Five-Year Strategy

As of May 31, 2015, RPM established a five-year strategic plan with the goal of achieving $7 billion in revenue by 2020, building more $1-billion global brands and continuing its streak of consecutive cash dividend increases. RPM identified five main strategies that are key to its continued success.

1. Acquisitions: In keeping with its reputation of being “the best home for entrepreneurial companies” in the industry, RPM conducts a strategic acquisition program that creates shareholder value by attracting successful entrepreneurial companies and applying a disciplined approach to investing in their continued growth.
2. New Product Development: A major driving force behind its growth, RPM pioneers cutting-edge product innovations that are designed to penetrate new markets, drive incremental sales growth and solve problems for its customers.
3. The Value of 168: RPM’s culture of growth is largely guided by The Value of 168, a philosophy set forth by the company’s founder. The figure “168” represents the number of hours in a week and serves as a reminder that one is born with two great gifts: life and the time to do something with it. The Value of 168 signifies RPM’s enduring commitment to conduct business the right way, with honesty and integrity, on behalf of its employees, customers and stockholders.
4. Connections Creating Value: RPM promotes a culture of collaboration among its operating companies – a strategy that has resulted in increased market penetration, improved efficiencies in manufacturing and distribution, and shared technological resources.
5. International Expansion: RPM continues to expand its global footprint – particularly in established European economies and emerging, high-growth markets such as Latin America, India and China. Key initiatives driving this expansion include acquisitions, joint ventures, partnerships between operating units and the establishment of new sales offices.