The Surprising Hidden Side Hustles of the World's Biggest Brands

"Big brands aren't always what they seem. From Michelin's famed restaurant stars to electronics giants that started as noodle traders, some of the world's most recognizable companies quietly build products you'd never think of. Sometimes this comes simply from pivoting to a new market, and other times it happens when a company completely changes the whole paradigm. Either way, 24/7 Wall St. is taking a closer look at companies that make products consumers would never even think they make."

"Understanding what products a company actually makes, beyond the logo and the ad taglines, can reveal some surprising stories about industrial change, brand strategy, and the clever reuse of technology. Sometimes there are odd collisions between brands and products, and how companies respond to this ultimately shows how they adapt. Spinning off new businesses and pivoting after market shocks are some catalysts for these types of moves. In a sense, these companies are case studies in innovation, resilience and the long-term consequences of scale, R&D and corporate diversification."

"3M 3M is an American diversified industrial conglomerate known for adhesives, tapes, abrasives, medical products and safety equipment. Its product portfolio includes many end markets-healthcare, manufacturing, consumer and transportation. It is anchored by strong R&D capabilities. Berkshire Hathaway Berkshire Hathaway is famously known as Warren Buffett's diversified holding company. It works with major insurance operations, large equity stakes (including Apple and American Express), and wholly owned bu"

Many well-known companies produce unexpected products that contrast with their public brand images. Some companies pivoted into new markets while others completely reinvented their business paradigms to create surprising product lines. Identification of these companies involved reviewing company disclosures and market sources, with results organized alphabetically and supplemented with CEO, market capitalization, and product information. Drivers of these unexpected offerings include corporate diversification, R&D reuse, spin-offs, and adaptation after market shocks. Specific examples include diversified industrial firms with broad product portfolios and conglomerates holding varied businesses under one corporate umbrella.

Read at 24/7 Wall St.