Case Studies

No. 1 player P&G made progress toward its purpose-inspired growth strategy, while Unilever reported gains in its transformation to a sustainable growth company. Most of the companies on this list followed their lead with modest sales gains in 2011.

The Apparel, Footwear and Accessories market is alive and well thanks to increased consumer spending in 2011. Plus, find out which companies hopped on the list when mainstays, like Liz Claiborne, made an exit.

Last year, Stanley Black & Decker proved to be the runaway hit with greater than 100 percent growth. This year, the playing field has evened out.

Some things are simply out of our control. Find out how the earthquake that hit Japan literally shook the Tobacco market in 2011.

Merger and acquisitions continue to transform the beverage list year after year, but growth remains steady for the majority. Look back at how the major beverage leaders grew market share in 2011.

The Keurig single cup coffee brewing system was not an overnight success. Little research predicted that it would be a consumer success. But, this disruptive innovation proved to be the exception to the rule. Why? The answer lies in the entrepreneurial, risk-oriented innovation philosophies of the company behind the brand.

When store supplies for Kimberly-Clark's retail partners are out of synch with production forecasts, it can have a very real impact on the $20.8 billion personal care products giant's sales. So, the company invested in data analytics software to provide far more visibility into real-time demand trends.

With strong consumer relationships, brand trust and a 100-year-old heritage, Hallmark Cards, Inc. has been trusted with marking milestones in consumers' lives. So, the company decided to transform how it innovates and engages its consumer.