THE CHALLENGE
Operating with a decentralized, entrepreneurial culture across multiple business segments in more than 50 countries, $14.5 billion ITW has few opportunities to communicate as one unified entity. Its “signature reports” – the annual report and the sustainability report – provide two such opportunities.
THE STRATEGY & SOLUTION
Careful planning and execution are required to deliver messages and communications materials that are relevant for all of ITW’s diverse businesses and its stakeholders.
- The annual report summarizes ITW’s unique business model and enterprise strategy, provides insight into the company’s go-forward agenda, and highlights its sustainability framework.
- The sustainability report showcases the company’s commitments to governance, the environment, people and communities, and how these programs align with the ITW business model.
- Built and managed by Dix & Eaton, the sustainability section of ITW’s corporate website houses evergreen content and provides the opportunity for ongoing storytelling. The Reports and Downloads section of the corporate website serves as a repository for past sustainability report, summaries, CDP disclosures and verification statements.
THE RESULTS
ITW’s annual and sustainability reports work together to deliver clear, concise corporate messages to its varied stakeholders.
- The 2023 annual report was used as a platform to reinforce ITW’s Next Phase enterprise strategy unveiled at its 2024 Investor Day, highlight segment performance and share key successes from the year.
- For the 2023 sustainability report, Dix & Eaton helped ITW enhance the reader experience with a tightened narrative focused on strategic initiatives and data and more graphics/visuals and scannable content. Shifting to a landscape presentation provided a better viewing experience as most reports are viewed on wide screens. The team also leveraged the corporate website for storytelling and anecdotes that appeal to current and potential employees.
