Finance & Capital Management

Lynn Gust, 59, has been senior vice president of operations since 2011. He started his career with Fred Meyer as a parcel clerk in 1970.

For the first time in a long time, this year's listing of the top 100 public consumer goods companies tells more good news than bad. The majority of companies realized modest revenue growth despite ongoing economic challenges; and some categories, like Food and Apparel, posted sales gains across the board. Read on to find out how your company, your partners and/or your competitors performed by comparison.

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

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

CGT Editor Alliston Ackerman gives you a sneak peek into the trends and topics discussed in this month's issue.

Big break-up headlines rocked the food industry in 2011. But the market overall reported growth across the board. Expect big changes on this list next year.

Apparently, beauty is everything; at least to these companies and their loyal consumers. This market posted growth across the board with innovative health and beauty products and business strategies.

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