These are lean times for OfficeMax. Between 2006 and 2010, sales fell more than $1 billion. Then in 2011, the company disappointed analysts who'd already braced themselves for further drops. In April, Goldman Sachs noted margins fell "well short," and projected a negative outlook based on third-quarter results this fall.
The company still hopes to turn things around, but operating in a competitive sector in a bad economy does not help. OfficeMax told analysts this summer that its hoped-for return to peak operating margins has to be slowed down. Under a new roadmap presented to investors this November, the retailer said it has to take longer to strengthen its foundation and reverse declines at least into 2013.
It's been a hot and cold year for the stock market, but these Fortune 500 companies managed to float to the top with impressive gains. From Ross Stores to MasterCard, here are the biggest winners.
