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Market-Facing Products and Diversification

(1977-2004)

A Shift from the Basics

With the recognition that the future lay with higher value-added products, diversification became Dow’s number one target. In 1978, Dow’s leadership set a goal to achieve 50 percent of revenues from high-value product lines. The company began rounding out its expertise in pharmaceuticals, consumer products and agricultural chemicals through joint ventures and acquisitions, and found new applications for existing products, including for the automotive industry. By 1985, Dow had met its goal for achieving high-value sales.

An Early Leader in Responsible Care®

It was under CEO Frank Popoff’s leadership that Dow became an early supporter of Responsible Care®, a global voluntary initiative launched in the 1980s that emphasizes continuous improvement for the chemical industry. Popoff called the initiative “maybe the most powerful thing this industry has done for as far back as I can remember.” In 1996, Dow established its first set of 10-year companywide EH&S goals. They led to sweeping cultural change at Dow, including an improved safety mindset that has helped prevent thousands of injuries.

“What does Dow have to do to be a great company in the year 2000?”

– CEO Paul Oreffice to Dow’s top 30 leaders in 1978 

1985

The Dow household product line doubles in size.

1986

Dow ranks as the world’s largest producer of thermoplastics.

1989

Dow and Eli Lilly form DowElanco, a joint venture to produce agricultural products.

Dow acquires pharmaceutical maker Marion Laboratories and creates a new publicly traded company, Marion Merrell Dow Inc.

1992

Dow’s INSITE™ constrained geometry catalyst technology is introduced.

1996

DuPont Dow Elastomers begins operations.

1997

Dow acquires 100 percent ownership of DowElanco and renames it Dow AgroSciences.

Dow agrees to sell its Dow Brand unit to S.C. Johnson & Son.

1999

Dow announces plans to acquire Union Carbide.

2001

Dow-Union Carbide transaction is finalized.