Dover Corp (DOV), Emerson Electric Co. (EMR), Illinois Tool Works Inc. (ITW): These Industrials Keep Cranking Out Dividends

For its part, Illinois Tool Works Inc. (NYSE:ITW) celebrated its 100^th anniversary last year. To celebrate the occasion, the company provided investors with a 6% dividend increase to its current level of $1.52 per share annualized, representing a current yield near 2.5% for new investors.

Illinois Tool Works Inc. (NYSE:ITW) reported diluted earnings for the most recent fiscal year soared 45%, as a result of lower expenses and a reduced number of shares outstanding.

In addition, Illinois Tool Works Inc. (NYSE:ITW) saw its strong performance continue into the first quarter. GAAP diluted earnings per share from continuing operations rose another 6%, and the company’s operating margin improved 60 basis points versus the same period one year ago.

Going forward, investors can expect good things to come from Illinois Tool Works. The company is targeting 2013 full-year revenue growth of 3% to 5% year over year, and a $4.25 per-share midpoint of diluted earnings for the fiscal year. As a result, it’s likely the company will provide investors another dividend increase later this year.

Consider these industrial-strength dividends

None of these companies are likely to be the market’s sexiest new ideas, but at the same time, they have important similarities among them: long histories of financial success, a demonstrable track record of growth, and generous dividends. If your portfolio needs a dose of reality, take some time to get to know these diversified industrials.

Dover Corp (NYSE:DOV), Emerson Electric Co. (NYSE:EMR), and Illinois Tool Works Inc. (NYSE:ITW) have each played a huge part in building America, and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future. Each represents a well-run company with solid underlying businesses. In addition, these stocks are extremely shareholder-friendly and are committed to returning meaningful cash to investors via regular dividend increases.

The article These Industrials Keep Cranking Out Dividends originally appeared on Fool.com and is written by Robert Ciura.

Robert Ciura has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Emerson Electric Co (NYSE:EMR). and Illinois Tool Works. Robert is a member of The Motley Fool Blog Network — entries represent the personal opinion of the blogger and are not formally edited.

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