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The Sherwin-Williams Co. is a U.S.-based corporation listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the ticker SHW, operating within the materials sector and classified in the paints, coatings, and specialty chemicals subsector. Founded by Henry Sherwin and Edward Williams, its initial objective was the development of high-performance coating solutions for residential, industrial, and commercial applications.
Its product portfolio includes architectural paints, industrial coatings, automotive finishes, resins, additives, and specialty materials designed for anticorrosive protection. The company also provides technical services related to application, specification, and maintenance of coatings for corporate clients and distributors.
Its geographic footprint spans the United States, Canada, Latin America, Europe, and Asia, with significant exposure to construction, infrastructure, manufacturing, oil and gas, transportation, and durable goods industries. Distribution channels include company-owned stores, retail partners, distributors, and direct sales to industrial clients.
Market factors affecting operations include cyclical construction demand, petrochemical feedstock costs, environmental regulations, energy-efficiency standards, and competition from global manufacturers of paints and coatings. Innovation and sustainability initiatives also influence product launches and the adoption of new lines.
Operational scale encompasses thousands of company-owned stores, primarily in the United States, as well as multiple manufacturing plants and research centers. The company serves millions of customers annually, including end consumers, contractors, manufacturers, and large industrial organizations.
Its operational structure is organized into divisions focused on architectural, industrial, and automotive markets. The model integrates logistics, coating-technology research, multichannel distribution, and administrative units located in strategic regions, with corporate headquarters in Cleveland, Ohio, and subsidiaries across several countries.
Global activities are supported by subsidiaries, innovation centers, technical laboratories, and supply-chain units responsible for the production, storage, and transportation of chemical products. Operational integration is reinforced by planning systems, industrial support functions, and advanced technical assistance.
The Sherwin-Williams Co. trades its shares on the NYSE under the ticker SHW.
History and Foundation
The company was founded in 1866 in Cleveland, Ohio, with the initial objective of developing ready-mixed paints at a time when the sector was still dominated by artisanal production. The innovative model enabled product standardization and greater distribution efficiency.The early years were marked by expansion of the product line, development of proprietary formulations, and the opening of new distribution channels. Initial challenges included a fragmented competitive landscape and the need for sustained investment in industrial processes and chemical research.
Growth in subsequent decades included expansion into industrial markets, adoption of automated manufacturing technologies, and entry into high-performance coatings segments. International expansion advanced with operations across Latin America, Europe, and Asia, strengthening global presence.
Key historical milestones include the acquisition of Dutch Boy in 1907, the introduction of automotive-coating technologies during the 20th century, and the 2017 acquisition of Valspar Corporation, one of the largest integrations in the global coatings industry. The company also completed an initial public offering (IPO) prior to the consolidation of modern capital markets.
Between 2020 and 2024, the company invested in new research centers, manufacturing expansion, enhancements to sustainable product lines, and adjustments to evolving residential and industrial demand. Logistical improvements and efficiency initiatives supported operational competitiveness, while volatility in chemical input costs influenced performance.
Additional Information
The Company The Sherwin-Williams Co. (United States), is listed on NYSE with a market value of $ 86.91 Billions, having an equity of $ 4.43 Billions.
With a total of 61.111 employees, the company is listed in the sector of Basic Materials and categorized in industry of Chemicals Manufacturing.
In the last 12 months the Company had a revenue of $ 23.28 Billions, which generated a profit in the amount of $ 2.57 Billions.
As for its main indicators, the Company has a P/E ratio of 33.79, a P/BV ratio of 19.64 and in the last 12 months the dividend yield of SHW was at 0.89%.
The Company is traded internationally through the ticker SHW.
