Whirlpool Corporation
(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20040202/DETU004LOGO )
Launched in 1990, the KLD Domini 400 Social Index consists of 400 U.S. companies that demonstrate leadership in corporate social responsibility. It is widely used as a financial benchmark for equities and portfolios that exhibit positive social and environmental records. As of January 2006, $2 billion in assets were invested in funds based on the Index. Its 15-year return of 438.79 percent was nearly 60 percentage points higher than the S&P 500's return during the same period.
"We are proud to once again be part of the Domini 400 Social Index," said Jeff M. Fettig, Whirlpool's chairman and CEO. "Long before corporate social responsibility became a focus of business and society, Whirlpool employees were conducting business with integrity and extending a helping hand to others. I am proud of all of our people around the globe who personify Whirlpool's values and make recognition like this possible."
The Index holds companies that exhibit positive social and environmental records. KLD evaluates company performance on environment, community relations, diversity, employee relations, human rights, product quality and safety, and corporate governance. Companies that manufacture alcohol, tobacco or firearms, or earn significant revenues from weapons contracting are not eligible for inclusion.
About Whirlpool Corporation
Whirlpool Corporation is a global manufacturer and marketer of major home appliances, with annual sales of more than $13 billion, 68,000 employees, and nearly 50 manufacturing and technology research centers around the globe. The company markets Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Brastemp, Bauknecht, Consul and other major brand names to consumers in more than 170 countries. Additional information about the company can be found at http://www.whirlpoolcorp.com/ .
About KLD Indexes
KLD Indexes, a division of KLD Research & Analytics, Inc., constructs indexes for investors who integrate environmental, social and governance factors into their investment decisions. Investors, trustees and consultants depend on the quality and integrity of KLD Indexes, which are designed to be transparent, representative and investable. Today, more than $10 billion is invested in funds based on KLD's family of seven indexes, including the Domini 400 Social(SM) Index, KLD Select Social(SM) Index, KLD Global Climate 100(SM) Index, KLD Broad Market Social(SM) Index, KLD Large Cap Social(SM) Index, KLD Catholic Values 400(SM) Index and KLD NASDAQ Social(SM) Index.
SOURCE: Whirlpool Corporation
CONTACT: Media: Jody Lau, +1-269-923-5918,
Investors: Larry Venturelli, +1-269-923-4678,
both of Whirlpool Corporation
Web site: http://www.whirlpoolcorp.com/