Whirlpool Corporation
Industry: Appliance & Tool

Whirlpool Corporation is the world's leading manufacturer and marketer of major home appliances. Headquartered in Benton Harbor, the company manufactures in 13 countries and markets products under 11 major brand names in more than 170s countries

Business Summary
Whirlpool Corporation is a worldwide manufacturer and marketer of home appliances. The Company manufactures in 12 countries under nine brand names and markets products to distributors and retailers in more than 170 countries. It manufactures and markets a line of appliances and related products, primarily for home use. Its principal products are home laundry appliances, home refrigerators and freezers, home cooking appliances, home dishwashers, room air-conditioning equipment and mixers and other small household appliances. Approximately 10% of its unit sales volume is purchased from other manufacturers for resale by the Company. Whirlpool also produces hermetic compressors and plastic components, primarily for the home appliance and electronics industries.

Financial Summary
For the nine months ended 30 September 2005, Whirlpool Corporation's revenues increased 8% to $10.36B. Net income fell 4% to $296M. Revenues reflect increased unit volumes in North America and Europe due to strong consumer demand for the Company's product innovation. Net income was offset by decreased operating margins due to higher raw material costs, increased restructuring costs and higher interest expense.