Wesfarmers — a diversified corporationFrom its origins in 1914 as a Western Australian farmers' cooperative, Wesfarmers has grown into one of Australia's largest listed companies. With headquarters in Western Australia, its diverse business operations cover: home improvement and outdoor living; apparel and general merchandise; office supplies; and an Industrials division with businesses in chemicals, energy and fertilisers, and industrial and safety products. Wesfarmers is one of Australia's largest employers and has a shareholder base of approximately 484,000.The primary objective of Wesfarmers is to provide a satisfactory return to its shareholders.The company aims to achieve this by:* satisfying the needs of customers through the provision of goods and services on a competitive and professional basis;* providing a safe and fulfilling working environment for employees, rewarding good performance and providing opportunities for advancement;* contributing to the growth and prosperity of the countries in which it operates by conducting existing operations in an efficient manner and by seeking out opportunities for expansion;* responding to the attitudes and expectations of the communities in which the company operates;* placing a strong emphasis on protection of the environment; and* acting with integrity and honesty in dealings both inside and outside the company.