Fortune Brands
Fortune has been firing on all cylinders lately, which is impressive considering the number of them in its engine. The firm sells a broad range of products, including Moen bathroom fixtures, Titleist golf clubs, and Jim Beam whiskey. One has to wonder how the company manages to deliver solid results out of such a hodgepodge of offerings.
A major factor appears to be its ability to team up with high-profile partners. Fortune's recent alliance with Starbucks
In addition, Fortune seems to be savvy at making smart acquisitions, an important feature for a holding company. The company's purchase of door maker Therma-Tru, for instance, is projected to add $0.15 to earnings this year. Who knew doors could be so profitable?
As fellow Fool contributor W.D. Crotty has remarked, Fortune's valuation is a tough nut to crack, given that its competitors range from Diageo
This is not to say that Fortune is invulnerable. Higher interest rates could throw a wet blanket on its home-products area. Still, other drivers, such as gains in its office-supplies segment from increased hiring, could be enough to offset blows elsewhere. In short, with the strong relationships Fortune has in place, and so much of its business likely to benefit from a growing economy, the firm does not have to rely on luck for improving results.
Fool contributor Brian Gorman is a freelance writer living in Chicago, Ill. He does not own shares of any companies mentioned here.