Becton Dickinson (BDX) reports its first quarter earnings on Tuesday, February 5, 2013.

FORBES: Earnings Preview: Becton Dickinson

Becton Dickinson (BDX) reports its fourth quarter earnings on Wednesday, November 7, 2012.

FORBES: Earnings Preview: Becton Dickinson

Competitors in the space include Becton Dickinson (BDX) and Abbott Laboratories (ABT).

FORBES: Meridian Bioscience Tests Well, Pays Healthy Dividends

Stryker Corp. (SYK) : While not a fan of complex technology, Buffett has shown a willingness to invest in medical technology firms, including Becton, Dickinson (BDX).

FORBES: Three Stocks That Should Be On Buffett's Radar

Thus Becton Dickinson ( BDX) more than doubled revenue (and tripled profits) during the past decade, but employment at the medical products company edged up all of 16%.

FORBES: By Jeff Bailey

The most money is usually spent on kitchens, bathrooms and flooring, according to BDX, the marketing-services and technology company behind the Envision online design center that helps customers select options.

WSJ: That'll Be Extra