Microsoft Corporation (MSFT), Ecolab Inc. (ECL), Republic Services, Inc. (RSG): Solid Investments Backed by a Strong Vision

Ecolab Inc. (NYSE:ECL) continues to deliver strong innovation and recently introduced Antimicrobial Fruit and Vegetable Treatment (AFVT), which can help reduce the risk of foodborne illness outbreaks due to ineffective produce. AVFT has earned EPA registration and FDA clearance for pathogen reduction as the industry’s first no-rinse produce wash. It is product innovations such as AFVT which make Ecolab Inc. (NYSE:ECL) an essential part of our daily lives. With over 13% revenue growth expected for 2013, Ecolab Inc. (NYSE:ECL) is on its way to reach its $20 billion sales target.

Republic Services

Republic Services, Inc. (NYSE:RSG) is the second largest provider, measured by revenue, of non-hazardous solid waste collection, transfer, recycling, and disposal services in the United States as measured by revenue. With successful vertical integration, Republic Services, Inc. (NYSE:RSG) maintains a narrow economic moat. While there are concerns that Republic Services, Inc. (NYSE:RSG)is responding slowly as Waste Management, the leading provider of comprehensive waste management services in North America, continues to evolve and expand into waste-to-energy operations and other recycling offerings, Republic Services, Inc. (NYSE:RSG) continues to improve its bottom line and reported a solid Q1.

By completing seven acquisitions for approximately $12 million, Republic Services, Inc. (NYSE:RSG) continues to execute its strategy of tuck-in acquisitions in existing markets. Republic Services remains a solid long-term investment with its steady cash flow generation.

Take away

Being one of the most well-known philanthropists in the world, Bill Gates invests with a vision to improve the quality of life for individuals and protect the earth, such as Ecolab and Republic Services. With the great advice given by Warren Buffett to the Bill and Melinda Gates foundation, “Take on really tough problems”, Bill Gates is investing just like that. So far, the results are not only impressive, but have also helped Bill Gates reclaim the number one title as the world’s richest person.

The article Solid Investments Backed by a Strong Vision originally appeared on Fool.com.

Nick Chiu has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Republic Services. The Motley Fool owns shares of Microsoft. Nick 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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