Emerson Electric Co. · St. Louis, MO United States ·(NYSE: EMR)

Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote, "Work and acquire, and thou hast chained the wheel of Chance." Emerson Electric would agree. The company, generally known as just Emerson, makes a host of electrical, electromechanical, and electronic products, many of which are used to control gases, liquids, and electricity. Emerson pursues an active, aggressive acquisition strategy (with select divestitures along the way) in building up its global business with dozens of subsidiaries. The company gathers its 60-plus business units and divisions under eight Emerson Brands. The US accounts for about half of sales. As old Ralph Waldo once said, "Make yourself necessary to somebody," and Emerson Electric follows that adage. To read the full description, subscribe now.