author
Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company
What began as a struggling Minnesota mining venture grew into 3M, one of the world’s best-known makers of industrial and consumer products. Its story is closely tied to practical invention, from abrasives and adhesive tapes to thousands of everyday technologies.
1 Audiobook
Christmas Magic for All Your Gifts, Using "Scotch" Brand Tapes and "Sasheen" Brand Ribbon
by Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company
About the author
Founded in Two Harbors, Minnesota, in 1902 as the Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company, the business was originally organized around mining corundum for grinding wheels. That early plan failed, but the company adapted, shifted into manufacturing abrasives, and gradually built a reputation for problem-solving and product development.
After moving its headquarters to the St. Paul area, the company expanded steadily through the 20th century. It became widely known as 3M and developed a broad range of products, including sandpaper, masking tape, Scotch tape, and many other industrial, office, and consumer goods.
Today, 3M is recognized less for its original mining ambitions than for its long history of research, experimentation, and useful inventions. The company officially shortened its name from Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company to 3M in 2002, reflecting the identity by which it had long been known.