Competitive analysis is difficult enough with single product line companies. Once you start analyzing diversified companies with multiple products, the job gets infinitely more difficult. That's why there are highly paid stock analysts with years of experience in the industry they specialize in.

Summary comparison of BRC against MMM and Avery perhaps has more merit than comparing apples and oranges, but is still bound to lead you down the wrong path. For example, while MMM and AVY may have some products that compete with BRC's, they also have an office supplies businesses that I do not find nearly as interesting. That being sad, I do find MMM rather attractive at current levels.