William C. Weldon
Chairman, Board of Directors, and
Chief Executive Officer
To Our Shareholders
As I reflect on the year that just passed, and the decades since the founding of Johnson & Johnson in 1886, I can say without hesitation that the year 2009 was one of the most challenging in our history. Faced with significant patent expirations worth nearly $3 billion in sales, the most severe global economic downturn many of us have ever experienced and increased competition across our markets, our people delivered results that were as impressive as any we have ever achieved. Fundamental beliefs embedded in Our Credo guided their decisions and actions.
We delivered on our financial commitments, continued to pursue long-term growth opportunities, and emerged stronger and well-positioned for sustainable growth.
Through all this, the people of Johnson & Johnson remained inspired and united by a common purpose: caring for others. More than ever, we know that caring for the health and well-being of people is not only an outstanding business but a mission that truly touches lives.