Fortune Brands Innovations, Inc. - Annual Report: 2017 (Form 10-K)

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UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

Form 10-K

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF

THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017

Commission file number 1-35166

Fortune Brands Home & Security, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

520 Lake Cook Road, Deerfield, IL 60015-5611

(Address of Principal Executive Offices)    (Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (847) 484-4400

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.

Yes    ☒         No    ☐

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.

Yes    ☐        No    ☒

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes    ☒        No    ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

Yes    ☒        No    ☐

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§229.405) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.        ☒

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company or emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filer      ☒      Accelerated filer      ☐       Non-accelerated filer (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)      ☐ Smaller reporting company      ☐      Emerging growth company      ☐

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.      ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).

Yes    ☐        No    ☒

The aggregate market value of the registrant’s voting common equity held by non-affiliates of the registrant at June 30, 2017 (the last day of the registrant’s most recent second quarter) was $10,015,217,282. The number of shares outstanding of the registrant’s common stock, par value $0.01 per share, at February 2, 2018, was 151,950,428.

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DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Certain information contained in the registrant’s proxy statement for its Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on May 1, 2018 (to be filed not later than 120 days after the end of the registrant’s fiscal year) (the “2018 Proxy Statement”) is incorporated by reference into Part III hereof.

Form 10-K Table of Contents

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PART I

Item 1. Business.

Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains certain “forward-looking statements” made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), regarding expected capital spending, expected pension contributions, the anticipated effects of recently issued accounting standards on our financial statements, planned business strategies, estimated impact and effects of the U.S. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, market potential, future financial performance and other matters. Statements that include the words “believes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “projects,” “estimates,” “plans” and similar expressions or future or conditional verbs such as “will,” “should,” “would,” “may” and “could” are generally forward-looking in nature and not historical facts. Where, in any forward-looking statement, we express an expectation or belief as to future results or events, such expectation or belief is based on the current plans and expectations at the time this report is filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) or, with respect to any documents incorporated by reference, available at the time such document was prepared or filed with the SEC. Although we believe that these statements are based on reasonable assumptions, they are subject to numerous factors, risks and uncertainties that could cause actual outcomes and results to be materially different from those indicated in such statements. These factors include those listed in the section below entitled “Risk Factors.” Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events, new information or changes to future results over time or otherwise.

Unless the context otherwise requires, references in this Annual Report on Form 10-K to “Fortune Brands,” the “Company,” “we,” “our” or “us” refer to Fortune Brands Home & Security, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries.

Our Company

We are a leading home and security products company that competes in attractive long-term growth markets in our product categories. With a foundation of market-leading brands across a diversified mix of channels, and lean and flexible supply chains, as well as a tradition of strong product innovation and customer service, we are focused on outperforming our markets in both growth and returns, and driving increased shareholder value. We have four business segments: Cabinets, Plumbing, Doors and Security. We sell our products through a wide array of sales channels, including kitchen and bath dealers, wholesalers oriented toward builders or professional remodelers, industrial and locksmith distributors, “do-it-yourself” remodeling-oriented home centers and other retail outlets. We believe the Company’s impressive track record reflects the long-term attractiveness and potential of our categories and our leading brands. Our performance in the six years since becoming an independent publicly traded company demonstrates the strength of our operating model and our ability to generate profitable growth as sales volume increases and we leverage our structural competitive advantages to gain share in our categories.

Our Strategy

Build on leading business and brand positions in attractive growth and return categories.    We believe that we have leading market positions and brands in many of our product categories. We continue to invest in targeted advertising and other strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing brand awareness and educating consumers regarding the breadth, features and benefits of our product lines. For example, in the third quarter of 2017, Moen launched its new “Innovated By…” advertising campaign which brings Moen innovation to life through compelling narratives designed to evoke emotion

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and provoke thought. We also strive to leverage our brands by expanding into adjacent product categories and continue to develop new programs by working closely with our customers.

Continue to develop innovative products for customers, designers, installers and consumers.    Sustained investments in consumer-driven product innovation and customer service, along with our low cost structures, have contributed to our success in the marketplace and creating consumer demand. In 2017, MasterBrand Cabinets, which provides a wide range of cabinets for the home, launched innovative new cabinet door designs, lighting systems, color palettes and features in a range of styles that allows consumers to create a custom kitchen look at an affordable price and introduced new, exclusive laminate door and finish options across multiple price segments. We continue to provide channel support with responsive websites featuring our cabinet brands that drives consumers to our partner dealers. In 2016, we created the Global Plumbing Group (“GPG”), a strategic platform within our Plumbing segment that spans across brands and geographic areas in order to accelerate growth opportunities and transform our existing plumbing business. During 2017 and 2016, we expanded our brand presence in plumbing through acquisitions. In 2017, we acquired Victoria + Albert, a U.K. manufacturer of luxury freestanding tubs and basins and Shaws Since1987 Limited (“Shaws”), a U.K.-based company that specializes in the design, production and marketing of luxury fire-clay kitchen sinks. In 2016, we acquired Riobel Inc. (“Riobel”), a Canadian premium showroom brand and ROHL LLC (“ROHL”), a California-based luxury brand and in a related transaction and TCL Manufacturing Ltd, which gave us ownership of Perrin & Rowe Limited (“Perrin & Rowe”), a UK manufacturer and designer of luxury kitchen and bathroom plumbing products. In addition, GPG’s legacy brand, Moen had a number of innovative product launches in 2017, including a customizable shower technology with personal device integration. The Therma-Tru portfolio of on-trend door and glass collections continued to evolve to meet current and emerging architectural design trends including wider and taller door styles, expanding panel configurations, as well as additional decorative, privacy and textured glass designs. Master Lock continued to be an innovation leader in security and safety products and services, driven by consumer and end user focused insights with continued emphasis on electronic enabled solutions for enhanced capability and convenience. SentrySafe continued to provide a full line portfolio of quality security, fire and water resistant safes to help consumers and small business owners protect documents and valuables.

Expand in international markets.    We expect to have opportunities to expand sales by further penetrating international markets, which represented approximately 15% of net sales in 2017. We continue to develop our relationship with dealers and distributors and their Moen branded stores throughout China. In our Cabinets segment, Kitchen Craft remained a leading cabinetry brand in Canada, while WoodCrafters provided a company presence in Mexico. Master Lock continued to expand its presence in Europe and Asia (primarily Japan), while Therma-Tru made inroads in Canada as consumers transitioned from traditional entry door materials to more advanced and energy-efficient fiberglass doors.

Leverage our global supply chains.    We are using lean manufacturing, design-to-manufacture and distributive assembly techniques to make our supply chains more flexible and improve supply chain quality, cost, response times and asset efficiency. We view our supply chains as a strategic asset not only to support strong operating leverage as volumes increase, but also to enable the profitable growth of new products, adjacent market expansion and international growth.

Enhance returns and deploy our cash flow to high-return opportunities.    We continue to believe our most attractive opportunities are to invest in profitable organic growth initiatives, pursue accretive strategic acquisitions and joint ventures, and return cash to stockholders through a combination of dividends and repurchases of shares of our common stock under our share repurchase program. Both add-on acquisitions and share repurchase opportunities may be particularly attractive in the next few years. In 2017, we repurchased 3.4 million shares of our outstanding common stock under the Company’s share repurchase programs for $214.8 million. In July 2017, we acquired Shaws, a UK-based luxury plumbing products company that specializes in manufacturing and selling fireclay sinks. In October 2017, we acquired Victoria +Albert, a UK-based premium brand of standalone bathtubs, sink, tub fillers, faucets and other accessories. These acquisitions broadened our plumbing portfolio and enhanced future growth opportunities.

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Our Competitive Strengths

We believe our competitive strengths include the following:

Leading brands.    We have leading brands in many of our product categories. We believe that established brands are meaningful to both consumers and trade customers in their respective categories and that we have the opportunity to, among other things, continue to expand many of our brands into adjacent product categories and international markets.

Strategic focus on attractive consumer-facing categories.    We believe we operate in categories that, while very competitive, are among the more attractive categories in the home products and security products markets. Some of the key characteristics that make these categories attractive in our view include the following:

Operational excellence.    We believe our investments in lean manufacturing and productivity initiatives have resulted in supply chain flexibility and the ability to cost-effectively add or reduce capacity in order to match demand levels. In 2017, we invested approximately $40 million to support long-term growth potential both in the U.S. and international markets. In addition, our supply chains and low cost manufacturing structures have created favorable operating leverage allowing volumes to grow without sacrificing customer service levels. We believe that margin improvement will continue to be driven predominantly by organic volume growth that can be readily accommodated by additional production shifts and equipment as necessary.

Commitment to innovation.    We have a long track record of successful product and process innovations that introduce valued new products and services to our customers and consumers. We are committed to continuing to invest in new product development and enhance customer service to strengthen our leading brands and penetrate adjacent markets.

Diverse sales end-use mix.    We sell in a variety of product categories in the U.S. home and security products markets. In addition, our exposure to changing levels of U.S. residential new home construction activity is balanced with repair-and-remodel activity, which comprised a substantial majority of the overall U.S. home products market and about two-thirds of our U.S. home products sales in 2017. We also benefit from a stable market for plumbing and security products and international sales growth opportunities.

Diverse sales channels.    We sell through a wide array of sales channels, including kitchen and bath dealers, wholesalers oriented to builders or professional remodelers, industrial and locksmith distributors, “do-it-yourself” remodeling-oriented home centers and other retail outlets. We also sell security products to locksmiths, industrial distributors and mass merchants. We are able to leverage these existing sales channels to expand into adjacent product categories. In 2017, sales to our top ten customers represented less than half of total sales.

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Decentralized business model.    Our business segments are focused on distinct product categories and are responsible for their own performance. This structure enables each of our segments to independently best position itself within each category in which it competes and reinforces strong accountability for operational and financial performance. Each of our segments focuses on its unique set of consumers, customers, competitors and suppliers, while also sharing best practices.

Strong capital structure.    We exited 2017 with a strong balance sheet. In 2017, we repurchased 3.4 million of our shares. As of December 31, 2017, we had $323.0 million of cash and cash equivalents and total debt was $1,507.6 million, resulting in a net debt position of $1,184.6 million. In addition, we had $635.0 million available under our credit facility as of December 31, 2017.

Business Segments

We have four business segments: Cabinets, Plumbing, Doors and Security. The following table shows net sales for each of these segments and key brands within each segment:

Our segments compete on the basis of innovation, fashion, quality, price, service and responsiveness to distributor, retailer and installer needs, as well as end-user consumer preferences. Our markets are very competitive. Approximately 15% of 2017 net sales were to international markets, and sales to two of the Company’s customers, The Home Depot, Inc. (“The Home Depot”) and Lowe’s Companies, Inc. (“Lowe’s”), each accounted for more than 10% of the Company’s net sales in 2017. Sales to all U.S. home centers in the aggregate were approximately 27% of net sales in 2017.

Cabinets.    Our Cabinets segment manufactures custom, semi-custom and stock cabinetry, as well as vanities, for the kitchen, bath and other parts of the home through a regional supply chain footprint to deliver high quality and service to our customers. This segment sells a portfolio of brands that enables our customers to differentiate themselves against competitors. This portfolio includes brand names such as Aristokraft, Diamond, Mid-Continent, Kitchen Craft, Schrock, Homecrest, Omega, Thomasville, Kemper, StarMark and Ultracraft. Substantially all of this segment’s sales are in North America. This segment sells directly to kitchen and bath dealers, home centers, wholesalers and large builders. In aggregate, sales to The Home Depot and Lowe’s comprised approximately 34% of net sales of the Cabinets segment in 2017. This segment’s competitors include Masco, American Woodmark and RSI (owned by American Woodmark), as well as a large number of regional and local suppliers.

Plumbing.    Our Plumbing segment manufactures or assembles and sells faucets, accessories, kitchen sinks and waste disposals in North America and China, predominantly under the Moen, ROHL, Riobel, Perrin & Rowe, Victoria + Albert, Shaws and Waste King brands. Although this segment sells products principally in the U.S., Canada and China, this segment also sells in Mexico, Southeast Asia, Europe and

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South America. Approximately 26% of 2017 net sales were to international markets. This segment sells directly through its own sales force and indirectly through independent manufacturers’ representatives, primarily to wholesalers, home centers, mass merchandisers and industrial distributors. In aggregate, sales to The Home Depot and Lowe’s comprised approximately 23% of net sales of the Plumbing segment in 2017. This segment’s chief competitors include Delta (owned by Masco), Kohler, Pfister (owned by Spectrum Brands), American Standard (owned by LIXIL Group), InSinkErator (owned by Emerson Electronic Company) and imported private-label brands.

Doors.    Our Doors segment manufactures and sells fiberglass and steel entry door systems under the Therma-Tru brand and urethane millwork product lines under the Fypon brand. This segment benefits from the long-term trend away from traditional materials, such as wood, steel and aluminum, toward more energy-efficient and durable synthetic materials. Therma-Tru products include fiberglass and steel residential entry door and patio door systems, primarily for sale in the U.S. and Canada. This segment’s principal customers are home centers, millwork building products and wholesale distributors, and specialty dealers that provide products to the residential new construction market, as well as to the remodeling and renovation markets. In aggregate, sales to The Home Depot and Lowe’s comprised approximately 14% of net sales of the Doors segment in 2017. This segment’s competitors include Masonite, JELD-WEN, Plastpro and Pella.

Security.    Our Security segment’s products consist of locks, safety and security devices, and electronic security products manufactured, sourced and distributed primarily under the Master Lock brand and fire resistant safes, security containers and commercial cabinets manufactured, sourced and distributed under the SentrySafe brand. This segment sells products principally in the U.S., Canada, Europe, Central America, Japan and Australia. Approximately 25% of 2017 net sales were to international markets. This segment manufactures and sells key-controlled and combination padlocks, bicycle and cable locks, built-in locker locks, door hardware, automotive, trailer and towing locks, electronic access control solutions, and other specialty safety and security devices for consumer use to hardware, home center and other retail outlets. In addition, the segment sells lock systems and fire resistant safes to locksmiths, industrial and institutional users, and original equipment manufacturers. In aggregate, sales to The Home Depot and Lowe’s comprised approximately 18% of the net sales of the Security segment in 2017. Master Lock competes with Abus, W.H. Brady, Hampton, Kwikset (owned by Spectrum Brands), Schlage (owned by Allegion), Assa Abloy and various imports, and SentrySafe competes with First Alert, Magnum, Fortress, Stack-On and Fire King.

Annual net sales for each of the last three fiscal years for each of our business segments were as follows:

For additional financial information for each of our business segments, refer to Note 18, “Information on Business Segments,” to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Other Information

Raw materials.    The table below indicates the principal raw materials used by each of our segments. These materials are available from a number of sources. Volatility in the prices of commodities and energy used in making and distributing our products impacts the cost of manufacturing our products.

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Intellectual property.    Product innovation and branding are important to the success of our business. In addition to the brand protection offered by our trademarks, patent protection helps distinguish our unique product features in the market by preventing copying and making it more difficult for competitors to benefit unfairly from our design innovation. We hold U.S. and foreign patents covering various features used in products sold within all of our business segments. Although each of our segments relies on a number of patents and patent groups that, in the aggregate, provide important protections to the Company, no single patent or patent group is material to any of the Company’s segments.

Employees.    As of December 31, 2017, we had approximately 23,800 full-time employees. Of these employees, approximately 2,000 of these employees are covered by collective bargaining agreements. Employee relations are generally good.

Information about geographic areas.    For additional information about net sales and assets by geographic areas, refer to Note 18, “Information on Business Segments,” to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Seasonality.    All of our operating segments traditionally experience lower sales in the first quarter of the year when new home construction, repair-and-remodel activity and security buying are at their lowest. As a result of sales seasonality and associated timing of working capital fluctuations, our cash flow from operating activities is typically higher in the second half of the year.

Environmental matters.    We are involved in remediation activities to clean up hazardous wastes as required by federal and state laws. Liabilities for remediation costs of each site are based on our best estimate of undiscounted future costs, excluding possible insurance recoveries or recoveries from other third parties. Uncertainties about the status of laws, regulations, technology and information related to individual sites make it difficult to develop estimates of environmental remediation exposures. Some of the potential liabilities relate to sites we own, and some relate to sites we no longer own or never owned. Several of our subsidiaries have been designated as potentially responsible parties (“PRP”) under “Superfund” or similar state laws. As of December 31, 2017, eleven such instances have not been dismissed, settled or otherwise resolved. In 2017, none of our subsidiaries were identified as a PRP in a new instance and no instances were settled, dismissed or otherwise resolved. In most instances where our subsidiaries are named as a PRP, we enter into cost-sharing arrangements with other PRPs. We give notice to insurance carriers of potential PRP liability, but very rarely, if ever, receive reimbursement from insurance for PRP costs. We believe that the cost of complying with the present environmental protection laws, before considering estimated recoveries either from other PRPs or insurance, will not have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, cash flows or financial condition. At December 31, 2017 and 2016, we had accruals of $0.7 and $1.0 million, respectively, relating to environmental compliance and cleanup including, but not limited to, the above mentioned Superfund sites.

Legal structure.    Fortune Brands Home & Security, Inc. is a holding company that was initially organized as a Delaware corporation in 1988. Wholly-owned subsidiaries of the Company include MasterBrand Cabinets, Inc., Moen Incorporated, Fortune Brands Global Plumbing Group LLC, Fortune Brands Doors, Inc. and Fortune Brands Storage & Security LLC. As a holding company, we are a legal entity separate and distinct from our subsidiaries. Accordingly, the rights of the Company, and thus the rights of our creditors (including holders of debt securities and other obligations) and stockholders to participate in any distribution of the assets or earnings of any subsidiary is subject to the claims of creditors

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of the subsidiary, except to the extent that claims of the Company itself as a creditor of such subsidiary may be recognized, in which event the Company’s claims may in certain circumstances be subordinate to certain claims of others. In addition, as a holding company, the source of our unconsolidated revenues and funds is dividends and other payments from subsidiaries. Our subsidiaries are not limited by long-term debt or other agreements in their abilities to pay cash dividends or to make other distributions with respect to their capital stock or other payments to the Company.

Available Information.    The Company’s website address is www.FBHS.com. The Company’s annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and any amendments to these reports are available free of charge on the Company’s website as soon as reasonably practicable after the reports are filed or furnished electronically with the SEC. These documents also are made available to read and copy at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. You may obtain information about the Public Reference Room by contacting the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. Reports filed with the SEC are also made available on its website at www.sec.gov. We also make available on our website, or in printed form upon request, free of charge, our Corporate Governance Principles, Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, Code of Ethics for Senior Financial Officers, Charters for the Committees of our Board of Directors and certain other information related to the Company.

Item 1A.  Risk Factors.

There are inherent risks and uncertainties associated with our business that could adversely affect our business, financial condition or operating results. Set forth below are descriptions of those risks and uncertainties that we currently believe to be material, but the risks and uncertainties described below are not the only risks and uncertainties that could adversely affect our business, financial condition or operating results. If any of these risks materialize, our business, financial condition or operating results could suffer. In this case, the trading price of our common stock could decline, and you may lose all or part of your investment.

Risks Relating to Our Business

Our business primarily relies on North American home improvement, repair and remodel and new home construction activity levels, all of which are impacted by risks associated with fluctuations in the housing market. Downward changes in the general economy, the housing market or other business conditions could adversely affect our results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

Our business primarily relies on home improvement, repair and remodel, and new home construction activity levels, principally in North America. The housing market is sensitive to changes in economic conditions and other factors, such as the level of employment, access to labor, consumer confidence, consumer income, government tax programs, availability of financing and interest rate levels. Adverse changes in any of these conditions generally, or in any of the markets where we operate, could decrease demand and could adversely impact our businesses by: causing consumers to delay or decrease homeownership; making consumers more price conscious resulting in a shift in demand to smaller, less expensive homes; making consumers more reluctant to make investments in their existing homes, including large kitchen and bath repair and remodel projects; or making it more difficult to secure loans for major renovations. Although the U.S. new home construction market continues to improve, demand for new homes is still recovering after the 2007-2009 U.S. economic recession and continues to remain below historical levels.

We operate in very competitive consumer and trade brand categories.

The markets in which we operate are very competitive. Although we believe that competition in our businesses is based largely on product quality, consumer and trade brand reputation, customer service and product features, as well as fashion, innovation and ease of installation, price is a significant factor for

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consumers as well as our trade customers. Some of our competitors may resort to price competition to sustain or grow market share and manufacturing capacity utilization. Also, certain large customers continue to offer private-label brands that compete with some of our product offerings as a lower-cost alternative. The strong competition that we face in all of our businesses may adversely affect our profitability and revenue levels, as well as our results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

Risks associated with strategic acquisitions and joint ventures could adversely affect our results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

We consider acquisitions and joint ventures as a means of enhancing shareholder value. Acquisitions and joint ventures involve risks and uncertainties, including difficulties integrating acquired companies and operating joint ventures; difficulties retaining the acquired businesses’ customers and brands; the inability to achieve the expected financial results and benefits of transactions; the loss of key employees from acquired companies; implementing and maintaining consistent standards, controls, policies and information systems; and diversion of management’s attention from other business matters. Future acquisitions could cause us to incur additional debt or issue additional shares, resulting in dilution in earnings per share and return on capital.

We may not successfully develop new products or processes or improve existing products or processes.

Our success depends on meeting consumer needs and anticipating changes in consumer preferences with successful new products and product improvements. We aim to introduce products and new or improved production processes proactively to offset obsolescence and decreases in sales of existing products. While we devote significant focus to the development of new or updated products and processes, we may not be successful in product development and our new products may not be commercially successful. In addition, it is possible that competitors may improve their products or processes more rapidly or effectively, which could adversely affect our sales. Furthermore, market demand may decline as a result of consumer preferences trending away from our categories or trending down within our brands or product categories, which could adversely impact our results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

Risks associated with our ability to improve organizational productivity and global supply chain efficiency and flexibility could adversely affect our results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

We regularly evaluate our organizational productivity and global supply chains and assess opportunities to increase capacity, reduce costs and enhance quality. We may be unable to enhance quality, speed and flexibility to meet changing and uncertain market conditions, as well as manage cost inflation, including wages, pension and medical costs. Our success depends in part on refining our cost structure and supply chains to promote consistently flexible and low cost supply chains that can respond to market changes to protect profitability and cash flow or ramp up quickly and effectively to meet demand. Failure to achieve the desired level of quality, capacity or cost reductions could impair our results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

Future tax law changes or the interpretation of existing tax laws may materially impact our effective income tax rate, the resolution of unrecognized tax benefits and cash tax payments.

Our businesses are subject to income taxation in the U.S., as well as internationally. We are routinely audited by income tax authorities in many jurisdictions. Although we believe that the recorded tax estimates are reasonable and appropriate, there are significant uncertainties in these estimates. As a result, the ultimate outcome from any audit could be materially different from amounts reflected in our income tax provisions and accruals. Future settlements of income tax audits may have a material adverse effect on earnings between the period of initial recognition of tax estimates in our financial statements and the point of ultimate tax audit settlement.

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Risks associated with global commodity and energy availability and price volatility, as well as the possibility of sustained inflation, could adversely affect our results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

We are exposed to risks associated with global commodity price volatility arising from restricted or uneven supply conditions, the sustained expansion and volatility of demand from emerging markets, potentially unstable geopolitical and economic variables, weather and other unpredictable external factors. We buy raw materials that contain commodities such as brass, zinc, steel, wood, and glass and petroleum-based products such as resins. In addition, our distribution costs are significantly impacted by the price of oil and diesel fuel. Decreased availability and increased or volatile prices for these commodities, as well as energy used in making, distributing and transporting our products, could increase the costs of our products. While in the past we have been able to mitigate the impact of these cost increases through productivity improvements and passing on increasing costs to our customers over time, there is no assurance that we will be able to offset such cost increases in the future, and the risk of potentially sustained high levels of inflation could adversely impact our results of operations, cash flows and financial condition. While we may use derivative contracts to limit our short-term exposure to commodity price volatility, the commodity exposures under these contracts could still be material to our results of operations, cash flows and financial condition. In addition, in periods of declining commodity prices, these derivative contracts may have the short-term effect of increasing our expenditures for these raw materials.

We manufacture, source and sell products internationally and are exposed to risks associated with doing business globally.

We manufacture, source or sell our products in a number of locations throughout the world, predominantly in the U.S., Canada, China, Europe and Mexico. Accordingly, we are subject to risks associated with potential disruption caused by changes in political, economic and social environments, including civil and political unrest, terrorism, possible expropriation, local labor conditions, changes in laws, regulations and policies of foreign governments and trade disputes with the U.S., and U.S. laws affecting activities of U.S. companies abroad. Risks inherent to international operations include: potentially adverse tax laws, unfavorable changes or uncertainty relating to trade agreements or importation duties, uncertainty regarding clearance and enforcement of intellectual property rights, risks associated with the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and difficulty enforcing contracts. While we hedge certain foreign currency transactions, a change in the value of the currencies will impact our financial statements when translated into U.S. dollars. In addition, fluctuations in currency can adversely impact the cost position of our products in local currency, making it more difficult for us to compete. Our success will depend, in part, on our ability to effectively manage our businesses through the impact of these potential changes. In addition, we source certain raw materials, components and finished goods from China where we have experienced higher manufacturing costs and longer lead times due to currency fluctuations, higher wage rates, labor shortages and higher raw material costs.

Changes in government and industry regulatory standards could adversely affect our results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

Government regulations and policies pertaining to trade agreements, health and safety (including protection of employees as well as consumers), taxes and environmental concerns continue to emerge domestically, as well as internationally. In particular, there may be additional tariffs or taxes related to our imported inputs and finished goods. It is necessary for us to comply with current requirements (including requirements that do not become effective until a future date), and even more stringent requirements could be imposed on our products or processes in the future. Compliance with changes in taxes, tariffs and other regulations may require us to alter our manufacturing and installation processes and our sourcing. Such actions could increase our capital expenditures and adversely impact our results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

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Our inability to secure and protect our intellectual property rights could negatively impact revenues and brand reputation.

We have many patents, trademarks, brand names and trade names that are important to our business. Unauthorized use of these intellectual property rights may not only erode sales of our products, but may also cause significant damage to our brand name and reputation, interfere with our ability to effectively represent the Company to our customers, contractors and suppliers, and increase litigation costs. There can be no assurance that our efforts to protect our brands and trademark rights will prevent violations. In addition, existing patent, trade secret and trademark laws offer only limited protection, and the laws of some countries in which our products are or may be developed, manufactured or sold may not fully protect our intellectual property from infringement by others. There can be no assurance that our efforts to assess possible third party intellectual property rights will ensure that Company’s ability to manufacture, distribute, market or sell in any given country or territory. Furthermore, others may assert intellectual property infringement claims against us or our customers.

Our businesses rely on the performance of wholesale distributors, dealers and other marketing arrangements and could be adversely affected by poor performance or other disruptions in our distribution channels and customers.

We rely on a distribution network comprised of consolidating customers. Any disruption to the existing distribution channels could adversely affect our results of operations, cash flows and financial condition. The consolidation of distributors or the financial instability or default of a distributor or one of its major customers could potentially cause such a disruption. In addition to our own sales force, we offer our products through a variety of third-party distributors, representatives and retailers. Certain of our distributors, representatives or retailers may also market other products that compete with our products. The loss or termination of one or more of our major distributors, representatives or retailers, the failure of one or more of our distributors, representatives or retailers to effectively promote our products, or changes in the financial or business condition of these distributors, representatives or retailers could affect our ability to bring products to market.

Our pension costs and funding requirements could increase as a result of volatility in the financial markets and changes in interest rates and actuarial assumptions.

Increases in the costs of pension benefits may continue and negatively affect our business as a result of: the effect of potential declines in the stock and bond markets on the performance of our pension plan assets; potential reductions in the discount rate used to determine the present value of our benefit obligations; and changes to our investment strategy that may impact our expected return on pension plan assets assumptions. U.S. generally accepted accounting principles require that we calculate income or expense for the plans using actuarial valuations. These valuations reflect assumptions about financial markets and interest rates, which may change based on economic conditions. Our accounting policy for defined benefit plans may subject earnings to volatility due to the recognition of actuarial gains and losses, particularly due to the change in the fair value of pension assets and interest rates. Funding requirements for our U.S. pension plans may become more significant. However, the ultimate amounts to be contributed are dependent upon, among other things, interest rates, underlying asset returns and the impact of legislative or regulatory changes related to pension funding obligations.

Risks associated with the disruption of operations could adversely affect our results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

We manufacture a significant portion of the products we sell. Any prolonged disruption in our operations, whether due to technical or labor difficulties, weather, lack of raw material or component availability, startup inefficiencies for new operations, destruction of or damage to any facility (as a result of natural disasters, fires and explosions, use and storage of hazardous materials or other events) or other reasons, could negatively impact our profitability and competitive position and adversely affect our results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

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Our inability to obtain raw materials and finished goods in a timely and cost-effective manner from suppliers could adversely affect our ability to manufacture and market our products.

We purchase raw materials to be used in manufacturing our products and also rely on third-party manufacturers as a source for finished goods. We typically do not enter into long-term contracts with our suppliers or sourcing partners. Instead, most raw materials and sourced goods are obtained on a “purchase order” basis. In addition, in some instances we maintain single-source or limited-source sourcing relationships, either because multiple sources are not available or the relationship is advantageous due to performance, quality, support, delivery, capacity or price considerations. Financial, operating or other difficulties encountered by our suppliers or sourcing partners or changes in our relationships with them could result in manufacturing or sourcing interruptions, delays and inefficiencies, and prevent us from manufacturing or obtaining the finished goods necessary to meet customer demand. If we are unable to meet customer demand, there could be an adverse effect on our results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

Our failure to attract and retain qualified personnel could adversely affect our results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

Our success depends in part on the efforts and abilities of qualified personnel at all levels, including our senior management team and other key employees. Their motivation, skills, experience, contacts and industry knowledge significantly benefit our operations and administration. The failure to attract, motivate and retain members of our senior management team and key employees could have an adverse effect on our results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

Potential liabilities and costs from claims and litigation could adversely affect our results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

We are, from time to time, involved in various claims, litigation matters and regulatory proceedings that arise in the ordinary course of our business and that could have an adverse effect on us. These matters may include contract disputes, intellectual property disputes, product recalls, personal injury claims, construction defects and home warranty claims, warranty disputes, environmental claims or proceedings, other tort claims, employment and tax matters and other proceedings and litigation, including class actions. It is not possible to predict the outcome of pending or future litigation, and, as with any litigation, it is possible that some of the actions could be decided unfavorably and could have an adverse effect on our results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

We are subject to product safety regulations, recalls and direct claims for product liability that can result in significant liability and, regardless of the ultimate outcome, can be costly to defend. As a result of the difficulty of controlling the quality of products or components sourced from other manufacturers, we are exposed to risks relating to the quality of such products and to limitations on our recourse against such suppliers.

An impairment in the carrying value of goodwill or other acquired intangible assets could negatively affect our results of operations and financial condition.

The carrying value of goodwill represents the fair value of acquired businesses in excess of identifiable assets and liabilities as of the acquisition date. The carrying value of other intangible assets represents the fair value of customer relationships, tradenames and other acquired intangible assets as of the acquisition date. Goodwill and other acquired intangible assets expected to contribute indefinitely to our cash flows are not amortized, but must be evaluated for impairment by management at least annually. If the carrying value exceeds the implied fair value of goodwill, the goodwill is considered impaired and is reduced to fair value via a non-cash charge to earnings. If the carrying value of an indefinite-lived intangible asset is greater than its fair value, the intangible asset is considered impaired and is reduced to fair value via a non-cash charge to earnings. Events or circumstances that could have a potential negative effect on the

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estimated fair value of our reporting units and indefinite-lived tradenames include: actual new construction and repair and remodel growth rates that lag our assumptions, actions of key customers, volatility of discount rates, continued economic uncertainty, higher levels of unemployment, weak consumer confidence, lower levels of discretionary consumer spending and a decline in the price of our common stock. If the value of goodwill or other acquired intangible assets is impaired, our results of operations and financial condition could be adversely affected.

We may experience delays or outages in our information technology system and computer networks. We may be subject to breaches of our information technology systems, which could damage our reputation and consumer relationships. Such breaches could subject us to significant financial, legal and operational consequences.

We, like most companies, may be subject to information technology system failures and network disruptions. These may be caused by delays or disruptions due to system updates, natural disasters, malicious attacks, accidents, power disruptions, telecommunications failures, acts of terrorism or war, computer viruses, physical or electronic break-ins, or similar events or disruptions. Our businesses may implement enterprise resource planning systems or add applications to replace outdated systems and to operate more efficiently. We may not be able to successfully implement the projects without experiencing difficulties. In addition, any expected benefits of implementing projects might not be realized or the costs of implementation might outweigh the benefits realized. In addition, information security risks have generally increased in recent years because of the proliferation of new technologies and the increased sophistication and activities of perpetrators of cyber-attacks. We believe we devote appropriate resources to network security, data encryption, and other security measures to protect our systems and data, but these security measures cannot provide absolute security. In the event of a breach, we would be exposed to a risk of loss or litigation and possible liability, which could have an adverse effect on our business, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

There can be no assurance that we will have access to the capital markets on terms acceptable to us.

From time to time we may need to access the long-term and short-term capital markets to obtain financing. Although we believe that the sources of capital currently in place permit us to finance our operations for the foreseeable future on acceptable terms and conditions, our access to, and the availability of, financing on acceptable terms and conditions in the future will be impacted by many factors, including, but not limited to: our financial performance, our credit ratings, the liquidity of the overall capital markets and the state of the economy, including the U.S. housing market. There can be no assurance that we will have access to the capital markets on terms acceptable to us. In addition, a prolonged global economic downturn may also adversely impact our access to long-term capital markets, result in increased interest rates on our corporate debt, and weaken operating cash flow and liquidity. Decreased cash flow and liquidity could potentially adversely impact our ability to pay dividends, fund acquisitions and repurchase shares in the future.

Item 1B.  Unresolved Staff Comments.

None.

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Item 2.  Properties.

Our principal executive office is located at 520 Lake Cook Road, Deerfield, Illinois 60015. We operate 29 U.S. manufacturing facilities in 16 states and have 19 manufacturing facilities in international locations (8 in Mexico, 3 in Asia, 4 in Europe, 2 in Africa, and 2 in Canada). In addition, we have 50 distribution centers and warehouses worldwide, of which 41 are leased. The following table provides additional information with respect to these properties.

We are of the opinion that the properties are suitable to our respective businesses and have production capacities adequate to meet the current needs of our businesses.

Item 3.  Legal Proceedings.

The Company is a defendant in lawsuits that are ordinary routine litigation matters incidental to its businesses. It is not possible to predict the outcome of the pending actions, and, as with any litigation, it is possible that these actions could be decided unfavorably to the Company. The Company believes that there are meritorious defenses to these actions and that these actions will not have a material adverse effect upon the Company’s results of operations, cash flows or financial condition, and, where appropriate, these actions are being vigorously contested. Accordingly, the Company believes the likelihood of material loss is remote.

Item 4.  Mine Safety Disclosures.

Not applicable.

Executive Officers of the Registrant.

Christopher J. Klein has served as Chief Executive Officer of Fortune Brands since January 2010.

Patrick D. Hallinan has served as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Fortune Brands since July 2017. From January 2017 to July 2017, Mr. Hallinan served as Senior Vice President of Finance of Fortune Brands. Prior to joining Fortune Brands’ executive team, Mr. Hallinan served as chief financial officer of Moen Incorporated, a subsidiary of Fortune Brands, from November 2013 to January 2017.

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Michael P. Bauer has served as President of The Master Lock Company since December 2014. From April 2011 through December 2014, Mr. Bauer served as the President of the U.S. Businesses at Moen Incorporated, a subsidiary of Fortune Brands.

Nicholas I. Fink has served as President of Fortune Brands Global Plumbing Group LLC since August 2016. From June 2015 to August 2016, Mr. Fink served as Senior Vice President-Global Growth and Development of Fortune Brands. From June 2006 to May 2015, Mr. Fink worked at Beam Suntory, Inc., a global spirits company, and its predecessor entities in various senior positions including as Senior Vice President and President, Asia-Pacific/South America.

Brett E. Finley has served as President of Fortune Brands Doors, Inc. since February 2016. From February 2008 to February 2016, Mr. Finley held various leadership positions at IDEX Corporation, a global manufacturer of fluidics systems and specialty engineered products, including Senior Vice President, Group Executive, Fluid & Metering Technologies Segment and President- IDEX-Asia.

David M. Randich has served as President of MasterBrand Cabinets, Inc., a subsidiary of Fortune Brands, since October 2012.

Tracey L. Belcourt has served as Senior Vice President of Global Growth and Development of Fortune Brands since December 2016. From 2012 to 2016, Ms. Belcourt served as Executive Vice President, Strategy of Mondelez International, Inc. a confectionary, food and beverage company.

Robert K. Biggart has served as Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of Fortune Brands since December 2013. From March 2005 through December 2013, Mr. Biggart served as Senior Vice President — General Counsel of PepsiCo Americas Beverages, a business division of PepsiCo, Inc., a global food and beverage company.

Sheri R. Grissom has served as Senior Vice President — Human Resources of Fortune Brands since February 2015. Ms. Grissom served as Executive Vice President — Global Human Resources of Actuant Corporation, a diversified industrial company, from October 2010 to February 2015.

Dan Luburic has served as Vice President and Corporate Controller of Fortune Brands since October 2011.

Brian C. Lantz has served as Senior Vice President, Communications & Corporate Administration since January 2017. Mr. Lantz joined Fortune Brands in June 2011 as Vice President of Investor Relations.

Marty Thomas has served as Senior Vice President, Operations and Supply Chain Strategy since September 2017. Mr. Thomas served as Senior Vice President of Global Operations and Engineering Services at Rockwell Automation, Inc., a provider of industrial automation and information products, from 2006 to 2016.

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PART II

Market Information, Dividends and Holders of Record

Our common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) under the ticker symbol “FBHS”. The following table presents the high and low prices for our common stock as reported on the NYSE and the dividends declared for each of the periods indicated.

In December 2017, our Board of Directors increased the quarterly cash dividend by 11% to $0.20 per share of our common stock. Our Board of Directors will continue to evaluate dividend payment opportunities on a quarterly basis. There can be no assurance as to when and if future dividends will be paid, or at what level, because the payment of dividends is dependent upon our financial condition, results of operations, capital requirements and other factors deemed relevant by our Board of Directors.

On February 2, 2018, there were 10,615 record holders of the Company’s common stock, par value $0.01 per share. A substantially greater number of holders of the Company’s common stock are “street name” or beneficial holders, whose shares of record are held by banks, brokers or other financial institutions.

Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers

Below are the repurchases of common stock by the Company or any “affiliated purchaser” (as defined in Rule 10b-18(a)(3) under the Exchange Act) for the three months ended December 31, 2017:

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Stock Performance

The above graph compares the relative performance of our common stock, the S&P 500 Index and a Peer Group Index. This graph covers the period from December 31, 2012 through December 31, 2017. This graph assumes $100 was invested in the stock or the index on December 31, 2012 and also assumes the reinvestment of dividends. The foregoing performance graph is being furnished as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K solely in accordance with the requirement under Rule 14a-3(b)(9) to furnish our stockholders with such information, and therefore, shall not be deemed to be filed or incorporated by reference into any filings by the Company under the Securities Act or the Exchange Act.

Peer Group Index The 2017 peer group is composed of the following publicly traded companies corresponding to the Company’s core businesses:

Armstrong World Industries, Inc., Fastenal Company, Leggett & Platt Incorporated, Lennox International Inc., Masco Corporation, Mohawk Industries, Inc., Newell Brands Inc., The Sherwin-Williams Company, Stanley Black & Decker, Inc. and USG Corporation.

Calculation of Peer Group Index

The weighted-average total return of the entire peer group, for the period of December 31, 2012 through December 31, 2017, is calculated in the following manner:

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Five-year Consolidated Selected Financial Data

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Introduction

This Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (“MD&A”) is a supplement to the accompanying consolidated financial statements and provides additional information on our business, recent developments, financial condition, liquidity and capital resources, cash flows and results of operations. MD&A is organized as follows:

Overview

The Company is a leader in home and security products focused on the design, manufacture and sale of market-leading branded products in the following categories: kitchen and bath cabinetry, plumbing and accessories, entry door systems, and security products.

For the year ended December 31, 2017, net sales based on country of destination were:

We believe the Company has certain competitive advantages including market-leading brands, a diversified mix of customer channels, lean and flexible supply chains, a decentralized business model and a strong capital structure as well as a tradition of strong innovation and customer service. We are focused on outperforming our markets in growth, profitability and returns in order to drive increased shareholder value. We believe the Company’s track record reflects the long-term attractiveness and potential of our categories and our leading brands. As consumer demand and the housing market continue to grow after the 2007-2009 recession, we expect the benefits of operating leverage and strategic spending to support increased manufacturing capacity and long-term growth initiatives will help us to continue to achieve profitable organic growth.

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We believe our most attractive opportunities are to invest in profitable organic growth initiatives. We also believe that as the market grows, we have the potential to generate additional growth from leveraging our cash flows and balance sheet strength by pursuing accretive strategic acquisitions and joint ventures, and by returning cash to shareholders through a combination of dividends and repurchases under our share repurchase program as explained in further detail under “Liquidity and Capital Resources” below.

The U.S. market for our home products consists of spending on both new home construction and repair and remodel activities within existing homes, with the substantial majority of the markets we serve consisting of repair and remodel spending. We believe that the U.S. market for our home products is in the midst of an elongated recovery from the U.S. economic recession that ended in mid-2009 and that a continued recovery will largely depend on consumer confidence, employment, home prices, stable mortgage rates and credit availability.

We may be impacted by fluctuations in raw material, transportation costs, foreign exchange rates and promotional activity among our competitors. We strive to offset the potential unfavorable impact of these items with productivity improvements initiatives and price increases.

During the three years ended December 31, 2017, our net sales grew at a compounded annual rate of 7% as we benefited from an improving U.S. home products market, acquisitions, and growth in international markets. Operating income grew at a compounded annual rate of 18% with consolidated operating margins improving from 10% in 2014 to 13% in 2017. Growth in operating income was primarily due to higher sales volume, changes to our portfolio of businesses, control and leverage of our operating expenses and the benefits of productivity programs.

During 2017, the U.S. home products market grew due to increases in new home construction and repair and remodel activities. We believe new housing construction experienced 7.4% growth in 2017 compared to 2016 and spending for home repair and remodeling increased about 5%. In 2017, net sales grew 6% and operating income increased 9% due to higher sales volume primarily resulting from U.S. home products market growth, the acquisitions in our Plumbing segments, price increases to help mitigate cumulative raw material cost increases, the effect of favorable foreign exchange and productivity improvements.

During 2016, the U.S. home products market grew due to increases in new home construction and repair and remodel activities. We believe new housing construction experienced low double-digit growth in 2016 compared to 2015 and spending for home repair and remodeling increased about of 5%. In 2016, net sales grew 9% and operating income increased 28% due to higher sales volume primarily resulting from U.S. home products market growth, the acquisitions in our Cabinets and Plumbing segments, price increases to help mitigate cumulative raw material cost increases and the effect of unfavorable foreign exchange and productivity improvements.

In October 2017, we acquired Victoria +Albert, a UK-based premium brand of standalone bathtubs, sink, tub fillers, faucets and other accessories. In July 2017, we acquired Shaws, a UK-based luxury plumbing products company that specializes in manufacturing. The combined purchase price was approximately $125 million, net of cash acquired and deferred acquisition payments and subject to certain post-closing adjustments. We financed both of the acquisitions using cash on hand and borrowings under our existing credit facility. These transactions broadened our plumbing portfolio and enhanced future growth opportunities.

During the third quarter of 2016, we announced the creation of GPG, which was designed to support the growth of multiple plumbing brands with an enhanced set of products and brands, while leveraging Moen’s existing global supply chain and broad distribution network.

In September 2016, we acquired ROHL, a California-based luxury plumbing company and in a related transaction, we acquired TCL Manufacturing Ltd, which gave us ownership of Perrin & Rowe, a UK

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manufacturer and designer of luxury kitchen and bathroom plumbing products. The total combined purchase price was approximately $166 million, subject to certain post-closing adjustments. We financed both acquisitions using cash on hand and borrowings under our existing credit facility. These transactions broadened the plumbing portfolio and enhanced future growth opportunities.

In June 2016, we amended and restated our credit agreement to combine and rollover the existing revolving credit facility and term loan into a new standalone $1.25 billion revolving credit facility. Terms and conditions of the credit agreement, including the total commitment amount, essentially remained the same. The revolving credit facility will mature in June 2021 and borrowings thereunder will be used for general corporate purposes.

In May 2016, we acquired Riobel, a Canadian plumbing company specializing in premium showroom bath and shower fittings, for a total purchase price of $94.6 million, subject to certain post-closing adjustments. We financed the transaction using cash on hand and borrowings under our existing credit facilities.

In September 2015, we completed the sale of Waterloo Industries, Inc. (“Waterloo”), our tool storage business which was included in our security segment for approximately $14 million in cash, subject to certain post-closing adjustments.

In June 2015, we issued $900 million of unsecured senior notes (“Senior Notes”) in a registered public offering. We used the proceeds from the Senior Notes offering to pay down our revolving credit facility and for general purposes.

In May 2015, we acquired Norcraft Companies, Inc. (“Norcraft”), a leading publicly-owned manufacturer of kitchen and bathroom cabinetry, for a total purchase price of $648.6 million. We financed the transaction using cash on hand and borrowings under our existing credit facilities.

Basis of Presentation

The consolidated financial statements in this Annual Report on Form 10-K have been derived from the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. The Company’s consolidated financial statements are based on a fiscal year ending December 31. Certain of the Company’s subsidiaries operate on a 52 or 53 week fiscal year ending during the month of December. There were certain transactions that resulted in net cash outflows of $38 million and $49 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, relating to payments made to third parties in the normal course of business during the period between the year-end of our wholly-owned subsidiaries and the Company’s year-end.

In October 2017, we acquired Victoria +Albert. In July 2017, we acquired Shaws. The financial results of both of the acquisitions were included in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2017 and in the Company’s consolidated statements of income and statements of cash flow beginning in October 2017 and July 2017, respectively. The results of operations are included in the Plumbing segment.

In September 2016, we acquired ROHL and in a related transaction, we acquired TCL Manufacturing Ltd., which gave us ownership of Perrin & Rowe and in May 2016, we acquired Riobel. The financial results of ROHL and Riobel were included in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2016 and 2017 and in the Company’s consolidated statements of income and statements of cash flow beginning in September 2016 and May 2016, respectively. The results of operations are included in the Plumbing segment.

In September 2015, we completed the sale of Waterloo. In accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) requirements, the results of operations of Waterloo through the date of sale, were classified and separately stated as discontinued operations in the accompanying consolidated statements of income for 2015 and 2014. The assets and liabilities of Waterloo were classified as discontinued operations in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2014.

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In May 2015, we acquired Norcraft. The financial results of Norcraft were included in the Company’s consolidated statements of income and statements of cash flow beginning in May 2015 and the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2015 and 2016.

The cash flows from discontinued operations for 2015 were not separately classified on the accompanying consolidated statements of cash flows. Information on Business Segments was revised to exclude these discontinued operations.

Results of Operations

The following discussion of both consolidated results of operations and segment results of operations refers to the year ended December 31, 2017 compared to the year ended December 31, 2016, and the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to the year ended December 31, 2015. The discussion of consolidated results of operations should be read in conjunction with the discussion of segment results of operations and our financial statements and notes thereto included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Unless otherwise noted, all discussion of results of operations are for continuing operations.

Years Ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015

Certain items had a significant impact on our results in 2017, 2016 and 2015. These included the acquisitions of Victoria +Albert, Shaws, Riobel, ROHL, Perrin & Rowe and Norcraft, the disposition of Waterloo, defined benefit plan recognition of actuarial losses, restructuring and other charges, asset impairment charges and the impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates.

In 2017, financial results included:

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In 2016, financial results included:

In 2015, financial results included:

2017 Compared to 2016

Total Fortune Brands

Net sales

Net sales increased $298.4 million, or 6.0%. The increase was due to higher sales volume primarily from the continuing improvement in U.S. market conditions for home products, new product introductions, the benefit from the acquisitions in our Plumbing segment and price increases to help mitigate cumulative raw material cost increases as well as the benefit from favorable foreign exchange of approximately $4 million. These benefits were partially offset by unfavorable mix, higher sales promotions, and sales rebates.

Cost of products sold

Cost of products sold increased $170.5 million, or 5.4%, due to higher net sales, including the impact of the acquisitions in our Plumbing segment and raw material cost increases, partially offset by the benefit of productivity improvements.

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Selling, general and administrative expenses

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $64.9 million, or 5.7%, due to higher employee-related costs and advertising costs as well as the impact of the acquisitions in our Plumbing segment.

Amortization of intangible assets

Amortization of intangible assets increased $3.6 million primarily due to the acquisitions in our Plumbing segment, partially offset by a decrease relating to a definite-lived customer relationship intangible in our Doors segment that was fully amortized during the second quarter of 2017.

Loss on sale of product line

In April 2017, we completed the sale of Field ID, our cloud-based inspection and safety compliance software product line included in our Security segment. We recorded a pre-tax loss of $2.4 million as the result of this sale.

Asset impairment charges

Asset impairment charges of $3.2 million relate to our decision in the first quarter of 2017 to sell Field ID.

Restructuring charges

Restructuring charges of $8.3 million in 2017 primarily related to severance costs within our Security, Plumbing and Cabinets segments as well as charges associated with a plant relocation in our Cabinets segment. Restructuring charges of $13.9 million in 2016 primarily related to the severance costs and charges associated with the relocation of a manufacturing facility within our Security segment.

Operating income

Operating income increased $59.4 million or 9.4%. Operating income increased due to higher net sales, including the benefit from acquisitions in our Plumbing segment and productivity improvements. These benefits were partially offset by unfavorable mix, higher employee-related costs, raw material, labor inflation and advertising costs.

Interest expense

Interest expense of $49.4 million was $0.3 million higher as compared to last year primarily due to higher average interest rates which was partially offset by lower average borrowings and the absence of the write-off of debt issuance costs incurred in 2016.

Other (income) expense, net

Other (income) expense, net, was expense of $7.9 million in the twelve months ended December 31, 2017 compared to expense of $1.5 million in the twelve months ended December 31, 2016. The increase of $6.4 million was due to a $7.0 million impairment charge in 2017 pertaining to a cost method investment.

Income taxes

The effective income tax rates for 2017 and 2016 were 25.1% and 29.2% respectively. The 2017 effective income tax rate was favorably impacted by The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, (the “Tax Act”).The effective income tax rates for 2017 and 2016 were favorably impacted by the tax benefit attributable to share-based compensation (ASU 2016-09) deduction ($23.9 million and $27.8 million, respectively), the Domestic Production Activity (Internal Revenue Code Section 199) deduction ($10.9 million and

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$13.0 million, respectively) and favorable tax rates in foreign jurisdictions ($8.3 million and $7.6 million, respectively), offset by state and local taxes and increases to uncertain tax positions ($11.6 million and $13.2 million, respectively).

The Tax Act made significant changes to the U.S. Internal Revenue Code including a reduction in the corporate tax rate from 35% to 21% for tax years beginning after December 31, 2017, generally providing for an exemption from federal income tax for dividends received from foreign subsidiaries, and imposing a one-time transition tax on the deemed repatriation of cumulative foreign earnings and profits as of December 31, 2017. We have calculated our best estimate of the impact of the Tax Act on our 2017 effective income tax rate based upon available information, limited timing and our understanding of the Tax Act, as well as the facts and guidance available at our assessment date of January 22, 2018. The Company has recorded a provisional net benefit of $25.7 million related to the Tax Act in the fourth quarter of 2017, the period in which it was enacted. This provisional amount includes an estimated reduction in the Company’s net deferred tax liabilities of $62.4 million resulting from the decrease in the federal income tax rate; an estimated deemed repatriation tax liability of $28.5 million; and an estimated net increase to our provision for taxes on foreign earnings not considered permanently reinvested of $8.2 million. The impact of the Tax Act may differ from these estimates, possibly materially, due to, among other things, refinement of calculations due to additional analysis, changes in interpretations, assumptions made and additional guidance that may be issued. Any subsequent adjustment, related to the aforementioned, will be recorded in current tax expense when such analysis is completed or such guidance is issued.

Income from continuing operations

Net income from continuing operations was $475.3 million in 2017 compared to $412.4 million in 2016. The increase of $62.9 million was primarily due to higher operating income.

(Loss) income from discontinued operations

The loss from discontinued operations of $2.6 million in 2017 primarily related to the prior sale of the Waterloo tool storage business and Simonton window businesses. The income from discontinued operations of $0.8 million in 2016 included the effect of tax adjustments relating to the Waterloo business.

Results By Segment

Cabinets

Net sales increased $69.3 million, or 2.9%, due to higher sales volume driven primarily by continuing improvement in the U.S. home products market and the benefit from new product introductions, price increases to help mitigate cumulative raw material cost increases and a $3 million benefit from favorable foreign exchange. These benefits were partially offset by unfavorable mix and higher sales promotions.

Operating income increased $9.4 million, or 3.6%, due to the increase in net sales and productivity improvements. These benefits were partially offset by unfavorable mix, higher employee-related costs, higher labor inflation and higher transportation costs.

Plumbing

Net sales increased $186.4 million, or 12.1%, due to higher sales volume driven by continuing improvement in the U.S. home products market and the benefit from new product introductions, higher sales in international markets, principally China, and the benefit from the acquisitions of Riobel, ROHL and Perrin & Rowe in 2016 as well as Shaws and Victoria +Albert in 2017. These benefits were partially offset by higher sales rebates.

Operating income increased $37.3 million, or 11.4%, due to higher net sales, productivity improvements and favorable mix as well as a $4 million benefit from favorable foreign exchange. These benefits were partially offset by employee-related costs, higher raw materials costs and higher advertising costs.

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Doors

Net sales increased $29.9 million, or 6.3%, due to higher sales volume driven primarily by continuing improvement in the U.S. home products market and the benefit from new product introductions and price increases to help mitigate cumulative raw material cost increases.

Operating income increased $12.6 million, or 20.4%, due to higher net sales, the benefits from productivity improvements and leveraging sales on our existing fixed cost base.

Security

Net sales increased $12.8 million, or 2.2%, due to higher sales volume and price increases to help mitigate cumulative raw material cost increases. These benefits were partially offset by the impact of our exiting of two product lines in our commercial distribution channel.

Operating income increased $5.8 million, or 8.7%, primarily due to the higher net sales, the benefits from productivity improvements, lower restructuring and other charges (approximately $6 million) relating to the completion in 2016 of a manufacturing facility relocation, favorable foreign exchange and the related cost savings resulting from the facility relocation.

Corporate

Corporate expenses increased by $5.7 million mainly due to the impairment of a long lived asset and recognition of an actuarial gain versus an actuarial loss in 2016 and higher defined benefit plan income during 2017 compared to 2016.

In future periods the Company may record, in the Corporate segment, material expense or income associated with actuarial gains and losses arising from periodic remeasurement of our liabilities for defined benefit plans. At a minimum the Company will remeasure its defined benefit plan liabilities in the fourth quarter of each year. Remeasurements due to plan amendments and settlements may also occur in interim periods during the year. Remeasurement of these liabilities attributable to updating our liability discount rates and expected return on assets may, in particular, result in material income or expense recognition.

2016 Compared to 2015

Total Fortune Brands

Net sales

Net sales increased $405.5 million, or 9%. The increase was due to higher sales volume primarily from the continuing improvement in U.S. market conditions for home products, the benefit from the acquisitions in our Cabinets and Plumbing segments and price increases to help mitigate cumulative raw material cost increases and the effect of unfavorable foreign exchange. These benefits were partially offset by unfavorable foreign exchange of approximately $27 million and higher sales rebates.

Cost of products sold

Cost of products sold increased $182.8 million, or 6%, due to higher net sales, including the impact of the acquisitions in our Cabinets and Plumbing segments, partially offset by the benefit of productivity improvements.

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Selling, general and administrative expenses

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $82.3 million, or 8%, due to the impact of the acquisitions in our Cabinets and Plumbing segments and higher employee-related costs, partially offset by the absence of Norcraft transaction costs in 2016 ($15.1 million in 2015).

Amortization of intangible assets

Amortization of intangible assets increased $6.5 million due to the recognition of certain intangible assets from the acquisitions in our Cabinets and Plumbing segment.

Restructuring charges

Restructuring charges of $13.9 million in 2016 primarily related to severance costs and charges associated with the relocation of a manufacturing facility within our Security segment. Restructuring charges of $16.6 million in 2015 primarily related to the same relocation of a manufacturing facility, including severance costs within our Security segment as well as severance costs to relocate a Plumbing manufacturing facility in China.

Operating income

Operating income increased $136.6 million or 28%. Operating income increased due to higher net sales, including the benefit from acquisitions and productivity improvements. These benefits were partially offset by higher employee-related costs, higher advertising costs and higher sales rebates and approximately $6 million of unfavorable foreign exchange. Operating income in 2015 was also impacted by $15.1 million of Norcraft transaction costs, which did not recur in 2016.

Interest expense

Interest expense increased $17.2 million to $49.1 million due to higher average borrowings and higher average interest rates.

Other expense, net

Other expense, net, was expense of $1.5 million in 2016 compared to expense of $4.3 million in 2015. The change was principally due to favorable foreign currency adjustments.

Income taxes

The effective income tax rates for 2016 and 2015 were 29.2% and 33.4%, respectively. The effective income tax rates for 2016 and 2015 were favorably impacted by the tax benefit attributable to the Domestic Production Activity (Internal Revenue Code Section 199) Deduction ($13.0 million and $12.5 million, respectively) and favorable tax rates in foreign jurisdictions ($7.6 million and $8.7 million, respectively), offset by state and local taxes and increases to uncertain tax positions ($13.2 million and $4.7 million, respectively). The 2016 effective income tax rate was favorably impacted by a tax benefit related to the adoption of ASU 2016-09, the new accounting guidance relating to share-based compensation ($27.8 million). The 2015 effective income tax rate was unfavorably impacted by $2.4 million related to nondeductible acquisition costs.

Income from continuing operations

Net income from continuing operations was $412.4 million in 2016 compared to $306.5 million in 2015 due to higher operating income.

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Income (loss) from discontinued operations

Income from discontinued operations was $0.8 million and $9.0 million in 2016 and 2015, respectively. The discontinued operations in 2016 includes the effect of tax adjustments relating to the Waterloo business. The discontinued operations in 2015 consist of the results of operations of Waterloo and the after-tax gain associated with the sale of the business.

Results By Segment

Cabinets

Net sales increased $224.4 million, or 10%, due to the benefit of the Norcraft acquisition, the benefit of price increases to help mitigate cumulative raw material cost increases and higher sales volume including the impact of new product introductions. These benefits were partially offset by approximately $6 million of unfavorable foreign exchange.

Operating income increased $65.4 million, or 34%, due to higher net sales including the benefit of the Norcraft acquisition and productivity improvements. These benefits were partially offset by higher employee-related costs.

Plumbing

Net sales increased $119.9 million, or 8%, due to higher sales volume in the U.S. driven by improving U.S. market conditions and new product introductions, the benefit from the acquisitions of Riobel, ROHL and Perrin & Rowe and price increases to help mitigate cumulative raw material cost increases and the effect of unfavorable foreign exchange. These benefits were partially offset by higher sales rebates and approximately $18 million of unfavorable foreign exchange.

Operating income increased $40.9 million, or 14%, due to higher net sales including the benefits of the acquisitions of Riobel, ROHL and Perrin & Rowe, as well as productivity improvements. These benefits were partially offset by higher employee-related costs, higher advertising costs and approximately $7 million of unfavorable foreign exchange. Operating income in 2016 was also favorably impacted by lower restructuring and other charges ($4.0 million impact) primarily related to severance costs to relocate a facility in China.

Doors

Net sales increased $33.9 million, or 8%, due to higher sales volume driven primarily by improved conditions in the U.S. home products market, new product introductions, price increases to help mitigate cumulative raw material cost increases and favorable mix.

Operating income increased $17.9 million, or 41%, due to higher net sales, the benefits of productivity improvements and approximately $2 million of favorable foreign exchange. These benefits were partially offset by higher employee related costs.

Security

Net sales increased $27.3 million, or 5%, due primarily to higher sales volume in the U.S. and Europe and price increases to help mitigate cumulative raw material cost increases. These benefits were partially offset by the impact of exiting certain product lines and approximately $3 million of unfavorable foreign exchange.

Operating income increased $10.7 million, or 19% due to higher net sales and the benefits of productivity improvements. These benefits were partially offset by the impact of approximately $3 million of unfavorable foreign exchange.

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Corporate

Corporate expenses in 2016 benefited from the absence of transaction costs associated with the Norcraft acquisition ($15.1 million in 2015). This benefit was offset by higher employee-related costs and lower defined benefit plan income.

In future periods the Company may record, in the Corporate segment, material expense or income associated with actuarial gains and losses arising from periodic remeasurement of our liabilities for defined benefit plans. At a minimum the Company will remeasure its defined benefit plan liabilities in the fourth quarter of each year. Remeasurements due to plan amendments and settlements may also occur in interim periods during the year. Remeasurement of these liabilities attributable to updating our liability discount rates and expected return on assets may, in particular, result in material income or expense recognition.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Our primary liquidity needs are to support working capital requirements, fund capital expenditures and service indebtedness, as well as to finance acquisitions, repurchase shares of our common stock and pay dividends to stockholders, as deemed appropriate. Our principal sources of liquidity are cash on hand, cash flows from operating activities, availability under our credit facility and debt issuances in the capital markets. Our operating income is generated by our subsidiaries. There are no restrictions on the ability of our subsidiaries to pay dividends or make other distributions to Fortune Brands. In December 2017, our Board of Directors increased the quarterly cash dividend by 11% to $0.20 per share of our common stock. Our Board of Directors will continue to evaluate dividend payment opportunities on a quarterly basis. There can be no assurance as to when and if future dividends will be paid, and at what level, because the payment of dividends is dependent on our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows, capital requirements and other factors deemed relevant by our Board of Directors.

We periodically review our portfolio of brands and evaluate potential strategic transactions to increase shareholder value. However, we cannot predict whether or when we may enter into acquisitions, joint ventures or dispositions, make any purchases of shares of our common stock under our share repurchase program, or pay dividends, or what impact any such transactions could have on our results of operations, cash flows or financial condition, whether as a result of the issuance of debt or equity securities, or otherwise. Our cash flows from operations, borrowing availability and overall liquidity are subject to certain risks and uncertainties, including those described in the section “Item 1A. Risk Factors.”

In June 2016, the Company amended and restated its credit agreement to combine and rollover the existing revolving credit facility and term loan into a new standalone $1.25 billion revolving credit facility. This amendment and restatement of the credit agreement was a non-cash transaction for the Company. Terms and conditions of the credit agreement, including the total commitment amount, essentially remained the same as under the 2011 credit agreement. The revolving credit facility will mature in June 2021 and borrowings thereunder will be used for general corporate purposes. On December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, our outstanding borrowings under these facilities were $615.0 million and $540.0 million, respectively. At December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the current portion of long-term debt was zero. Interest rates under the facility are variable based on LIBOR at the time of the

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borrowing and the Company’s long-term credit rating and can range from LIBOR + 0.9% to LIBOR + 1.5%. As of December 31, 2017, we were in compliance with all covenants under this facility. As a result of the refinancing, we wrote off prepaid debt issuance costs of approximately $1.3 million as of June 30, 2016. We retrospectively adopted ASU 2015-03, “Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs,” on January 1, 2016, resulting in the reclassification of approximately $3 million of debt issuance costs from other current assets and other assets to long-term debt as of December 31, 2015. Adoption of this guidance did not impact the Company’s equity, results of operations or cash flows.

On December 8, 2017, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $250 million of shares of our common stock over the two years ending December 8, 2019. As of December 31, 2017, total remaining available share repurchase authorization was $558.4 million which included amounts pursuant to the Board of Directors authorization on February 16, 2016 for the repurchase of up to $400.0 million of our common stock over the two years ended February 16, 2018. The share repurchase programs do not obligate us to repurchase any specific dollar amount or number of shares and may be suspended or discontinued at any time. In 2017, we repurchased 3.4 million shares of our outstanding common stock under the Company’s share repurchase programs for $214.8 million.

We currently have uncommitted bank lines of credit in China, which provide for unsecured borrowings for working capital of up to $23.5 million and $25.7 million in aggregate as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, of which zero were outstanding, as of December 31, 2017 and 2016. The weighted-average interest rates on these borrowings were zero, 1.5% and 1.0% in 2017, 2016 and 2015 respectively.

Acquisitions and divestitures in 2017, 2016 and 2015 include:

In 2017, we invested approximately $40 million in incremental capacity to support long-term growth potential. We expect capital spending in 2018 to be in the range of $150 to $160 million.

On December 31, 2017, we had cash and cash equivalents of $323.0 million, of which $260.5 million was held at non-U.S. subsidiaries. We manage our global cash requirements considering (i) available funds among the subsidiaries through which we conduct business, (ii) the geographic location of our liquidity needs, and (iii) the cost to access international cash balances. The repatriation of non-U.S. cash balances from certain subsidiaries could have adverse tax consequences as we may be required to pay and record tax expense on those funds that are repatriated.

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Our operating cash flows are significantly impacted by the seasonality of our businesses. We typically generate most of our operating cash flow in the third and fourth quarters of each year.

In June 2015, we issued $900 million of Senior Notes in a registered public offering. The Senior Notes consist of two tranches: $400 million of five-year notes due 2020 with a coupon of 3% and $500 million of ten-year notes due 2025 with a coupon of 4%. We used the proceeds from the Senior Notes offering to pay down our revolving credit facility and for general corporate purposes. On December 31, 2017, the outstanding amount of the Senior Notes, net of underwriting commissions and price discounts, was $892.6 million.

Cash Flows

Below is a summary of cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015.

Net cash provided by operating activities was $600.3 million in 2017 compared to $650.5 million in 2016 and $429.2 million in 2015. The $50.2 million decrease in cash provided by operating activities from 2017 to 2016 was primarily due to higher build in working capital, primarily driven by higher inventory purchases in 2017, partially offset by a higher net income. The $221.3 million increase in cash provided by operating activities from 2015 to 2016 was primarily due to a reduction in working capital in 2016 compared to 2015 and higher net income.

Net cash used in investing activities was $287.7 million in 2017 compared to $385.1 million in 2016 and $766.6 million in 2015. The decrease of $97.4 million from 2016 to 2017 was primarily due lower cost of acquisitions of $115.1 million, partially offset by $15.7 million of higher capital expenditures. The decrease of $381.5 million from 2015 to 2016 was primarily due the decrease in cost of acquisitions of $413.1 million, partially offset by $20.8 million of higher capital spending.

Net cash used in financing activities was $250.1 million in 2017 compared to net cash used in financing activities of $250.4 million in 2016 and net cash provided by in financing activities of $398.8 million in 2015. The change of $649.2 million in 2016 compared to 2015 was primarily due to $372.8 million of higher share repurchases and lower net borrowings of $240.8 million.

Pension Plans

Subsidiaries of Fortune Brands sponsor their respective defined benefit pension plans that are funded by a portfolio of investments maintained within our benefit plan trust. In 2017, 2016 and 2015, we contributed $28.4 million, zero and $2.3 million, respectively, to qualified pension plans. In 2018, we expect to make pension contributions of approximately $12.8 million. As of December 31, 2017, the fair value of our total pension plan assets was $656.6 million, representing funding of 79% of the accumulated benefit obligation liability. For the foreseeable future, we believe that we have sufficient liquidity to meet the minimum funding that may be required by the Pension Protection Act of 2006.

Foreign Exchange

We have operations in various foreign countries, principally Canada, China, Mexico, the United Kingdom, France, Australia and Japan. Therefore, changes in the value of the related currencies affect our financial statements when translated into U.S. dollars.

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Contractual Obligations and Other Commercial Commitments

The following table describes our obligations and commitments to make future payments under contracts, such as debt and lease agreements, and under contingent commitments, such as debt guarantees, as of December 31, 2017.

Due to the uncertainty of the timing of settlement with taxing authorities, we are unable to make reasonably reliable estimates of the period of cash settlement of unrecognized tax benefits. Therefore, $87.5 million of unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2017 have been excluded from the Contractual Obligations table above. In addition, we are still evaluating our options regarding the timing of the payment of the deemed repatriation tax liability resulting from the Tax Act. Therefore we have excluded the provisional $28.5 million deemed repatriation tax liability from the Contractual Obligations table above. See Note 15, “Income Taxes,” to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

In addition to the contractual obligations and commitments listed and described above, we also had other commercial commitments for which we are contingently liable as of December 31, 2017. Other corporate commercial commitments include standby letters of credit of $42.9 million, in the aggregate, all of which expire in less than one year, and surety bonds of $5.1 million, of which $5.0 million matures in less than 1 year and $0.1 million matures in 1-3 years. These contingent commitments are not expected to have a significant impact on our liquidity.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

As of December 31, 2017, we did not have any off-balance sheet arrangements that are material or reasonably likely to be material to our financial condition or results of operations.

Foreign Currency Risk

Certain anticipated transactions, assets and liabilities are exposed to foreign currency risk. Principal currencies hedged include the Canadian dollar, the Mexican peso and the Chinese yuan. We regularly monitor our foreign currency exposures in order to maximize the overall effectiveness of our foreign currency hedge positions. For additional information on this risk, see Item 7A “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk” in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Derivative Financial Instruments

In accordance with ASC requirements for Derivatives and Hedging, we recognize all derivative contracts as either assets or liabilities on the balance sheet, and the measurement of those instruments is at fair

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value. If the derivative is designated as a fair value hedge and is effective, the changes in the fair value of the derivative and of the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk are recognized in earnings in the same period. If the derivative is designated as a cash flow hedge, the effective portions of changes in the fair value of the derivative are recorded in other comprehensive income (“OCI”) and are recognized in the consolidated statement of income when the hedged item affects earnings. Ineffective portions of changes in the fair value of cash flow hedges are recognized in earnings. If the derivative is designated as an effective economic hedge of the net investment in a foreign operation, the changes in the fair value of the derivative is reported in the cumulative translation adjustment section of OCI. Similar to foreign currency translation adjustments, these changes in fair value are recognized in earnings only when realized upon sale or upon complete or substantially complete liquidation of the investment in the foreign entity.

Deferred currency gains/(losses) of $0.4 million, (3.5) million and $3.6 million (before tax impact) were reclassified into earnings for the year ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Based on foreign exchange rates as of December 31, 2017, we estimate that $3.0 million of net currency derivative losses included in OCI as of December 31, 2017 will be reclassified to earnings within the next twelve months.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

Revenue from Contracts with Customers

In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2014-09, which clarifies the accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers and specifies the disclosures that an entity should include in its financial statements. The standard is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017 (calendar year 2018 for Fortune Brands). During 2016, the FASB issued certain amendments to the standard relating to the principal versus agent guidance, accounting for licenses of intellectual property and identifying performance obligations as well as the guidance on transition, collectability, noncash consideration and the presentation of sales and other similar taxes. The effective date and transition requirements for these amendments are the same as those of the original ASU. Our key considerations pursuant to ASU 2014-09 during the assessment period were the control of goods (i.e., timing of revenue recognition), separate performance obligations and customer rights of return (i.e., the reclassification on the balance sheet of the customer rights of return from accounts receivable to a refund liability as well as the recognition of a corresponding asset). We will adopt the new standard using the modified retrospective method beginning January 1, 2018. The adoption of this standard will not have a material effect on our financial statements.

Leases

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, which requires lessees to recognize almost all leases on their balance sheet as a “right-of-use” asset and lease liability but recognize related expenses in a manner similar to current accounting. The guidance also eliminates current real estate-specific provisions for all entities. The standard is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018 (calendar year 2019 for Fortune Brands) and earlier application is permitted. We are assessing the impact the adoption of this standard will have on our financial statements.

Clarifying Asset Derecognition Guidance and Accounting for Partial Sales of Nonfinancial Assets

In May 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-05 that clarifies the scope and application of various standards for the sale of nonfinancial assets (e.g. PP&E including real estate, intangible assets, materials and supplies). The standard distinguishes between a sale to customer vs non-customer. Sales to customers are in scope of the new revenue standard. It also clarifies a derecognition model for nonfinancial assets that do not represent a business. We will adopt the new standard beginning January 1, 2018 consistent with the effective date for the new revenue recognition standard. The adoption of this standard will not have a material effect on our financial statements.

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Stock Compensation Scope of Modification Accounting

In May 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-09, which clarifies when changes to the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award must be accounted for as modifications. The new guidance provides a relief to entities that make non-substantive changes to their share-based payment awards and will result in fewer changes to the terms of an award being accounted for as modifications. We will adopt the new standard beginning January 1, 2018. The adoption of this standard will not have a material effect on our financial statements.

Presentation of Net Periodic Pension and Postretirement Cost

In March 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-07, which requires entities to present the service cost component of the net periodic benefit cost in the same income statement line item(s) as other employee compensation costs arising from services rendered during the period. In addition, only the service cost component will be eligible for capitalization in assets. Companies will present the other components (i.e., amortization of prior service cost/credits, interest cost, expected return on plan assets and actuarial gains/losses) separately from the line item(s) that includes the service cost and outside of any subtotal of operating income. We will retrospectively adopt the new standard beginning January 1, 2018. The adoption of this standard will not have a material effect on our financial statements.

Clarifying the Definition of a Business

In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-01, which changes the definition of a business to assist entities with evaluating when a set of transferred assets and activities is a business and therefore business combination guidance would apply. The new standard requires an entity to evaluate if substantially all of the fair value of the gross assets acquired is concentrated in a single identifiable asset (i.e., a business) or a group of similar identifiable assets (i.e., not a business). The guidance also requires a business to include at least one substantive process and narrows the definition of outputs (e.g., revenues with customers). We will adopt the new standard beginning January 1, 2018. The adoption of this standard will not have a material effect on our financial statements.

Restricted Cash

In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-18, according to which entities are no longer required to present transfers between cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents in the statement of cash flows. The prior standard did not address the classification of activity related to restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents in the statement of cash flows and this has resulted in diversity in cash flows presentation. We will adopt the new standard beginning January 1, 2018. The adoption of this standard will not have a material effect on our financial statements.

Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other Than Inventory

In October 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-16, which requires companies to account for the income tax effects of intercompany sales and transfers of assets other than inventory (e.g., intangible assets) when the transfer occurs. Under the current guidance companies are required to defer the income tax effects of intercompany transfers of assets until the asset has been sold to an outside party or otherwise recognized (e.g., depreciated, amortized or impaired). We will adopt the new standard beginning January 1, 2018 using a “modified retrospective” (i.e., with a cumulative adjustment to retained earnings at adoption). The adoption of this standard will not have a material effect on our financial statements.

Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments

In September 2016 the FASB issued ASU 2016-15, which changes how an entity classifies certain cash receipts and cash payments on its statement of cash flows. The key changes that may potentially impact

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our financial statements include the following: 1) Cash payments for debt prepayment or extinguishment costs would be classified as financing cash outflows; 2) Contingent consideration payments that are not made within three months after the consummation of a business combination would be classified as financing (if the payment is made up to the acquisition date fair value of liability) or operating outflows (if in excess of acquisition fair value). Cash payments made “soon after” the consummation of a business combination generally would be classified as cash outflows for investing activities; 3) Insurance settlement proceeds would be classified based on the nature of the loss; and 4) Company-owned life insurance settlement proceeds would be presented as investing cash inflows, and premiums would be classified as investing or operating cash outflows, or a combination of both. We will retrospectively adopt the new standard beginning January 1, 2018. The adoption of this standard will not have a material effect on our financial statements.

Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities

In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01, which requires entities to measure investments in unconsolidated entities (other than those accounted for using the equity method of accounting) at fair value through the income statement. There will no longer be an available-for-sale classification (with changes in fair value reported in Other Comprehensive Income). In addition, the cost method is eliminated for equity investments without readily determinable fair values. We will adopt the new standard beginning January 1, 2018. The adoption of this standard will not have a material effect on our financial statements.

Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities

In August 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-12 that amends current hedge accounting model. The new standard eliminates the requirement to separately measure and report hedge ineffectiveness and generally requires the entire change in the fair value of a hedging instrument to be presented in the same income statement line as the hedged item (which is consistent with our current practice). The change in fair value for qualifying cash flow and net investment hedges will be included in Other comprehensive income (until they are reclassified into the income statement). The standard also eases certain documentation and assessment requirements and modifies the accounting for components excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness. The standard is effective as of January 1, 2019 and earlier application is permitted. We are assessing the impact the adoption of this standard will have on our financial statements.

Financial Instruments — Credit Losses

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, which changes the impairment model for most financial assets and certain other instruments that are not measured at fair value through net income. The new guidance applies to most financial assets measured at amortized cost, including trade and other receivables and loans as well as off-balance-sheet credit exposures (e.g., loan commitments and standby letters of credit). The standard will replace the “incurred loss” approach under the current guidance with an “expected loss” model that requires an entity to estimate its lifetime “expected credit loss.” The standard is effective January 1, 2020 and early application is permitted beginning January 1, 2019. We are assessing the impact the adoption of this standard will have on our financial statements.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

Our significant accounting policies are described in Note 2, “Significant Accounting Policies,” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The Consolidated Financial Statements are prepared in conformity with GAAP. Preparation of the financial statements requires us to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts of assets and liabilities reflected in the financial statements and revenues and expenses reported for the relevant reporting periods. We believe the policies discussed below are the Company’s critical accounting policies as they include the more significant, subjective and complex judgments and estimates made when preparing our consolidated financial statements.

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Allowances for Doubtful Accounts

Trade receivables are recorded at the stated amount, less allowances for discounts, doubtful accounts and returns. The allowances for doubtful accounts represent estimated uncollectible receivables associated with potential customer defaults on contractual obligations (usually due to customers’ potential insolvency) or discounts related to early payment of accounts receivables by our customers. The allowances include provisions for certain customers where a risk of default has been specifically identified. In addition, the allowances include a provision for customer defaults on a general formula basis when it is determined that the risk of some default is probable and estimable, but cannot yet be associated with specific customers. The assessment of the likelihood of customer defaults is based on various factors, including the length of time the receivables are past due, historical collection experience and existing economic conditions. In accordance with this policy, our allowance for doubtful accounts was $3.3 million and $7.4 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

Inventories

Inventory provisions are recorded to reduce inventory to the lower of cost or market value for obsolete or slow moving inventory based on assumptions about future demand and marketability of products, the impact of new product introductions, inventory levels and turns, product spoilage and specific identification of items, such as product discontinuance, engineering/material changes, or regulatory-related changes. In accordance with this policy, our inventory provision was $45.0 million and $36.4 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

Long-lived Assets

In accordance with ASC requirements for Property, Plant and Equipment, a long-lived asset (including amortizable identifiable intangible assets) or asset group held for use is tested for recoverability whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that its carrying amount may not be recoverable. When such events occur, we compare the sum of the undiscounted cash flows expected to result from the use and eventual disposition of the asset or asset group to the carrying amount of a long-lived asset or asset group. The cash flows are based on our best estimate of future cash flows derived from the most recent business projections. If this comparison indicates that there is an impairment, the amount of the impairment is calculated based on fair value. Fair value is estimated primarily using discounted expected future cash flows on a market-participant basis.

Goodwill and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets

In accordance with ASC requirements for Intangibles — Goodwill and Other, goodwill is tested for impairment at least annually in the fourth quarter, and written down when impaired. An interim impairment test is performed if an event occurs or conditions change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of the reporting unit below the carrying value.

We evaluate the recoverability of goodwill using a weighting of the income (80%) and market (20%) approaches. For the income approach, we use a discounted cash flow model, estimating the future cash flows of the reporting units to which the goodwill relates and then discounting the future cash flows at a market-participant-derived weighted-average cost of capital. In determining the estimated future cash flows, we consider current and projected future levels of income based on management’s plans for that business; business trends, prospects and market and economic conditions; and market-participant considerations. Furthermore, our cash flow projections used to assess impairment of our goodwill and other intangible assets are significantly influenced by our projection for the continued recovery of the U.S. home products market, our annual operating plans finalized in the fourth quarter of each year, and our ability to execute on various planned cost reduction initiatives supporting operating income improvements. Our projection for the U.S. home products market is inherently uncertain and is subject to a number of factors, such as employment, home prices, credit availability, new home starts and the rate of home foreclosures.

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For the market approach, we apply market multiples for peer groups to the current operating results of the reporting units to determine each reporting unit’s fair value. The Company’s reporting units are operating segments. When the estimated fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value, we measure and recognize the amount of the goodwill impairment loss based on that difference, if any.

The significant assumptions that are used to determine the estimated fair value for goodwill impairment testing include the following: third-party market forecasts of U.S. new home starts and home repair and remodel spending; management’s sales, profit and cash flow forecasts; peer company EBITDA earnings multiples; the market-participant-based weighted-average cost of capital; and the perpetuity growth rate. Our estimates of reporting unit fair values are based on certain assumptions that may differ from our historical and future actual operating performance. Specifically, assumptions related to growth in the new construction and repair and remodel segments of the U.S. home products markets drive our forecasted sales growth. The market forecasts are developed using independent third-party forecasts from multiple sources. In addition, estimated future profit margins and cash flow consider our historical performance at similar levels of sales volume and management’s future operating plans as reflected in annual and long-term plans that are reviewed and approved by management.

Purchased intangible assets other than goodwill are amortized over their useful lives unless those lives are determined to be indefinite. The determination of the useful life of an intangible asset other than goodwill is based on factors including historical and tradename performance with respect to consumer name recognition, geographic market presence, market share, plans for ongoing tradename support and promotion, customer attrition rates, and other relevant factors. Certain of our tradenames have been assigned an indefinite life as we currently anticipate that these tradenames will contribute cash flows to the Company indefinitely. Indefinite-lived intangible assets are not amortized, but are evaluated at least annually to determine whether the indefinite useful life is appropriate. We review indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment annually in the fourth quarter, and whenever market or business events indicate there may be a potential impairment of that intangible. Impairment losses are recorded to the extent that the carrying value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset exceeds its fair value. The significant assumptions that are used to determine the estimated fair value for indefinite-lived intangible asset testing are third-party market forecasts of U.S. new home starts and home repair and remodel spending; management’s sales and profit margin forecasts; the market-participant weighted-average cost of capital; and the perpetuity growth rate. Impairment losses are recorded to the extent that the carrying value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset exceeds its fair value. We measure fair value of our indefinite-lived tradenames using the standard relief-from-royalty approach which estimates the present value of royalty income that could be hypothetically earned by licensing the brand name to a third party over the remaining useful life. We first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that an indefinite-lived intangible asset is impaired. Qualitative factors include changes in volume, customers and the industry. If it is deemed more likely than not that an intangible asset is impaired, we will perform a quantitative impairment test.

In 2017, 2016 and 2015, we did not record any asset impairment charges in operating income associated with goodwill or indefinite-lived intangible assets. As of December 31, 2017, the fair value of two tradenames in the Cabinets segment exceeded their carrying values by less than 10%. Accordingly, a reduction in the estimated fair value of these tradenames could trigger an impairment. As of December 31, 2017, the total carrying value of these tradenames was $217.8 million.

Defined Benefit Plans

We have a number of pension plans in the United States, covering many of the Company’s employees. In addition, the Company provides postretirement health care and life insurance benefits to certain retirees. Service cost for 2017 relates to benefit accruals in an hourly Union defined benefit plan in our Security segment. Benefit accruals under all other defined benefit pension plans were frozen as of December 31, 2016.

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We recognize changes in the fair value of pension plan assets and net actuarial gains or losses in excess of 10 percent of the greater of the fair value of pension plan assets or each plan’s projected benefit obligation (the “corridor”) in earnings immediately upon remeasurement, which is at least annually in the fourth quarter of each year. Net actuarial gains and losses occur when actual experience differs from any of the assumptions used to value defined benefit plans or when assumptions change as they may each year. The primary factors contributing to actuarial gains and losses are changes in the discount rate used to value obligations as of the measurement date and the differences between expected and actual returns on pension plan assets. This accounting method results in the potential for volatile and difficult to forecast gains and losses. The pre-tax recognition of actuarial (gains) losses was $(0.5) million, $1.9 million and $2.5 million in 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The total net actuarial losses in accumulated other comprehensive income for all defined benefit plans were $67.4 million as of December 31, 2017, compared to $73.4 million as of December 31, 2016.

We record amounts relating to these defined benefit plans based on various actuarial assumptions, including discount rates, assumed rates of return, compensation increases, turnover rates and health care cost trend rates. We review our actuarial assumptions on an annual basis and make modifications to the assumptions based on current economic conditions and trends. We believe that the assumptions utilized in recording our obligations under our plans are reasonable based on our experience and on advice from our independent actuaries; however, differences in actual experience or changes in the assumptions may materially affect our financial condition or results of operations. The expected return on plan assets is determined based on the nature of the plans’ investments, our current asset allocation and our expectations for long-term rates of return. The weighted-average long-term expected rate of return on pension plan assets for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 was 6.4% and 6.6%, respectively. Compensation increases reflect expected future compensation trends. The discount rate used to measure obligations is based on a spot-rate yield curve on a plan-by-plan basis that matches projected future benefit payments with the appropriate interest rate applicable to the timing of the projected future benefit payments. The bond portfolio used for the selection of the discount rate is from the top quartile of bonds rated by nationally recognized statistical rating organizations, and includes only non-callable bonds and those that are deemed to be sufficiently marketable with a Moody’s credit rating of Aa or higher. The weighted-average discount rate for defined benefit liabilities as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 was 3.8% and 4.3%, respectively.

For postretirement benefits, our health care trend rate assumption is based on historical cost increases and expectations for long-term increases. As of December 31, 2017, for postretirement medical and prescription drugs in the next year, our assumption was an assumed rate of increase of 7.1% for pre-65 retirees and 8.4% for post-65 retirees, declining until reaching an ultimate assumed rate of increase of 4.5% per year in 2026. As of December 31, 2016, for postretirement medical and prescription drugs in the next year, our assumption was an assumed rate of increase of 7.3% for pre-65 retirees and 8.2% for post-65 retirees, declining until reaching an ultimate assumed rate of increase of 4.5% per year in 2026.

Below is a table showing pre-tax pension and postretirement expenses, including the impact of actuarial gains and losses:

The actuarial gains in 2017 were principally due to normal re-measurement of prior year defined benefit plan liabilities. The actuarial losses in 2016 were principally due to the re-measurement relating to a retiree medical plan. The actuarial losses in 2015 were due to lower asset returns, partially offset by higher

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discount rates. Discount rates in 2017 used to determine benefit obligations decreased by an average of 50 basis points for pension benefits. Discount rates for postretirement benefits remained the same in 2017. Discount rates in 2016 used to determine benefit obligations decreased by an average of 30 basis points for pension benefits and an average of 70 basis points for postretirement benefits. Discount rates in 2015 used to determine benefit obligations increased by an average of 40 basis points for pension benefits and an average of 50 basis points for postretirement benefits. The changes in discount rates was due to changes in interest rates for the bond portfolio that comprises our spot-rate yield curve. Our spot-rate yield curve is based on high quality bond interest rates. Our actual return on plan assets in 2017 was 16.3% compared to an actuarial assumption of an average 6.4% expected return. Our actual return on plan assets in 2016 was 10.0% compared to an actuarial assumption of an average 6.6% expected return. Significant actuarial losses in future periods would be expected if discount rates decline, actual returns on plan assets are lower than our expected return, or a combination of both occurs.

A 25 basis point change in our discount rate assumption would lead to an increase or decrease in our pension and postretirement liability of approximately $27 million. A 25 basis point change in the long-term rate of return on plan assets used in accounting for our pension plans would have a $1.6 million impact on pension expense. In addition, if required, actuarial gains and losses will be recorded in accordance with our defined benefit plan accounting method as previously described. It is not possible to forecast or predict whether there will be actuarial gains and losses in future periods, and if required, the magnitude of any such adjustment. These gains and losses are driven by differences in actual experience or changes in the assumptions that are beyond our control, such as changes in interest rates and the actual return on pension plan assets.

Income Taxes

In accordance with ASC requirements for Income Taxes, we establish deferred tax liabilities or assets for temporary differences between financial and tax reporting bases and subsequently adjust them to reflect changes in tax rates expected to be in effect when the temporary differences reverse. We record a valuation allowance reducing deferred tax assets when it is more likely than not that such assets will not be realized.

We record liabilities for uncertain income tax positions based on a two-step process. The first step is recognition, where we evaluate whether an individual tax position has a likelihood of greater than 50% of being sustained upon examination based on the technical merits of the position, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes. For tax positions that are currently estimated to have a less than 50% likelihood of being sustained, no tax benefit is recorded. For tax positions that have met the recognition threshold in the first step, we perform the second step of measuring the benefit to be recorded. The actual benefits ultimately realized may differ from our estimates. In future periods, changes in facts, circumstances, and new information may require us to change the recognition and measurement estimates with regard to individual tax positions. Changes in recognition and measurement estimates are recorded in the consolidated statement of income and consolidated balance sheet in the period in which such changes occur. As of December 31, 2017, we had liabilities for unrecognized tax benefits pertaining to uncertain tax positions totaling $87.5 million. It is reasonably possible that the unrecognized tax benefits may decrease in the range of $1.5 million to $21.5 million in the next 12 months primarily as a result of the conclusion of U.S. federal, state and foreign income tax proceedings.

On December 22, 2017, Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 118 (“SAB 118”) was issued regarding the application of U.S. GAAP to situations where a registrant does not have the necessary information available, prepared or analyzed (including computations) in reasonable detail to complete the accounting for certain income tax effects of the Tax Act. In accordance with SAB 118, we have calculated and included our best estimate of the impact of the Tax Act in our year end income tax provision. In accordance with our understanding of the Tax Act and guidance available, a provisional net tax benefit of $25.7 million was recorded in the fourth quarter of 2017. This provisional amount includes a tax benefit of $62.4 million due to the remeasurement of the Company’s net deferred tax liabilities, tax expense on

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deemed repatriation of foreign earnings of $28.5 million and tax expense of $8.2 million on foreign earnings not considered permanently reinvested. The impact of the Tax Act may differ from these estimates, possibly materially, due to, among other things, refinement of calculations due to additional analysis, changes in interpretations, assumptions made and additional guidance that may be issued. Any subsequent adjustment, related to the aforementioned, will be recorded in current tax expense when such analysis is completed or such guidance is issued.

Customer Program Costs

Customer programs and incentives are a common practice in our businesses. Our businesses incur customer program costs to obtain favorable product placement, to promote sales of products and to maintain competitive pricing. Customer program costs and incentives, including rebates and promotion and volume allowances, are accounted for in either “net sales” or the category “selling, general and administrative expenses” at the time the program is initiated and/or the revenue is recognized. The costs are predominantly recognized in “net sales” and include, but are not limited to, volume allowances and rebates, promotional allowances, and cooperative advertising programs. These costs are recorded at the later of the time of sale or the implementation of the program based on management’s best estimates. Estimates are based on historical and projected experience for each type of program or customer. Volume allowances are accrued based on management’s estimates of customer volume achievement and other factors incorporated into customer agreements, such as new products, store sell-through, merchandising support, levels of returns and customer training. Management periodically reviews accruals for these rebates and allowances, and adjusts accruals when circumstances indicate (typically as a result of a change in volume expectations). The costs typically recognized in “selling, general and administrative expenses” include product displays, point of sale materials and media production costs.

Litigation Contingencies

Our businesses are subject to risks related to threatened or pending litigation and are routinely defendants in lawsuits associated with the normal conduct of business. Liabilities and costs associated with litigation-related loss contingencies require estimates and judgments based on our knowledge of the facts and circumstances surrounding each matter and the advice of our legal counsel. We record liabilities for litigation-related losses when a loss is probable and we can reasonably estimate the amount of the loss in accordance with ASC requirements for Contingencies. We evaluate the measurement of recorded liabilities each reporting period based on the then-current facts and circumstances specific to each matter. The ultimate losses incurred upon final resolution of litigation-related loss contingencies may differ materially from the estimated liability recorded at any particular balance sheet date. Changes in estimates are recorded in earnings in the period in which such changes occur.

Environmental Matters

We are involved in remediation activities to clean up hazardous wastes as required by federal and state laws. Liabilities for remediation costs of each site are based on our best estimate of undiscounted future costs, excluding possible insurance recoveries or recoveries from other third parties. Uncertainties about the status of laws, regulations, technology and information related to individual sites make it difficult to develop estimates of environmental remediation exposures. Some of the potential liabilities relate to sites we own, and some relate to sites we no longer own or never owned. Several of our subsidiaries have been designated as potentially responsible parties (“PRPs”) under “Superfund” or similar state laws. As of December 31, 2017, eleven such instances have not been dismissed, settled or otherwise resolved. In 2017, none of our subsidiaries were identified as a PRP in a new instance and no instances were settled, dismissed or otherwise resolved. In most instances where our subsidiaries are named as a PRP, we enter into cost-sharing arrangements with other PRPs. We give notice to insurance carriers of potential PRP liability, but very rarely, if ever, receive reimbursement from insurance for PRP costs. We believe that the cost of complying with the present environmental protection laws, before considering estimated recoveries either from other PRPs or insurance, will not have a material adverse effect on our results of operations,

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cash flows or financial condition. At December 31, 2017 and 2016, we had accruals of $0.7 million and $1.0 million, respectively, relating to environmental compliance and cleanup including, but not limited to, the above mentioned Superfund sites.

Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk.

We are exposed to various market risks, including changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates and commodity prices. Market risk is the potential loss arising from adverse changes in market rates and prices, such as interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates and commodity prices. We do not enter into derivatives or other financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes. We enter into financial instruments to manage and reduce the impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates and commodity prices. The counterparties are major financial institutions.

Interest Rate Risk

A hypothetical 100 basis point change in interest rates affecting the Company’s external variable rate borrowings as of December 31, 2017, would be $6.2 million on a pre-tax basis.

Foreign Exchange Rate Risk

We enter into forward foreign exchange contracts principally to hedge currency fluctuations in transactions denominated in certain foreign currencies, thereby limiting our risk that would otherwise result from changes in exchange rates. The periods of the forward foreign exchange contracts correspond to the periods of the hedged transactions.

The estimated fair value of foreign currency contracts represents the amount required to enter into offsetting contracts with similar remaining maturities based on quoted market prices.

The estimated potential loss under foreign exchange contracts from movement in foreign exchange rates would not have a material impact on our results of operations, cash flows or financial condition. As part of our risk management procedure, we use a value-at-risk (“VAR”) sensitivity analysis model to estimate the maximum potential economic loss from adverse changes in foreign exchange rates over a one-day period given a 95% confidence level. The VAR model uses historical foreign exchange rates to estimate the volatility and correlation of these rates in future periods. The estimated maximum one-day loss in the fair value of the Company’s foreign currency exchange contracts using the VAR model was $1.0 million at December 31, 2017. The 95% confidence interval signifies our degree of confidence that actual losses under foreign exchange contracts would not exceed the estimated losses. The amounts disregard the possibility that foreign currency exchange rates could move in our favor. The VAR model assumes that all movements in the foreign exchange rates will be adverse. These amounts should not be considered projections of future losses, since actual results may differ significantly depending upon activity in the global financial markets. The VAR model is a risk analysis tool and should not be construed as an endorsement of the VAR model or the accuracy of the related assumptions.

Commodity Price Risk

We are subject to commodity price volatility caused by weather, supply conditions, geopolitical and economic variables, and other unpredictable external factors. From time to time, we use derivative contracts to manage our exposure to commodity price volatility.

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Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.