Introduction



This Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations ("MD&A") is a supplement to the accompanying consolidated financial
statements and provides additional information on our business, recent
developments, financial condition, liquidity and capital resources, cash flows
and results of operations. MD&A is organized as follows:

• Overview: This section provides a general description of our business and a

discussion of management's general outlook regarding market demand, our

competitive position and product innovation, as well as recent developments we

believe are important to understanding our results of operations and financial

condition or in understanding anticipated future trends.

• Basis of Presentation: This section provides a discussion of the basis on

which our consolidated financial statements were prepared.

• Results of Operations: This section provides an analysis of our results of

operations for the two years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019. For a

discussion of our 2018 results, please refer to Item 7. "Management's

Discussion and Analysis" of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the

year ended December 31, 2019 filed with the SEC on February 26, 2020.

• Liquidity and Capital Resources: This section provides a discussion of our

financial condition and an analysis of our cash flows for each of the two

years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019. This section also provides a

discussion of our contractual obligations, other purchase commitments and

customer credit risk that existed at December 31, 2020, as well as a

discussion of our ability to fund our future commitments and ongoing operating

activities through internal and external sources of capital.

• Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates: This section identifies and

summarizes those accounting policies that significantly impact our reported

results of operations and financial condition and require significant judgment

or estimates on the part of management in their application.

Overview



The Company is a leader in home and security products focused on the design,
manufacture and sale of market-leading branded products in the following
categories: plumbing and accessories, entry door and storm door systems,
security products, outdoor performance materials used in decking and railing
products, and kitchen and bath cabinetry.

For the year ended December 31, 2020, net sales based on country of destination
were:



(In millions)
United States         $ 5,094.3        84 %
China                     416.7         7
Canada                    414.2         7
Other international       165.1         2
Total                 $ 6,090.3       100 %




We believe the Company has certain competitive advantages including
market-leading brands, a diversified mix of customer channels, lean and flexible
supply chains, a decentralized business model and a strong capital structure, as
well as a tradition of strong innovation and customer service. We are focused on
outperforming our markets in growth, profitability and returns in order to drive
increased stockholder value. We believe the Company's track record reflects the
long-term attractiveness and potential of our categories and our leading brands.
As consumer demand and the housing market continue to grow, we expect the
benefits of operating leverage and strategic spending to support increased
manufacturing capacity and long-term growth initiatives will help us to continue
to achieve profitable organic growth.

We continue to believe our most attractive opportunities are to invest in
profitable organic growth initiatives, pursue accretive strategic acquisitions,
non-controlling equity investments, and joint ventures, and return cash to
stockholders through a combination of dividends and repurchases of shares of our
common stock under our share repurchase program as explained in further detail
under "Liquidity and Capital Resources" below.

The U.S. market for our home products consists of spending on both new home
construction and repair and remodel activities within existing homes, with the
substantial majority of the markets we serve consisting of repair and remodel
spending. Continued growth in the U.S. market for our home products will largely
depend on consumer confidence, employment, wage growth, home prices, stable
mortgage rates and credit availability.

We may be impacted by fluctuations in raw materials, tariffs, transportation
costs, foreign exchange rates, inflation and promotional activity among our
competitors. We strive to offset the potential unfavorable impact of these items
with productivity improvements and price increases.

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During the two years ended December 31, 2020, our net sales grew at a compounded
annual rate of 5.4% as we benefited from a growing U.S. home products market,
acquisitions, and growth in international markets. Operating income grew at a
compounded annual rate of 16.0% with consolidated operating margins between 11%
and 13% from 2018 to 2020. Growth in operating income was primarily due to
higher sales volume, changes to our portfolio of businesses, control over our
operating expenses and the benefits of productivity programs.

During the first half of 2020, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, a number of
countries and U.S. states issued orders requiring nonessential businesses to
close ("closure orders") and persons who were not engaged in essential
businesses to stay at home. Generally, states and jurisdictions designated our
products, our retail channel partners and residential construction as essential
business activities.

While our financial results were negatively impacted during the second quarter
of 2020 by these closure orders, sales volumes increased as these restrictions
were relaxed benefiting our third and fourth quarter results. Our first priority
with regard to COVID-19 continues to be to ensure the safety, health and hygiene
of our employees, customers, suppliers and others with whom we partner in our
business activities. Because of our comprehensive use of appropriate risk
mitigation and safety practices, we have largely been able to continue our
business operations in this unprecedented business environment which could
differentiate us from some of our competition. We believe that the disruption
caused by the pandemic created increased consumer interest in investing in their
homes and accelerated trends that we were experiencing prior to the pandemic,
such as the shift towards value-priced cabinetry products and a focus on outdoor
living. We expect the trend toward focusing on the home to continue. We have
also taken proactive steps in our manufacturing supply chain and other areas to
drive efficiencies which we expect to allow us to be more competitive both
during and after the pandemic. However, due to the continued inherent
uncertainty surrounding COVID-19, including governmental directives, public
health challenges and market reactions, our results in future periods may be
negatively impacted.

During 2020, the U.S. home products market grew due to increases in repair and
remodel and new home construction activity. We believe spending for home repair
and remodeling increased approximately 6% and new housing construction
experienced approximately 4% growth in 2020 compared to 2019. In 2020, net sales
grew 5.7% due to higher volume and price increases to help mitigate the
cumulative impact from tariff related costs. These factors were partially offset
by unfavorable mix, higher rebate costs and unfavorable foreign exchange of $4
million. In 2020, operating income increased 14.7% over 2019 primarily due to
price increases to help mitigate the impact of higher tariffs, higher sales
volume, the benefits from productivity improvements and restructuring actions
and lower asset impairment charges. These factors were partially offset by the
impact of unfavorable mix, higher employee related costs, higher tariffs, higher
transportation costs, higher advertising and marketing costs and higher
restructuring and other charges.

In December 2020, we acquired 100% of the outstanding equity of Larson, a
leading brand of storm, screen and security doors, for a total purchase price of
approximately $715.2 million, net of cash acquired and closing date working
capital adjustments. The acquisition cost is further subject to the final
post-closing working capital adjustment. We financed the transaction with
borrowings under our existing credit facilities. This acquisition is expected to
strengthen our overall product offering.

Following the acquisition of Larson, our Doors & Security segment was renamed
"Outdoors & Security" to better align with the segment's strategic focus on the
fast-growing outdoor living space and to better represent the brands within the
segment, including the newly acquired Larson. The Outdoors &
Security segment name change is to the name only and had no impact on the
Company's historical financial position, results of operations, cash flow or
segment level results previously reported.

During June 2020, we repaid all amounts outstanding on the 3.000% Senior Notes
issued in June 2015 at their maturity date using borrowings under our 2019
Revolving Credit Agreement (as defined below). In September 2019, the Company
issued $700 million of 3.25% Senior Notes due 2029 ("2019 Notes") in a
registered public offering. The Company used the proceeds from the 2019 Notes
offering to repay in full a $350 million term loan and to pay down outstanding
balances under our 2019 Revolving Credit Agreement.

In April 2020, the Company entered into a 364-day supplemental, $400 million revolving credit facility (the "2020 Revolving Credit Agreement"), and borrowings thereunder will be used for general corporate purposes.



In 2018 our Plumbing segment entered into a strategic partnership with, and
acquired non-controlling equity interests in, Flo Technologies, Inc. ("Flo"), a
U.S. manufacturer of comprehensive water monitoring and shut-off systems with
leak detection technologies. In January 2020, we entered into an agreement to
acquire 100% of the outstanding shares of Flo in a multi-phase transaction,
which will be completed in 2022.

Basis of Presentation



The consolidated financial statements in this Annual Report on Form 10-K have
been derived from the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries.
The Company's consolidated financial statements are based on a fiscal year

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ending December 31. Certain of the Company's subsidiaries operate on a 52 or 53 week fiscal year ending during the month of December.



In December 2020, the Company acquired 100% of the outstanding equity of Larson
for a total purchase price of approximately $715.2 million, net of cash acquired
and closing date working capital adjustments. The acquisition cost is further
subject to the final post-closing working capital adjustment. We financed the
transaction with borrowings under our existing credit facilities. The financial
results of Larson were included in the Company's consolidated balance sheet as
of December 31, 2020. Larson's net sales, operating income and cash flows from
the date of acquisition to December 31, 2020 were not material to the Company.
The results of operations are included in the Outdoors & Security segment.

Results of Operations



The following discussion of both consolidated results of operations and segment
results of operations refers to the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to the
year ended December 31, 2019. The discussion of consolidated results of
operations should be read in conjunction with the discussion of segment results
of operations and our financial statements and notes thereto included in this
Annual Report on Form 10-K. Unless otherwise noted, all discussion of results of
operations are for continuing operations.

Years Ended December 31, 2020 and 2019





(In millions)               2020       % change            2019
Net Sales:
Plumbing               $ 2,202.1            8.6 %     $ 2,027.2
Outdoors & Security      1,419.2            5.2         1,348.9
Cabinets                 2,469.0            3.4         2,388.5
Total Fortune Brands   $ 6,090.3            5.7 %     $ 5,764.6
Operating Income:
Plumbing               $   467.9            9.4 %     $   427.6
Outdoors & Security        201.3           16.8           172.3
Cabinets                   235.7           32.2           178.3
Corporate                 (103.5 )        (29.9 )         (79.7 )
Total Fortune Brands   $   801.4           14.7 %     $   698.5

Certain items had a significant impact on our results in 2020 and 2019. These included restructuring and other charges, asset impairment charges and the impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates.

In 2020, financial results included:

• restructuring and other charges of $25.1 million before tax ($17.5 million

after tax), largely related to headcount actions associated with COVID-19

across all segments and costs associated with changes in our manufacturing

processes within our Plumbing segment,

• asset impairment charges of $22.5 related to the impairment of

indefinite-lived tradenames within our Plumbing and Cabinets segments, which

were primarily the result of forecasted sales declines resulting from the

COVID-19 pandemic,

• actuarial losses within our defined benefit plans of $3.4 million primarily

related to decreases in discount rates and differences between expected and

actual returns on plan assets and

• the impact of foreign exchange primarily due to movement in the Canadian

dollar, British pound, Mexican peso and Chinese yuan, which had an unfavorable


   impact compared to 2019, of approximately $4 million on net sales and a
   favorable impact compared to 2019, of approximately $1 million both on
   operating income and net income.

In 2019, financial results included:

• asset impairment charges of $41.5 related to impairment of two

indefinite-lived tradenames within our Cabinets segment, which were primarily

the result of a continuing shift in consumer demand from custom and

semi-custom cabinetry products to value-priced cabinetry products, which led

to reductions in future growth rates related to these tradenames,

• actuarial losses within our defined benefit plans of $34.7 million primarily

related to decreases in discount rates and differences between expected and

actual returns on plan assets,

• restructuring and other charges of $22.2 million before tax ($16.8 million

after tax), primarily related to severance costs within all of our segments

and costs associated with closing facilities within our Plumbing and Outdoors

& Security segments and

• the impact of foreign exchange primarily due to movement in the Canadian

dollar, British pound, Mexican peso and Chinese yuan, which had an unfavorable

impact compared to 2018, of approximately $29 million on net sales,

approximately $10 million on operating income and approximately $8 million on


   net income.


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Total Fortune Brands

Net sales

Net sales increased by $325.7 million, or 5.7%, on higher volume and price increases to help mitigate the cumulative impact from tariff related costs. These factors were partially offset by unfavorable mix, higher rebate costs and unfavorable foreign exchange of $4 million.

Cost of products sold



Cost of products sold increased by $213.7 million, or 5.8%, due to higher net
sales, unfavorable mix and the impact of higher tariffs, partially offset by the
benefit from productivity improvements.

Selling, general and administrative expenses



Selling, general and administrative expenses increased by $26.3 million, or
2.1%, due to higher employee related costs, higher advertising and marketing
cost and higher transportation costs. These increases were partially offset by
the benefits from organizational restructuring initiatives.

Amortization of intangible assets

Amortization of intangible assets are consistent with the prior year.

Asset impairment charges



Asset impairment charges of $22.5 million in 2020 related to indefinite-lived
tradenames within our Plumbing and Cabinets segments. Asset impairment charges
of $41.5 million in 2019 related to two indefinite-lived tradenames within our
Cabinets segment.



Restructuring charges

Restructuring charges of $15.9 million in 2020 largely related to headcount
actions associated with COVID-19 across all segments and costs associated with
changes in our manufacturing processes within our Plumbing segment.
Restructuring charges of $14.7 million in 2019 primarily related to severance
costs within our Plumbing and Cabinets segments and costs associated with
closing facilities within our Plumbing and Outdoors & Security segments.

Operating income



Operating income increased by $102.9 million, or 14.7%, primarily due to price
increases to help mitigate the impact of higher tariffs, higher sales volume,
the benefits from productivity improvements and restructuring actions and lower
asset impairment charges. These factors were partially offset by unfavorable
mix, higher employee related costs, higher tariffs, higher transportation costs,
higher advertising and marketing costs and higher restructuring and other
charges.

Interest expense

Interest expense decreased $10.3 million to $83.9 million, due to lower average borrowings and lower average interest rates.

Other (income) expense, net



Other (income) expense, net, was income of $13.3 million in 2020, compared to
expense of $29.0 million in 2019. The increase of $42.3 million of income is
primarily due to higher defined benefit income in 2020 ($33.2 million increase)
and gains of $11.0 million related to our investment in Flo, partially offset by
unfavorable foreign currency losses.

Income taxes





The effective income tax rates for 2020 and 2019 were 23.1% and 25.0%,
respectively. The 2020 effective income tax rate was unfavorably impacted by
state and local taxes ($22.3 million) and foreign taxes ($6.2 million), and was
favorably impacted by a benefit related to share-based compensation ($11.5
million).



The 2019 effective income tax rate was unfavorably impacted by state and local
taxes ($18.0 million), foreign taxes ($1.8 million), a valuation allowance
increase ($3.4 million), and increases in uncertain tax positions (7.5 million).
The 2019 effective income tax rate was favorably impacted by a tax benefit
related to share-based compensation ($3.7 million).

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Net income from continuing operations



Net income from continuing operations was $554.4 million in 2020 compared to
$431.3 million in 2019. The increase of $123.1 million was due to higher
operating income, higher other (income) expense, net and lower interest expense,
partly offset by higher income taxes and equity in losses of affiliate.

Results By Segment

Plumbing



Net sales increased by $174.9 million, or 8.6%, due to higher sales volume from
retail and e-commerce customers in the U.S. who benefited from strong consumer
demand from higher home investments, higher sales volume in China despite
temporary closures for COVID-19 and price increases to help mitigate the
cumulative impact of tariffs. These factors were partly offset by higher rebate
costs and lower sales from showroom customers whose locations closed or operated
at limited capacity as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic as well as unfavorable
foreign exchange of approximately $1 million.

Operating income increased by $40.3 million, or 9.4%, due to higher sales volume
and the benefit from productivity improvements. These benefits were partly
offset by unfavorable channel mix, higher advertising and marketing costs, asset
impairment charges ($13.0 million in 2020), higher employee related costs and
the impact of higher tariffs as well as unfavorable foreign exchange of
approximately $2 million.

Outdoors & Security



Net sales increased by $70.3 million, or 5.2%, due to higher volume for decking
and doors products due to strong consumer demand benefiting from higher home
investments, price increases to help mitigate tariffs and the benefit from new
customers in decking products. These factors were partially offset by lower
volume primarily due to COVID-19 related weakness in the commercial and
international security markets, the discontinuance of a doors product line,
higher rebate costs and unfavorable mix. Foreign exchange was unfavorable by
approximately $2 million.

Operating income increased by $29.0 million, or 16.8%, due to higher sales
volume, the benefit from productivity improvements, the absence in 2020 of
expenses related to Fiberon's inventory fair value adjustment ($1.8 million in
2019) and a fair value adjustment associated with an idle manufacturing facility
($1.7 million in 2019). Foreign exchange was favorable by approximately $3
million. These factors were partially offset by unfavorable mix, higher employee
related costs, the impact of higher tariffs and higher restructuring costs.

Cabinets



Net sales increased by $80.5 million, or 3.4%, due to higher volume and price
increases to help mitigate the cumulative impact of tariffs. These factors were
partly offset by a continued shift to value-priced products from make-to-order
products and higher transportation costs, as well as unfavorable foreign
exchange of approximately $1 million.

Operating income increased by $57.4 million, or 32.2%, due to higher net sales,
lower asset impairment charges ($32.0 million decrease) and the benefit from
productivity improvements. These factors were partly offset by a continued shift
to value-priced products from make-to-order products and higher transportation
costs.

Corporate

Corporate expenses increased by $23.8 million, or 29.9%, due to higher employee related costs, $4.5 million of transaction costs associated with the Larson acquisition and the impairment of a long-lived asset ($3.6 million).

Liquidity and Capital Resources



Our principal sources of liquidity are cash on hand, cash flows from operating
activities, cash borrowed under our credit facility and cash from debt issuances
in the capital markets. Our operating income is generated by our subsidiaries.
We believe our operating cash flows, including funds available under the credit
facility and access to capital markets, provide sufficient liquidity to support
the Company's working capital requirements, capital expenditures and service of
indebtedness, as well as to finance acquisitions, repurchase shares of our
common stock and pay dividends to stockholders, as the Board of Directors deems
appropriate.

Our cash flows from operations, borrowing availability and overall liquidity are
subject to certain risks and uncertainties, including those described in the
section entitled "Item 1A. Risk Factors." In addition, we cannot predict whether
or when we may enter into acquisitions, joint ventures or dispositions, make any
purchases of shares of our common stock under our share repurchase programs, or
pay dividends, or what impact any such transactions could have on our results of
operations, cash flows or financial condition, whether as a result of the
issuance of debt or equity securities, or otherwise.

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Unsecured Senior Notes

At December 31, 2020, the Company had aggregate outstanding notes in the
principal amount of $1.8 billion, with varying maturities (the "Notes"). The
Notes are unsecured senior obligations of the Company. The following table
provides a summary of the Company's outstanding Notes, including the carrying
value of the Notes, net of underwriting commissions, price discounts and debt
issuance costs as of December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019:

(in millions)                                                                                Net Carrying Value
         Coupon Rate           Principal       Issuance Date    Maturity

Date December 31, 2020 December 31, 2019


                                 Amount
3.000% Senior Notes           $      400.0       June 2015        June 2020      $                 -     $             399.7
4.000% Senior Notes                  500.0       June 2015        June 2025                    496.6                   495.8
4.000% Senior Notes (the
"2018 Notes")                        600.0     September 2018   September 2023                 597.1                   596.1
3.250% Senior Notes (the
"2019 Notes")                        700.0     September 2019   September 2029                 693.5                   692.7
Total Senior Notes                                                               $           1,787.2     $           2,184.3


During June 2020, we repaid all outstanding 3.000% Senior Notes issued in June
2015 at their maturity date using borrowings under our 2019 Revolving Credit
Agreement (as defined below). In September 2019, we issued $700 million of the
3.25% Senior Notes due 2029 in a registered public offering. The Company used
the proceeds from the 2019 Notes offering to repay in full the Company's $350
million term loan and to pay down outstanding balances under our revolving
credit facility.

Notes payments due during the next five years as of December 31, 2020 are zero
in 2021 through 2022, $600 million in 2023, zero in 2024 and $500 million in
2025.

Credit Facilities

In April 2020, the Company entered into a supplemental 364-day, $400 million revolving credit facility (the "2020 Revolving Credit Agreement"), and borrowings thereunder will be used for general corporate purposes.



In September 2019, the Company entered into a second amended and restated $1.25
billion revolving credit facility (the "2019 Revolving Credit Agreement"), and
borrowings thereunder will be used for general corporate purposes. The terms and
conditions of the 2019 Revolving Credit Agreement, including the total
commitment amount, essentially remained the same as the previous revolving
credit facility, except that the maturity date was extended to September
2024. Interest rates under the 2019 Revolving Credit Agreement are variable
based on LIBOR at the time of the borrowing and the Company's long-term credit
rating and can range from LIBOR + 0.91% to LIBOR + 1.4%. Borrowings amounting to
$165.0 million were rolled over from the prior revolving credit facility into
the 2019 Revolving Credit Agreement. The amendment also includes a covenant
under which the Company is required to maintain a minimum ratio of consolidated
EBITDA to consolidated interest expense of 3.0 to 1.0.  Adjusted EBITDA is
defined as consolidated net income before interest expense, income taxes,
depreciation, amortization of intangible assets, losses from asset impairments,
and certain other one-time adjustments. In addition, the amendment includes a
covenant under which the Company's ratio of consolidated debt minus certain cash
and cash equivalents to consolidated EBITDA generally may not exceed 3.5 to 1.0.
This amendment and restatement of the credit agreement was a non-cash
transaction for the Company. On December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, our
outstanding borrowings under this credit facility were $785.0 million and zero,
respectively. As of December 31, 2020, we were in compliance with all covenants
under this credit facility.

We currently have uncommitted bank lines of credit in China, which provide for
unsecured borrowings for working capital of up to $17.5 million in aggregate as
of December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, of which there were no outstanding
balances as of December 31, 2020 and 2019. The weighted-average interest rates
on these borrowings were zero in 2020 and 2019.

The components of external long-term debt were as follows:



(In millions)                                                 2020          

2019


Notes                                               $      1,787.2     $    

2,184.3

$1,250 million revolving credit agreement due
September 2024                                               785.0                  -
Total debt                                                 2,572.2            2,184.3
Less: current portion                                            -              399.7
Total long-term debt                                $      2,572.2     $      1,784.6


In our debt agreements, there are normal and customary events of default which
would permit the lenders to accelerate the debt if not cured within applicable
grace periods, such as failure to pay principal or interest when due or a change
in control of the Company. There were no events of default as of December 31,
2020.

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Cash and Seasonality

In 2020, we invested approximately $97.8 million in incremental capacity to
support long-term growth potential and new products inclusive of cost reduction
and productivity initiatives. We expect capital spending in 2021 to be in the
range of $210 to $250 million. On December 31, 2020, we had cash and cash
equivalents of $419.1 million, of which $342.9 million was held at non-U.S.
subsidiaries. We manage our global cash requirements considering (i) available
funds among the subsidiaries through which we conduct business, (ii) the
geographic location of our liquidity needs, and (iii) the cost to access
international cash balances. The repatriation of non-U.S. cash balances from
certain subsidiaries could have adverse tax consequences as we may be required
to pay and record tax expense on those funds that are repatriated.

Our operating cash flows are significantly impacted by the seasonality of our
business. We typically generate most of our operating cash flow in the third and
fourth quarters of each year. We use operating cash in the first quarter of the
year.

Share Repurchases

In 2020, we repurchased 2.9 million shares of our outstanding common stock under
the Company's share repurchase program for $187.6 million. As of December 31,
2020, the Company's total remaining share repurchase authorization under the
remaining program was approximately $462.4 million. The share repurchase program
does not obligate the Company to repurchase any specific dollar amount or number
of shares and may be suspended or discontinued at any time.

Dividends



In 2020, we paid dividends in the amount of $133.3 million to the Company's
stockholders. Our Board of Directors will continue to evaluate dividend payment
opportunities on a quarterly basis. There can be no assurance as to when and if
future dividends will be paid, and at what level, because the payment of
dividends is dependent on our financial condition, results of operations, cash
flows, capital requirements and other factors deemed relevant by our Board of
Directors. There are no restrictions on the ability of our subsidiaries to pay
dividends or make other distributions to Fortune Brands.

Acquisitions



We periodically review our portfolio of brands and evaluate potential strategic
transactions and other capital initiatives to increase stockholder value. In
December 2020, we acquired 100% of the outstanding equity of Larson, the North
American market leading brand of storm, screen and security doors, for a total
purchase price of approximately $715.2 million, net of cash acquired and closing
date working capital adjustments. The acquisition cost is further subject to the
final post-closing working capital adjustment. Larson also sells related outdoor
living products including retractable screens and porch windows. In September
2018, we acquired 100% of the membership interests of Fiberon, a leading U.S.
manufacturer of outdoor performance materials used in decking and railing
products, for a total purchase price of approximately $470 million, subject to
certain post-closing adjustments. The acquisition of Fiberon provided category
expansion and product extension opportunities into the outdoor living space for
our Outdoors & Security segment. We financed the transactions using cash on hand
and borrowings under our revolving credit and term loan facilities. The results
of both acquisitions are included in the Outdoors & Security segment from the
date of acquisition.

Cash Flows

Below is a summary of cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.



(In millions)                                                    2020           2019
Net cash provided by operating activities                    $  825.7       $  637.2
Net cash used in investing activities                          (923.5 )       (127.6 )
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities             111.6         (389.7 )
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash                  16.3       

4.3

Net increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash $ 30.1 $ 124.2






Net cash provided by operating activities was $825.7 million in 2020 compared to
$637.2 million in 2019. The $188.5 million increase in cash provided from 2019
to 2020 was primarily due to higher net income, lower increases in working
capital and increases in accrued taxes.

Net cash used in investing activities was $923.5 million in 2020 compared to
$127.6 million in 2019. The increase in cash used of $795.9 million from 2019 to
2020 was primarily due to the acquisition of Larson and additional shares of Flo
Technologies during 2020 and increased capital expenditures.



Net cash provided by financing activities was $111.6 million in 2020 compared to
cash used in financing activities of $389.7 million in 2019. The increase in net
cash provided of $501.3 million from 2019 to 2020 was primarily due to lower net
borrowings in 2020 compared to 2019 ($535.7 million), higher proceeds from the
exercise of stock options and the absence of deferred

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acquisition payments made during 2019 ($19.0 million), partly offset by higher share repurchases in 2020 compared to 2019 and higher dividends to stockholders.

Pension Plans



Subsidiaries of Fortune Brands sponsor their respective defined benefit pension
plans that are funded by a portfolio of investments maintained within our
benefit plan trust. In 2020 and 2019, we contributed $47.7 million and $10.0
million, respectively, to our qualified pension plans. In 2021, we expect to
make pension contributions of approximately $10.0 million. As of December 31,
2020, the fair value of our total pension plan assets was $784.9 million,
representing funding of 84% of the accumulated benefit obligation liability. For
the foreseeable future, we believe that we have sufficient liquidity to meet the
minimum funding that may be required by the Pension Protection Act of 2006.

Foreign Exchange

We have operations in various foreign countries, principally Canada, China, Mexico, the United Kingdom, France, Australia and Japan. Therefore, changes in the value of the related currencies affect our financial statements when translated into U.S. dollars.

Contractual Obligations and Other Commercial Commitments

The following table describes other obligations and commitments to make future payments under contracts, such as debt and lease agreements, and under contingent commitments, such as debt guarantees, as of December 31, 2020.





(In millions)                                          Payments Due by 

Period as of December 31, 2020


                                                             Less than                                        After
Contractual Obligations                        Total            1 year       1-3 years      4-5 years       5 years
Long-term debt                           $   2,585.0       $         -     $     600.0     $  1,285.0     $   700.0
Interest payments on long-term debt(a)         408.0              77.8           163.7           75.5          91.0
Operating leases                               203.5              42.8            67.5           40.5          52.7
Purchase obligations(b)                        731.7             689.0            32.6           10.1             -
Defined benefit plan contributions(c)           10.0              10.0               -              -             -
Total                                    $   3,938.2       $     819.6     $     863.8     $  1,411.1     $   843.7

(a) Interest payments on long-term debt were calculated using the borrowing rate

in effect on December 31, 2020.

(b) Purchase obligations include contracts for raw material and finished goods

purchases; selling and administrative services; and capital expenditures.

(c) Pension and postretirement contributions cannot be determined beyond 2021.




Due to the uncertainty of the timing of settlement with taxing authorities, we
are unable to make reasonably reliable estimates of the period of cash
settlement of unrecognized tax benefits. Therefore, $96.1 million of
unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2020 have been excluded from the
Contractual Obligations table above.

In addition to the contractual obligations and commitments listed and described
above, we also had other commercial commitments for which we are contingently
liable as of December 31, 2020. Other corporate commercial commitments include
standby letters of credit of $34.6 million, in the aggregate, all of which
expire in less than one year, and surety bonds of $15.1 million, of which $15.0
million matures in less than one year and $0.1 million matures in 1-3 years.
These contingent commitments are not expected to have a significant impact on
our liquidity.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements



As of December 31, 2020, we did not have any off-balance sheet arrangements that
are material or reasonably likely to be material to our financial condition or
results of operations.

Foreign Currency Risk

Certain anticipated transactions, assets and liabilities are exposed to foreign
currency risk. Principal currencies hedged include the Canadian dollar, the
British pound, the Mexican peso and the Chinese yuan. We regularly monitor our
foreign currency exposures in order to maximize the overall effectiveness of our
foreign currency hedge positions. For additional information on this risk, see
Item 7A. "Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk" in this
Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Derivative Financial Instruments



In accordance with Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") requirements for
Derivatives and Hedging, we recognize all derivative contracts as either assets
or liabilities on the balance sheet, and the measurement of those instruments is
at fair value. If the derivative is designated as a fair value hedge and is
effective, the changes in the fair value of the derivative and of the hedged
item attributable to the hedged risk are recognized in earnings in the same
period. If the derivative is designated as a cash flow hedge, the changes in the
fair value of the derivative are recorded in other comprehensive income ("OCI")
and are

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recognized in the consolidated statement of income when the hedged item affects
earnings. If the derivative is designated as an effective economic hedge of the
net investment in a foreign operation, the changes in the fair value of the
derivative is reported in the cumulative translation adjustment section of OCI.
Similar to foreign currency translation adjustments, these changes in fair value
are recognized in earnings only when realized upon sale or upon complete or
substantially complete liquidation of the investment in the foreign entity.

Deferred currency (loss) gains of $(3.0) million and $4.1 million (before tax
impact) were reclassified into earnings for the years ended December 31, 2020
and 2019, respectively. Based on foreign exchange rates as of December 31, 2020,
we estimate that $2.0 million of net derivative gain included in accumulated
other comprehensive income ("AOCI") as of December 31, 2020 will be reclassified
to earnings within the next twelve months.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

The adoption of recent accounting standards, as discussed in Note 2, "Significant Accounting Policies," to our Consolidated Financial Statements, has not had and is not expected to have a significant impact on our revenue, earnings or liquidity.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates



Our significant accounting policies are described in Note 2, "Significant
Accounting Policies," of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item
8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The Consolidated Financial Statements are
prepared in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles
("GAAP"). Preparation of the financial statements requires us to make judgments,
estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts of assets and liabilities
reflected in the financial statements and revenues and expenses reported for the
relevant reporting periods. We believe the policies discussed below are the
Company's critical accounting policies as they include the more significant,
subjective and complex judgments and estimates made when preparing our
consolidated financial statements.

Allowances for Credit Losses



Trade receivables are recorded at the stated amount, less allowances for
discounts and credit losses. The allowances represent estimated uncollectible
receivables associated with potential customer defaults on contractual
obligations (usually due to customers' potential insolvency) or discounts
related to early payment of accounts receivables by our customers. The
allowances for credit losses include provisions for certain customers where a
risk of default has been specifically identified. In addition, the allowances
include a provision for expected customer defaults on a general formula basis
when it cannot yet be associated with specific customers. Expected credit losses
are estimated using various factors, including the length of time the
receivables are past due, historical collection experience and existing economic
conditions. In accordance with this policy, our allowance for credit losses was
$6.7 million and $3.0 million as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

Inventories



Inventory provisions are recorded to reduce inventory to the net realizable
dollar value for obsolete or slow moving inventory based on assumptions about
future demand and marketability of products, the impact of new product
introductions, inventory levels and turns, product spoilage and specific
identification of items, such as product discontinuance, engineering/material
changes, or regulatory-related changes. In accordance with this policy, our
inventory provision was $51.2 million and $46.1 million as of December 31, 2020
and 2019, respectively.

Long-lived Assets

In accordance with ASC requirements for Property, Plant and Equipment, a
long-lived asset (including amortizable identifiable intangible assets) or asset
group held for use is tested for recoverability whenever events or changes in
circumstances indicate that its carrying amount may not be recoverable. When
such events occur, we compare the sum of the undiscounted cash flows expected to
result from the use and eventual disposition of the asset or asset group to the
carrying amount of a long-lived asset or asset group. The cash flows are based
on our best estimate of future cash flows derived from the most recent business
projections. If this comparison indicates that there is an impairment, the
amount of the impairment is calculated based on fair value. Fair value is
estimated primarily using discounted expected future cash flows on a
market-participant basis.

During 2020, we recorded an impairment of $3.6 million related to a long-lived
asset to be disposed of in selling, general and administrative expenses. During
2019, we recorded an impairment of $1.7 million related to a long-lived asset to
be disposed of in cost of products sold. No impairments of long-lived assets
were recorded during 2018.


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Business Combinations

We account for business combinations under the acquisition method of accounting
in accordance with ASC Topic 805, Business Combinations, which requires an
allocation of the consideration we paid to the identifiable assets, intangible
assets and liabilities based on the estimated fair values as of the closing date
of the acquisition. The excess of the fair value of the purchase price over the
fair values of these identifiable assets, intangible assets and liabilities is
recorded as goodwill.

Purchased intangibles other than goodwill are initially recognized at fair value
and amortized over their useful lives unless those lives are determined to be
indefinite. The valuation of acquired assets will impact future operating
results. The fair value of identifiable intangible assets is determined using an
income approach on an individual asset basis. Specifically, we use the
multi-period excess earnings method to determine the fair value of customer
relationships and the relief-from-royalty approach to determine the fair value
of the tradename and proprietary technology. Determining the fair value of
acquired intangibles involves significant estimates and assumptions, including
forecasted revenue growth rates, EBITDA margins, percentage of revenue
attributable to the tradename, contributory asset charges, customer attrition
rate, market-participant discount rates and the assumed royalty rates.

The determination of the useful life of an intangible asset other than goodwill
is based on factors including historical tradename performance with respect to
consumer name recognition, geographic market presence, market share, plans for
ongoing tradename support and promotion, customer attrition rate, and other
relevant factors.

Goodwill and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets



In accordance with ASC requirements for Intangibles - Goodwill and Other,
goodwill is tested for impairment at least annually in the fourth quarter and
written down when impaired. An interim impairment test is performed if an event
occurs or conditions change that would more likely than not reduce the fair
value of the reporting unit below the carrying value.

To evaluate the recoverability of goodwill, we first assess qualitative factors
to determine whether it is more likely than not that goodwill is impaired.
Qualitative factors include changes in volume, margin, customers and the
industry. If it is deemed more likely than not that goodwill for a reporting
unit is impaired, we will perform a quantitative impairment test using a
weighting of the income and market approaches. For the income approach, we use a
discounted cash flow model, estimating the future cash flows of the reporting
units to which the goodwill relates and then discounting the future cash flows
at a market-participant-derived discount rate. In determining the estimated
future cash flows, we consider current and projected future levels of income
based on management's plans for that business; business trends, prospects and
market and economic conditions; and market-participant considerations.
Furthermore, our cash flow projections used to assess impairment of our goodwill
and other intangible assets are significantly influenced by our projection for
the U.S. home products market, our annual operating plans finalized in the
fourth quarter of each year, and our ability to execute on various planned cost
reduction initiatives supporting operating income improvements. Our projection
for the U.S. home products market is inherently uncertain and is subject to a
number of factors, such as employment, home prices, credit availability, new
home starts and the rate of home foreclosures. For the market approach, we apply
market multiples for peer groups to the current operating results of the
reporting units to determine each reporting unit's fair value. The Company's
reporting units are operating segments, or one level below operating segments
when appropriate. When the estimated fair value of a reporting unit is less than
its carrying value, we measure and recognize the amount of the goodwill
impairment loss based on that difference.

The significant assumptions that are used to determine the estimated fair value
for goodwill impairment testing include the following: third-party market
forecasts of U.S. new home starts and home repair and remodel spending;
management's sales, operating income and cash flow forecasts; peer company
EBITDA earnings multiples; the market-participant-based discount rate; and the
perpetuity growth rate. Our estimates of reporting unit fair values are based on
certain assumptions that may differ from our historical and future actual
operating performance. Specifically, assumptions related to growth in the new
construction and repair and remodel segments of the U.S. home products markets
drive our forecasted sales growth. The market forecasts are developed using
independent third-party forecasts from multiple sources. In addition, estimated
future operating income and cash flow consider our historical performance at
similar levels of sales volume and management's future operating plans as
reflected in annual and long-term plans that are reviewed and approved by
management.

Certain of our tradenames have been assigned an indefinite life as we currently
anticipate that these tradenames will contribute cash flows to the Company
indefinitely. Indefinite-lived intangible assets are not amortized, but are
evaluated at least annually to determine whether the indefinite useful life
is appropriate. We measure the fair value of identifiable intangible assets upon
acquisition and we review for impairment annually in the fourth quarter and
whenever market or business events indicate there may be a potential impairment
of that intangible. Impairment losses are recorded to the extent that the
carrying value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset exceeds its fair value.
The significant assumptions that are used to determine the estimated fair value
for indefinite-lived intangible assets upon acquisition and subsequent
impairment testing are forecasted revenue growth

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rates; the assumed royalty rates; and the market-participant discount rates. We
measure fair value of our indefinite-lived tradenames using the
relief-from-royalty approach which estimates the present value of royalty income
that could be hypothetically earned by licensing the brand name to a third party
over the remaining useful life. The determination of fair value using this
technique requires the use of estimates and assumptions related to forecasted
revenue growth rates, the assumed royalty rates and the market-participant
discount rates. We first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is
more likely than not that an indefinite-lived intangible asset is impaired.
Qualitative factors include changes in volume, customers and the industry. If it
is deemed more likely than not that an intangible asset is impaired, we will
perform a quantitative impairment test. See Note 5, "Goodwill and Identifiable
Intangible Assets," for additional information.

During the second quarter of 2020, extended closures of luxury plumbing
showrooms associated with COVID-19 led to lower than expected sales related to
an indefinite-lived tradename within the Plumbing segment, which combined with
the updated financial outlook compared to previous forecasts and the continued
uncertainty of the pandemic on the sales and profitability related to the
tradename led us to conclude that it was more likely than not that the
indefinite-lived tradename was impaired. Therefore, we performed an interim
impairment test as of June 30, 2020, and as a result we recognized a pre-tax
impairment charge of $13.0 million related to this tradename. We also performed
an evaluation of the useful life of this tradename and determined it was no
longer indefinite-lived due to changes in long-term management expectations and
future operating plans. As a result, the remaining carrying value of this
tradename is being amortized over its estimated useful life of 30 years.

In the first quarter of 2020, we recognized an impairment charge of $9.5 million
related to an indefinite-lived tradename in our Cabinets segment. This charge
was primarily the result of lower expected sales of custom cabinetry products
related to the impact of COVID-19. In the fourth quarter of 2019, we recognized
an impairment charge of $12.0 million related to the same indefinite-lived
tradename, which was the result of a strategic shift associated with new segment
leadership and acceleration of our capacity rebalancing initiatives from custom
cabinetry products to value-based cabinetry products as a result of lower than
expected sales of custom cabinetry products compared to prior forecasts. As of
December 31, 2020, the carrying value of this tradename was $29.1 million.

In the third quarter of 2019, we recognized an impairment charge of $29.5
million related to a second indefinite-lived tradename in our Cabinets segment,
which was primarily the result of a continuing shift in consumer demand from
semi-custom cabinetry products to value-priced cabinetry products, which led to
consecutive downward adjustments of internal sales forecasts and future growth
rates associated with the tradename. In the fourth quarter of 2018, we recorded
an impairment charge of $35.5 million related to the same indefinite-lived
tradename, which was primarily the result of lower than forecasted sales during
the fourth quarter of 2018 as well as projected changes in the mix of revenue
across our tradenames in future periods, including the impact of more moderate
industry growth expectations, which were finalized during our annual planning
process conducted during the fourth quarter of 2018. As of December 31, 2020,
the carrying value of this tradename was $85.0 million.

During the third quarter of 2018, we recorded a pre-tax impairment charge of
$27.1 million related to a third indefinite-lived tradename within the Cabinets
segment. This charge was primarily the result of reduced revenue growth
expectations associated with Cabinets operations in Canada, including the
announced closure of Company-owned retail locations. As of December 31, 2020,
the carrying value of this tradename was $39.8 million.

The fair values of the impaired tradenames were measured using the
relief-from-royalty approach, which estimates the present value of royalty
income that could be hypothetically earned by licensing the tradename to a third
party over its remaining useful life. Some of the more significant assumptions
inherent in estimating the fair values include forecasted revenue growth rates,
assumed royalty rates, and market-participant discount rates that reflect the
level of risk associated with the tradenames' future revenues and profitability.
We selected the assumptions used in the financial forecasts using historical
data, supplemented by current and anticipated market conditions, estimated
growth rates, and management plans. These assumptions represent level 3 inputs
of the fair value hierarchy (refer to Note 9).


As of December 31, 2020, the fair value of four Cabinets' tradenames exceeded
their carrying values of $180.6 million by less than 30%. A reduction in the
estimated fair value of the tradenames in our Cabinets segment could trigger
additional impairment charges in future periods. Events or circumstances that
could have a potential negative effect on the estimated fair value of our
reporting units and indefinite-lived tradenames include: lower than forecasted
revenues, more severe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic than currently expected,
actual new construction and repair and remodel growth rates that fall below our
assumptions, actions of key customers, increases in discount rates, continued
economic uncertainty, higher levels of unemployment, weak consumer confidence,
lower levels of discretionary consumer spending, a decrease in royalty rates and
a decline in the trading price of our common stock. We cannot predict the
occurrence of certain events or changes in circumstances that might adversely
affect the carrying value of goodwill and indefinite-lived assets.

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Defined Benefit Plans

We have a number of pension plans in the United States, covering many of the
Company's employees. In addition, the Company provides postretirement health
care and life insurance benefits to certain retirees. Service cost for 2020
relates to benefit accruals for an hourly Union group within the defined benefit
plan for our Outdoors & Security segment. All other benefit accruals under our
defined benefit pension plans were frozen as of, or prior to, December 31, 2016.

We recognize changes in the fair value of pension plan assets and net actuarial
gains or losses in excess of 10 percent of the greater of the fair value of
pension plan assets or each plan's projected benefit obligation (the "corridor")
in earnings immediately upon remeasurement, which is at least annually in the
fourth quarter of each year. Net actuarial gains and losses occur when actual
experience differs from any of the assumptions used to value defined benefit
plans or when assumptions change as they may each year. The primary factors
contributing to actuarial gains and losses are changes in the discount rate used
to value obligations as of the measurement date and the differences between
expected and actual returns on pension plan assets. This accounting method
results in the potential for volatile and difficult to forecast gains and
losses. The pre-tax recognition of actuarial losses was $2.8 million and $34.7
million in 2020 and 2019, respectively. The total net actuarial losses in
accumulated other comprehensive income for all defined benefit plans were $87.1
million as of December 31, 2020, compared to $87.4 million as of December 31,
2019.

We record amounts relating to these defined benefit plans based on various
actuarial assumptions, including discount rates, assumed rates of return,
compensation increases, turnover rates and health care cost trend rates. We
review our actuarial assumptions on an annual basis and make modifications to
the assumptions based on current economic conditions and trends. We believe that
the assumptions utilized in recording our obligations under our plans are
reasonable based on our experience and on advice from our independent actuaries;
however, differences in actual experience or changes in the assumptions may
materially affect our financial condition or results of operations. The expected
rate of return on plan assets is determined based on the nature of the plans'
investments, our current asset allocation and our expectations for long-term
rates of return. The weighted-average long-term expected rate of return on
pension plan assets for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 was 4.5% and
4.9%, respectively. Compensation increases reflect expected future compensation
trends. The discount rate used to measure obligations is based on a spot-rate
yield curve on a plan-by-plan basis that matches projected future benefit
payments with the appropriate interest rate applicable to the timing of the
projected future benefit payments. The bond portfolio used for the selection of
the discount rate is from the top quartile of bonds rated by nationally
recognized statistical rating organizations, and includes only non-callable
bonds and those that are deemed to be sufficiently marketable with a Moody's
credit rating of Aa or higher. The weighted-average discount rate for defined
benefit liabilities as of December 31, 2020 and 2019 was 2.6% and 3.3%,
respectively.

For postretirement benefits, our health care trend rate assumption is based on
historical cost increases and expectations for long-term increases. As of
December 31, 2020, for postretirement medical and prescription drugs in the next
year, our assumption was an assumed rate of increase of 6.4% for pre-65 retirees
and 7.4% for post-65 retirees, declining until reaching an ultimate assumed rate
of increase of 4.5% per year in 2027. As of December 31, 2019, for
postretirement medical and prescription drugs in the next year, our assumption
was an assumed rate of increase of 6.7% for pre-65 retirees and 7.8% for post-65
retirees, declining until reaching an ultimate assumed rate of increase of 4.5%
per year in 2027.

Below is a table showing pre-tax pension and postretirement expenses, including the impact of actuarial gains and losses:





(In millions)                                                         2020  

2019


Total pension (income) expense                                      $ (0.8 )     $ 32.3
Actuarial loss component of expense above                              2.7  

34.1


Total postretirement expense                                           0.7  

1.1


Actuarial loss component of expense above                              0.1  

0.6

Amortization of prior service credit component of expense above -


        0.2




The actuarial losses in 2020 were principally due to changes in discount rates
offset by positive asset returns. The actuarial losses in 2019 were principally
due to changes in discount rates. Discount rates in 2020 used to determine
benefit obligations decreased by an average of 70 basis points for pension
benefits. Discount rates for 2020 postretirement benefits decreased an average
of 50 basis points. Discount rates in 2019 used to determine benefit obligations
decreased by an average of 110 basis points for pension benefits. Discount rates
for 2019 postretirement benefits increased an average of 220 basis points. Our
actual return on plan assets in 2020 was 16.5% compared to an actuarial
assumption of an average 4.5% expected return. Our actual return on plan assets
in 2019 was 19.7% compared to an actuarial assumption of an average 4.9%
expected return. Significant actuarial losses in future periods would be
expected if discount rates decline, actual returns on plan assets are lower than
our expected return, or a combination of both occurs.



A 25 basis point change in our discount rate assumption would lead to an increase or decrease in our pension and postretirement liability of approximately $30 million. A 25 basis point change in the long-term rate of return on plan assets used in accounting for our pension plans would have a $1.9 million impact on pension expense. In addition, if required, actuarial gains


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and losses will be recorded in accordance with our defined benefit plan
accounting method as previously described. It is not possible to forecast or
predict whether there will be actuarial gains and losses in future periods, and
if required, the magnitude of any such adjustment. These gains and losses are
driven by differences in actual experience or changes in the assumptions that
are beyond our control, such as changes in interest rates and the actual return
on pension plan assets.



Income Taxes



In accordance with ASC requirements for Income Taxes, we establish deferred tax
liabilities or assets for temporary differences between financial and tax
reporting basis and subsequently adjust them to reflect changes in tax rates
expected to be in effect when the temporary differences reverse. We record a
valuation allowance reducing deferred tax assets when it is more likely than not
that such assets will not be realized.



We record liabilities for uncertain income tax positions based on a two-step
process. The first step is recognition, where we evaluate whether an individual
tax position has a likelihood of greater than 50% of being sustained upon
examination based on the technical merits of the position, including resolution
of any related appeals or litigation processes. For tax positions that are
currently estimated to have a less than 50% likelihood of being sustained, no
tax benefit is recorded. For tax positions that have met the recognition
threshold in the first step, we perform the second step of measuring the benefit
to be recorded. The actual benefits ultimately realized may differ from our
estimates. In future periods, changes in facts, circumstances, and new
information may require us to change the recognition and measurement estimates
with regard to individual tax positions. Changes in recognition and measurement
estimates are recorded in the consolidated statement of income and consolidated
balance sheet in the period in which such changes occur. As of December 31,
2020, we had liabilities for unrecognized tax benefits pertaining to uncertain
tax positions totaling $96.1 million. It is reasonably possible that the
unrecognized tax benefits may decrease in the range of $4.0 million to $48.1
million in the next 12 months primarily as a result of the conclusion of U.S.
federal, state and foreign income tax proceedings.

Customer Program Costs



Customer programs and incentives are a common practice in our businesses. Our
businesses incur customer program costs to obtain favorable product placement,
to promote sales of products and to maintain competitive pricing. We record
estimates to reduce revenue for customer programs and incentives, which are
considered variable consideration, and include price discounts, volume-based
incentives, promotions and cooperative advertising when revenue is recognized in
order to determine the amount of consideration the Company will ultimately be
entitled to receive. These estimates are based on historical and projected
experience for each type of customer. In addition, for certain customer program
incentives, we receive an identifiable benefit (goods or services) in exchange
for the consideration given and record the associated expenditure in selling,
general and administrative expenses. Volume allowances are accrued based on
management's estimates of customer volume achievement and other factors
incorporated into customer agreements, such as new products, store sell-through,
merchandising support, levels of returns and customer training. Management
periodically reviews accruals for these rebates and allowances, and adjusts
accruals when circumstances indicate (typically as a result of a change in
volume expectations).

Litigation Contingencies



Our businesses are subject to risks related to threatened or pending litigation
and are routinely defendants in lawsuits associated with the normal conduct of
business. Liabilities and costs associated with litigation-related loss
contingencies require estimates and judgments based on our knowledge of the
facts and circumstances surrounding each matter and the advice of our legal
counsel. We record liabilities for litigation-related losses when a loss is
probable and we can reasonably estimate the amount of the loss in accordance
with ASC requirements for Contingencies. We evaluate the measurement of recorded
liabilities each reporting period based on the then-current facts and
circumstances specific to each matter. The ultimate losses incurred upon final
resolution of litigation-related loss contingencies may differ materially from
the estimated liability recorded at any particular balance sheet date. Changes
in estimates are recorded in earnings in the period in which such changes occur.

Environmental Matters



We are involved in remediation activities to clean up hazardous wastes as
required by federal and state laws. Liabilities for remediation costs of each
site are based on our best estimate of undiscounted future costs, excluding
possible insurance recoveries or recoveries from other third parties.
Uncertainties about the status of laws, regulations, technology and information
related to individual sites make it difficult to develop estimates of future
environmental remediation exposures. Some of the potential liabilities relate to
sites we own, and some relate to sites we no longer own or never owned. Several
of our subsidiaries have been designated as potentially responsible parties
("PRP") under "Superfund" or similar state laws. As of December 31, 2020, ten
such instances have not been dismissed, settled or otherwise resolved.  In 2020,
none of our subsidiaries were identified as a PRP in a new instance and no
instances were settled, dismissed or otherwise resolved. In most instances where
our subsidiaries are named as a PRP, we enter into cost-sharing arrangements
with other PRPs. We give notice to insurance carriers of potential PRP
liability, but very rarely, if ever, receive reimbursement from insurance for
PRP costs. We believe that the cost of complying with the present environmental
protection laws, before considering estimated recoveries either from other PRPs
or insurance, will not have a material adverse effect on our results of
operations, cash flows or financial condition. At

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December 31, 2020 and 2019, we had accruals of $0.3 and $0.2 million, respectively, relating to environmental compliance and cleanup including, but not limited to, the above mentioned Superfund sites.

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