3M's history and stock: From mining startup to innovation giant and Dow Jones stalwart
This article chronicles the history of 3M (MMM), from its founding in 1902 as a mining venture to its evolution into a global innovation powerhouse. It covers key milestones including the invention of waterproof sandpaper, the accidental discovery of the adhesive that led to Post-it Notes, the development of Scotch Tape, and the company's expansion into diverse industries like healthcare, electronics, and safety. The article also traces 3M's stock performance, dividend history, and its position as a blue-chip Dow Jones component, highlighting how a culture of innovation and a "misfire" adhesive created one of the most iconic office products in history.
Key quotes
It was part of my job as a researcher to develop new adhesives, and at that time we wanted to develop bigger, stronger, tougher adhesives.
It was the misfire that launched the Boise Blitz.
We wanted to develop bigger, stronger, tougher adhesives.
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