3M Company (NYSE: MMM) is an American multinational corporation historically known as the Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company. Its global headquarters are located in Maplewood, Minnesota, USA. According to the Forbes Global 2000 ranking, the company held the 169th position worldwide as of 2010.

Founded in 1902 as a mining enterprise, 3M gradually shifted its focus toward the production of abrasive materials used for surface treatment. Early on, the company gained a reputation for developing innovative, high-quality industrial products.

Today, more than 84,000 employees produce over 55,000 items, including abrasives, adhesives, laminates, passive fire-protection solutions, dental materials, automotive care products (such as polishes and shampoos), electronic components, and optical films.

3M operates in more than 60 countries, with 29 international manufacturing facilities and 35 research laboratories. The company heavily invests in scientific development, allocating roughly $1.7 billion annually to R&D efforts. Its products are sold in over 200 countries, and its workforce exceeds 89,000 employees.