10-KPeriod: FY2010

DANAHER CORP /DE/ Annual Report, Year Ended Dec 31, 2010

Filed February 24, 2011For Securities:DHR

Summary

Danaher Corporation (DHR) reported a strong financial performance for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2010, marking a significant recovery from the economic downturn of 2009. The company experienced substantial sales growth, driven by increased demand across its diverse segments and successful integration of recent acquisitions, particularly in the Life Sciences & Diagnostics sector. Danaher's focus on operational efficiency, through its Danaher Business System (DBS), continued to yield positive results, leading to improved operating profit margins. The company strategically deployed capital through acquisitions, enhancing its market positions and technological capabilities. Looking ahead, Danaher anticipates continued sales growth, albeit at a moderating pace, and remains committed to its strategy of organic growth supplemented by targeted acquisitions. The company's financial health is robust, supported by strong operating cash flow and a well-managed balance sheet. Investors can find confidence in Danaher's diversified business model, its disciplined capital allocation, and its consistent execution of its strategic initiatives, positioning it for sustained shareholder value creation.

Financial Statements
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Key Highlights

  • 1Danaher's sales increased significantly in 2010 compared to 2009, driven by a recovery in global economic conditions and the company's growth initiatives.
  • 2Operating profit margins improved notably in 2010 due to higher sales volumes and the benefits of restructuring actions taken in prior years.
  • 3The company actively pursued strategic acquisitions, notably in the Life Sciences & Diagnostics segment with the acquisitions of AB Sciex and Molecular Devices, expanding its capabilities in mass spectrometry.
  • 4Danaher formed a significant joint venture, Apex Tool Group, LLC, with Cooper Industries, contributing its hand tool manufacturing and distribution businesses.
  • 5The company's diversified business segments, including Test & Measurement, Environmental, Life Sciences & Diagnostics, Dental, and Industrial Technologies, all contributed to the overall positive performance.
  • 6Danaher maintained a strong liquidity position, with substantial cash from operations and access to credit facilities, enabling continued investment and strategic acquisitions.
  • 7Research and development expenditures increased in 2010, reflecting the company's commitment to innovation and new product development across its segments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Danaher experienced a strong recovery in 2010, with significant sales growth and improved operating profit margins compared to 2009. This performance was driven by increased demand across its business segments and successful integration of acquisitions.

Most segments showed improved performance. The Life Sciences & Diagnostics segment saw substantial growth due to key acquisitions. The Test & Measurement and Industrial Technologies segments also demonstrated robust performance, benefiting from increased demand and operational efficiencies.

Acquisitions played a significant role in Danaher's 2010 performance. The company completed several strategic acquisitions, notably in the Life Sciences & Diagnostics area (AB Sciex and Molecular Devices), which expanded its product offerings and market reach. These acquisitions contributed to revenue growth and diversification.

Danaher expects continued sales growth in 2011, though at a moderating rate compared to 2010. This outlook is based on a stable global economy and the company's ongoing strategic initiatives, including further investments in organic growth and potential acquisitions.