Fortune Brands at Baird conference: turnaround plan targets margins

On 10 November 2026, Fortune Brands held a presentation at the Baird 2026 Global Industrial Conference to discuss a comprehensive turnaround strategy. New CEO Jesse Singh and CFO Pete Clifford outlined plans to boost margins, reduce debt, and streamline the company’s operations. The approach includes cutting costs, divesting underperforming assets, and returning to a decentralized structure with a focus on water, doors, and security segments.

Management highlighted a $120 million to $125 million in cost savings, including $70 million from corporate restructuring and $50 million to $55 million from divestitures and closures. They aim to achieve 20% EBITDA margins by 2028 and reduce leverage from 2.5 times to below 2.0 times. Current demand is mixed, with challenges in new single-family home construction and repair/remodel activity.

Singh emphasized the need for a "back-to-business" approach, moving decision-making back into operating units and holding each segment accountable for growth and margins. They have also added leadership in key areas, such as Dave Barry as interim president of Moen. The company anticipates significant cost savings from the restructuring and divestitures, which will help restore earnings power without requiring extensive new investments.