ITW vs ORLY Comparison

Illinois Tool Works is a diversified global manufacturer that produces specialized industrial equipment, consumables, and related services. The firm operates 84 global divisions through seven distinct operating segments: automotive OEM, construction products, food equipment, specialty products, test/measurement and electronics, polymers and fluids, and welding. About half of its revenue comes from its operations in North America, with the remainder originating from international markets. Europe, the Middle East, and Africa is the next largest contributor at about 25% of revenue. ITW takes a bottom-up and decentralized approach to portfolio management, with the exception that each segment must apply its 80/20 operating process modeled on the Pareto principle.

O'Reilly is an aftermarket automotive parts retailer in the United States and Mexico with nearly $16 billion in annual sales. The company operates over 6,000 domestic stores and serves both the do-it-yourself (about 55% of sales) and professional (45% of sales) end markets. Despite operating amid a highly fragmented industry, O'Reilly differentiates itself by providing quality service to its customers throughout the entirety of the vehicle diagnosis and purchasing process. Furthermore, the firm boasts an impressive hub-and-spoke distribution network designed to provide its localized store base with ample aftermarket product availability across a variety of vehicle makes and models.