Emerson garners top spot in investor relations study

Ferguson-based Emerson had the most effective investor relations program in the U.S., according to a study conducted by consulting firm Greenwich Associates.

Public companies have investor relations departments to disseminate shareholder information, and inform stockholders and analysts about the company’s financial performance and strategy.

The Stamford, Conn.-based firm interviewed portfolio managers and investment analysts from over 180 largest U.S. investing institutions. They were asked to evaluate the public companies they covered on the basis of 12 factors, including capability and credibility of senior management, the transparency of accounting information, the quality of investor meetings, and the overall performance of each company’s investor relations department.

The study ranked Emerson as No. 1, followed by office supply chain Staples Inc. Other companies in the top 25 include beverage giant PepsiCo Inc., computer maker Hewlett-Packard Co. and retailer Kohl’s Corp.

“Emerson’s management team has a longstanding commitment to clarity, transparency and openness in communicating the company’s strategy and financial picture,” Lynne Maxeiner, Emerson’s director of Investor Relations at Emerson, said Monday in a press release. “This recognition underscores that commitment, which our investors and shareholders have come to value and expect.”

Emerson makes a range of products, including industrial process controls, cooling equipment, network power products, appliances and tools.