RPM International Inc. (NYSE: RPM) is a holding company with subsidiaries that are world leaders in specialty coatings and sealants serving both industrial and consumer markets. This description, how-ever, tells only part of the story. Equally important to understanding our company is a philosophy that we know simply as "the value of 168."

Our founder, Frank C. Sullivan (above), displayed this figure on his car license plate. It was his favorite number because it represents the total hours in a week; thus, it served as a reminder that each of us has a limited amount of time, and a duty to use this gift wisely and productively.

At RPM, the value of 168 comes to life through motivated employees who enjoy their work and create the conditions that allow our customers to grow and our stockholders to prosper.

It is a unique form of corporate governance, guiding our relationships with one another and our customers, and demanding integrity in the operation of our businesses and the reporting of our results. In short, it is a vital aspect of our heritage. In this annual report, we will explain how, through the value of 168, we are Building on Our Heritage.

We believe that RPM is the best home for entrepreneurial companies in the markets we serve. Our industrial products include roofing systems, sealants, corrosion control coatings, flooring coatings and specialty chemicals. Industrial brands include Stonhard, Tremco, Carboline, Day-Glo, Euco and Dryvit. RPM’s consumer products are used by professionals and do-it-yourselfers for home maintenance and improvement, and for automotive and boat repair and maintenance. Consumer brands include Zinsser, Rust-Oleum, DAP, Varathane, Bondo and Testors.