Broad product, customer, and geographic diversity; Low leverage; Strong profitability and cash flow; Ample sources of internal and external liquidity; and Differentiated technology platforms that generate strong brands and scale. Aggressive commitment to accelerate revenue growth and increase shareholder value. The ratings on St. Paul, Minn.-based 3M Co. reflect its leading market positions, good product diversity, and strong financial profile. The rating also reflects the company's focus on increasing shareholder return and its challenge to accelerate growth from the current portfolio. With over 60,000 products for the industrial, consumer, and life-sciences markets, and its global presence, 3M is able to generate stable earnings and cash flow over business cycles. 3M excels at developing new products, and leveraging key core technologies