3M CO. CONSIDERS SELLING BRANDED PHARMACEUTICALS DIVISION

3M Co., a maker of items ranging from adhesives to health and safety products, is considering selling its branded pharmaceuticals business. "The best way for this business to grow is for it to be free to pursue separate strategies under the direction of a dedicated pharmaceutical industry company with a business model better suited to maximize its potential," Brad Sauer, executive vice-president of 3M Health Care, said Tuesday.

Canadaeast.com (http://canadaeast.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060404/CPB/46766027)