What distinguishes McCormick from other companies?

LAWRENCE > We operate from a position of strength in our primary markets. We have the number-one market share in the U.S., Canada, U.K., France and China, as well as several smaller markets.
    As the clear category leader, we supply our retail customers with the entire range of spice and seasoning products, from premium gourmet items to value-priced store brands. Among packaged food companies, this is an enviable position.

CHUCK > Our business is all about flavor. Datamonitor recently reported that 41% of U.S. and European consumers have tried food with new and exotic flavors in the last 12 months.
    We don’t sell a single type of product. Rather, flavor is something that spans all types of food and all types of eating occasions. Our two business segments – consumer and industrial – connect us to a wide array of products where we can add great taste. Whether it is a meal at home, a night out or a snack on-the-go, we have an opportunity to provide the flavor.
    We like to say, “No matter where or what you eat, each day you are likely to enjoy something flavored by McCormick.”

ALAN > As described earlier, we have a unique expertise in the sourcing of spices and herbs from locations around the world.
    Consumer interest in natural spices and herbs fits perfectly with our capabilities in this regard. For our industrial business, quality and reliability are paramount. Our customers know that McCormick understands the importance of a brand and will apply rigorous standards to the products we supply.
    A side benefit of our global sourcing effort is that we have an established link with several of the emerging markets that we have targeted for expansion.

MARK > McCormick also has a unique position in the area of acquisitions. As a mid-size food company, we are targeting a number of brands and businesses of a size that might not interest larger food companies. In fact, some of the smaller businesses these larger companies might shed as they refine their portfolio of products would be meaningful additions to our Company.

FRAN > We have maintained a strong balance sheet that has afforded us an excellent credit rating and leverage for acquisitions such as Lawry’s. While some investors have asked why we have not increased our debt and been more aggressive with share repurchases, we prefer to maintain our financial flexibility.