of 22.8% increased 140 basis points primarily due to the net benefits from the Company's 
enterprise initiatives and cost management, partially offset by higher restructuring 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.

31

The results of operations for the Construction Products segment for 2020, 2019 and 2018 were as follows:

2020 compared to 2019

Dollars in millions

For the Years Ended

December 31,

2020

2019

Inc (Dec)

Organic

Components of Increase (Decrease)

Acquisition/
Divestiture

Restructuring

Foreign 
Currency

Operating revenue

$  1,652 

$  1,625 

Operating income

$ 

421 

$ 

383 

 1.7 %

 10.0 %

 1.5 %

 8.4 %

Operating margin %

 25.5 %

 23.6 % 190 bps

160 bps  

 — %

 — %

— 

 — %

 1.5 %

30 bps  

 0.2 %

 0.1 %

— 

Total

 1.7 %

 10.0 %

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.

◦

2019 compared to 2018

Dollars in millions

For the Years Ended

December 31,

2019

2018

Inc (Dec)

Organic

Components of Increase (Decrease)

Acquisition/
Divestiture

Restructuring

Foreign 
Currency

Operating revenue

$  1,625 

$  1,700 

Operating income

$ 

383 

$ 

414 

 (4.4) %

 (7.4) %

 (1.0) %

 (3.1) %

Operating margin %

 23.6 %

 24.3 % (70) bps

(50) bps  

 — %

 — %

— 

 — %

 (1.2) %

(30) bps

 (3.4) %

 (3.1) %

10 bps

Total

 (4.4) %

 (7.4) %

(70) bps

•

•

•

Operating revenue decreased in 2019 due to the unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation and lower organic 
revenue.
Organic revenue declined 1.0% in 2019.

◦

◦

North American organic revenue was flat as an increase of 1.9% in the United States residential end 
markets was offset by a decline of 3.2% in the commercial end markets and a decline in Canada.
International organic revenue declined 1.8%. Asia Pacific organic revenue decreased 5.1% primarily due to 
a decline in Australia and New Zealand across all end markets. European organic revenue increased 1.3% 
driven by growth in continental Europe.

Operating margin of 23.6% decreased 70 basis points primarily driven by unfavorable price/cost of 40 basis points, 
higher restructuring expenses, product mix and negative operating leverage of 10 basis points, partially offset by 
benefits from the Company's enterprise initiatives.

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;

32

• 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 2020, 2019 and 2018 were as follows:

2020 compared to 2019

Dollars in millions

For the Years Ended

December 31,

2020

2019

Inc (Dec)

Organic

Components of Increase (Decrease)

Acquisition/
Divestiture

Restructuring

Foreign 
Currency

Operating revenue

$  1,660 

$  1,825 

Operating income

$ 

432 

$ 

472 

 (9.1) %

 (8.5) %

 (8.2) %

 (11.2) %

Operating margin %

 26.0 %

 25.9 %

10 bps

(90) bps

 (0.8) %

 0.7 %

40 bps

 — %

 2.2 %

 (0.1) %

 (0.2) %

60 bps  

— 

Total

 (9.1) %

 (8.5) %

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.

2019 compared to 2018

Dollars in millions

For the Years Ended

December 31,

2019

2018

Inc (Dec)

Organic

Components of Increase (Decrease)

Acquisition/
Divestiture

Restructuring

Foreign 
Currency

Operating revenue
Operating income

$  1,825 
472 
$ 

$  1,951 
522 
$ 

 (6.5) %
 (9.7) %

 (4.1) %
 (7.6) %

Operating margin %

 25.9 %

 26.8 % (90) bps

(100) bps

 (0.6) %
 — %

20 bps

 — %
 (0.5) %

 (1.8) %
 (1.6) %

Total

 (6.5) %
 (9.7) %

(10) bps  

— 

(90) bps

•

•
•

•

Operating revenue decreased in 2019 due to lower organic revenue, the unfavorable effect of foreign currency 
translation and the impact of divestiture activity.
Operating revenue for 2019 included $14 million related to the businesses divested in 2019.
Organic revenue decreased 4.1% in 2019. Consumables declined 5.8% primarily due to lower demand in North 
America and Europe. Equipment sales increased 2.2% primarily due to higher demand in North America, partially 
offset by a decline in Asia. Product line simplification activities reduced organic revenue by 100 basis points.

◦

◦

North American organic revenue decreased 3.1% primarily due to a decrease in the specialty films, labels 
and appliance businesses, partially offset by growth in the ground support equipment business and 
consumer packaging businesses.
International organic revenue decreased 5.6% primarily due to a decline in the specialty films, graphics, 
appliance and foils businesses in Europe.

Operating margin of 25.9% decreased 90 basis points primarily due to negative operating leverage of 90 basis 
points, product mix and higher employee-related expenses, partially offset by benefits from the Company's 
enterprise initiatives.

33

OTHER FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

•

•

•

•

Interest expense was $206 million in 2020, $221 million in 2019 and $257 million in 2018. Interest expense in 2020 
was $15 million lower than the previous year 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. Interest expense in 2019 was $36 million lower than 
2018 primarily due to the repayment of the $700 million notes due April 1, 2019 and the $650 million notes due 
March 1, 2019.
Other income (expense) was income of $28 million in 2020, $107 million in 2019 and $67 million in 2018. The 
income in 2020 decreased $79 million compared to the previous year 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 pension 
other net periodic benefit income. The income in 2019 increased $40 million compared to 2018 primarily due to the 
net pre-tax gain on the disposal of operations and affiliates in 2019.
The effective tax rate was 22.0% in 2020, 23.3% in 2019 and 24.5% in 2018. 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." The 2018 effective tax rate 
benefited from a discrete tax benefit of $37 million in the third quarter related to the release of a valuation allowance 
against the deferred tax assets of a non-U.S. subsidiary, which was partially offset by a discrete tax charge of $22 
million in the third quarter related to foreign tax credits. Additionally, the effective tax rates for 2020, 2019 and 
2018 included $27 million, $28 million and $10 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.
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. The impact of the Euro 
and other foreign currencies against the U.S. Dollar in 2019 versus 2018 decreased operating revenue and income 
before taxes by approximately $339 million and $84 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, 2020, the 
Company had $2.6 billion of cash and equivalents on hand, no outstanding borrowings under its $2.5 billion revolving credit 
facility, and no commercial paper outstanding. 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 that the Company temporarily suspended starting in March 2020 due to the 
COVID-19 pandemic.

Also, for the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Company has made the strategic decision to aggressively manage its 
discretionary costs and working capital, while staying invested in its businesses, people and strategies, so that the Company is 
positioned to fully support its customers in the recovery phase and can continue executing its long-term strategy to deliver 
differentiated long-term performance and returns.

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.

34

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, 2020, 2019 and 2018 was as follows:

In millions
Net cash provided by operating activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 
Additions to plant and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Free cash flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

Cash dividends paid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

Repurchases of common stock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Acquisition of businesses (excluding cash and equivalents) . . . . . .
Proceeds from sale of operations and affiliates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net proceeds (repayments) of debt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and equivalents . . . . . . . .
Net increase (decrease) in cash and equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 

2020

2019

2018

2,807  $ 
(236)   
2,571  $ 

(1,379)  $ 

(706)   

— 
1 
(4)   
61 
39 
583  $ 

2,995  $ 
(326)   
2,669  $ 

(1,321)  $ 

(1,500)   

(4)   

120 
422 
100 

(9)   
477  $ 

2,811 
(364) 
2,447 

(1,124) 

(2,000) 

— 
1 
(851) 
49 
(112) 
(1,590) 

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 and approximately 4.2 million shares of its common stock at an average price 
of $167.69 per share in the first quarter of 2020. As of December 31, 2020, there were approximately $1.2 billion of 
authorized repurchases remaining under the 2018 program. In 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Company 
temporarily suspended its share repurchase program starting in March and intends to resume purchases in 2021.

35

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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 a non-GAAP financial measure that the Company 
believes is a meaningful metric to investors in evaluating the Company's financial performance and may be different than the 
method used by other companies to calculate After-tax ROIC. For comparability, the Company excluded the third quarter 
2019 discrete tax benefit of $21 million from the effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2019. Additionally, the 
Company excluded the third quarter 2018 net discrete tax benefit of $15 million from the effective tax rate for the year ended 
December 31, 2018. Average invested capital represents the net assets of the Company, excluding cash and equivalents and 
outstanding debt, which are excluded as they do not represent capital investment in the Company's operations. Average 
invested capital is calculated using balances at the start of the period and at the end of each quarter. After-tax ROIC for the 
years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018 was as follows:

Dollars in millions
Operating income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
Tax rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Operating income after taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

2020

2019

2018

2,882 

$ 

3,402 

$ 

3,584 

 22.0 %

(633) 

 24.0 %

(815) 

 24.9 %

(893) 

2,249 

$ 

2,587 

$ 

2,691 

Invested capital:

Trade receivables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
Inventories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Net assets held for sale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net plant and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Goodwill and intangible assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Accounts payable and accrued expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Other, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Total invested capital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

2,506 

1,189 

— 

1,777 

5,471 

(1,818) 

(385) 

8,740 

Average invested capital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
After-tax return on average invested capital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

8,576 

 26.2 %

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

2,461 

1,164 

280 

1,729 

5,343 

(1,689) 

(481) 

8,807 

9,028 

 28.7 %

2,622 

1,318 

— 

1,791 

5,717 

(1,795) 

(519) 

9,134 

9,533 

 28.2 %

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. After-
tax ROIC increased 50 basis points for the twelve month period ended December 31, 2019 compared to the prior year period 
as a result of a 5.3% decrease in average invested capital versus a 3.9% decrease in after-tax operating income.

A reconciliation of the 2019 effective tax rate excluding the third quarter 2019 discrete tax benefit of $21 million is as 
follows:

Dollars in millions

Twelve Months Ended

December 31, 2019

Income Taxes

Tax Rate

As reported . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 

Discrete tax benefit related to third quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

As adjusted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 

767 

21 

788 

 23.3 %

 0.7 %

 24.0 %

36

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
A reconciliation of the 2018 effective tax rate excluding the third quarter 2018 net discrete tax benefit of $15 million is as 
follows:

Dollars in millions

Twelve Months Ended

December 31, 2018

Income Taxes

Tax Rate

As reported . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 

Net discrete tax benefit related to third quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

As adjusted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 

831 

15 

846 

 24.5 %

 0.4 %

 24.9 %

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, 2020 and 2019 is summarized as follows:

Dollars in millions
Current Assets:

Cash and equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
Trade receivables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Inventories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Assets held for sale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Current Liabilities:

Short-term debt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accounts payable and accrued expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Liabilities held for sale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net Working Capital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

2020

2019

Increase
(Decrease)

2,564  $ 
2,506 
1,189 
264 
— 
6,523 

350 
1,818 
— 
421 
2,589 
3,934  $ 

1,981  $ 
2,461 
1,164 
296 
351 
6,253 

4 
1,689 
71 
390 
2,154 
4,099  $ 

583 
45 
25 
(32) 
(351) 
270 

346 
129 
(71) 
31 
435 
(165) 

As of December 31, 2020, 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 long-term credit facilities, 
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.

37

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Debt

Total debt as of December 31, 2020 and 2019 was as follows:

In millions
Short-term debt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
Long-term debt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Total debt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

2020

2019

350  $ 

7,772 
8,122  $ 

4  $ 

7,754 
7,758  $ 

Increase
(Decrease)

346 
18 
364 

As of December 31, 2020, short-term debt included $350 million related to the 3.375% notes due September 15, 2021. As of 
December 31, 2019, short-term debt included $4 million related to the 4.88% notes due through December 31, 2020, which 
were repaid by the due date. There was no commercial paper outstanding as of December 31, 2020 and 2019. The increase in 
total debt as of December 31, 2020 was primarily due to the revaluation of the Company's Euro-denominated notes. Refer to 
Note 10. Debt in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for additional details regarding the Company's Euro 
notes.

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 to support the potential issuances of commercial paper. No amounts were 
outstanding under the revolving credit facility at December 31, 2020. The Company did not have any commercial paper 
outstanding during 2020.

As of December 31, 2020, the Company's foreign operations had authorized credit facilities with unused capacity of $195 
million.

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, 2020, 2019 and 2018 was as follows:

Dollars in millions
Total debt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

2020

2019

2018

8,122  $ 

7,758  $ 

7,380 

Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
Add:

Interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Other income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Depreciation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Amortization and impairment of intangible assets . . . . . . . . . .
EBITDA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
Total debt to EBITDA ratio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2,109  $ 

2,521  $ 

2,563 

206 

(28)   

595 

273 

154 

221 

(107)   

767 

267 

159 

3,309  $ 

3,828  $ 

2.5

2.0

257 

(67) 

831 

272 

189 

4,045 

1.8

38

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Stockholders' Equity

The changes to stockholders' equity during 2020 and 2019 were as follows:

In millions
Beginning balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Cash dividends declared . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Repurchases of common stock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Other comprehensive income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ending balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 

2020

2019

3,030  $ 
2,109 
(1,398)   
(706)   
63 
84 
3,182  $ 

3,258 
2,521 
(1,335) 
(1,500) 
(28) 
114 
3,030 

CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS AND OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

The Company's significant contractual obligations as of December 31, 2020 were as follows:

In millions
Principal payments on long-term debt . $ 
Interest payments on debt . . . . . . . . . . 
Noncurrent income taxes payable . . . .
Operating lease liability . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total contractual obligations . . . . . . . . $ 

2021

2022

2023

2024

2025

2026 and
Future
Years

350  $ 
199 
49 
58 
656  $ 

611  $ 
187 
49 
49 
896  $ 

611  $ 
176 
91 
37 
915  $ 

1,433  $ 
156 
122 
25 
1,736  $ 

—  $ 
142 
151 
14 
307  $ 

5,193 
1,537 
— 
15 
6,745 

As of December 31, 2020, the Company had recorded noncurrent liabilities for unrecognized tax benefits of $216 million. 
The Company is not able to reasonably estimate the timing of payments related to the liabilities for unrecognized tax benefits. 
The Company did not have any significant off-balance sheet commitments at December 31, 2020.

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 

39

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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, 2020, the Company had total goodwill and intangible assets of approximately $5.5 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 $238 million to $1.1 billion, with the average amount equal to $545 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 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 $40 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 $4 million.

ITEM 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

MARKET RISK 

The Company is exposed to certain market risks that exist as part of its ongoing business operations, including fluctuations in 
currency exchange rates, price volatility for certain commodities and changes in interest rates. The Company does not engage 
in speculative or leveraged transactions and does not hold or issue financial instruments for trading purposes.

Interest Rate Risk

The Company's exposure to market risk for changes in interest rates relates primarily to the fair value of the Company's fixed 
rate debt. Refer to Note 10. Debt in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplemental Data for details related to the fair value of 
the Company's debt instruments.

40

Foreign Currency Risk

The Company operates in the U.S. and 51 foreign countries. The funding for the foreign manufacturing operations is 
provided primarily through the permanent investment of equity capital. The Company's products are typically manufactured 
and sold within the same country or economic union. Therefore, the Company's manufacturing operations generally do not 
have significant assets or liabilities denominated in currencies other than their functional currencies.

The Company designated the €1.0 billion of Euro notes issued in May 2014, the €1.0 billion of Euro notes issued in May 
2015 and the €1.6 billion of Euro notes issued in June 2019 as hedges of a portion of its net investment in Euro-denominated 
foreign operations to reduce foreign currency risk associated with the investment in these operations. Changes in the value of 
this debt resulting from fluctuations in the Euro to U.S. Dollar exchange rate have been recorded as foreign currency 
translation adjustments within Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). The cumulative unrealized pre-tax gain 
(loss) recorded in Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) related to the net investment hedge was a loss of $120 
million as of December 31, 2020 and a gain of $239 million as of December 31, 2019.

41

ITEM 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

MANAGEMENT REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

The management of Illinois Tool Works Inc. (the "Company" or "ITW") is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate 
internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f). ITW's internal control system 
was designed to provide reasonable assurance to the Company's management and Board of Directors regarding the preparation 
and fair presentation of published financial statements.

All internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations. Therefore, even those systems determined to 
be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation.

ITW management assessed the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2020. 
In making this assessment, it used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway 
Commission (COSO) in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013). Based on our assessment we believe that, as of 
December 31, 2020, the Company's internal control over financial reporting is effective based on those criteria.

The effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2020 has been audited by 
Deloitte & Touche LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report herein.

/s/ E. Scott Santi
E. Scott Santi
Chairman & Chief Executive Officer
February 12, 2021

/s/ Michael M. Larsen
Michael M. Larsen
Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
February 12, 2021

42

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the stockholders and the Board of Directors of Illinois Tool Works Inc.

Opinions on the Financial Statements and Internal Control over Financial Reporting

We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of financial position of Illinois Tool Works Inc. and subsidiaries (the "Company") 
as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, the related consolidated statements of  income, comprehensive income, changes in stockholders' equity, and 
cash flows, for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2020, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the "financial 
statements"). We also have audited the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2020, based on criteria 
established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway 
Commission (COSO).

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of 
December 31, 2020 and 2019, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 
2020, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also, in our opinion, the Company 
maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2020, based on criteria established in 
Internal Control — Integrated Framework (2013) issued by COSO.

Basis for Opinions

The Company's management is responsible for these financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and 
for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management Report on Internal 
Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and an opinion on the Company's 
internal control over financial reporting based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting 
Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal 
securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain 
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud, and whether 
effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.

Our audits of the financial statements included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, 
whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures to respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, 
evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used 
and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our audit of internal 
control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material 
weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also 
included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable 
basis for our opinions.

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control over Financial Reporting

A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial 
reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A 
company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in 
reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance 
that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting 
principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and 
directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or 
disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any 
evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that 
the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

Critical Audit Matter

The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the current-period audit of the financial statements that was 
communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that (1) relates to accounts or disclosures that are material to the 
financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters 
does not alter in any way our opinion on the financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matter 
below, providing a separate opinion on the critical audit matter or on the accounts or disclosures to which it relates.

43

Income Taxes — Refer to Note 6 to the financial statements

Critical Audit Matter Description

The Company's income tax expense is recognized and measured based on management's interpretation of the tax regulations and rulings in 
numerous taxing jurisdictions, which requires significant judgment. When calculating income tax expense management makes estimates and 
assumptions, including determination of the completeness of book income in each jurisdiction, calculation of taxable income through 
identification and classification of book to tax differences (either temporary or permanent items), consideration of applicable tax deductions or 
credits, and the identification of uncertain tax positions.

The evaluation of each uncertain tax position requires management to apply specialized skill and knowledge related to the identified position. 
Management evaluates uncertain tax positions identified and a liability is established for unrecognized tax benefits when there is a more than 
50% likelihood that its tax position will not be sustained upon examination by taxing authorities. There is additional judgment to determine the 
amount of the liability for the underlying tax position. The Company's income tax expense for 2020 was $595 million and the liability recorded 
for unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2020, was $346 million.

Given the number of taxing jurisdictions and the complex and subjective nature of the associated tax regulations and rulings, certain audit 
matters required a high degree of auditor judgment and increased extent of effort, including the need to involve our income tax specialists. These 
matters included the auditing of income tax expense, identification of uncertain tax positions, measurement of unrecognized tax benefits, and 
certain planning transactions with income tax expense implications.

How the Critical Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit

With the assistance of our income tax specialists, our principal audit procedures related to income tax expense included the following, among 
others:

• We tested the effectiveness of management's controls over income taxes, including those over income tax expense, unrecognized tax 

benefits, and certain planning transactions with income tax expense implications.

• We evaluated management's significant estimates and judgments incorporated into the calculation of income tax expense by:

◦

◦
◦

Selecting a sample of book to tax differences (temporary and permanent) and testing the accuracy, completeness, and 
classification of the selections, including evaluating that all impacts of significant transactions with income tax expense 
implications are considered.
Developing an expectation over the foreign income tax expense by jurisdiction and comparing it to the recorded balance.   
Testing the accuracy of the income tax expense calculation.

• We evaluated management's significant judgments regarding the identification of uncertain tax positions by:

◦

◦
◦
◦

◦

Evaluating the reasonableness of a selection of certain planning transactions with income tax expense implications, 
including the completeness and accuracy of the underlying data supporting the transactions.
Assessing management's methods and assumptions used in identifying uncertain tax positions.
Comparing results of prior tax audits to ongoing and anticipated tax audits by tax authorities.            
Evaluating external information, including applicable tax law, new interpretations, and related changes to assess the 
completeness and reasonableness of management's considerations.
Determining if there was additional information not considered in management's assessment.

• We evaluated a sample of the liabilities recorded for unrecognized tax benefits to assess the establishment and amount of the liability 

for the specific underlying tax position.

/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Chicago, Illinois
February 12, 2021

We have served as the Company's auditor since 2002.

44

Statement of Income
Illinois Tool Works Inc. and Subsidiaries

For the Years Ended December 31
2019

2018

2020

In millions except per share amounts
Operating Revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
Cost of revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Selling, administrative, and research and development 

expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Amortization and impairment of intangible assets . . . . . . . . . .

Operating Income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

12,574  $ 

14,109  $ 

7,375 

2,163 

154 

2,882 

8,187 

2,361 

159 

3,402 

Interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

(206)   

(221)   

Other income (expense) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Income Before Taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net Income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 

28 

2,704 

595 

107 

3,288 

767 

2,109  $ 

2,521  $ 

14,768 

8,604 

2,391 

189 

3,584 

(257) 

67 

3,394 

831 

2,563 

Net Income Per Share:

Basic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 
Diluted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 

6.66  $ 

6.63  $ 

7.78  $ 

7.74  $ 

7.65 

7.60 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this statement.

45

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Statement of Comprehensive Income
Illinois Tool Works Inc. and Subsidiaries

In millions
Net Income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss):

Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of tax . . . . . . . . . .
Pension and other postretirement benefit adjustments, net of tax  
Comprehensive Income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

For the Years Ended December 31

2020

2019

2018

2,109  $ 

2,521  $ 

2,563 

4 
59 
2,172  $ 

(2)   
(26)   
2,493  $ 

(328) 
(17) 
2,218 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this statement.

46

 
 
 
 
 
Statement of Financial Position
Illinois Tool Works Inc. and Subsidiaries

In millions except per share amounts
Assets
Current Assets:

Cash and equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 
Trade receivables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inventories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Prepaid expenses and other current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Assets held for sale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Total current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net plant and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Goodwill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intangible assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Deferred income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Other assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 

Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity
Current Liabilities:

Short-term debt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
Accounts payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accrued expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Cash dividends payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income taxes payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Liabilities held for sale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Total current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Noncurrent Liabilities:

Long-term debt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Deferred income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Noncurrent income taxes payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Other liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Total noncurrent liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Stockholders' Equity:

Common stock (par value of $0.01 per share): 

December 31

2020

2019

2,564  $ 
2,506 
1,189 
264 
— 
6,523 

1,777 
4,690 
781 
533 
1,308 
15,612  $ 

350  $ 
534 
1,284 
361 
60 
— 
2,589 

7,772 
588 
413 
1,068 
9,841 

1,981 
2,461 
1,164 
296 
351 
6,253 

1,729 
4,492 
851 
516 
1,227 
15,068 

4 
472 
1,217 
342 
48 
71 
2,154 

7,754 
668 
462 
1,000 
9,884 

Issued- 550.0 shares in 2020 and 2019
Outstanding- 316.7 shares in 2020 and 319.8 shares in 2019 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Additional paid-in-capital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Retained earnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Common stock held in treasury . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Noncontrolling interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Total stockholders' equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

6 
1,362 
23,114 
(19,659)   
(1,642)   

1 
3,182 
15,612  $ 

6 
1,304 
22,403 
(18,982) 
(1,705) 
4 
3,030 
15,068 

$ 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this statement.

47

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Statement of Changes in Stockholders' Equity
Illinois Tool Works Inc. and Subsidiaries

In millions except per share amounts

Common 
Stock

Additional 
Paid-in 
Capital

Retained 
Earnings

Common 
Stock Held 
in Treasury

Accumulated 
Other 
Comprehensive 
Income (Loss)

Noncontrolling 
Interest

Total

Balance as of December 31, 2017 . . . . . . $ 

6  $ 

1,218  $ 

20,210  $ 

(15,562)  $ 

(1,287)  $ 

4  $ 

Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Adoption of new accounting 

guidance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Common stock issued for stock-

based compensation . . . . . . . . . . .

Stock-based compensation expense .

Repurchases of common stock . . . . .

Dividends declared ($3.56 per share)

Other comprehensive income (loss) .

Balance as of December 31, 2018 . . . . . .

Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Common stock issued for stock-

based compensation . . . . . . . . . . .

Stock-based compensation expense .

Repurchases of common stock . . . . .

Dividends declared ($4.14 per share)

Other comprehensive income (loss) .

Noncontrolling interest . . . . . . . . . . .

Balance as of December 31, 2019 . . . . . .

Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Common stock issued for stock-

based compensation . . . . . . . . . . .

Stock-based compensation expense .

Repurchases of common stock . . . . .

Dividends declared ($4.42 per share)

Other comprehensive income (loss) .

Noncontrolling interest . . . . . . . . . . .

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

6 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

6 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

(5)   

40 

— 

— 

— 

1,253 

— 

11 

41 

— 

— 

— 

(1)   

1,304 

— 

17 

42 

— 

— 

— 

(1)   

2,563 

(370)   

— 

— 

— 

(1,186)   

— 

21,217 

2,521 

— 

— 

— 

(1,335)   

— 

— 

22,403 

2,109 

— 

— 

— 

(1,398)   

— 

— 

— 

— 

17 

— 

(2,000)   

— 

— 

(17,545)   

— 

63 

— 

(1,500)   

— 

— 

— 

— 

(45)   

— 

— 

— 

— 

(345)   

(1,677)   

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

(28)   

— 

(18,982)   

(1,705)   

— 

29 

— 

(706)   

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

63 

— 

Balance as of December 31, 2020 . . . . . . $ 

6  $ 

1,362  $ 

23,114  $ 

(19,659)  $ 

(1,642)  $ 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this statement.

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

4 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

4 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

(3)   

1  $ 

4,589 

2,563 

(415) 

12 

40 

(2,000) 

(1,186) 

(345) 

3,258 

2,521 

74 

41 

(1,500) 

(1,335) 

(28) 

(1) 

3,030 

2,109 

46 

42 

(706) 

(1,398) 

63 

(4) 

3,182 

48

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Statement of Cash Flows
Illinois Tool Works Inc. and Subsidiaries

In millions
Cash Provided by (Used for) Operating Activities:

For the Years Ended December 31

2020

2019

2018

Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities:

2,109  $ 

2,521  $ 

2,563 

Depreciation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Amortization and impairment of intangible assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Change in deferred income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Provision for uncollectible accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
(Income) loss from investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(Gain) loss on sale of plant and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
(Gain) loss on sale of operations and affiliates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Stock-based compensation expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other non-cash items, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Change in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions and divestitures:

(Increase) decrease in—

Trade receivables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Inventories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Prepaid expenses and other assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Increase (decrease) in—

Accounts payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accrued expenses and other liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Net cash provided by operating activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Cash Provided by (Used for) Investing Activities:

Acquisition of businesses (excluding cash and equivalents) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Additions to plant and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Proceeds from investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Proceeds from sale of plant and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Proceeds from sale of operations and affiliates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Other, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Cash Provided by (Used for) Financing Activities:

Cash dividends paid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Issuance of common stock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Repurchases of common stock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net proceeds from (repayments of) debt with original maturities of three months or less 
Proceeds from debt with original maturities of more than three months . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Repayments of debt with original maturities of more than three months . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Other, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Effect of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash and Equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash and Equivalents:

273 
154 
(30) 
7 
(8) 
2 
— 
42 
8 

95 
43 
41 

19 
17 
34 
1 
2,807 

— 
(236) 
14 
10 
1 
(3) 
(214) 

(1,379) 
66 
(706) 
— 
— 
(4) 
(26) 
(2,049) 
39 

267 
159 
32 
6 
(15) 
(9) 
(44) 
41 
9 

40 
98 
11 

(16) 
(95) 
(7) 
(3) 
2,995 

(4) 
(326) 
20 
25 
120 
(18) 
(183) 

(1,321) 
85 
(1,500) 
(1) 
1,774 
(1,351) 
(12) 
(2,326) 
(9) 

Increase (decrease) during the year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Beginning of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
End of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

583 
1,981 
2,564  $ 

477 
1,504 
1,981  $ 

Supplementary Cash Flow Information:

272 
189 
34 
5 
(9) 
(7) 
2 
40 
10 

(60) 
(108) 
3 

(46) 
(36) 
(41) 
— 
2,811 

— 
(364) 
16 
26 
1 
(4) 
(325) 

(1,124) 
22 
(2,000) 
(850) 
— 
(1) 
(11) 
(3,964) 
(112) 

(1,590) 
3,094 
1,504 

Cash Paid During the Year for Interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
Cash Paid During the Year for Income Taxes, Net of Refunds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

194  $ 
591  $ 

223  $ 
742  $ 

247 
838 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this statement.

49

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(1)  

Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Notes to Financial Statements

Description of business— Illinois Tool Works Inc. (the "Company" or "ITW") is a global manufacturer of a diversified 
range of industrial products and equipment with approximately 83 divisions in 52 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.

Consolidation and translation— The financial statements include the Company and its majority-owned subsidiaries. The 
Company follows the equity method of accounting for investments where the Company has a significant influence but not a 
controlling interest. Intercompany transactions are eliminated from the financial statements. Foreign subsidiaries’ assets and 
liabilities are translated to U.S. dollars at end-of-period exchange rates. Revenues and expenses are translated at average rates 
for the period. Translation adjustments are reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in 
stockholders’ equity.

Reclassifications— Certain reclassifications of prior year data have been made to conform to current year reporting.

Use of estimates— The preparation of the Company's financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting 
principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial 
statements and the notes to financial statements. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Acquisitions— The Company accounts for acquisitions under the acquisition method, in which assets acquired and liabilities 
assumed are recorded at fair value as of the date of acquisition. The operating results of the acquired companies are included 
in the Company’s consolidated financial statements from the date of acquisition.

Operating revenue— Operating revenue is recognized at the time a good or service is transferred to a customer and the 
customer obtains control of that good or receives the service performed. The Company's sales arrangements with customers 
are predominantly short-term in nature involving a single performance obligation related to the delivery of products and 
generally provide for transfer of control at the time of shipment. In limited circumstances, arrangements may include service 
performed over time, or there may be significant obligations to the customer that are unfulfilled at the time of shipment, 
typically involving installation of equipment and customer acceptance. In these circumstances, operating revenue may be 
recognized over time as the service is provided to the customer or deferred until all significant obligations have been 
completed. The amount of operating revenue recorded reflects the consideration to which the Company expects to be entitled 
in exchange for goods or services and may include adjustments for customer allowances and rebates. Customer allowances 
and rebates consist primarily of volume discounts and other short-term incentive programs, which are estimated at the time of 
sale based on historical experience and anticipated trends. Shipping and handling charges billed to customers are included in 
revenue and are recognized along with the related product revenue as they are considered a fulfillment cost. Sales 
commissions are expensed when incurred, which is generally at the time of revenue recognition. Contract liabilities 
associated with sales arrangements primarily relate to deferred revenue on equipment sales and prepaid service contracts. 
Total deferred revenue and customer deposits were $222 million and $188 million as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, 
respectively, and are short-term in nature. Refer to Note 4. Operating Revenue for additional information regarding the 
Company's operating revenue.

Research and development expenses— Research and development expenses are recorded as expense in the year incurred. 
These costs were $214 million, $221 million and $233 million for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, 
respectively.

Advertising expenses— Advertising expenses are recorded as expense in the year incurred. These costs were $43 million, 
$48 million and $50 million for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively.

Income taxes— The Company utilizes the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes. Deferred income taxes 
are determined based on the estimated future tax effects of differences between the financial and tax bases of assets and 
liabilities given the provisions of the enacted tax laws. Valuation allowances are established when it is estimated that it is 
more likely than not that the tax benefit of the deferred tax asset will not be realized.

50

Cash and equivalents— Cash and equivalents include cash on hand and instruments having original maturities of three 
months or less. Cash and equivalents are stated at cost, which approximates fair value.

Trade receivables— Trade receivables are net of allowances for doubtful accounts. Prior to 2018, the allowance for doubtful 
accounts included reserves for uncollectible accounts and customer credits. Under the new revenue guidance adopted on 
January 1, 2018, the reserve for customer credits is reported as a liability and included in Accrued expenses in the Statement 
of Financial Position. Accordingly, after January 1, 2018, the allowance for doubtful accounts was comprised of reserves for 
uncollectible accounts. The changes in the allowance for doubtful accounts for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 
2018 were as follows:

In millions
Beginning balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 
Adoption of new revenue recognition guidance . . . . . . . . . . . 

Provision charged to expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Write-offs, net of recoveries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transfer (to)/from assets held for sale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Foreign currency translation/other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ending balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 

2020

2019

2018

20  $ 

— 
7 
(4)   
2 
4 
29  $ 

21  $ 

— 
6 
(4)   
(2)   
(1)   
20  $ 

43 

(23) 
5 
(3) 
— 
(1) 
21 

Inventories— Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value and include material, labor and factory 
overhead. The last-in, first-out ("LIFO") method is used to determine the cost of inventories at certain U.S. businesses. The 
first-in, first-out ("FIFO") method, which approximates current cost, is used for all other inventories. Inventories priced at 
LIFO were approximately 19% of total inventories as of December 31, 2020 and 23% of total inventories as of December 31, 
2019. If the FIFO method was used for all inventories, total inventories would have been approximately $82 million and $89 
million higher than reported at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The major classes of inventory at December 31, 
2020 and 2019 were as follows:

In millions
Raw material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 
Work-in-process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Finished goods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
LIFO reserve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total inventories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

2020

2019

454  $ 
136 
681 
(82)   
1,189  $ 

452 
131 
670 
(89) 
1,164 

Net plant and equipment— Net plant and equipment are stated at cost, less accumulated depreciation. Renewals and 
improvements that increase the useful life of plant and equipment are capitalized. Maintenance and repairs are charged to 
expense as incurred. Net plant and equipment consisted of the following at December 31, 2020 and 2019:

In millions
Land . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
Buildings and improvements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Machinery and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Construction in progress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gross plant and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accumulated depreciation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Net plant and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

2020

2019

204  $ 

1,432 
3,824 
133 
5,593 
(3,816)   
1,777  $ 

186 
1,357 
3,551 
133 
5,227 
(3,498) 
1,729 

51

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The Company's U.S. businesses primarily compute depreciation on an accelerated basis. The majority of the Company's 
international businesses compute depreciation on a straight-line basis. The ranges of useful lives used to depreciate plant and 
equipment are as follows:

Buildings and improvements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Machinery and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

5—50 years
3—12 years

Depreciation was $273 million, $267 million and $272 million for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, 
respectively.

Goodwill and intangible assets— Goodwill represents the excess cost over fair value of the net assets of acquired 
businesses. The Company does not amortize goodwill and intangible assets that have indefinite lives. Amortizable intangible 
assets are being amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives of 3 to 20 years. 

The Company performs an impairment assessment of goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives annually, or more 
frequently if triggering events occur, based on the estimated fair value of the related reporting unit or intangible asset. Fair 
value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction 
between market participants. 

When performing its annual impairment assessment, the Company evaluates the goodwill assigned to each of its reporting 
units for potential impairment by comparing the estimated fair value of the relevant reporting unit to the carrying value. The 
Company uses various Level 2 and Level 3 valuation techniques to determine the fair value of its reporting units, including 
discounting estimated future cash flows based on a cash flow forecast prepared by the relevant reporting unit and market 
multiples of relevant public companies. If the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value, a goodwill 
impairment loss is recorded for the difference.

The Company's indefinite-lived intangible assets consist of trademarks and brands. The estimated fair values of these 
intangible assets are determined based on a Level 3 valuation method using a relief-from-royalty income approach derived 
from internally forecasted revenues of the related products. If the fair value of the trademark or brand is less than its carrying 
value, an impairment loss is recorded for the difference between the estimated fair value and carrying value of the intangible 
asset.

Accrued warranties— The Company accrues for product warranties based on historical experience. The changes in accrued 
warranties for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 were as follows:

In millions
Beginning balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 
Charges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Provision charged to expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreign currency translation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ending balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 

2020

2019

2018

45  $ 
(34)   
33 
1 
45  $ 

45  $ 
(44)   
44 
— 
45  $ 

45 
(49) 
50 
(1) 
45 

New Accounting Pronouncements

Adopted in 2018

In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the "FASB") issued authoritative guidance to change the criteria for 
revenue recognition. The core principle of the new guidance is that revenue should be recognized to depict the transfer of 
control of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to 
be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The Company's sales arrangements with customers are predominantly 
short-term in nature and generally provide for transfer of control and risks and rewards of ownership at the time of product 
shipment or delivery of service. As such, the timing of revenue recognition under both the prior and new guidance is the same 
for the majority of the Company's transactions. Effective January 1, 2018, the Company adopted the new revenue recognition 
guidance under the modified retrospective method and recorded a cumulative-effect adjustment reducing retained earnings by 
$9 million as of January 1, 2018.

52

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
In October 2016, the FASB issued authoritative guidance requiring the recognition of the income tax consequences of an 
intra-entity transfer of an asset, other than inventory, when the transfer occurs rather than when transferred to a third party as 
required under the prior guidance. The provisions of the new guidance are being applied prospectively to intra-entity asset 
transfers on or after January 1, 2018 and may result in future tax rate volatility. Upon adoption of the new guidance on 
January 1, 2018, the Company recorded a cumulative-effect adjustment reducing deferred tax assets and retained earnings by 
$406 million.

In February 2018, the FASB issued authoritative guidance which allows for an optional one-time reclassification of the 
stranded tax effects resulting from the change in the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate under the "Tax Cuts and Jobs 
Act" (the "Act") from accumulated other comprehensive income ("AOCI") to retained earnings. The guidance was effective 
January 1, 2019, with early adoption permitted. The Company elected to early adopt this guidance as of January 1, 2018 and 
to reclassify the stranded tax effects related to the Act, which resulted in an increase of $45 million to both retained earnings 
and accumulated other comprehensive loss.

Adopted in 2019

In February 2016, the FASB issued authoritative guidance to change the criteria for recognizing leasing transactions. The 
primary change under the new guidance is that a lessee is required to recognize a lease liability and corresponding right-of-
use asset for its operating leases. The new guidance also requires additional disclosures. Effective January 1, 2019, the 
Company adopted the new guidance prospectively for all operating lease transactions as of and after the effective date with a 
noncancellable lease term greater than one year. Upon adoption, the Company recorded an operating lease liability of $205 
million and a corresponding right-of-use asset. The new guidance did not have a material impact on the results of operations 
or cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2019. Refer to Note 9. Leases for additional information regarding the 
Company's lease transactions.

Adopted in 2020

In June 2016, the FASB issued authoritative guidance which changes the methodology used to measure credit losses for 
certain financial instruments. Under prior guidance, credit loss reserves were estimated based on historical information. The 
new guidance requires credit loss reserves to reflect the estimated credit losses expected to be incurred over the life of the 
financial asset. The Company adopted this new guidance effective January 1, 2020 and applied it prospectively, which did 
not have a material impact on the Company's results of operations or financial position.

In January 2017, the FASB issued authoritative guidance which simplifies the assessment of goodwill for impairment. Under 
prior guidance, when the estimated fair value of a reporting unit was less than its carrying value, the fair value of the goodwill 
was determined by valuing the other assets and liabilities of the reporting unit. Under the new guidance, the requirement to 
determine the fair value of goodwill has been eliminated, and an impairment charge is recognized for the amount that the 
carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value. Effective January 1, 2020, the Company adopted the new guidance 
prospectively and applied the new guidance during its annual assessment of goodwill in the third quarter of 2020. The 
adoption of this new accounting guidance had no impact on the Company's results of operations or financial position. Refer 
to Note 8. Goodwill and Intangible Assets for additional information regarding the Company's annual assessment of 
goodwill.

In August 2018, the FASB issued new accounting guidance which revised certain annual disclosure requirements for defined 
benefit pension and other postretirement plans with the objective of improving the effectiveness of these disclosures. The new 
guidance eliminates several existing disclosure requirements, adds or expands other disclosures, and is required to be applied 
retrospectively to all periods presented. The Company adopted the new guidance for the year ended December 31, 2020, 
which resulted in modified disclosures. Refer to Note 11. Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits for disclosures related to 
the Company's defined benefit pension and other postretirement benefit plans.

In December 2019, the FASB issued authoritative guidance which simplifies certain aspects of the accounting for income 
taxes, including the elimination of an exception to the methodology for calculating income taxes in an interim period when a 
year-to-date loss exceeds the anticipated full year loss. The Company early adopted this new guidance effective January 1, 
2020 and applied it prospectively, which did not have a material impact on the Company's results of operations or financial 
position.

53

(2) 

Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

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. The 
Company expects the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 outbreak to continue to have an adverse impact on the Company's 
operating results in 2021. However, the full extent of the COVID-19 outbreak and its impact on the markets served by the 
Company and on the Company’s operations continues to be highly uncertain. A prolonged outbreak will continue to interrupt 
the operations of the Company and its customers and suppliers.

(3) 

Divestitures

The Company routinely reviews its portfolio of businesses relative to its business portfolio criteria and evaluates if further 
portfolio refinements may be needed. The Company previously communicated its intent to explore options, including 
potential divestitures, for certain businesses with annual revenues totaling up to $1 billion. As such, the Company may 
commit to a plan to exit or dispose of certain businesses and present them as held for sale in periods prior to the sale of the 
business.

In the second quarter of 2019, the Company approved plans to divest six businesses, including two businesses in the Test & 
Measurement and Electronics segment, one business in the Automotive OEM segment, one business in the Welding segment, 
and two businesses in the Specialty Products segment. These six businesses were classified as held for sale beginning in the 
second quarter of 2019. In the fourth quarter of 2019, the Company divested three of the held for sale businesses which 
included one business in the Test & Measurement and Electronics segment, one business in the Welding segment, and one 
business in the Specialty Products segment.

For the twelve months ended December 31, 2019, the Company recorded net pre-tax gains on disposal of businesses of $44 
million ($30 million after-tax, or $0.09 per diluted share) which was primarily due to the three divestitures of held for sale 
businesses discussed above. The net pre-tax gain was included in Other income (expense) in the Statement of Income.

Operating revenue related to businesses divested in 2019 that was included in the Company's results of operations for the 
twelve months ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 was $134 million and $194 million, respectively. The operating revenue 
for the twelve months ended December 31, 2019 of $134 million related to the businesses divested in 2019 included $62 
million in the Welding segment, $58 million in the Test & Measurement and Electronics segment, and $14 million in the 
Specialty Products segment.

54

As of December 31, 2019, three of the businesses discussed above continued to be held for sale, including one business in the 
Test & Measurement and Electronics segment, one business in the Automotive OEM segment, and one business in the 
Specialty Products segment. The assets and liabilities related to the held for sale businesses that were included in assets and 
liabilities held for sale in the Statement of Financial Position as of December 31, 2019, were as follows:

In millions

Trade receivables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 

Inventories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Net plant and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Goodwill and intangible assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total assets held for sale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 

Accounts payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

Accrued expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total liabilities held for sale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

81 

28 

48 

166 

28 

351 

21 

17 

33 

71 

In the first quarter of 2020, the Company concluded that the sales of the one business in the Automotive OEM segment and 
the one business in the Specialty Products segment previously held for sale were no longer probable of being completed 
within one year, primarily due to the disruptions and economic uncertainty resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. In the 
third quarter of 2020, the Company concluded that the sale of the remaining held for sale business in the Test & Measurement 
and Electronics segment was no longer probable of being completed within one year due to delays in the sale process and 
ongoing economic uncertainty resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. Accordingly, these businesses were no longer 
presented as held for sale in the Statement of Financial Position beginning in the first and third quarters of 2020, respectively. 
As of December 31, 2020, no businesses were presented as held for sale. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the 
Company has deferred any further significant divestiture activity until market conditions normalize.

(4)  

Operating Revenue

The Company's 83 diversified operating divisions 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. Operating 
revenue by product category, which is consistent with the Company's segment presentation, for the twelve months ended 
December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 was as follows:

In millions
Automotive OEM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
Food Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Test & Measurement and Electronics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Welding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Polymers & Fluids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Construction Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Specialty Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intersegment revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total operating revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

2020

2019

2018

2,571  $ 
1,739 
1,963 
1,384 
1,622 
1,652 
1,660 

(17)   
12,574  $ 

3,063  $ 
2,188 
2,121 
1,638 
1,669 
1,625 
1,825 

(20)   
14,109  $ 

3,338 
2,214 
2,171 
1,691 
1,724 
1,700 
1,951 
(21) 
14,768 

The following is a description of the product offerings, end markets and typical revenue transactions for each of the 
Company's seven segments:

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 

55

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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.

Products sold in this segment are primarily manufactured to the customer's specifications and are sold under long-term supply 
agreements with OEM auto manufacturers and other top tier auto parts suppliers. The Company typically recognizes revenue 
for products in this segment at the time of shipment. Certain products may be produced utilizing tooling that is owned by the 
customer that the Company developed and is reimbursed by the customer for the associated cost. In these arrangements, the 
Company typically retains a contractual right to use the customer-owned tooling for the purpose of fulfilling its obligations 
under the supply agreement. The Company records reimbursements for the cost of customer-owned tooling as a cost offset 
rather than operating revenue as tooling is not considered a product offering central to the Company's operations.

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.

Revenue for equipment sold in this segment is typically recognized at the time of product shipment. In limited circumstances 
involving installation of equipment and customer acceptance, the Company may recognize revenue upon completion of 
installation and acceptance by the customer. Annual service contracts are typically sold separate from equipment and the 
related revenue is recognized on a straight-line basis over the annual service period. Operating revenue for on-demand service 
repairs and parts is recorded upon completion and customer acceptance of the work performed.

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, industrial capital 
goods, automotive original equipment manufacturers and tiers, 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.

Revenue for products sold in this segment is typically recognized at the time of shipment. In limited circumstances where 
significant obligations to the customer are unfulfilled at the time of shipment, typically involving installation of equipment 
and customer acceptance, revenue recognition is deferred until such obligations have been completed.

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.

56

Products in this segment are primarily manufactured to meet anticipated customer demand. The Company typically 
recognizes revenue for these products at the time of product shipment.

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.

Products in this segment are primarily manufactured to meet anticipated customer demand. The Company typically 
recognizes revenue for these products at the time of product shipment.

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.
•

Products in this segment are primarily manufactured to meet anticipated customer demand. The Company typically 
recognizes revenue for these products at the time of product shipment.

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;
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.

Products in this segment are primarily manufactured to meet anticipated customer demand. The Company typically 
recognizes revenue for these products at the time of product shipment. In limited circumstances where significant obligations 
to the customer are unfulfilled at the time of shipment, typically involving installation of equipment and customer acceptance, 
revenue is recognized when such obligations have been completed.

57

 
(5)  

Other Income (Expense)

Other income (expense) for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 consisted of the following:

In millions
Interest income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
Other net periodic benefit income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income (loss) from investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Gain (loss) on disposal of operations and affiliates . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equity income in Wilsonart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gain (loss) on foreign currency transactions, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Other, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total other income (expense) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 

2020

2019

2018

17  $ 
13 
8 
— 
— 
(5)   
(5)   
28  $ 

29  $ 
24 
15 
44 
— 
(10)   
5 
107  $ 

35 
20 
9 
(2) 
— 
(1) 
6 
67 

Refer to Note 3. Divestitures for further information regarding the Gain (loss) on disposal of operations and affiliates of $44 
million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2019.

In the fourth quarter of 2012, the Company divested a 51% majority interest in its former Decorative Surfaces segment to 
certain funds managed by Clayton, Dubilier & Rice, LLC ("CD&R"). As a result of the transaction, the Company owns 
common units (the "Common Units") of Wilsonart International Holdings LLC ("Wilsonart") initially representing 
approximately 49% (on an as-converted basis) of the total outstanding equity. CD&R owns cumulative convertible 
participating preferred units (the "Preferred Units") of Wilsonart representing approximately 51% (on an as-converted basis) 
of the total outstanding equity. The Preferred Units rank senior to the Common Units as to dividends and liquidation 
preference, and accrue dividends at a rate of 10% per annum. The ownership interest in Wilsonart is reported using the equity 
method of accounting. The Company's proportionate share in the income (loss) of Wilsonart is reported in Other income 
(expense) in the Statement of Income. As the Company's investment in Wilsonart is structured as a partnership for U.S. tax 
purposes, U.S. taxes are recorded separately from the equity investment. In 2016, the Company received a $167 million 
dividend distribution from Wilsonart which exceeded the Company's equity investment balance and resulted in a $54 million 
pre-tax gain in 2016. As a result of the dividend distribution, the equity investment balance in Wilsonart was reduced to zero 
and any subsequent equity investment income will not be recognized until the gain is recaptured.

(6)  

Income Taxes

Noncurrent income taxes payable— On December 22, 2017, the "Tax Cuts and Jobs Act" (the "Act") was enacted in the 
United States. The provisions of the Act significantly revised the U.S. corporate income tax rules. In connection with the 
enactment of the Act, the Company recorded a one-time additional income tax expense of $676 million in the fourth quarter 
of 2017 related to a one-time repatriation tax on the deemed repatriation of post-1986 undistributed earnings of foreign 
subsidiaries. A portion of the resulting income taxes payable can be paid in installments over eight years. The noncurrent 
income taxes payable related to the one-time repatriation tax was $413 million and $462 million as of December 31, 2020 
and 2019, respectively.

58

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Provision for income taxes— The components of the provision for income taxes for the twelve months ended December 31, 
2020, 2019 and 2018 were as follows:

In millions
U.S. federal income taxes:

2020

2019

2018

Current . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
Deferred . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Total U.S. federal income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

301  $ 

(54)   

247 

356  $ 

(26)   

330 

Foreign income taxes:

Current . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Deferred . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Total foreign income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

State income taxes:

Current . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Deferred . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Total state income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total provision for income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

276 

15 

291 

48 

9 

57 

302 

53 

355 

77 

5 

82 

595  $ 

767  $ 

373 

(15) 

358 

358 

49 

407 

66 

— 

66 

831 

Income before taxes for domestic and foreign operations for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 
was as follows:

In millions
Domestic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
Foreign . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total income before taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

2020

2019

2018

1,419  $ 
1,285 
2,704  $ 

1,774  $ 
1,514 
3,288  $ 

1,774 
1,620 
3,394 

The reconciliation between the U.S. federal statutory tax rate and the effective tax rate for the twelve months ended 
December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 was as follows:

U.S. federal statutory tax rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
U.S. tax effect of foreign earnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Changes in tax law . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

State income taxes, net of U.S. federal tax benefit . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Differences between U.S. federal statutory and foreign tax rates . .
Nontaxable foreign interest income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Tax effect of foreign dividends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreign derived intangible income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation  . . . . . . . . . . . 
Other, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Effective tax rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2020

2019

2018

 21.0 %

 21.0 %

 21.0 %

 1.0 
 (1.5) 

 1.9 
 2.0 

 (2.0) 
 1.6 
 (1.3) 
 (1.0) 
 0.3 
 22.0 %

 1.1 
 — 

 1.7 
 2.0 

 (1.4) 
 0.2 
 (0.1) 
 (0.9) 
 (0.3) 
 23.3 %

 1.5 
 (0.1) 

 1.6 
 2.1 

 (1.7) 
 1.0 
 (0.7) 
 (0.3) 
 0.1 
 24.5 %

The Company's effective tax rate for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 was 22.0%, 23.3% and 
24.5%, respectively. 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 Act. The 2018 
effective tax rate benefited from a discrete tax benefit of $37 million in the third quarter related to the release of a valuation 
allowance against the deferred tax assets of a non-U.S. subsidiary, which was partially offset by a discrete tax charge of $22 
million in the third quarter related to foreign tax credits. Additionally, the effective tax rates for 2020, 2019 and 2018 
included $27 million, $28 million and $10 million, respectively, related to excess tax benefits from stock-based 
compensation.

59

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Upon repatriation of foreign earnings to the U.S., the Company may be subject to foreign withholding taxes. The accrual for 
foreign withholding taxes related to the expected repatriation of foreign held cash and equivalents as of December 31, 2020 
and 2019 was $55 million and $62 million, respectively.

Deferred foreign withholding taxes have not been provided on undistributed earnings considered permanently invested. As of 
December 31, 2020, undistributed earnings of certain international subsidiaries that are considered permanently invested were 
approximately $6 billion. Determination of the related deferred tax liability is not practicable because of the complexities 
associated with the hypothetical calculation.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities— The components of deferred income tax assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2020 
and 2019 were as follows:

In millions
Goodwill and intangible assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 
Inventory reserves, capitalized tax cost and LIFO inventory  
Investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Plant and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accrued expenses and reserves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Employee benefit accruals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Foreign tax credit carryforwards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Net operating loss carryforwards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Capital loss carryforwards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Allowances for uncollectible accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pension liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Unrealized loss (gain) on foreign debt instruments . . . . . . . 
Operating leases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gross deferred income tax assets (liabilities) . . . . . . . . . . 
Valuation allowances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total deferred income tax assets (liabilities) . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

2020

2019

Asset

Liability

Asset

Liability 

292  $ 
31 
10 
16 
37 
168 
12 
418 
88 
10 
— 
29 
48 
32 
1,191 
(427)   
764  $ 

(476)  $ 
(3)   
(156)   
(91)   
— 
— 
— 
— 
— 
— 
(27)   
— 
(48)   
(18)   
(819)   
— 
(819)  $ 

202  $ 
29 
16 
17 
42 
176 
7 
419 
80 
9 
— 
— 
45 
32 
1,074 
(408)   
666  $ 

(453) 
(3) 
(158) 
(74) 
— 
— 
— 
— 
— 
— 
(15) 
(57) 
(45) 
(13) 
(818) 
— 
(818) 

The valuation allowances recorded as of December 31, 2020 and 2019 related primarily to certain net operating loss 
carryforwards, capital loss carryforwards and foreign tax credit carryforwards. As of December 31, 2020, the Company had 
utilized all realizable foreign tax credit carryforwards.

As of December 31, 2020, the Company had net operating loss carryforwards available to offset future taxable income in the 
U.S. and certain foreign jurisdictions, which expire as follows:

In millions
2021 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
2022 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

2023 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

2024 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

2025 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
2026-2046 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Do not expire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Total gross carryforwards related to net operating losses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

60

Gross Carryforwards
Related to Net
Operating Losses

80 

22 

5 

12 

2 

138 

1,396 

1,655 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Unrecognized tax benefits— The changes in the amount of unrecognized tax benefits for the twelve months ended 
December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 were as follows:

In millions
Beginning balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 
Additions based on tax positions related to the current year . . 
Additions for tax positions of prior years . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Reductions for tax positions of prior years . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Settlements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreign currency translation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ending balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 

2020

2019

2018

296  $ 
74 
39 
(47)   
(23)   
7 
346  $ 

297  $ 
6 
13 
(14)   
(5)   
(1)   
296  $ 

285 
3 
49 
(31) 
(5) 
(4) 
297 

Included in the balance as of December 31, 2020 were approximately $312 million of unrecognized tax benefits that, if 
recognized, would impact the Company’s effective tax rate.

The Company and its subsidiaries file tax returns in the U.S. and various state, local and foreign jurisdictions. These tax 
returns are routinely audited by the tax authorities in these jurisdictions including the Internal Revenue Service, Her Majesty's 
Revenue and Customs, German Fiscal Authority, French Fiscal Authority, and Australian Tax Office, and a number of these 
audits are currently ongoing, which may increase the amount of the unrecognized tax benefits in future periods. Due to the 
ongoing audits, the Company believes it is reasonably possible that within the next twelve months the amount of the 
Company's unrecognized tax benefits may be decreased by approximately $89 million related predominantly to various 
intercompany transactions. The Company has recorded its best estimate of the potential exposure for these issues. The 
following table summarizes the open tax years for the Company’s major jurisdictions:

Jurisdiction
United States – Federal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
United Kingdom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Germany . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
France . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Australia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Open Tax Years
2017-2020
2017-2020
2015-2020
2017-2020
2013-2020

The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to income tax matters in income tax expense. The accrual for interest 
and penalties as of December 31, 2020 and 2019 was $34 million and $19 million, respectively.

61

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(7) 

Net Income Per Share

Net income per basic share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of shares outstanding for 
the period. Net income per diluted share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of shares 
assuming dilution for stock options and restricted stock units. Dilutive shares reflect the potential additional shares that would 
be outstanding if the dilutive stock options outstanding were exercised and the unvested restricted stock units vested during 
the period. The computation of net income per share for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 was as 
follows:

In millions except per share amounts
Net Income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
Net income per share—Basic:

Weighted-average common shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income per share—Basic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

Net income per share—Diluted:

Weighted-average common shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Effect of dilutive stock options and restricted stock units . . . .
Weighted-average common shares assuming dilution . . . . . . .
Net income per share—Diluted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 

2020

2019

2018

2,109  $ 

2,521  $ 

2,563 

316.9 
6.66  $ 

316.9 
1.4 
318.3 
6.63  $ 

323.9 
7.78  $ 

323.9 
1.7 
325.6 
7.74  $ 

335.0 
7.65 

335.0 
2.1 
337.1 
7.60 

Options that were considered antidilutive were not included in the computation of diluted net income per share. There were 
0.5 million, 0.9 million and 0.5 million antidilutive options outstanding as of December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, 
respectively.

(8)  

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 were as follows:

In millions
Balance, December 31, 2018 . . $ 
Acquisitions / (divestitures) . . 
Transfer to assets held for sale 

Foreign currency translation . . 
Balance, December 31, 2019 . .

Transfer from assets held for 

sale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreign currency translation . . 

Balance, December 31, 2020 . . $ 
Cumulative goodwill 

impairment charges, 
December 31, 2020 . . . . . . . $ 

Automotive 
OEM

Test & 
Measurement 
and Electronics

Food 
Equipment

Polymers & 
Fluids

Welding

Construction 
Products

Specialty 
Products

Total

476  $ 

1,352  $ 

259  $ 

889  $ 

263  $ 

513  $ 

881  $ 

4,633 

— 

(5) 

(5) 

466 

5 

20 

2 

(109) 

— 

1,245 

83 

19 

— 

— 

(3) 

— 

— 

(2) 

— 

(4) 

(1) 

— 

— 

(1) 

(1) 

(8) 

(4) 

1 

(126) 

(16) 

256 

887 

258 

512 

868 

4,492 

— 

15 

— 

6 

— 

9 

— 

19 

7 

15 

95 

103 

491  $ 

1,347  $ 

271  $ 

893  $ 

267  $ 

531  $ 

890  $ 

4,690 

24  $ 

83  $ 

60  $ 

15  $ 

5  $ 

7  $ 

46  $ 

240 

62

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Intangible assets as of December 31, 2020 and 2019 were as follows:

In millions
Amortizable intangible assets:

Customer lists and relationships . . .  $ 
Trademarks and brands . . . . . . . . . .
Patents and proprietary technology .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Total amortizable intangible assets . . . . 
Indefinite-lived intangible assets:

2020

Accumulated
Amortization

Cost

Net

Cost

2019

Accumulated
Amortization

Net

1,692  $ 
742 
606 
487 
3,527 

(1,396)  $ 
(505)   
(542)   
(463)   
(2,906)   

296  $ 
237 
64 
24 
621 

1,530  $ 
694 
581 
449 
3,254 

(1,195)  $ 
(434)   
(501)   
(433)   
(2,563)   

Trademarks and brands . . . . . . . . . .
Total intangible assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 

160 
3,687  $ 

— 
(2,906)  $ 

160 
781  $ 

160 
3,414  $ 

— 
(2,563)  $ 

335 
260 
80 
16 
691 

160 
851 

The Company performed its annual impairment assessment of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets in the third 
quarter of 2020, 2019 and 2018. There were no impairment charges as a result of these assessments.

For the twelve months ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, amortization expense of intangible assets was $154 
million, $159 million and $189 million, respectively.

As of December 31, 2020, the estimated future amortization expense of intangible assets for the twelve months ending 
December 31 was as follows:

In millions
2021 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
2022 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
2023 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
2024 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
2025 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

128 
115 
95 
78 
54 

(9)

Leases

Effective January 1, 2019, the Company adopted new lease accounting guidance which requires the recognition of a lease 
liability and corresponding right-of-use asset for all operating leases with a noncancellable lease term of greater than one 
year. The new guidance did not change the recognition of rental expense for operating leases which is recognized on a 
straight-line basis over the noncancellable lease term based on the minimum lease payments at lease inception. Changes in 
rent subsequent to commencement that were not included in minimum lease payments at inception are recognized as variable 
rent in the period incurred.

The Company's lease transactions are primarily for the use of facilities, vehicles and equipment under operating lease 
arrangements. Total rental expense for operating leases for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 was 
$113 million, $113 million and $124 million, respectively. Total rental expense for the twelve months ended December 31, 
2020 and 2019 included $48 million and $44 million, respectively, related to short-term operating leases and variable lease 
payments. Short-term operating leases have original terms of one year or less, or can be terminated at the Company's option 
with a short notice period and without significant penalty, and are not capitalized.

63

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The following table summarizes information related to the Company's capitalized operating leases for the twelve months 
ended December 31, 2020 and 2019:

Dollars in millions
Right-of-use assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 

Current portion of operating lease liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
Long-term portion of operating lease liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Operating lease liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 

Rental expense related to capitalized operating leases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 
Cash paid related to maturities of operating lease liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
Operating lease right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for operating lease liabilities  $ 

2020

2019

216 

55 
133 
188 

65 
64 
65 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 
$ 

206 

51 
128 
179 

69 
70 
50 

Weighted-average remaining lease term . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Weighted-average discount rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

4.1 years
 2.34 %

4.6 years
 2.59 %

The right-of-use assets related to operating leases and the current and long-term portions of operating lease liabilities were 
included in Other assets, Accrued expenses and Other liabilities, respectively, in the Statement of Financial Position. The 
weighted-average discount rate was based on the incremental borrowing rate of the Company and its subsidiaries. As of 
December 31, 2020, future maturities of operating lease liabilities for the twelve months ending December 31 were as 
follows:

In millions
2021 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
2022 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

2023 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

2024 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

2025 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

2026 and future years . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total future minimum lease payments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Less: Imputed interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Operating lease liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

58 

49 

37 

25 

14 

15 

198 

(10) 

188 

(10)   Debt

Total debt as of December 31, 2020 and 2019 was as follows:

In millions
Short-term debt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 
Long-term debt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Total debt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 

2020

2019

350  $ 

7,772 
8,122  $ 

4 
7,754 
7,758 

Short-term debt— Short-term debt represents obligations with a maturity date of one year or less and is stated at cost which 
approximates fair value. Short-term debt also includes current maturities of long-term debt that have been reclassified to 
short-term.

As of December 31, 2020, short-term debt included $350 million related to the 3.375% notes due September 15, 2021. As of 
December 31, 2019, short-term debt included $4 million related to the 4.88% notes due through December 31, 2020, which 
was repaid by the due date. There was no commercial paper outstanding as of December 31, 2020 and 2019.

64

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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 to support the potential issuances of commercial paper. No amounts were 
outstanding under the revolving credit facility as of December 31, 2020. The Company was also in compliance with the 
financial covenants of the revolving credit facility as of December 31, 2020, which included a minimum interest coverage 
ratio. The Company did not have any commercial paper outstanding during 2020. The weighted-average interest rate on 
commercial paper was 2.5% for the twelve months ended December 31, 2019.

As of December 31, 2020, the Company had unused capacity of approximately $195 million under international debt 
facilities.

Long-term debt— Long-term debt represents obligations with a maturity date greater than one year, and excludes current 
maturities that have been reclassified to short-term debt. Long-term debt at carrying value and fair value as of December 31, 
2020 and 2019 consisted of the following:

2020

2019

Effective 
Interest Rate
4.96%
3.43%
1.86%
1.35%
3.54%
0.31%
2.69%
0.71%
2.18%
1.09%
3.13%
4.97%
3.96%

In millions
4.88% notes due thru December 31, 2020 . 
3.375% notes due September 15, 2021 . . . 
1.75% Euro notes due May 20, 2022 . . . . .
1.25% Euro notes due May 22, 2023 . . . . .
3.50% notes due March 1, 2024 . . . . . . . . .
0.25% Euro notes due December 5, 2024 . 
2.65% notes due November 15, 2026 . . . . .
0.625% Euro notes due December 5, 2027 
2.125% Euro notes due May 22, 2030 . . . .
1.00% Euro notes due June 5, 2031 . . . . . .
3.00% Euro notes due May 19, 2034 . . . . .
4.875% notes due September 15, 2041 . . . 
3.90% notes due September 1, 2042 . . . . . 
Other borrowings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Less: Current maturities of long-term debt .
Total long-term debt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 

$ 

Carrying Value
$ 

—  $ 
350 
609 
609 
698 
729 
994 
605 
606 
602 
598 
637 
1,082 
3 
8,122  $ 
(350) 
7,772 

Fair Value

Carrying Value

Fair Value

—  $ 
355 
625 
631 
764 
745 
1,108 
639 
732 
671 
830 
912 
1,397 
3 
9,412  $ 

$ 

4  $ 

349 
558 
558 
697 
668 
993 
554 
555 
552 
548 
637 
1,082 
3 
7,758  $ 
(4) 
7,754 

4 
358 
584 
584 
742 
677 
1,032 
570 
644 
580 
724 
829 
1,283 
3 
8,614 

The approximate fair values of the Company’s long-term debt, including current maturities, were based on a valuation model 
using Level 2 observable inputs, which included market rates for comparable instruments for the respective periods.

In 2005, the Company issued $54 million of 4.88% notes due through December 31, 2020 at 100% of face value, which were 
fully repaid by the due date.

In 2009, the Company issued $700 million of 6.25% redeemable notes due April 1, 2019 at 99.98% of face value, which were 
repaid on the due date.

In 2011, the Company issued $350 million of 3.375% notes due September 15, 2021 at 99.552% of face value and $650 
million of 4.875% notes due September 15, 2041 at 98.539% of face value.

In 2012, the Company issued $1.1 billion of 3.9% notes due September 1, 2042 at 99.038% of face value.

In February 2014, the Company issued $650 million of 1.95% notes due March 1, 2019 at 99.871% of face value and $700 
million of 3.5% notes due March 1, 2024 at 99.648% of face value. The $650 million of 1.95% notes due March 1, 2019 were 
repaid on the due date.

65

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
In May 2014, the Company issued €500 million of 1.75% Euro notes due May 20, 2022 at 99.16% of face value and €500 
million of 3.0% Euro notes due May 19, 2034 at 98.089% of face value.

In May 2015, the Company issued €500 million of 1.25% Euro notes due May 22, 2023 at 99.239% of face value and €500 
million of 2.125% Euro notes due May 22, 2030 at 99.303% of face value. Net proceeds from the May 2015 debt issuances 
were used to repay commercial paper and for general corporate purposes.

In November 2016, the Company issued $1.0 billion of 2.65% notes due November 15, 2026 at 99.685% of face value. Net 
proceeds from the November 2016 debt issuance were used to repay commercial paper and for general corporate purposes.

In June 2019, the Company issued €600 million of 0.25% Euro notes due December 5, 2024 at 99.662% of face value, €500 
million of 0.625% Euro notes due December 5, 2027 at 99.343% of face value and €500 million of 1.00% Euro notes due 
June 5, 2031 at 98.982% of face value. Net proceeds from the issuances were used to repay commercial paper and for general 
corporate purposes.

The Company designated the €1.0 billion of Euro notes issued in May 2014, the €1.0 billion of Euro notes issued in May 
2015 and the €1.6 billion of Euro notes issued in June 2019 as hedges of a portion of its net investment in Euro-denominated 
foreign operations to reduce foreign currency risk associated with the investment in these operations. Refer to Note 13. 
Stockholders' Equity for additional information regarding the net investment hedge.

All of the Company's notes listed above represent senior unsecured obligations ranking equal in right of payment. As of 
December 31, 2020, scheduled future maturities of long-term debt, including current maturities of long-term debt, for the 
twelve months ending December 31 were as follows:

In millions
2021 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
2022 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
2023 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
2024 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
2025 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
2026 and future years . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 

350 
609 
609 
1,427 
— 
5,127 
8,122 

(11)  

Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits

The Company has both funded and unfunded defined benefit pension and other postretirement benefit plans, predominately in 
the U.S. The U.S. primary pension plan provides benefits based on years of service and final average salary. The U.S. 
primary postretirement health care plan is contributory with the participants' contributions adjusted annually. The U.S. 
primary postretirement life insurance plan is noncontributory. Beginning January 1, 2007, the U.S. primary pension and other 
postretirement benefit plans were closed to new participants. Newly hired employees and employees from acquired 
businesses that are not participating in these plans are eligible for additional Company contributions under the existing U.S. 
primary defined contribution retirement plans. The Company's expense related to defined contribution plans was $85 million 
in 2020, $86 million in 2019, and $82 million in 2018. In addition to the U.S. plans, the Company also has defined benefit 
pension plans in certain other countries, mainly the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany and Switzerland. 

66

 
 
 
 
 
Summarized information regarding net periodic benefit cost included in the Statement of Income related to the Company's 
significant defined benefit pension and other postretirement benefit plans for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020, 
2019 and 2018 is as follows:

In millions
Components of net periodic benefit cost:

Service cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 
Interest cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Amortization of actuarial (gain) loss . . . 

Amortization of prior service cost . . . . . 
Total net periodic benefit cost . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 

2020

Pension
2019

2018

Other Postretirement Benefits
2018
2019
2020

55  $ 

52  $ 

60  $ 

8  $ 

7  $ 

60 

78 

72 

47 

2 

21 

1 

43 

— 

16 

(24)   

(1)   

— 

20 

(22)   

(1)   

— 

51  $ 

31  $ 

49  $ 

(1)  $ 

4  $ 

8 

18 

(25) 

(2) 

— 

(1) 

Expected return on plan assets . . . . . . . . 

(113)   

(121)   

(126)   

The service cost component of net periodic benefit cost is presented within Cost of revenue and Selling, administrative, and 
research and development expenses in the Statement of Income while the other components of net periodic benefit cost are 
presented within Other income (expense).

The Company used the updated mortality improvement scales from the Society of Actuaries, MP-2020 and MP-2019, to 
measure its U.S. pension and other postretirement benefit obligations as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, which 
did not have a significant impact in either period.

The following table provides a rollforward of the plan benefit obligations for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020 
and 2019:

In millions
Change in benefit obligation:
Beginning balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
Service cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Plan participants' contributions . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Amendments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Actuarial (gain) loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Transfer to liabilities held for sale . . . . . . . . . . 
Benefits paid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Medicare subsidy received . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Foreign currency translation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ending balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 
Accumulated benefit obligation as of December 31  $ 

Pension

Other Postretirement Benefits

2020

2019

2020

2019

2,731  $ 
55 
60 
1 
1 
205 
— 
(160)   
— 
46 
2,939  $ 

2,792  $ 

2,429  $ 
52 
78 
2 
— 
295 

(2)   
(156)   
— 
33 
2,731  $ 

2,589 

570  $ 
8 
16 
10 
— 
26 
— 
(41)   
2 
— 
591  $ 

511 
7 
20 
12 
— 
61 
— 
(42) 
1 
— 
570 

For the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, the actuarial loss for the Company's pension and other postretirement 
benefit plans was primarily related to lower discount rates. Refer to the Assumptions section below for further details related 
to the discount rates used in the valuations of pension and other postretirement benefit obligations.

67

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The following table provides a rollforward of the plan assets and a reconciliation of funded status for the twelve months 
ended December 31, 2020 and 2019:

In millions
Change in plan assets:
Beginning balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
Actual return on plan assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Company contributions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Plan participants' contributions . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Benefits paid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Foreign currency translation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ending balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 
Reconciliation of funded status:

Funded status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 
Other immaterial plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Net asset (liability) as of December 31 . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
The amounts recognized in the Statement of 

Financial Position as of December 31 consist of:

Other assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 
Accrued expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Other noncurrent liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net asset (liability) as of December 31 . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
The pre-tax amounts recognized in accumulated 
other comprehensive (income) loss consist of:

Net actuarial (gain) loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
Prior service cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pre-tax accumulated other comprehensive (income) 

loss as of December 31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

Pension

Other Postretirement Benefits

2020

2019

2020

2019

2,844  $ 
343 
26 
1 
(160)   
42 
3,096  $ 

157  $ 
(54)   
103  $ 

355  $ 
(11)   
(241)   
103  $ 

2,550  $ 
379 
27 
2 
(156)   
42 
2,844  $ 

113  $ 
(42)   
71  $ 

297  $ 
(11)   
(215)   
71  $ 

374  $ 
55 
4 
10 
(41)   
— 
402  $ 

(189)  $ 
(5)   
(194)  $ 

—  $ 
(3)   
(191)   
(194)  $ 

495  $ 
6 

568  $ 
7 

(39)  $ 
— 

501  $ 

575  $ 

(39)  $ 

333 
66 
5 
12 
(42) 
— 
374 

(196) 
(5) 
(201) 

— 
(3) 
(198) 
(201) 

(35) 
— 

(35) 

As of December 31, 2020 and 2019, pension plans with projected benefit obligations in excess of plan assets had projected 
benefit obligations of $212 million and $194 million, respectively, and plan assets of $32 million and $29 million, 
respectively. As of December 31, 2020 and 2019, pension plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets 
had accumulated benefit obligations of $205 million and $188 million, respectively, and plan assets of $32 million and 
$29 million, respectively.

68

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Assumptions— The weighted-average assumptions used in the valuations of pension and other postretirement benefits were 
as follows:

Assumptions used to determine benefit obligations 

as of December 31:
Discount rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Rate of compensation increases . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest crediting rate - U.S. cash balance plan . 

Assumptions used to determine net periodic 
benefit cost for the twelve months ended 
December 31:
Discount rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Expected return on plan assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rate of compensation increases . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest crediting rate - U.S. cash balance plan . 

2020

Pension
2019

2018

Other Postretirement Benefits
2018
2019
2020

 1.89 %
 3.24 %

3.75 %

 2.61 %
 3.44 %

4.00 %

 3.66 %
 3.52 %

4.00 %

 2.59 %

 3.29 %

 4.40 %

 2.61 %
 4.33 %
 3.44 %

4.00 %

 3.66 %
 4.71 %
 3.52 %

4.00 %

 3.12 %
 4.77 %
 3.54 %

4.00 %

 3.29 %
 6.70 %

 4.40 %
 6.70 %

 3.72 %
 6.80 %

The expected long-term rates of return for pension and other postretirement benefit plans were developed using historical 
asset class returns while factoring in current market conditions such as inflation, interest rates and asset class performance.

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. 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.

Assumed health care cost trend rates have an effect on the amounts reported for the postretirement health care benefit plans. 
The assumed health care cost trend rates used to determine the postretirement benefit obligation as of December 31 were as 
follows:

Health care cost trend rate assumed for the next year . . . . . . . . . . .
Ultimate trend rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Year the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

 7.00 %
 4.50 %
2027

 6.70 %
 4.50 %
2026

 7.00 %
 4.50 %
2026

2020

2019

2018

Plan assets— The Company's overall investment strategy for the assets in the pension funds is to achieve a balance between 
the goals of growing plan assets and keeping risk at a reasonable level over a long-term investment horizon. In order to 
reduce unnecessary risk, the pension funds are diversified across several asset classes, securities and investment managers. 
The target allocations for plan assets are 15% to 25% equity investments, 75% to 85% fixed income investments and 0% to 
10% in other types of investments. The Company does not use derivatives for the purpose of speculation, leverage, 
circumventing investment guidelines or taking risks that are inconsistent with specified guidelines.

The assets in the Company's postretirement health care plan are primarily invested in life insurance policies. The Company's 
overall investment strategy for the assets in the postretirement health care fund is to invest in assets that provide a reasonable 
tax exempt rate of return while preserving capital.

The following tables present the fair value of the Company's pension and other postretirement benefit plan assets as of 
December 31, 2020 and 2019, by asset category and valuation methodology. Level 1 assets are valued using unadjusted 
quoted prices for identical assets in active markets. Level 2 assets are valued using quoted prices or other observable inputs 
for similar assets. Level 3 assets are valued using unobservable inputs, but reflect the assumptions market participants would 
be expected to use in pricing the assets. Each financial instrument’s categorization is based on the lowest level of input that is 
significant to the fair value measurement.

69

 
 
In millions
Pension Plan Assets:

Cash and equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 
Fixed income securities:

Government securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Corporate debt securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Investment contracts with insurance 

companies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Commingled funds:

Collective trust funds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Partnerships/private equity interests . . . . . 
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Total fair value of pension plan assets . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

Total

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

2020

75  $ 

61  $ 

14  $ 

373 
1,043 

1 

1,577 
22 
5 
3,096  $ 

— 
— 

— 

373 
1,043 

— 

— 
61  $ 

5 
1,435  $ 

— 

— 
— 

1 

— 
1 

Other Postretirement Benefit Plan Assets:

Life insurance policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 

402 

Total fair value of other postretirement benefit plan 

assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

402  $ 

—  $ 

2019

—  $ 

— 

In millions
Pension Plan Assets:

Cash and equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 
Fixed income securities:

Government securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Corporate debt securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Investment contracts with insurance 

companies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Commingled funds:

Total

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

28  $ 

27  $ 

1  $ 

355 
969 

1 

— 
— 

— 

355 
969 

— 

Collective trust funds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Partnerships/private equity interests . . . . . 
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Total fair value of pension plan assets . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

1,460 
27 
4 
2,844  $ 

— 
27  $ 

4 
1,329  $ 

— 

— 
— 

1 

— 
1 

Other Postretirement Benefit Plan Assets:

Life insurance policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 

374 

Total fair value of other postretirement benefit plan 

assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

374  $ 

—  $ 

—  $ 

— 

Cash and equivalents include cash on hand and instruments with original maturities of three months or less and are valued at 
cost, which approximates fair value. Fixed income securities primarily consist of U.S. and foreign government bills, notes 
and bonds, corporate debt securities and investment contracts. The majority of the assets in this category are valued by 
evaluating bid prices provided by independent financial data services. For securities where market data is not readily 
available, unobservable market data is used to value the security. The underlying investments include small-cap equity, 
international equity and long- and short-term fixed income instruments.

Pension assets measured at net asset value include collective trust funds, partnerships/private equity interests and life 
insurance policies. Collective trust funds are private funds that are valued based on the value of the underlying investments 
which can be redeemed on a daily basis. The underlying investments include both passively and actively managed U.S. and 
foreign large- and mid-cap equity funds and short-term investment funds. Partnerships/private equity interests are 
investments in partnerships where the benefit plan is a limited partner. The investments are valued by the investment 
managers on a periodic basis using pricing models that use market, income and cost valuation methods. Distributions are 

70

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
received from these funds on a periodic basis through the liquidation of the underlying assets of the fund. Life insurance 
policies are used to fund other postretirement benefits in order to obtain favorable tax treatment and are valued based on the 
cash surrender value of the underlying policies. The Company has selected the funds in which these assets are invested and 
may elect to withdraw funds with proper notice to the insurance company or maintain the policies and receive death benefits 
as determined by the contracts.

Cash flows— The Company generally funds its pension and other postretirement benefit plans as required by law or to the 
extent such contributions are tax deductible. The Company expects to contribute approximately $28 million to its pension 
plans and $4 million to its other postretirement benefit plans in 2021. As of December 31, 2020, the Company’s portion of 
the future benefit payments that are expected to be paid during the twelve months ending December 31 is as follows:

In millions
2021 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
2022 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
2023 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
2024 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
2025 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Years 2026-2030 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Pension

Other 
Postretirement 
Benefits

155  $ 
159 
166 
169 
172 
836 

34 
35 
35 
35 
35 
171 

(12)   Commitments and Contingencies

The Company is subject to various legal proceedings and claims that arise in the ordinary course of business, including those 
involving environmental, product liability (including toxic tort) and general liability claims. The Company accrues for such 
liabilities when it is probable that future costs will be incurred and such costs can be reasonably estimated. Such accruals are 
based on developments to date, the Company's estimates of the outcomes of these matters and its experience in contesting, 
litigating and settling other similar matters. The Company believes resolution of these matters, individually and in the 
aggregate, will not have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial position, liquidity or future operations.

(13)  

Stockholders' Equity

Preferred stock— Preferred stock, without par value, of which 0.3 million shares are authorized and unissued, is issuable in 
series. The Board of Directors is authorized to fix by resolution the designation and characteristics of each series of preferred 
stock. The Company has no present commitment to issue its preferred stock.

Share repurchases— 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 and approximately 4.2 million shares of its common stock at an average price 
of $167.69 per share during the first quarter of 2020. As of December 31, 2020, there were approximately $1.2 billion of 
authorized repurchases remaining under the 2018 program. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Company temporarily 
suspended its share repurchase program starting in March 2020.

Cash Dividends— Cash dividends declared were $4.42 per share in 2020, $4.14 per share in 2019 and $3.56 per share in 
2018. Cash dividends paid were $4.35 per share in 2020, $4.07 per share in 2019 and $3.34 per share in 2018.

71

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)— The changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) during 
2020, 2019 and 2018 were as follows:

In millions
Beginning balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

2020

2019

2018

(1,705)  $ 

(1,677)  $ 

(1,287) 

Adoption of new accounting guidance related to reclassification of certain tax 
effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

— 

— 

(45) 

Foreign currency translation adjustments during the period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreign currency translation adjustments reclassified to income . . . . . . . . . . . 
Income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Total foreign currency translation adjustments, net of tax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Pension and other postretirement benefit adjustments during the period . . . . . 
Pension and other postretirement benefit adjustments reclassified to income . 
Income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Total pension and other postretirement benefit adjustments, net of tax . . . . 

(82)   
— 
86 
4 

30 
48 
(19)   
59 

7 
— 
(9)   
(2)   

(54)   
21 
7 
(26)   

(308) 
5 
(25) 
(328) 

(64) 
41 
6 
(17) 

Ending balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 

(1,642)  $ 

(1,705)  $ 

(1,677) 

Effective January 1, 2018, the Company elected to early adopt new accounting guidance related to the stranded tax effects 
resulting from the change in the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate under the "Tax Cuts and Jobs Act" (the "Act") and 
reclassified $45 million of stranded income tax effects from Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) to Retained 
earnings. Refer to Note 1. Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies for additional 
information.

Foreign currency translation adjustments reclassified to income primarily relate to the disposal of operations and were 
included in the related gain or loss upon disposal. Pension and other postretirement benefit adjustments reclassified to income 
represent the amortization of actuarial gains and losses and prior service cost. Refer to Note 11. Pension and Other 
Postretirement Benefits for the amounts included in net periodic benefit cost.

The Company designated the €1.0 billion of Euro notes issued in May 2014, the €1.0 billion of Euro notes issued in May 
2015 and the €1.6 billion of Euro notes issued in June 2019 as hedges of a portion of its net investment in Euro-denominated 
foreign operations to reduce foreign currency risk associated with the investment in these operations. Changes in the value of 
this debt resulting from fluctuations in the Euro to U.S. Dollar exchange rate have been recorded as foreign currency 
translation adjustments within Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). The cumulative unrealized pre-tax gain 
(loss) recorded in Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) related to the net investment hedge was a loss of $120 
million as of December 31, 2020 and a gain of $239 million as of December 31, 2019.

As of December 31, 2020 and 2019, the ending balance of Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) consisted of 
after-tax cumulative translation adjustment losses of $1.3 billion and $1.3 billion, respectively, and after-tax unrecognized 
pension and other postretirement benefits costs of $331 million and $390 million, respectively.

(14)  

Stock-Based Compensation

On May 8, 2015 (the "Effective Date"), the 2015 Long-Term Incentive Plan (the "2015 Plan") was approved by shareholders. 
As of the Effective Date, no additional awards will be granted to employees under the 2011 Long-Term Incentive Plan (the 
"2011 Plan"). The significant terms of stock options and restricted stock units ("RSUs") were not changed under the 2015 
Plan. Stock options and RSUs are issued to officers and/or other management employees under these plans. Stock options 
generally vest over a four-year period and have an expiration of ten years from the issuance date. RSUs generally "cliff" vest 
after a three-year period and include units with and without performance criteria. RSUs with performance criteria provide for 
full "cliff" vesting after three years if the Compensation Committee certifies that the performance goals have been met. Upon 
vesting, the holder will receive one share of common stock of the Company for each vested RSU.

72

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Commencing in February 2013, the Company began issuing shares from treasury stock to cover the exercised options and 
vested RSUs. Prior to February 2013, the Company generally issued new shares from its authorized but unissued share pool. 
As of December 31, 2020, approximately 10 million shares of ITW common stock were reserved for issuance under these 
plans.

The Company records compensation expense for the grant date fair value of stock awards over the remaining service periods 
of those awards. The following table summarizes the Company's stock-based compensation expense for the twelve months 
ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018:

In millions
Pre-tax stock-based compensation expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 
Tax benefit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total stock-based compensation expense, net of tax . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

2020

2019

2018

42  $ 
(5)   
37  $ 

41  $ 
(5)   
36  $ 

40 
(5) 
35 

The following table summarizes activity related to non-vested RSUs for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020:

Shares in millions
Unvested, January 1, 2020 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vested . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Unvested, December 31, 2020 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Number of
Shares

0.5 
0.2 
(0.2) 
0.5 

Weighted-Average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
$144.92
178.49
129.10
164.76

The following table summarizes stock option activity for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020:

In millions except exercise price and contractual terms
Under option, January 1, 2020 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Exercised . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Under option, December 31, 2020 . . . . . . . . . . 
Exercisable, December 31, 2020 . . . . . . . . . . . .

Number of
Shares

3.7 
0.5 
(1.0) 
3.2 
2.0 

Weighted-
Average
Exercise Price
$106.57
187.86
75.54
128.81
107.43

Weighted-Average
Remaining
Contractual Term

Aggregate
Intrinsic Value

6.2
5.0

$240
$191

The fair value of RSUs is equal to the common stock fair market value on the date of the grant. RSUs provide for dividend 
equivalents payable in additional RSUs for dividends that would have been paid during the vesting period. Stock option 
exercise prices are equal to the common stock fair market value on the date of grant. The Company estimates forfeitures 
based on historical rates for awards with similar characteristics. The Company uses a binomial option pricing model to 
estimate the fair value of the stock options granted. The following summarizes the assumptions used in the option valuations 
for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018:

Risk-free interest rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Weighted-average volatility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Dividend yield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Expected years until exercise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

2020
1.41-1.59%
21.0%
2.56%
9.1-9.6

2019
2.50-2.68%
22.0%
2.20%
8.7-9.0

2018
2.07-3.06%
22.0%
2.10%
7.5-8.4

Lattice-based option valuation models, such as the binomial option pricing model, incorporate ranges of assumptions for 
inputs. The risk-free rate of interest for periods within the contractual life of the option is based on a zero-coupon U.S. 
government instrument over the contractual term of the equity instrument. Expected volatility is based on implied volatility 
from traded options on the Company's stock and historical volatility of the Company's stock. The Company uses historical 
data to estimate option exercise timing and employee termination rates within the valuation model. The weighted-average 

73

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
dividend yield is based on historical information. The expected term of options granted is derived from the output of the 
option valuation model and represents the period of time that options granted are expected to be outstanding. The ranges 
presented result from separate groups of employees assumed to exhibit different exercise behavior.

The weighted-average grant-date fair value of stock options granted for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020, 2019 
and 2018 was $35.45, $34.36 and $38.34 per share, respectively. The aggregate intrinsic value of stock options exercised 
during the twelve months ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 was $114 million, $127 million and $33 million, 
respectively. As of December 31, 2020, there was $10 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested 
stock options. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2 years. Exercise of stock options 
during the twelve months ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 resulted in cash receipts of $66 million, $85 million and 
$22 million, respectively. The total fair value of vested stock option awards during the twelve months ended December 31, 
2020, 2019 and 2018 was $16 million, $17 million and $15 million, respectively.

As of December 31, 2020, there was $31 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested RSUs. That 
cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average remaining contractual life of 1.8 years. The total fair value of 
vested RSU awards during the twelve months ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 was $25 million, $20 million and 
$19 million, respectively.

74

(15)   Other Balance Sheet Information

Other balance sheet information as of December 31, 2020 and 2019 was as follows:

In millions
Prepaid expenses and other current assets:

Value-added-tax receivables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
Income tax refunds receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vendor advances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Total prepaid expenses and other current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

Other assets:

Cash surrender value of life insurance policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 
Prepaid pension assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating lease right-of-use assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Customer tooling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Total other assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

Accrued expenses:

Compensation and employee benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 
Deferred revenue and customer deposits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rebates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Current portion of operating lease liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Warranties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Current portion of pension and other postretirement benefit obligations . . . . . . . . 
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Total accrued expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

Other liabilities:

Pension benefit obligation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 
Postretirement benefit obligation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Long-term portion of operating lease liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Total other liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

2020

2019

72  $ 
43 
30 
119 
264  $ 

454  $ 
355 
216 
160 
123 
1,308  $ 

335  $ 
222 
171 
55 
45 
14 
442 
1,284  $ 

241  $ 
191 
133 
503 
1,068  $ 

73 
77 
25 
121 
296 

441 
297 
206 
141 
142 
1,227 

335 
188 
159 
51 
45 
14 
425 
1,217 

215 
198 
128 
459 
1,000 

75

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(16)  

Segment Information

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. The following is a description of 
the Company's seven segments:

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.

Food Equipment— This segment is a highly focused and branded industry leader in commercial food equipment 
differentiated by innovation and integrated service offerings.

Test & Measurement and Electronics— This segment is a branded and innovative producer of test and measurement and 
electronic manufacturing and 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. 

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.

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.

Construction Products— This segment is a branded supplier of innovative engineered fastening systems and solutions.

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.

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.

76

Segment information for 2020, 2019 and 2018 was as follows:

In millions
Operating revenue:

Automotive OEM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
Food Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Test & Measurement and Electronics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Welding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Polymers & Fluids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Construction Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Specialty Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intersegment revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 

Operating income:

Automotive OEM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
Food Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Test & Measurement and Electronics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Welding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Polymers & Fluids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Construction Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Specialty Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total segments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Unallocated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 

Depreciation and amortization and impairment of intangible assets:

Automotive OEM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
Food Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Test & Measurement and Electronics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Welding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Polymers & Fluids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Construction Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Specialty Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 

Plant and equipment additions:

Automotive OEM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
Food Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Test & Measurement and Electronics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Welding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Polymers & Fluids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Construction Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Specialty Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 

Identifiable assets:

Automotive OEM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
Food Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Test & Measurement and Electronics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Welding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Polymers & Fluids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Construction Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Specialty Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total segments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Corporate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 

2020

2019

2018

2,571  $ 
1,739 
1,963 
1,384 
1,622 
1,652 
1,660 
(17) 
12,574  $ 

457  $ 
342 
507 
376 
402 
421 
432 
2,937 
(55) 
2,882  $ 

131  $ 
41 
75 
24 
72 
31 
53 
427  $ 

79  $ 
34 
23 
27 
16 
21 
36 
236  $ 

2,302  $ 
983 
2,239 
700 
1,855 
1,239 
1,635 
10,953 
4,659 
15,612  $ 

3,063  $ 
2,188 
2,121 
1,638 
1,669 
1,625 
1,825 
(20) 
14,109  $ 

659  $ 
578 
542 
453 
381 
383 
472 
3,468 
(66) 
3,402  $ 

125  $ 
41 
69 
26 
77 
29 
59 
426  $ 

134  $ 
35 
26 
28 
18 
29 
56 
326  $ 

2,417  $ 
1,042 
2,374 
734 
1,862 
1,176 
1,656 
11,261 
3,807 
15,068  $ 

3,338 
2,214 
2,171 
1,691 
1,724 
1,700 
1,951 
(21) 
14,768 

751 
572 
523 
474 
369 
414 
522 
3,625 
(41) 
3,584 

123 
44 
88 
27 
83 
32 
64 
461 

184 
28 
31 
23 
15 
25 
58 
364 

2,388 
1,019 
2,343 
789 
1,942 
1,167 
1,687 
11,335 
3,535 
14,870 

Identifiable assets by segment are those assets that are specifically used in that segment. Corporate assets are principally cash 
and equivalents, investments and other general corporate assets.

77

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Enterprise-wide information for the twelve months ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 was as follows:

In millions
Operating Revenue by Geographic Region:

2020

2019

2018

United States . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  $ 
Canada/Mexico . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Total North America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Europe, Middle East and Africa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Asia Pacific . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
South America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Total operating revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 

5,834  $ 
778 
6,612 
3,447 
2,291 
224 
12,574  $ 

6,507  $ 
972 
7,479 
3,920 
2,400 
310 
14,109  $ 

6,562 
1,050 
7,612 
4,241 
2,573 
342 
14,768 

Operating revenue by geographic region is based on the customers' locations. As of December 31, 2020 and 2019, the 
Company had approximately 42% and 40%, respectively, of its total net plant and equipment in the United States. As of 
December 31, 2020 and 2019, the Company had approximately 10% and 11%, respectively, of its total net plant and 
equipment in China. As of December 31, 2020, the Company had approximately 10% of its total net plant and equipment in 
Germany. No single customer accounted for more than 5% of consolidated revenues for the twelve months ended December 
31, 2020, 2019 or 2018.

SELECTED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)

The unaudited quarterly financial data included as supplementary data reflects all adjustments that are, in the opinion of 
management, necessary for a fair statement of the results for the interim periods presented.

March 31

June 30

September 30

December 31

Three Months Ended

2019

2020

2020
In millions except per share amounts
Operating revenue . . . . . . . . . . . $  3,228  $  3,552  $  2,564  $  3,609  $  3,307  $  3,479  $  3,475  $  3,469 
2,022 
1,594 
Cost of revenue . . . . . . . . . . . . .
824 
449 
Operating income . . . . . . . . . . . 
641 
319 
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Net income per share:

2,059 
839 
597 

2,099 
871 
623 

1,871 
761 
566 

2,007 
868 
660 

1,910 
789 
582 

2,000 
883 
642 

2020

2019

2019

2019

2020

Basic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 
Diluted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

1.78  $ 
1.77 

1.82  $ 
1.81 

1.01  $ 
1.01 

1.92  $ 
1.91 

1.84  $ 
1.83 

2.05  $ 
2.04 

2.03  $ 
2.02 

2.00 
1.99 

78

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 9. Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

None.

ITEM 9A. Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

The Company's management, with the participation of the Company's Chairman & Chief Executive Officer and Senior Vice 
President & Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of the Company's disclosure controls and procedures (as 
defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e)) as of December 31, 2020. Based on such evaluation, the Company's Chairman & 
Chief Executive Officer and Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of December 31, 2020, 
the Company's disclosure controls and procedures were effective.

Management Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

The Management Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting and the Report of Independent Registered Public 
Accounting Firm are found in Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.

In connection with the evaluation by management, including the Company's Chairman & Chief Executive Officer and Senior 
Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, no changes in the Company's internal control over financial reporting (as defined in 
Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f)) during the quarter ended December 31, 2020 were identified that have materially affected or 
are reasonably likely to materially affect the Company's internal control over financial reporting.

ITEM 9B. Other Information

None.

79

ITEM 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

PART III

Information regarding the Directors of the Company who are standing for reelection and any persons nominated to become 
Directors of the Company is incorporated by reference from the information under the captions "Proposal 1 - Election of 
Directors" in the Company's Proxy Statement for the 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.

Information regarding the Audit Committee and its Financial Experts is incorporated by reference from the information under 
the captions "Proposal 1 - Election of Directors - Board of Directors and Its Committees" and "Audit Committee Report" in 
the Company's Proxy Statement for the 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.

Information regarding the Executive Officers of the Company can be found in Part I of this Annual Report on Form 10-K 
under the caption "Information About Our Executive Officers."

Information regarding the Company's code of ethics that applies to the Company's Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, 
Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, and key financial and accounting personnel is incorporated by reference 
from the information under the caption "Proposal 1 - Election of Directors - Corporate Governance Policies and Practices" in 
the Company's Proxy Statement for the 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.

ITEM 11. Executive Compensation

Information regarding executive compensation is incorporated by reference from the information under the captions "NEO 
Compensation," "Proposal 1 - Election of Directors - Director Compensation," and "Compensation Discussion and Analysis" 
in the Company's Proxy Statement for the 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.

ITEM 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

Information regarding security ownership of certain beneficial owners and management and related stockholder matters is 
incorporated by reference from the information under the captions "Proposal 1 - Election of Directors - Ownership of ITW 
Stock" and "NEO Compensation - Equity Compensation Plan Information" in the Company's Proxy Statement for the 2021 
Annual Meeting of Stockholders.

ITEM 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence

Information regarding certain relationships and related transactions is incorporated by reference from the information under 
the captions "Proposal 1 - Election of Directors - Ownership of ITW Stock," "Certain Relationships and Related Party 
Transactions" and "Proposal 1 - Election of Directors - Corporate Governance Policies and Practices" in the Company’s 
Proxy Statement for the 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.

Information regarding director independence is incorporated by reference from the information under the captions "Proposal 
1 - Election of Directors - Corporate Governance Policies and Practices" and "Appendix A - Categorical Standards for 
Director Independence" in the Company's Proxy Statement for the 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.

ITEM 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services

This information is incorporated by reference from the information under the caption "Proposal 2 - Ratification of the 
Appointment of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm" in the Company's Proxy Statement for the 2021 Annual 
Meeting of Stockholders.

80

ITEM 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

PART IV

(a) (1) Financial Statements

  The following information is included as part of Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data:

  Management Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
  Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Statement of Income
Statement of Comprehensive Income
Statement of Financial Position
Statement of Changes in Stockholders' Equity
Statement of Cash Flows
  Notes to Financial Statements

(2) Financial Statement Schedules
  None.

(3) Exhibits

Exhibit
Number
2.1(a)

Description

Investment Agreement, dated as of August 15, 2012, among CD&R Wimbledon Holdings III, L.P., a 
Cayman Islands limited partnership; Illinois Tool Works Inc.; ITW DS Investments Inc., a Delaware 
corporation; and Wilsonart International Holdings LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, filed as 
Exhibit 2.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 17, 2012 (Commission File No. 
1-4797) and incorporated herein by reference. (Certain of the schedules and similar attachments have been 
omitted pursuant to Item 601(b)(2) of Regulation S-K, but the Company undertakes to furnish a copy of 
the schedules or similar attachments to the Securities and Exchange Committee upon request.)

3(a)(i)

3(a)(ii)

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Illinois Tool Works Inc., filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the 
Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2014 (Commission 
File No. 1-4797) and incorporated herein by reference.

Certificate of Amendment to Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Illinois Tool Works 
Inc., filed as Exhibit 3(a)(ii) to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 12, 2016 
(Commission File No. 1-4797) and incorporated herein by reference. 

3(b)

4(a)

4(b)

4(c)

4(d)

4(e)

By-laws of Illinois Tool Works Inc., as amended and restated as of May 6, 2016, filed as Exhibit 3(b)(i) to 
the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 12, 2016 (Commission File No. 1-4797) and 
incorporated herein by reference.

Indenture between Illinois Tool Works Inc. and The First National Bank of Chicago, as Trustee, dated as 
of November 1, 1986, filed as Exhibit 4.4 to the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-3 filed on 
August 7, 2020 (Commission File No. 333-242331) and incorporated herein by reference. 

First Supplemental Indenture between Illinois Tool Works Inc. and Harris Trust and Savings Bank, as 
Trustee, dated as of May 1, 1990, filed as Exhibit 4.5 to the Company's Registration Statement on Form 
S-3 filed on August 7, 2020 (Commission File No. 333-242331) and incorporated herein by reference.

Officers' Certificate dated August 31, 2011, establishing the terms, and setting forth the forms, of the 
3.375% Notes due 2021 and the 4.875% Notes due 2041, filed as Exhibit 4.3 to the Company's Current 
Report on Form 8-K filed on September 1, 2011 (Commission File No. 001-04797) and incorporated 
herein by reference.

Officers' Certificate dated August 28, 2012, establishing the terms, and setting forth the forms, of the 3.9% 
Notes due 2042, filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 28, 
2012 (Commission File No. 001-4797) and incorporated herein by reference.

Officers' Certificate dated February 25, 2014, establishing the terms, and setting forth the forms, of the 
0.9% Notes due 2017, the 1.95% Notes due 2019, and the 3.5% Notes due 2024, filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the 
Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 26, 2014 (Commission File No. 001-04797) 
and incorporated herein by reference.

81

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Exhibit
Number
4(f)

4(g)

4(h)

4(i)

4(j)

4(k)

4(l)

4(m)

10(a)

10(b)*

10(c)*

10(d)*

10(e)*

10(f)*

10(g)*

10(h)*

10(i)*

10(j)*

Description
Officers' Certificate dated May 20, 2014, establishing the terms, and setting forth the forms, of the 1.75% 
Euro Notes due 2022 and the 3.0% Euro Notes due 2034, filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Company's Current 
Report on Form 8-K filed on May 22, 2014 (Commission File No. 001-04797) and incorporated herein by 
reference.

Officers' Certificate dated May 19, 2015, establishing the terms, and setting forth the forms, of the 1.25% 
Euro Notes due 2023 and the 2.125% Euro Notes due 2030, filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Company's Current 
Report on Form 8-K filed on May 22, 2015 (Commission File No. 001-04797) and incorporated herein by 
reference.

Officers' Certificate dated November 7, 2016, establishing the terms, and setting forth the forms, of the 
2.65% Notes due 2026, filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on 
November 10, 2016 (Commission File No. 001-04797) and incorporated herein by reference.

Officers' Certificate dated June 5, 2019, establishing the terms, and setting forth the forms, of the 0.250% 
Notes due 2024, the 0.625% Notes due 2027 and the 1.000% Notes due 2031, filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the 
Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 5, 2019 (Commission File No. 001-04797) and 
incorporated herein by reference.

Description of the Company's common stock, filed as Exhibit 4(j) to the Company's Annual Report on 
Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019 (Commission File No. 1-4797) and incorporated herein 
by reference.

Description of the 1.75% Euro Notes due 2022 and 3.00% Euro Notes due 2034, filed as Exhibit 4(k) to 
the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019 (Commission File No. 
1-4797) and incorporated herein by reference.

Description of the 1.25% Euro Notes due 2023 and 2.125% Euro Notes due 2030, filed as Exhibit 4(l) to 
the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019 (Commission File No. 
1-4797) and incorporated herein by reference.

Description of the 0.250% Euro Notes due 2024, 0.625% Euro Notes due 2027 and 1.00% Euro Notes due 
2031, filed as Exhibit 4(m) to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 
31, 2019 (Commission File No. 1-4797) and incorporated herein by reference.

Five Year Credit Agreement dated as of September 27, 2019 among Illinois Tool Works Inc., JPMorgan 
Chase Bank, N.A., as Agent, Citibank, N.A., as Syndication Agent, and a syndicate of lenders, filed as 
Exhibit 10(a) to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 3, 2019 (Commission File 
No. 1-4797) and incorporated herein by reference.

Illinois Tool Works Inc. 2011 Long-Term Incentive Plan, filed as Exhibit 99.2 to the Company's Current 
Report on Form 8-K filed on December 16, 2010 (Commission File No. 1-4797) and incorporated herein 
by reference.

Illinois Tool Works Inc. 2015 Long-Term Incentive Plan effective May 8, 2015, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to 
the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2015 (Commission 
File No. 1-4797) and incorporated herein by reference. 

Form of stock option terms filed as Exhibit 99.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on 
February 7, 2012 (Commission File No. 1-4797) and incorporated herein by reference.

Form of stock option terms filed as Exhibit 99.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on 
February 13, 2014 (Commission File No. 1-4797) and incorporated herein by reference.

Form of stock option terms filed as Exhibit 99.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on 
February 9, 2016 (Commission File No. 1-4797) and incorporated herein by reference.

Form of stock option terms filed as Exhibit 99.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on 
February 9, 2017 (Commission File No. 1-4797) and incorporated herein by reference.

Form of restricted stock unit terms filed as Exhibit 99.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K 
filed on February 9, 2017 (Commission File No. 1-4797) and incorporated herein by reference.

Form of performance share unit terms filed as Exhibit 99.3 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K 
filed on February 9, 2017 (Commission File No. 1-4797) and incorporated herein by reference.

Form of performance cash grant filed as Exhibit 99.4 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed 
on February 9, 2017 (Commission File No. 1-4797) and incorporated herein by reference.

82

Exhibit
Number
10(k)*

10(l)*

10(m)*

10(n)*

10(o)*

10(p)*

10(q)*

10(r)*

10(s)*

10(t)*

10(u)*

10(v)*

10(w)*

10(x)*

21

23

24

31

32

Description

Form of stock option terms filed as Exhibit 99.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on 
February 14, 2019 (Commission File No. 1-4797) and incorporated herein by reference

Form of performance share unit terms filed as Exhibit 99.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K 
filed on February 14, 2019 (Commission File No. 1-4797) and incorporated herein by reference

Form of performance cash terms filed as Exhibit 99.3 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed 
on February 14, 2019 (Commission File No. 1-4797) and incorporated herein by reference

Form of stock option terms filed as Exhibit 99.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on 
February 5, 2020 (Commission File No. 1-4797) and incorporated herein by reference.

Form of performance share unit terms filed as Exhibit 99.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K 
filed on February 5, 2020 (Commission File No. 1-4797) and incorporated herein by reference.

Form of performance cash terms filed as Exhibit 99.3 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed 
on February 5, 2020 (Commission File No. 1-4797) and incorporated herein by reference.

Form of restricted stock unit terms filed as Exhibit 99.4 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K 
filed on February 5, 2020 (Commission File No. 1-4797) and incorporated herein by reference.

Illinois Tool Works Inc. 2011 Executive Incentive Plan, filed as Exhibit 99.1 to the Company's Current 
Report on Form 8-K filed on December 16, 2010 (Commission File No. 1-4797) and incorporated herein 
by reference.

Illinois Tool Works Inc. Executive Contributory Retirement Income Plan as amended and restated, 
effective January 1, 2010, filed as Exhibit 10 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on 
November 5, 2009 (Commission File No. 1-4797) and incorporated herein by reference.

Illinois Tool Works Inc. Nonqualified Pension Plan, effective January 1, 2008, as amended and approved 
by the Board of Directors on December 22, 2008, filed as Exhibit 10(p) to the Company's Annual Report 
on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008 (Commission File No. 1-4797) and 
incorporated herein by reference.

Illinois Tool Works Inc. 2011 Change-in-Control Severance Compensation Policy, filed as Exhibit 99.3 to 
the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on December 16, 2010 (Commission File No. 1-4797) 
and incorporated herein by reference.

Illinois Tool Works Inc. Amended and Restated Directors’ Deferred Fee Plan effective May 2, 2014, filed 
as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 
2014 (Commission File No. 1-4797) and incorporated herein by reference.

Illinois Tool Works Inc. 2011 Cash Incentive Plan, filed as Exhibit 99.1 to the Company's Form 8-K filed 
on May 12, 2011 (Commission File No. 1-4797) and incorporated herein by reference.

First Amendment to the ITW Executive Contributory Retirement Income Plan dated February 15, 2013, 
filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended 
March 31, 2013 (Commission File No. 1-4797) and incorporated herein by reference.

Subsidiaries and Affiliates of the Company.

Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.

Powers of Attorney.

Rule 13a-14(a) Certifications.

Section 1350 Certification.

101.INS

iXBRL Instance Document**

101.SCH iXBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema**

101.CAL iXBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase**

101.DEF

iXBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase**

101.LAB iXBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase**

101.PRE iXBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase**

83

Exhibit
Number
104

Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101).

Description

*

**

Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.

The following financial information from Illinois Tool Works Inc.'s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended 
December 31, 2020, formatted in iXBRL (Inline Extensible Business Reporting Language): (i) Statement of Income, 
(ii) Statement of Comprehensive Income, (iii) Statement of Changes in Stockholders' Equity (iv) Statement of 
Financial Position, (v) Statement of Cash Flows and (vi) related Notes to Financial Statements.

ITEM 16. Form 10-K Summary

None.

84

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this 
report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized on this 12th day of February 2021.

SIGNATURES

ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC.

By:

/s/ E. SCOTT SANTI
E. Scott Santi
Chairman & Chief Executive Officer

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed by the following persons on 
behalf of the registrant and in the capacities indicated on this 12th day of February 2021.

Signatures

Title

/s/ E. SCOTT SANTI

E. Scott Santi

Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, Director

(Principal Executive Officer)

/s/ MICHAEL M. LARSEN

Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

Michael M. Larsen

(Principal Financial Officer)

/s/ RANDALL J. SCHEUNEMAN

Vice President & Chief Accounting Officer

Randall J. Scheuneman

(Principal Accounting Officer)

DANIEL J. BRUTTO

SUSAN CROWN

JAMES W. GRIFFITH

JAY L. HENDERSON

RICHARD H. LENNY

DAVID B. SMITH, JR.

PAMELA B. STROBEL

KEVIN M. WARREN

ANRÉ D. WILLIAMS

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

By: /s/ E. SCOTT SANTI

(E. Scott Santi, as Attorney-in-Fact)

Original powers of attorney authorizing E. Scott Santi to sign the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and amendments 
thereto on behalf of the above-named directors of the registrant have been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission 
as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K (Exhibit 24).

85

2012 ADJUSTED INCOME PER SHARE FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS - DILUTED (UNAUDITED)

ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC. and SUBSIDIARIES
GAAP TO NON-GAAP RECONCILIATIONS (UNAUDITED)

As reported
Decorative Surfaces net gain
Decorative Surfaces equity interest
Decorative Surfaces operating results
As adjusted for the Decorative Surfaces business

2012 ADJUSTED AFTER-TAX RETURN ON AVERAGE INVESTED CAPITAL (UNAUDITED)

Dollars in millions
Operating income
Adjustment for Decorative Surfaces
Adjusted operating income
Adjusted tax rate
Income taxes
Adjusted operating income after taxes

Invested capital: 

Trade receivables
Inventories
Net plant and equipment
Goodwill and intangible assets
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
Other, net

Total invested capital

Average invested capital
Adjustment for Wilsonart (formerly the Decorative Surfaces segment)
Adjustment for Industrial Packaging
Adjusted average invested capital

Adjusted after-tax return on average invested capital

A reconciliation of the 2012 effective tax rate excluding the discrete tax charge is as follows:

Dollars in millions
As reported
Discrete tax charge
As adjusted

ANNUAL REPORT APPENDIX

Twelve Months Ended
December 31, 2012

$                              

$                              

Twelve Months Ended
December 31, 2012

$                            

$                            

$                            

$                          

$                          

$                          

4.72
1.34
(0.04)
0.21
3.21

2,475
(143)
2,332
29.2%
(681)
1,651

2,742
1,585
1,994
7,788
(2,068)
773
12,814

13,140
(274)
(1,504)
11,362

14.5%

30.3%
(1.1)%
29.2%

Twelve Months Ended
December 31, 2012

Income Taxes

Tax Rate

$                                 

$                                 

973
(36)
937

ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC. and SUBSIDIARIES
PROXY PEER GROUP

The 2020 peer group consists of the following 17 public companies, consistent with the peer group included in the Company's Proxy Statement:

3M Company
Caterpillar Inc.
Cummins Inc.
Deere & Company
Dover Corporation

Eaton Corporation plc
Ecolab Inc.
Emerson Electric Co.
Fortive Corporation
General Dynamics Corporation

Honeywell International Inc.
Johnson Controls International plc
Parker-Hannifin Corporation  
PPG Industries, Inc.
Rockwell Automation, Inc.

The total shareholder return peer group average is calculated using a simple average.

Stanley Black & Decker, Inc.
Trane Technologies plc

ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC. and SUBSIDIARIES
SEGMENT PEER GROUP

Automotive OEM: Enerpac Tool Group, Allison Transmission Holdings Inc., WESCO International, Inc. and BorgWarner Inc.
Test & Measurement and Electronics: Ametek Inc, Fortive Corp, Keysight Technologies, Inc., Mettler-Toledo International Inc., Renishaw PLC, Spectris PLC and Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.
Food Equipment: Welbilt, Inc. and Middleby Corporation
Polymers & Fluids: 3M Company, Dupont De Nemours, Inc. and Huntsman Corporation
Welding: Kennametal Inc., Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. and Colfax Corporation
Construction Products: Carlisle, Crane Co., Ingersoll-Rand plc, Masco Corporation and Stanley Black & Decker, Inc.
Specialty Products: Ball Corporation, Berry Global Group Inc and Amcor plc

                                
                              
                              
                              
                             
                                 
                                
                             
Shareholder Information

Transfer Agent and Registrar 

Questions regarding stock ownership, dividend payments, or change of address 

should be directed to the company’s transfer agent: 

Broadridge Corporate Issuer Solutions, Inc. 

P.O. Box 1342  

Brentwood, NY 11717  

http://shareholder.broadridge.com/ITW  

Phone Toll Free: 888.829.7424  

International: +1.720.399.2177 

Common Stock 

New York Stock Exchange 

Symbol: ITW 

Trademarks 

Certain trademarks in this publication are owned or licensed by Illinois Tool Works Inc. or its wholly owned subsidiaries.

Contact Investor Relations

For additional assistance, including media inquiries: 224.661.7431 or investorrelations@itw.com. 

Visit Us on the Web 

www.itw.com 

Committed to Corporate Social Responsibility 

Learn about our CSR activities and goals in our annual CSR report: www.itw.com/social-responsibility.

Stock and Dividend Action

Effective with the October 14, 2020 payment, the quarterly cash dividend on ITW common stock was increased to 

$1.14 per share. ITW’s annual dividend payment has increased for more than 57 consecutive years, except during  

a period of government controls in 1971. 

The ITW Common Stock Dividend Reinvestment Plan enables registered shareholders to reinvest ITW dividends  

they receive in additional shares of common stock of the company at no additional cost. Participation in the plan  

is voluntary, and shareholders may join or withdraw at any time. The plan also allows for additional voluntary cash  

investments in any amount from $100 to $10,000 per month. For a brochure and full details of the program, please 

direct inquiries to the company’s transfer agent, Broadridge Corporate Issuer Solutions, Inc.

I

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Illinois Tool Works Inc.

155 Harlem Avenue       

Glenview, Illinois 60025

www.itw.com