| Date | Title | | | 05/17/13 | Grainger To Present At 2013 EPG Spring Conference| CHICAGO, May 17, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Jim Ryan, Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer, and Ron Jadin, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, will present at the Electrical Products Group's annual spring conference in Longboat Key, Florida on Wednesday, May 22, 2013. The audio webcast of the event is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. EDT and will be available for 30 days at www.grainger.com/investor. The presentation slides will be posted in the Company Information, Presentations and Webcasts section of Grainger's Investor Relations web site, listed above.
About Grainger
W.W. Grainger, Inc. with 2012 sales of $9.0 billion is North America's leading broad line supplier of m... |
|  | | 05/10/13 | Grainger Reports April 2013 Sales Results| CHICAGO, May 10, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales results for the month of April 2013. Daily sales increased 8 percent versus April 2012, and included 3 percentage points from volume, 2 percentage points from price, 2 percentage points from acquisitions and 2 percentage points from the timing of the Easter holiday, partially offset by a 1 percentage point decline from foreign exchange. The month of April 2013 had 22 selling days versus 21 selling days in April 2012. The 2013 second quarter will have 64 selling days, the same as the 2012 second quarter.
April Daily Sales by Segment
2013 v. 2012
United States
... |
| | | 05/03/13 | Grainger To Present At Robert Baird's Growth Stock Conference| CHICAGO, May 3, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Court Carruthers, Senior Vice President & President, Grainger U.S., will present at Robert Baird's Growth Stock Conference in Chicago, Illinois on Tuesday, May 7, 2013. The audio webcast of the event, scheduled for 10:20 a.m. CDT, will be available for 30 days at www.grainger.com/investor. The presentation slides will be posted in the Company Information, Presentations and Webcasts section of Grainger's Investor Relations web site, listed above.
About Grainger
W.W. Grainger, Inc. with 2012 sales of $9 billion is North America's leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating products, with expanding global operations. For more... |
| | | 04/24/13 | Grainger's Shareholders Elect 11 Directors And Other Meeting Highlights| CHICAGO, April 24, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- At the Grainger (NYSE: GWW) annual shareholder meeting held in Lake Forest, Illinois, today, Grainger Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Jim Ryan provided an update on the state of the business and offered a recap of 2012 full year and 2013 first quarter performance. A copy of his speech is available at www.grainger.com/investor.
Shareholders re-elected the following 11 directors:
Brian P. Anderson
V. Ann Hailey
William K. Hall
Stuart L. Levenick
John W. McCarter, Jr.
Neil S. Novich
Michael J. Roberts
Gary L. Rogers
James T. Ryan
E. Scott Santi
James D. Slavik
... |
| | | 04/24/13 | Grainger Increases Quarterly Dividend By 16 Percent| Represents 42nd Consecutive Annual Increase
CHICAGO, April 24, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW) announced today that its board of directors voted to raise the quarterly cash dividend by 16 percent to 93 cents per share payable on June 1, 2013, to shareholders of record on May 13, 2013. Grainger has provided 42 consecutive years of increased dividends, a record that only 3 percent of companies in the S&P 500 can claim.
"We have a strong record of providing solid returns to shareholders," said Grainger Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Jim Ryan. "The Board's commitment to increasing our dividend is reflective of their confidence in Gra... |
| | | 04/17/13 | Acklands-Grainger Announces Largest Product Expansion in Company History| Company now offers more than 300,000 products to keep Canadian businesses and workers safe and on the job
TORONTO, ON (April 17, 2013) – Acklands-Grainger, Canada’s largest distributor of industrial, safety and fastener products, today announced its largest ever product expansion, adding 200,000 new products to its online offering over the next several months. With this expansion, the company will offer more than 300,000 products to help keep businesses across Canada safe and productive.
“Our customers count on us to be a single source for all of their industrial, safety and fastener products. We enhanced our selection in several key categories to help ensure that when customers have... |
| | | 04/16/13 | Grainger Reports Record EPS Of $2.94 For The 2013 First Quarter| Raises 2013 Sales and EPS Guidance
Quarterly Highlights
-- Sales of $2.3 billion, up 4 percent, 6 percent daily
-- Operating earnings of $343 million, up 13 percent
-- EPS of $2.94, up 14 percent
-- Operating cash flow of $176 million, up 66 percent
CHICAGO, April 16, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported results for the 2013 first quarter ended March 31, 2013. Sales of $2.3 billion increased 4 percent versus $2.2 billion in the first quarter of 2012. There were 63 selling days in the quarter, one less than in 2012. On a daily basis, sales for the first quarter 2013 increased 6 percent. Net earnings for the quarter increased 13 percent to $212 million... |
| | | 04/04/13 | Grainger Awards Nearly 50 Americas Team Members Its Top Honor| CHICAGO, APRIL 4, 2013 – Grainger (NYSE: GWW), the leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) products serving businesses and institutions, today announced the Americas team members who earned its President’s Club honor, the company’s most prestigious level of achievement.
Inaugurated in 1988, the Grainger President’s Club rewards sales and customer service employees for consistently increasing sales year over year, demonstrating exceptional leadership qualities, and reflecting the core values that have guided the company for more than 85 years.
"We are pleased to induct this year’s group of President’s Club honorees,” said Grainger President, Chairman and CEO, ... |
| | | 03/18/13 | Grainger To Present At The BB&T 7th Annual Commercial And Industrial Conference|
CHICAGO, March 18, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- DG Macpherson, Senior Vice President and President, Global Supply Chain and Corporate Strategy, will be presenting at the BB&T 7th Annual Commercial & Industrial Conference in Coral Gables, Florida, on Wednesday, March 20, 2013. The live audio webcast of the event, scheduled for 3:15 p.m. EDT, will be available for 30 days at www.grainger.com/investor. The presentation slides will be posted in the Company Information, Presentations and Webcasts section of Grainger's Investor Relations web site, listed above.
About Grainger
W.W. Grainger, Inc. with 2012 sales of $9.0 billion is North America's leading broad line supplier ... |
| | | 03/12/13 | Grainger Reports February 2013 Sales Results|
CHICAGO, March 12, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales results for the month of February 2013. Daily sales increased 6 percent versus February 2012, and included 4 percentage points from volume, 2 percentage points from price and 1 percentage point from acquisitions, partially offset by a 1 percentage point decline from foreign exchange. The month of February 2013 had 20 selling days versus 21 selling days in February 2012. The 2013 first quarter will have 63 selling days, one less than the 64 selling days in the 2012 first quarter.
February Daily Sales by Segment
2013 v. 2012
United States
+7%
... |
| | | 03/07/13 | Grainger Investor Relations Team and Senior Director, Investor Relations William D. Chapman Honored by Institutional Investor Magazine|
CHICAGO, March 7, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The Investor Relations Team and William D. Chapman, Senior Director of Investor Relations for W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), were honored this week by Institutional Investor magazine as America's top Investor Relations Company and top Investor Relations professional in 2013. In voting by sell-side financial analysts in the magazine's 2013 Annual Survey, Grainger was recognized as the Best Investor Relations Company, while Chapman was ranked as IR Professional of the Year in the Capital Goods Industry.
"On behalf of Grainger, I am pleased to congratulate our Investor Relations team led by Laura Brown and specifically recognize Bill Chapman for th... |
| | | 02/27/13 | Grainger To Present At The Raymond James 34th Annual Institutional Investors Conference|
CHICAGO, Feb. 27, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Ron Jadin, Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, will be presenting at the Raymond James 34th Annual Institutional Investors Conference in Orlando, Florida, on Monday, March 4, 2013. The live audio webcast of the event, scheduled for 7:30 a.m. EST, will be available for 30 days at the following web site, www.grainger.com/investor. The presentation slides will be posted in the Company Information, Presentations and Webcasts section of Grainger's Investor Relations web site, listed above.
About Grainger
W.W. Grainger, Inc. with 2012 sales of $9.0 billion is North America's leading broad line supplier of maintenance, ... |
| | | 02/20/13 | Eleven Directors Slated For Grainger's Board To Be Voted On At The Company's Annual Meeting On April 24, 2013|
CHICAGO, Feb. 20, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The Board of Directors of W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW) today selected a slate of nominees to serve for the 2013 – 2014 period. The eleven candidates, all current board members, to be voted on at the annual meeting are:
Brian P. Anderson
V. Ann Hailey
William K. Hall
Stuart L. Levenick
John W. McCarter, Jr.
Neil S. Novich
Michael J. Roberts
Gary L. Rogers
James T. Ryan
E. Scott Santi
James D. Slavik
Wilbur H. Gantz will not stand for re-election. Mr. Gantz has been a board member of Grainger since 1985 and served as a member of the Audit Committee and the Board Affairs and Nominating Committee.
Grainger Chairman,... |
| | | 02/12/13 | Grainger Reports January 2013 Sales Results|
CHICAGO, Feb. 12, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales results for the month of January 2013. Daily sales increased 8 percent versus January 2012, and included 3 percentage points from volume, 3 percentage points from price, 1 percentage point from sales of seasonal products and 1 percentage point from acquisitions. The month of January 2013 had 22 selling days versus 21 selling days in January 2012. The 2013 first quarter will have 63 selling days, one less than the 64 selling days in the 2012 first quarter.
January Daily Sales by Segment
2013 v. 2012
United States
+7%
Canada
+8% in... |
| | | 01/30/13 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend|
CHICAGO, Jan. 30, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The board of directors of W.W. Grainger, Inc. declared a cash dividend of 80 cents per share payable on March 1, 2013, to shareholders of record on February 11, 2013.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. with 2012 sales of $9.0 billion is North America's leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating products, with expanding global operations. For more information about the company, visit www.grainger.com/investor.
SOURCE W.W. Grainger, Inc.
Media, Joseph Micucci, Director, Media Relations, O: 847-535-0879, M: 847-830-5328, or Gra... |
| | | 01/24/13 | Grainger Reports Record Results for Year Ended December 31, 2012| Company Reaffirms 2013 Earnings Per Share Guidance of $10.85 to $12.00
2012 Highlights
-Sales of $9.0 billion, up 11 percent
- Reported EPS of $9.52, up 5 percent
-Adjusted EPS of $10.43, up 15 percent
-Operating cash flow of $816 million, up 9 percent
-Named to 2013 FORTUNE 100 Best Companies to Work For® list
CHICAGO, Jan. 24, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported record results for the year ended December 31, 2012. Sales of $9.0 billion increased 11 percent versus $8.1 billion in 2011. Net earnings of $690 million increased 5 percent versus $658 million in 2011. Earnings per share of $9.52 increased 5 percent versus $9.07 in 2011. The years 2012... |
| | | 01/17/13 | Grainger Named to 2013 FORTUNE 100 Best Companies to Work For List|
CHICAGO, Jan. 17, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), the leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) products serving businesses and institutions, today announced that it was named to the 2013 FORTUNE 100 Best Companies to Work For® list.
In the most comprehensive annual workplace survey conducted in corporate America, FORTUNE selects 100 companies nationwide for inclusion on its prestigious list, which is based on employee feedback, company practices and culture.
"We are honored to receive this distinction," said Jim Ryan, Chairman, President and CEO of Grainger. "The only way to achieve success in this dynamic environment is through a strong team ... |
| | | 12/26/12 | Grainger Settles Government Contract Dispute|
CHICAGO, Dec. 26, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today announced it has settled its long-standing contract dispute with the federal government. As announced October 16, the discrepancy centered on disclosure language in the General Services Administration (GSA) and United States Postal Service (USPS) contracts, which were implemented more than 10 years ago.
Grainger maintains it complied with the disclosure requirements and the contracts in all material respects, and the settlement does not contain any admission of wrongdoing by the company.
The GSA and USPS remain long-standing and important Grainger customers. These contracts account for a portion of the comp... |
| | | 12/17/12 | Grainger Announces Intent To Acquire Techni-Tool, Inc.|
CHICAGO, Dec. 17, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), the leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating products serving businesses and institutions, today announced its intent to acquire Techni-Tool, Inc., and its affiliate Wassco Inc., leading specialist distributors serving manufacturing customers with 2011 sales of $88 million. Grainger expects the transaction to close by December 31, 2012, subject to standard conditions, and be neutral to 2013 earnings per share. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
Founded in 1959 and based in Worcester, Pa., Techni-Tool, along with Wassco, employs approximately 200 people and provides nearly 25,000 products and... |
| | | 12/12/12 | Grainger Reports November 2012 Sales Results|
CHICAGO, Dec. 12, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales results for the month of November 2012. Sales increased 8 percent versus November 2011, and included 3 percentage points from price, 2 percentage points from sales of hurricane-related products, 2 percentage points from volume and 1 percentage point from acquisitions. The month of November 2012 had 21 selling days, the same as November 2011. While the 2012 fourth quarter will have one extra selling day versus the 2011 fourth quarter (64 versus 63 days), the company is forecasting minimal sales contribution due to timing of the holidays.
November Sales by Segment
2012 v. 2011
... |
| | | 11/14/12 | Grainger Provides Outlook At Analyst Meeting| Narrows 2012 EPS Guidance of $10.55 to $10.75*
Issues 2013 EPS Guidance of $10.85 to $12.00
CHICAGO, Nov. 14, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), the leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) products serving businesses and institutions, today held its Annual Analyst Meeting in Lake Forest, Illinois. Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, Jim Ryan hosted the event. The meeting also included presentations from other Grainger leaders.
"Grainger is well positioned to meet the needs of businesses and institutions as they look to manage the MRO products used to maintain their facilities. We continue to see significant potential to gain sha... |
| | | 11/12/12 | Grainger To Host Annual Analyst Meeting|
CHICAGO, Nov. 12, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), the leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating products serving businesses and institutions, will host its Annual Analyst Meeting on Wednesday, November 14th, 2012, in Lake Forest, Illinois. Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, Jim Ryan will host the event. The meeting will also include presentations from the following leaders:
DG Macpherson, Senior Vice President and President, Global Supply Chain and Corporate Strategy
Court Carruthers, Senior Vice President and President, Grainger United States
Mike Pulick, Senior Vice President and President, Grainger International
Paul Miller, V... |
| | | 11/12/12 | Grainger Reports October 2012 Sales Results|
CHICAGO, Nov. 12, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales results for the month of October 2012. Daily sales increased 6 percent versus October 2011, and included 4 percentage points from price, 1 percentage point from volume and 1 percentage point from sales of hurricane-related products. The month of October 2012 had 23 selling days versus 21 selling days in October 2011. While the 2012 fourth quarter will have one extra selling day versus the 2011 fourth quarter (64 versus 63 days), the company is forecasting minimal sales contribution due to timing of the holidays.
October Daily Sales by Segment
2012 v. 2011
United States
... |
| | | 10/31/12 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend|
CHICAGO, Oct. 31, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The board of directors of W.W. Grainger, Inc. today declared a cash dividend of 80 cents per share payable on December 1, 2012, to shareholders of record on November 12, 2012.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. with 2011 sales of $8.1 billion is North America's leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating products, with expanding global operations. For more information about the company, visit www.grainger.com/investor.
SOURCE W.W. Grainger, Inc.
CONTACTS: Media - Grainger Media Relations Hotline, +1-847-535-5678, or Jan Tratnik, Sr. Director, Corp. Communications and Public Affairs, O: +1-847-535-4339, M: +1-847-456-8807; Investors -... |
| | | 10/16/12 | Grainger Reports 2012 Third Quarter Results| Sales Up 10 Percent on a Daily Basis
Company Reaffirms 2012 Earnings Per Share Guidance of $10.50 to $10.80* and Now Expects 2012 Sales Growth of 11 to 12 Percent
Quarterly Highlights
- Sales of $2.3 billion, up 8 percent, 10 percent on a daily basis**
- Company establishes $0.66 per share reserve for expected settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice
- EPS of $2.81, up 12 percent excluding the reserve
- Operating cash flow of $338 million, up 35 percent
CHICAGO, Oct. 16, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported results for the 2012 third quarter ended September 30, 2012. Sales for the 2012 third quarter of $2.3 billion increased 8 percent versus $2... |
| | | 09/13/12 | Grainger Reports August 2012 Sales Results|
CHICAGO, Sept. 13, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales results for the month of August 2012. Sales increased 10 percent versus August 2011. Results for the month included a 4 percentage point contribution from acquisitions and a 1 percentage point decline from foreign exchange. Organic sales increased 7 percent, including 4 percentage points from volume, 4 percentage points from price, partially offset by a 1 percentage point decline from lower sales of hurricane-related products in August 2012 versus August 2011. The month of August 2012 had 23 selling days, the same as August 2011. The 2012 third quarter will have one less selling day than the 2011 third qu... |
| | | 08/10/12 | Grainger Reports July 2012 Sales Results|
CHICAGO, Aug. 10, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales results for the month of July 2012. Daily sales increased 11 percent versus July 2011. Results for the month included a 5 percentage point contribution from acquisitions and a 2 percentage point decline from foreign exchange. Organic sales on a daily basis increased 8 percent, including 4 percentage points from volume and 4 percentage points from price. July 2012 had 21 selling days, one more than July 2011. The 2012 third quarter will have one less selling day than the 2011 third quarter (63 versus 64 days).
July Daily Sales by Segment
2012 v. 2011
United States
... |
| | | 07/25/12 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend|
CHICAGO, July 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The board of directors of W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW) today declared a cash dividend of 80 cents per share payable on September 1, 2012, to shareholders of record on August 13, 2012.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. with 2011 sales of $8.1 billion is North America's leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating products, with expanding global operations. For more information about the company, visit www.grainger.com/investor.
SOURCE W.W. Grainger, Inc.
Media, Kellie Harris, Manager, Media Relations, O: +1-847-535-1542, M: +1-847-643-6298, or Investors, Laura Brown, SVP, Communications & Investor Relations, O: +1-847-535-0409,... |
| | | 07/18/12 | Grainger Reports Record EPS of $2.63 for the 2012 Second Quarter| Raises 2012 EPS Guidance to $10.50 to $10.80
Quarterly Highlights
- Sales of $2.2 billion, up 12 percent
- Operating earnings of $314 million, up 18 percent
- EPS of $2.63, up 12 percent / up 18 percent excluding tax benefit in 2011
- Pretax ROIC* of 31.9 percent (35.8 excluding Fabory) versus 33.7 percent in Q2 2011
CHICAGO, July 18, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported record results for the 2012 second quarter ended June 30, 2012. Sales of $2.2 billion were up 12 percent versus $2.0 billion in the second quarter of 2011. There were 64 selling days in the quarter, the same as in 2011. Net earnings for the quarter i... |
| | | 06/11/12 | Grainger Reports May 2012 Sales Results|
CHICAGO, June 11, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales results for the month of May 2012. Daily sales increased 13 percent versus May 2011. Results for the month included a 5 percentage point contribution from acquisitions and a 1 percentage point decline from foreign exchange. Organic sales on a daily basis increased 9 percent, including 6 percentage points from volume and 3 percentage points from price. May 2012 had 22 selling days, one more than May 2011. The 2012 second quarter will have the same number of selling days as the 2011 second quarter (64 days).
May Daily Sales by Segment
2012 v. 2011
United States
... |
| | | 06/08/12 | Grainger To Present At William Blair Growth Stock Conference|
CHICAGO, June 8, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Jim Ryan, Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer, and Ron Jadin, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, will present at the William Blair & Company Growth Stock Conference in Chicago, Illinois on Tuesday, June 12, 2012. The audio webcast of the event, scheduled for 9:30 a.m. CDT, will be available for 30 days at www.grainger.com/investor. In addition, the presentation slides will be posted on the Speeches and Presentations section of Grainger's Investor Relations web site.
About Grainger
W.W. Grainger, Inc. with 2011 sales of $8.1 billion is North America's leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating... |
| | | 05/18/12 | Grainger to Present at 2012 EPG Spring Conference|
CHICAGO, May 18, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Jim Ryan, Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer, and Ron Jadin, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, will present at the Electrical Products Group's annual spring conference in Longboat Key, Florida on Tuesday, May 22, 2012. The audio webcast of the event is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. EDT and will be available for 30 days at www.grainger.com/investor. In addition, the presentation slides will be posted on the Speeches and Presentations section of Grainger's Investor Relations web site.
About Grainger
W.W. Grainger, Inc. with 2011 sales of $8.1 billion is North America's leading broad line supplier of maintenanc... |
| | | 05/11/12 | Grainger Reports April 2012 Sales Results|
CHICAGO, May 11, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales results for the month of April 2012. Daily sales increased 12 percent versus April 2011. Results for the month included a 5 percentage point contribution from acquisitions. Excluding acquisitions, organic sales increased 7 percent, including 5 percentage points from volume and 3 percentage points from price, partially offset by a 1 percentage point decline from foreign exchange. April 2012 had 21 selling days, the same as April 2011. The 2012 second quarter will have the same number of selling days as the 2011 second quarter (64 days).
April Daily Sales by Segment
20... |
| | | 05/04/12 | Grainger To Present At Baird 2012 Growth Stock Conference|
CHICAGO, May 4, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --Ron Jadin, Senior Vice President & CFO, will be presenting at Baird's 2012 Growth Stock Conference in Chicago, Illinois, on Tuesday, May 8, 2012. The audio webcast of the event, scheduled for 9:00 a.m. CDT, will be available for 30 days at the following web site, www.grainger.com/investor. In addition, the presentation slides will be posted on the Speeches and Presentations section of Grainger's Investor Relations web site, listed above.
About Grainger
W.W. Grainger, Inc. with 2011 sales of $8.1 billion is North America's leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating products, with expanding global operations. For more info... |
| | | 05/01/12 | Grainger to Present at UBS Industrial Leadership Conference|
CHICAGO, May 1, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- DG Macpherson, Senior Vice President & President, Global Supply Chain & Corporate Strategy, will be presenting at UBS Industrial Leadership Conference in London, UK, on Thursday, May 3, 2012. The audio webcast of the event, scheduled for 10:40 a.m., CDT, will be available for 30 days at the following web site, www.grainger.com/investor. In addition, the presentation slides will be posted on the Speeches and Presentations section of Grainger's Investor Relations web site, listed above.
About Grainger
W.W. Grainger, Inc. with 2011 sales of $8.1 billion is North America's leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating produc... |
| | | 04/25/12 | Grainger's Shareholders Elect 12 Directors and Other Meeting Highlights| CHICAGO, April 25, 2012 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --At the Grainger (NYSE: GWW) annual shareholder meeting held in Lake Forest, Illinois, today, Grainger Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Jim Ryan provided an update on the state of the business and offered a recap of 2011 full year and 2012 first quarter performance. For a copy of his speech, go to www.grainger.com/investor.
Shareholders re-elected the following 12 directors:
Brian P. Anderson
Neil S. Novich
Wilbur H. Gantz
Michael J. Roberts
V. Ann Hailey
Gary L. Rogers
William K. Hall
James T. Ryan
Stuart L. Levenick
E. Scott Santi
Jo... |
| | | 04/25/12 | Grainger Increases Quarterly Dividend By 21 Percent| Represents 41st consecutive annual increase
CHICAGO, April 25, 2012 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW) announced today that its board of directors voted to raise the quarterly cash dividend by 21 percent to 80 cents per share payable on June 1, 2012, to shareholders of record on May 14, 2012. Grainger has provided 41 consecutive years of increased dividends, a record that only 3 percent of companies in the S&P 500 can claim.
"We are committed to providing top quartile returns to our investors, and our dividend is an important and consistent part of the equation," said Grainger Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Jim Ryan. In 2011, Grainger deliv... |
| | | 04/17/12 | Grainger Reports Record EPS of $2.57 for the 2012 First Quarter|
Raises 2012 EPS Guidance to $10.40 to $10.80
Quarterly Highlights
-- Sales of $2.2 billion, up 16 percent
-- Operating earnings of $304 million, up 16 percent
-- EPS of $2.57, up 18 percent
-- Pretax ROIC* of 31.8 percent (35.6 excluding Fabory) versus 33.8 percent in Q1 2011
CHICAGO, April 17, 2012 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported record results for the 2012 first quarter ended March 31, 2012. Sales of $2.2 billion were up 16 percent versus $1.9 billion in the first quarter of 2011. There were 64 selling days in the quarter, the same as in 2011. Net earnings for the quarter increased 19 percent to $188 million versus $158 million in 2011. Earnings p... |
| | | 04/05/12 | Grainger Promotes O.W. Eric Nowlin to President, Acklands - Grainger, Inc.|
CHICAGO, April 5, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), today announced that O.W. Eric Nowlin, 51, has been named to the position of President, Acklands – Grainger, Inc., Grainger's Canadian subsidiary with 2011 revenues of $993 million (C$982 million). In this role, Nowlin will oversee the growth and performance of Acklands – Grainger and will report directly to Mike Pulick, Senior Vice President & President, Grainger International.
"Eric brings an impressive track record of delivering results and developing talent that will benefit the Acklands – Grainger team and our customers," said Pulick. "The business is performing very well and I'm confident Eric will help Acklands – ... |
| | | 04/03/12 | Grainger Enters Brazil Through the Acquisition of AnFreixo, a Votorantim Company| CHICAGO, APRIL 3, 2012 –Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today announced it has acquired 100 percent of the shares of AnFreixo S.A., effective April 2, 2012. With 2011 sales of approximately $37M USD, AnFreixo is a leading broad line distributor of maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) supplies in Brazil. The company had been a subsidiary in the Votorantim Group, one of the largest industrial conglomerates in Latin America with 2011 revenues in excess of $20B USD. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Moving forward, the company will operate under the name Grainger.
The acquisition of AnFreixo provides Grainger with a solid entry point for physical operations in Brazil, the l... |
| | | 03/12/12 | Grainger Reports February 2012 Sales Results|
CHICAGO, March 12, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales results for the month of February 2012. Daily sales increased 18 percent versus February 2011. Results for the month included a 5 percentage point contribution from acquisitions. Excluding acquisitions, organic sales increased 13 percent, including 12 percentage points from volume and 3 percentage points from price, partially offset by a 2 percentage point decline from lower sales of seasonal products. February 2012 had 21 selling days, one more than February 2011. The 2012 first quarter will have the same number of selling days as the 2011 first quarter (64 days).
February D... |
| | | 03/07/12 | Grainger Announces Leadership Change at Acklands-Grainger|
CHICAGO, March 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), today announced that Sean O'Brien, President, Acklands-Grainger Inc., Grainger's Canadian subsidiary, will resign from the company effective March 23, 2012. O'Brien joined Acklands-Grainger as Vice President, Sales, in November 2007, taking on additional responsibilities for E-Business and Marketing in early 2009. He was named President in September, 2009.
Mike Pulick, President, Grainger International, will serve as interim president of Acklands-Grainger. Mike has held leadership positions with Grainger for more than 12 years, including leading Grainger's U.S. business from 2008-2011. He assumed leadership of Grainger's i... |
| | | 03/02/12 | Grainger Senior Director of Investor Relations William D. Chapman Honored as America's Top IR Professional in the Capital Goods Industry|
CHICAGO, March 2, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- William D. Chapman, Senior Director of Investor Relations for W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), was honored this week by Institutional Investor magazine as America's top Investor Relations professional in 2012. In voting by buy-side financial analysts in the magazine's 2012 Annual Survey, Chapman was ranked as IR Professional of the Year in the Capital Goods Industry.
"From his institutional and industry knowledge to his ongoing commitment to building relationships, Bill embodies leadership in investor relations," said Laura Brown, Senior Vice President, Communications and Investor Relations for Grainger. "We are proud of all Bill has accomplished a... |
| | | 03/02/12 | Grainger to Present at the Raymond James 33rd Annual Institutional Investors Conference|
CHICAGO, March 2, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Michael Pulick, Senior Vice President & President, Grainger International, will be presenting at the Raymond James 33rd Annual Institutional Investors Conference in Orlando, Florida, on Monday, March 5, 2012. The audio webcast of the event, scheduled for 11:00 a.m. EST, will be available for 30 days at the following web site, www.grainger.com/investor. In addition, the presentation slides will be posted on the Speeches and Presentations section of Grainger's Investor Relations web site, listed above.
About Grainger
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2011 sales of $8.1 billion, is North America's leading broad line supplier of maintenance, ... |
| | | 02/13/12 | Grainger Reports January 2012 Sales Results|
CHICAGO, Feb. 13, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales results for the month of January 2012. Sales increased 17 percent versus January 2011. Results for the month included a 5 percentage point contribution from acquisitions. Excluding acquisitions, organic sales increased 12 percent, including 12 percentage points from volume and 2 percentage points from price, partially offset by a 1 percentage point decline from both foreign exchange and lower sales of seasonal products. January 2012 had 21 selling days, the same as January 2011. The 2012 first quarter will have the same number of selling days as the 2011 first quarter (64 days).
... |
| | | 01/25/12 | Grainger Reports Record Sales of $8.1 Billion and Record EPS of $9.07 for the Year Ended December 31, 2011| 2011 Fourth Quarter EPS of $2.04 Including Net Charge of $0.09
2011 Highlights
- Sales of $8.1 billion, up 12 percent
- Net earnings of $658 million, up 29 percent
- EPS of $9.07, up 31 percent
- Pretax ROIC* of 31.9 percent versus 29.8 percent in 2010
CHICAGO, Jan. 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported record sales, net earnings and earnings per share for the year ended December 31, 2011. Sales of $8.1 billion were up 12 percent versus $7.2 billion in 2010. Net earnings of $658 million increased 29 percent versus $511 million in 2010. Earnings per share of $9.07 increased 31 percent versus $6.93 in 2010. The years 2011 and 2010 included the follo... |
| | | 01/25/12 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend|
CHICAGO, Jan. 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The board of directors of W.W. Grainger, Inc. has declared a cash dividend of 66 cents per share payable on March 1, 2012, to shareholders of record on February 13, 2012.
W.W. Grainger, Inc., with 2011 sales of $8.1 billion, is North America's leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating products, with expanding global operations. For more information about the company, visit www.grainger.com/investor.
Contacts:
Media:
Investors:
Robb Kristopher
Laura Brown
Director, Media Relations
Senior Vice President, Communications
847/... |
| | | 12/12/11 | Grainger Reports November 2011 Sales Results|
CHICAGO, Dec. 12, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales results for the month of November 2011. Sales increased 15 percent versus November 2010. Results for the month included a 5 percentage point contribution from acquisitions. Excluding acquisitions, organic sales increased 10 percent, including 10 percentage points from volume and 2 percentage points from price, partially offset by a 2 percentage point decline from 2010 oil spill related sales. November 2011 had 21 selling days, the same as November 2010. The 2011 fourth quarter will have the same number of selling days as the 2010 fourth quarter (63 days).
November Sales ... |
| | | 12/05/11 | Grainger to Present at Bank of America Global Industrials Conference|
CHICAGO, Dec. 5, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Ron Jadin, Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, will be presenting at the Bank of America 2011 Global Industrials Conference in New York City on Tuesday, December 6, 2011. The audio webcast of the event, scheduled for 9:05 a.m. EST, will be available for 30 days at the following web site, www.grainger.com/investor. In addition, the presentation slides will be posted on the Speeches and Presentations section of Grainger's Investor Relations web site, listed above.
About Grainger
W.W. Grainger, Inc., with 2010 sales of $7.2 billion, is North America's leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating p... |
| | | 11/29/11 | Grainger Announces New Business Leader Assignments| Court Carruthers, Mike Pulick and D.G. Macpherson to assume new responsibilities
CHICAGO, Nov. 29, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Grainger (NYSE:GWW) today announced changes in leadership assignments of three senior business leaders. Mike Pulick, Senior Vice President and President, Grainger U.S. and Court Carruthers, Senior Vice President and President, Grainger International will rotate positions with each assuming the other's current area of responsibility. D.G. Macpherson, who heads Grainger's Global Supply Chain, will assume an expanded role as Senior Vice President and President, Global Supply Chain and Corporate Strategy. He will lead the extension of the company's SAP IT p... |
| | | 11/16/11 | Grainger Provides Outlook at Analyst Meeting| Narrows 2011 EPS guidance to a new range of $8.85 to $9.00, excluding unusual items
Issues 2012 EPS guidance of $9.90 to $10.65
CHICAGO, Nov. 16, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), the leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating products serving businesses and institutions, held its Annual Analyst Meeting in Lake Forest, Illinois, today. Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Jim Ryan, hosted the event. The meeting also included presentations from several other Grainger leaders.
As part of the meeting, Grainger provided the following outlook for sales and earnings in 2011 and 2012:
For the 2011 fourth quarter, the company is forecasting... |
| | | 11/14/11 | Grainger to Host Annual Analyst Meeting|
CHICAGO, Nov. 14, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), the leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating products serving businesses and institutions, will host its annual analyst meeting on Wednesday, November 16th, 2011, in Lake Forest, Illinois. Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, Jim Ryan, will host the event. The meeting will also include presentations from the following leaders:
DG Macpherson, Senior Vice President, Global Supply Chain
Court Carruthers, Senior Vice President and President, Grainger International
Mike Pulick, Senior Vice President and President, Grainger United States
Paul Miller, Vice President, eCommerce... |
| | | 11/11/11 | Grainger Reports October 2011 Sales Results|
CHICAGO, Nov. 11, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales results for the month of October 2011. Sales increased 16 percent versus October 2010. Results for the month included a 5 percentage point contribution from acquisitions. Excluding acquisitions, organic sales increased 11 percent, including 9 percentage points from volume and 3 percentage points from price, partially offset by a 1 percentage point decline from 2010 oil spill related sales. October 2011 had 21 selling days, the same as October 2010. The 2011 fourth quarter will have the same number of selling days as the 2010 fourth quarter (63 days).
October Sales by Segment
2011 v. 201... |
| | | 10/26/11 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, Oct. 26, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --The board of directors of W.W. Grainger, Inc. today declared a cash dividend of 66 cents per share payable on December 1, 2011, to shareholders of record on November 14, 2011.
W.W. Grainger, Inc., with 2010 sales of $7.2 billion, is North America's leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating products, with expanding operations in Europe, Asia and Latin America. For more information about the company, visit www.grainger.com/investor.
SOURCE W.W. Grainger, Inc.
... |
| | | 10/18/11 | Grainger Reports Record Results for the 2011 Third Quarter|
Raises 2011 EPS guidance range to $8.80 - $9.00
Quarterly Highlights
- Sales of $2.1 billion, up 11 percent
- Operating earnings of $303 million, up 21 percent
- Net earnings of $182 million, up 21 percent
- EPS of $2.51, up 22 percent
- Pretax ROIC* of 34.3 percent versus 30.2 percent in Q3 2010
CHICAGO, Oct. 18, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported record results for the 2011 third quarter ended September 30, 2011. Sales of $2.1 billion increased 11 percent versus $1.9 billion in the third quarter 2010. The 2011 third quarter had the same number of selling days (64) as the third quarter of 2010. Net earnings for the quarter increased 21 percent to ... |
| | | 10/11/11 | Grainger Announces Divestiture of Joint Venture in South Korea| CHICAGO, Oct. 11, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Grainger (NYSE: GWW), a leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating products serving businesses and institutions, today announced it has divested its 49 percent stake in MRO Korea to affiliates of its former partner, SK Networks, for $12 million, resulting in a net gain of approximately $5 million. SK Group intends to transform the MRO Korea business model into a social enterprise, focused on job creation for the underprivileged.
"We have enjoyed a good working relationship with SK Networks since 2000 and we wish them continued success as they take the business in a new direction," said Court Carruthers, President, G... |
| | | 09/26/11 | Grainger to Present at Oppenheimer Industrial Conference| CHICAGO, Sept. 26, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Michael Pulick, Senior Vice President & President, Grainger, U.S., will be presenting at the Oppenheimer's 6th Annual Industrials Conference in New York City, on Tuesday, September 27, 2011. The audio webcast of the event, scheduled for 8:40 a.m. EDT, will be available for 30 days at the following web site, www.grainger.com/investor. In addition, the presentation slides will be posted on the Speeches and Presentations section of Grainger's Investor Relations web site, listed above.
About Grainger
W.W. Grainger, Inc., with 2010 sales of $7.2 billion, is North America's leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating... |
| | | 09/19/11 | Acklands-Grainger Continues To Broaden Quebec Presence With Purchase of Baie-Comeau Distributor| TORONTO, Sept. 19, 2011 /CNW/ -- Acklands-Grainger Inc., Canada's largest distributor of industrial, safety and fastener supplies, today announced it has acquired the assets of Baie-Comeau industrial distributor Fercomat Inc., effective September 19, 2011. Acklands-Grainger expects an incremental sales contribution of approximately $3 million from this acquisition over the next 12 months. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
"Fercomat has a strong track record of service and by working together, we will leverage our combined expertise to offer local customers - such as mining, hydroelectricity and aluminum industries - access to the broad array of products and services t... |
| | | 09/13/11 | Grainger Reports August 2011 Sales Results| CHICAGO, Sept. 12, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales results for the month of August 2011. Daily sales increased 10 percent versus August 2010. Results for the month included a 1 percentage point positive contribution from foreign exchange. Excluding foreign exchange, organic sales increased 9 percent, including 8 percentage points from volume, 3 percentage points from price and 1 percentage point from sales related to Hurricane Irene, partially offset by a 3 percentage point decline from 2010 oil spill related sales. August 2011 had 23 selling days, one more than August 2010. The 2011 third quarter will have the same number of selling days as the ... |
| | | 09/13/11 | Grainger to Present at Morgan Keegan Industrial Conference| CHICAGO, Sept. 12, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --DG Macpherson, Senior Vice President, Global Supply Chain, will be presenting at the Morgan Keegan Industrial/Transportation Conference in Chicago, Illinois on Tuesday, September 13, 2011. The audio webcast of the event, scheduled for 9:05 a.m. CDT, will be available for 30 days at the following web site, www.grainger.com/investor. In addition, the presentation slides will be posted on the Speeches and Presentations section of Grainger's Investor Relations web site, listed above.
About Grainger
W.W. Grainger, Inc., with 2010 sales of $7.2 billion, is North America's leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating produ... |
| | | 08/31/11 | Grainger Completes Acquisition of Fabory Group| CHICAGO, Aug. 31, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today announced it has completed its acquisition of Fabory Group, a leading European distributor of fasteners and related MRO products. Grainger announced its intention to acquire Fabory on August 15, 2011 and anticipates that the transaction will be neutral to earnings per share in 2011 and 10 to 12 cents accretive in 2012.
"We are delighted to complete this acquisition so promptly and to officially welcome the Fabory team to Grainger," said Court Carruthers, President, Grainger International. "We look forward to working with Fabory leadership to accelerate their branch and product expansion plans while leveraging t... |
| | | 08/15/11 | Grainger Intends to Acquire Fabory Group|
- The transaction price will be approximately $344 million (euro 242 million) and is expected to be accretive to 2012 earnings.
- Grainger will host a live webcast at 10:00 a.m. EDT today to discuss this announcement.
CHICAGO, Aug. 15, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today announced its intention to acquire the shares of Fabory Group, a leading European distributor of fasteners and related MRO products. The transaction price will be approximately $344 million (euro 242 million). The parties plan to enter a definitive agreement upon completion of required consultations with Works Councils representing Fabory employees in the Netherlands, Belgium and France. The tran... |
| | | 08/10/11 | Grainger Reports July 2011 Sales Results| CHICAGO, Aug. 10, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales results for the month of July 2011. Daily sales increased 10 percent versus July 2010. Results for the month included a 1 percentage point positive contribution from acquisitions and a 2 percentage point contribution from foreign exchange. Excluding acquisitions and foreign exchange, organic sales increased 7 percent, including 8 percentage points from volume and 2 percentage points from price, partially offset by a 3 percentage point decline from oil spill related sales in 2010. In 2010, Grainger provided safety and related products used to clean up the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, which contribu... |
| | | 07/27/11 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, July 27, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --The board of directors of W.W. Grainger, Inc. today declared a cash dividend of 66 cents per share payable on September 1, 2011, to shareholders of record on August 8, 2011.
W.W. Grainger, Inc., with 2010 sales of $7.2 billion, is North America's leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating products, with an expanding presence in Asia and Latin America. For more information about the company, visit www.grainger.com/investor.
SOURCE W.W. Grainger, Inc.
... |
| | | 07/26/11 | Grainger Expands Its Inventory Management Service Offering | | | 07/19/11 | Grainger Reports Record Sales and EPS for the 2011 Second Quarter|
Raises 2011 EPS guidance to $8.40 to $8.70
Quarterly Highlights
- Sales of $2.0 billion, up 12 percent
- Operating earnings of $265 million, up 23 percent
- Net earnings of $170 million, up 32 percent
- EPS of $2.34, up 35 percent
- Pretax ROIC* of 33.7 percent versus 27.9 percent in Q2 2010
CHICAGO, July 19, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported record results for the 2011 second quarter ended June 30, 2011. Sales of $2.0 billion increased 12 percent versus $1.8 billion in the second quarter 2010. The 2011 second quarter had the same number of selling days (64) as second quarter of 2010. Net earnings for the quarter increased 32 percent to $170 milli... |
| | | 06/10/11 | Grainger Reports May 2011 Sales Results| CHICAGO, June 10, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales results for the month of May 2011. Daily sales increased 11 percent versus May 2010. Results for the month included a 1 percentage point positive contribution from acquisitions and a 2 percentage point contribution from foreign exchange. Excluding acquisitions and foreign exchange, organic sales increased 8 percent, including 7 percentage points from volume and 2 percentage points from price, partially offset by a 1 percentage point decline from oil spill related sales in 2010. In 2010, Grainger provided safety and related products used to clean up the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, which contrib... |
| | | 06/10/11 | Grainger to Present at William Blair Growth Stock Conference| CHICAGO, June 10, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Jim Ryan, Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer, and Ron Jadin, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, will present at the William Blair & Company Growth Stock Conference in Chicago, Illinois on Tuesday, June 14, 2011. The audio webcast of the event, scheduled for 9:30 a.m. CDT, will be available for 30 days at www.grainger.com/investor. In addition, the presentation slides will be posted on the Speeches and Presentations section of Grainger's Investor Relations web site.
About Grainger
W.W. Grainger, Inc., with 2010 sales of $7.2 billion, is North America's leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair an... |
| | | 05/16/11 | Grainger to Present at 2011 EPG Spring Conference| CHICAGO, May 16, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Jim Ryan, Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer, and Ron Jadin, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, will present at the Electrical Products Group's annual spring conference in Longboat Key, Florida on Wednesday, May 18, 2011. The audio webcast of the event is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. EDT and will be available for 30 days at www.grainger.com/investor. In addition, the presentation slides will be posted on the Speeches and Presentations section of Grainger's Investor Relations web site.
About Grainger
W.W. Grainger, Inc., with 2010 sales of $7.2 billion, is North America's leading broad line supplier of maintenance,... |
| | | 05/11/11 | Grainger Reports April 2011 Sales Results| CHICAGO, May 11, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales results for the month of April 2011. Daily sales increased 14 percent versus April 2010. Results for the month included a 1 percentage point positive contribution from acquisitions and a 1 percentage point contribution from foreign exchange. Excluding acquisitions and foreign exchange, organic sales increased 12 percent, including 10 percentage points from volume and 2 percentage points from price. April 2011 had 21 selling days, one less than April 2010. The 2011 second quarter will have the same number of selling days as the 2010 second quarter (64 days).
... |
| | | 04/27/11 | Grainger's Shareholders Elect 12 Directors and Other Meeting Highlights| CHICAGO, April 27, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --At the Grainger (NYSE: GWW) annual shareholder meeting held in Lake Forest, IL, today, Grainger Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Jim Ryan provided an update on the state of the business and offered a recap of 2010 full year and 2011 first quarter performance. For a copy of his speech, go to www.grainger.com/investor.
Shareholders re-elected the following 12 directors:
Brian P. Anderson
Neil S. Novich
Wilbur H. Gantz
Michael J. Roberts
V. Ann Hailey
Gar... |
| | | 04/27/11 | Grainger Increases Quarterly Dividend by 22 Percent| Represents 40th consecutive annual increase
CHICAGO, April 27, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW) announced today that its board of directors voted to raise the quarterly cash dividend by 22 percent to 66 cents per share payable on June 1, 2011, to shareholders of record on May 9, 2011. Grainger has provided 40 consecutive years of increased dividends, a record that only 12companies in the S&P500 can claim.
"We are very proud of reaching this 40 year milestone, which places Grainger in a very elite group of companies. This achievement further supports our intention to reward long-term shareholders. We are committed to providing top quartile returns to ... |
| | | 04/18/11 | Grainger Reports Record EPS of $2.18 for the 2011 First Quarter|
Raises 2011 EPS guidance to $8.10 to $8.60
Quarterly Highlights
- Sales of $1.9 billion, up 13 percent
- Operating earnings of $263 million, up 44 percent
- EPS of $2.18, up 66 percent
- Pretax ROIC* of 33.8 percent versus 25.9 percent in Q1 2010
CHICAGO, April 18, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported results for the 2011 first quarter ended March 31, 2011. Sales of $1.9 billion increased 13 percent versus $1.7 billion in the first quarter 2010. Sales on a daily basis increased 11 percent as the 2011 first quarter had one more selling day (64) than first quarter of 2010 (63). Net earnings for the quarter increased 59 percent to $158 million versus $99 mi... |
| | | 04/04/11 | Grainger to Present at BB&T Capital Markets Conference| CHICAGO, April 4, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Court Carruthers, Senior Vice President; President, Grainger International, will be presenting at the BB&T Capital Markets Commercial & Industrial Conference in New York, New York on Thursday, April 7, 2011. The audio webcast of the event is scheduled for 1:15 p.m. EDT and will be available for 30 days at www.grainger.com/investor. In addition, the presentation slides will be posted on the Speeches and Presentations section of Grainger's Investor Relations web site.
About Grainger
W.W. Grainger, Inc., with 2010 sales of $7.2 billion, is North America's leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating products, wit... |
| | | 03/11/11 | Grainger Reports February 2011 Sales Results| CHICAGO, March 11, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales results for the month of February 2011. Daily sales increased 11 percent versus February 2010. Results for the month included a 1 percentage point positive contribution from acquisitions and a 1 percentage point contribution from foreign exchange. Excluding acquisitions and foreign exchange, organic sales were up 9 percent, including 2 percent from price and 7 percent from volume. February 2011 had 20selling days, the same as February 2010. The 2011 first quarter has one more selling day than the 2010 first quarter (64 versus 63 days).
February Dail... |
| | | 03/07/11 | W. W. Grainger, Inc. Tops FORTUNE “Most Admired” List for Second Consecutive Year | | | 03/07/11 | Grainger to Present at the Raymond James 32nd Annual Institutional Investors Conference| CHICAGO, March 7, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Ron Jadin, Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, will be presenting at the Raymond James 32nd Annual Institutional Investors Conference in Orlando, Florida on Tuesday, March 8, 2011. The audio webcast of the event, scheduled for 1:05 p.m. EST, will be available for 30 days at the following web site, www.grainger.com/investor. In addition, the presentation slides will be posted on the Speeches and Presentations section of Grainger's Investor Relations web site, listed above.
About Grainger
W.W. Grainger, Inc., with 2010 sales of $7.2 billion, is North America's leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating pr... |
| | | 03/01/11 | Grainger Brings Together Customers and Industry Experts to Discuss Ways to Take Cost Out of Business Operations | | | 02/11/11 | Grainger Reports January 2011 Sales Results| CHICAGO, Feb. 11, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales results for the month of January 2011. Daily sales increased 10 percent versus January 2010. Results for the month included a 1 percentage point positive contribution from acquisitions and a 1 percentage point contribution from foreign exchange. Excluding acquisitions and foreign exchange, daily sales for the company increased 8 percent. January 2011 had 21selling days versus 20 in January 2010. The 2011 first quarter will have one more selling day than the 2010 first quarter (64 versus 63 days).
January Daily Sales by Segment
2011 v. 2010
... |
| | | 01/27/11 | Grainger Named to 2011 FORTUNE 100 Best Companies to Work For List | | | 01/26/11 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, Jan. 26, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --The board of directors of W.W. Grainger, Inc. has declared a cash dividend of 54 cents per share payable on March 1, 2011, to shareholders of record on February 14, 2011.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. with 2010 sales of $7.2 billion is North America's leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating products with an expanding presence in Asia and Latin America. For more information about the company, visit www.grainger.com/investor.
SOURCE W.W. Grainger, Inc.
... |
| | | 01/25/11 | Grainger Reports Sales of $7.2 Billion and EPS of $6.93 for the Year Ended December 31, 2010|
2010 Fourth Quarter EPS of $1.83 Including $0.04 Unusual Item
2010 Highlights
- Sales of $7.2 billion, up 15 percent; 16 percent daily
- EPS of $6.80, up 30 percent, excluding $0.13 of unusual items ($0.04 in 4Q)
- Operating cash flow of $596 million
- $657 million returned to shareholders in dividends & share repurchases
- Pretax ROIC* of 29.8 percent versus 24.9 percent in 2009
CHICAGO, Jan. 25, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --
Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported record sales, net earnings and earnings per share for the year ended December 31, 2010. Sales of $7.2 billion were up 15 percent versus $6.2 billion in 2009. Net earnings of $511 million increased 19 percent versus $... |
| | | 12/20/10 | Grainger Announces Divestiture of Its Highsmith Specialty Brand| Company Initiates Strategic Review of Additional Niche Brands
CHICAGO, Dec. 20, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Grainger (NYSE: GWW), the leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating products serving businesses and institutions, today announced that it has sold substantially all of the assets of library supplies provider Highsmith, previously maintained under Grainger's U.S. Specialty Brands portfolio, to DEMCO, Inc., the leading provider of solutions to America's libraries and schools. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
As part of a strategic review of the Specialty Brands portfolio, Grainger is also assessing the possible divestiture of four additional brands,... |
| | | 12/13/10 | Grainger Reports November 2010 Sales Results| CHICAGO, Dec. 13, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales results for the month of November 2010. Daily sales increased 14 percent versus November 2009. Results for the month included a 2 percentage point contribution from acquisitions and a 1 percentage point contribution from foreign exchange. Excluding acquisitions and foreign exchange, daily sales for the company increased 11 percent. November had 21 selling days in 2010 and 20 in 2009. The 2010 fourth quarter will have 63 selling days compared to 64 in the 2009 fourth quarter.
November Daily Sales by Segment
2010 v. 2009
... |
| | | 12/05/10 | Acklands-Grainger Inc. Acquires Industrial Products Business in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, Canada| TORONTO, December 6, 2010 – Acklands-Grainger Inc., Canada’s largest distributor of industrial, safety and fastener supplies, today announced it has entered into an asset purchase agreement to acquire the Nova Scotia and New Brunswick business of Wolseley Industrial Products (Amalgamated) Inc., a distributor of industrial, construction, MRO and safety products. Acklands-Grainger expects an incremental sales contribution of approximately $14 million from this acquisition over the next 12 months. The deal was effective December 6, 2010 and terms were not disclosed.
"This acquisition will improve our service to customers and will help us enhance our position as our customers' valued partner i... |
| | | 11/17/10 | Grainger Provides Outlook at Analyst Meeting| Narrows 2010 EPS guidance to a range of $6.50 to $6.70
Issues 2011 EPS guidance of $7.15 to $7.90
CHICAGO, Nov. 17, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Grainger (NYSE: GWW), the leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating products serving businesses and institutions, held its annual analyst meeting in Lake Forest, Illinois, today. Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, Jim Ryan, hosted the event. The meeting also included presentations from several other Grainger leaders.
As part of the meeting, Grainger provided the following outlook for sales and earnings in 2010 and 2011:
For the 2010 fourth quarter, the company is forecasting sales to incre... |
| | | 11/15/10 | Grainger to Host Annual Analyst Meeting| CHICAGO, Nov. 15, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Grainger (NYSE: GWW), the leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating products serving businesses and institutions, will host its annual analyst meeting on Wednesday, November 17th, 2010, in Lake Forest, Illinois. Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, Jim Ryan, will host the event. The meeting will also include presentations from the following leaders:
D.G. Macpherson, Senior Vice President, Global Supply Chain
Court Carruthers, Senior Vice President and President, Grainger International
Mike Pulick, Senior Vice President and President, Grainger United States
Ron Jadin, Senior Vice... |
| | | 11/12/10 | Grainger Reports October 2010 Sales Results| CHICAGO, Nov. 12, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales results for the month of October 2010. Daily sales increased 11 percent versus October 2009. Results for the month included a 1 percentage point contribution from acquisitions and a 1 percentage point contribution from foreign exchange. Excluding acquisitions and foreign exchange, daily sales for the company increased 9 percent. October had 21 selling days in 2010 and 22 in 2009. The 2010 fourth quarter will have 63 selling days compared to 64 in the 2009 fourth quarter.
October Daily Sales by Segment
2010 v. 2009
United States
... |
| | | 11/11/10 | Grainger Honors Veterans Through Expanded Scholarship Program| Community College Partnership Stresses Importance of Industrial Trades Careers
CHICAGO, Nov. 11, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Grainger (NYSE: GWW), North America's leading facilities maintenance supplier, has expanded its Grainger Tools for Tomorrow(R) scholarship program for the fifth consecutive year. In the 2010 - 2011 academic year, Grainger will offer 75 community colleges across the United States two, $2,000 scholarships to award to community college students enrolled in industrial trades programs such as welding, plumbing, automotive and construction. In addition, upon graduation, scholarship recipients will receive a Westward(R) toolkit outfitted for their industrial trade skill... |
| | | 10/26/10 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, Oct 26, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --The board of directors of W.W. Grainger, Inc. has declared a cash dividend of 54 cents per share payable on December 1, 2010, to shareholders of record on November 8, 2010.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. with 2009 sales of $6.2 billion is North America's leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating products with an expanding presence in Asia and Latin America. For more information about the company, visit www.grainger.com/investor.
SOURCE W.W. Grainger, Inc.
... |
| | | 10/14/10 | Grainger Announces Acquisition of SafetyCertified| CHICAGO, Oct 14, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Grainger (NYSE: GWW), North America's leading broad line distributor of facilities maintenance products, today announced it has acquired substantially all of the assets of SafetyCertified, Inc. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
"As North America's largest distributor of safety products, we are committed to helping businesses and institutions manage and operate safe and healthy workplaces," said Mike Pulick, President of Grainger's U.S. Business. "As our customers are asked to do more with less, they are looking for a provider who can meet both product and service needs. By integrating new service capabilities like SafetyCertified into ... |
| | | 10/14/10 | Grainger Reports Third Quarter 2010 Earnings Per Share of $2.06, Including $0.07 Contribution From Unusual Item| Raises 2010 EPS guidance to $6.40 to $6.70
Quarterly Highlights
- Sales of $1.9 billion, up 19 percent
- Operating earnings of $251 million, up 35 percent
- Operating cash flow of $217 million
- Pretax ROIC* of 30.2 percent
CHICAGO, Oct 14, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported results for the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2010. Third quarter sales of $1.9billion increased 19 percent versus the 2009 third quarter. Both quarters had the same number of selling days (64). Net earnings for the quarter increased 4 percent to $150 million versus $145 million in 2009. Earnings per share increased 10percent to $2.06 versus $1.88 for the third ... |
| | | 09/20/10 | Acklands-Grainger Inc. Acquires Solus Securite Inc.| CHICAGO, Sept 20, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Grainger today announced that its Canadian subsidiary, Acklands-Grainger Inc., Canada's largest distributor of industrial, safety and fastener supplies, has purchased Solus Securite Inc. effective September 17, 2010. With 2009 sales of approximately C$20 million, Solus Securite is a leading fire protection and safety distributor in Quebec with locations in Trois Rivieres, Victoriaville, Montreal and Sorel. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
"Our Quebec customers have told us they want more products and services available to them that help them keep their facilities and employees safe," said Sean O'Brien, President of Acklands-Grainger.... |
| | | 09/13/10 | Grainger Reports August 2010 Sales Results| CHICAGO, Sept 13, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales results for the month of August 2010. Daily sales increased 20 percent versus August 2009. Results for the month included a 5 percentage point contribution from acquisitions and a 1 percentage point contribution from foreign exchange. Excluding acquisitions and foreign exchange, daily sales for the company increased 14 percent. August had 22 selling days in 2010 and 21 in 2009. The 2010 third quarter has the same number of selling days (64) as the 2009 third quarter.
August Daily Sales by Segment
2010 v. 2009
United States ... |
| | | 09/13/10 | Grainger to Present at Morgan Keegan Industrial Conference| CHICAGO, Sept 13, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Michael Pulick, President, Grainger U.S., will be presenting at the Morgan Keegan Industrial/Transportation Conference in Chicago, Illinois on Wednesday, September 15, 2010. The audio webcast of the event, scheduled for 9:05 a.m. CDT, will be available for 30 days at the following web site, www.grainger.com/investor. In addition, the presentation slides will be posted on the Speeches and Presentations section of Grainger's Investor Relations Web site, listed above.
About Grainger
W.W. Grainger, Inc. with 2009 sales of $6.2 billion is North America's leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating products with an expand... |
| | | 08/12/10 | Richard L. Keyser, Former Grainger Chairman Named Public Company Director of the Year by National Association of Corporate Directors| CHICAGO, Aug 12, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today announced Richard L. Keyser, the company's former Chairman and Chief Executive Officer has been named 2010 Public Company Director of the Year by the National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD). Mr. Keyser was recognized by his boardroom peers for having exemplary, steady leadership in dynamic and challenging environments.
The NACD Director of the Year awards recognize distinguished individual directors as role models in promoting exemplary board leadership, oversight excellence and courage in the boardroom. Mr. Keyser will be honored at an awards banquet in October at the NACD Annual Corporate Governance ... |
| | | 08/11/10 | Grainger Reports July 2010 Sales Results| CHICAGO, Aug 11, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales results for the month of July 2010. Daily sales increased 21 percent versus July 2009. Results for the month included a 5 percentage point positive contribution from acquisitions and a 1 percentage point contribution from foreign exchange. Excluding acquisitions and foreign exchange, daily sales for the company increased 15 percent. July had 21 selling days in 2010 and 22 in 2009. The 2010 third quarter will have the same number of selling days (64) as the 2009 third quarter.
July Daily Sales by Segment
2010 v. 2009
United States ... |
| | | 07/28/10 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend and Authorizes New Share Repurchase Program| CHICAGO, July 28, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- The board of directors of W.W. Grainger, Inc. today declared a cash dividend of 54 cents per share payable on September 1, 2010, to shareholders of record on August 9, 2010.
In addition, the board authorized the repurchase of up to 10 million shares of the company's outstanding common stock. Since 1984, Grainger repurchases have returned more than $3.5 billion to shareholders and reduced the number of shares outstanding by more than 38 percent. Repurchases under the new program are expected to be made periodically in the open market and/or through privately negotiated transactions. Shares repurchased will be available for general corporat... |
| | | 07/15/10 | Grainger Reports Second Quarter 2010 Earnings Per Share of $1.73, Including $0.08 Contribution from Unusual Item|
Raises 2010 EPS guidance to $6.10 to $6.40
Quarterly Highlights
- Sales of $1.8 billion, up 16 percent
- Operating earnings of $215 million, up 40 percent
- EPS of $1.73, up 43 percent
- Operating cash flow of $173 million
- Pretax ROIC* of 27.9 percent
CHICAGO, July 15, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported results for the second quarter and six months ended June 30, 2010. Second quarter sales of $1.8 billion increased 16 percent versus the 2009 second quarter. Both quarters had the same number of selling days (64). Net earnings for the quarter increased 40 percent to $129 million versus $92 million in 2009. Earnings per share increased 43 percent to $... |
| | | 06/21/10 | Grainger Creates Joint Venture in Colombia With Affiliate of Torhefe S.A.| CHICAGO, June 21, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today announced it has formed a joint venture with an affiliate of Torhefe S.A., THF International SAS. Grainger owns an 80 percent majority position in the joint venture, with THF International SAS maintaining 20 percent. The joint venture has acquired substantially all of the assets of Torhefe and will be known as Grainger Colombia. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
"Grainger Colombia brings together Torhefe's rich history of customer service in Colombia, and Grainger's unmatched North American supply chain and commitment to service," said Court Carruthers, President, Grainger International. "Grainger continues to... |
| | | 06/14/10 | Grainger to Present at William Blair Growth Stock Conference| CHICAGO, June 14, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Jim Ryan, Grainger Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer, will be presenting at the William Blair & Company 30th Annual Growth Stock Conference in Chicago, Illinois on Wednesday, June 16, 2010. The audio webcast of the event, scheduled for 10:40 a.m. CDT, will be available for 30 days at the following web site, (http://www.wsw.com/webcast/blair36/gww/). In addition the presentation slides will be posted on the Speeches and Presentations section of Grainger's Investor Relations Web site, www.grainger.com/investor.
About Grainger
W.W. Grainger, Inc. with 2009 sales of $6.2 billion is North America's leading broad line supplier... |
| | | 06/10/10 | Grainger Reports May 2010 Sales Results| CHICAGO, June 10, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales results for the month of May 2010. Daily sales increased 16 percent versus May 2009. Results for the month included a 5 percentage point positive contribution from acquisitions and a 2 percentage point contribution from foreign exchange. Excluding acquisitions and foreign exchange, daily sales for the company increased 9 percent. May had 20 selling days in both 2009 and 2010. The 2010 second quarter will have the same number of selling days (64) as the 2009 second quarter.
May Daily Sales by Segment
2010 v. 2009
United States ... |
| | | 05/17/10 | Grainger to Present at 2010 EPG Spring Conference| CHICAGO, May 17, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Jim Ryan, Grainger (NYSE: GWW) Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer, and Ron Jadin, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, will be presenting at the Electrical Products Group's annual spring conference in Longboat Key, Florida on Wednesday, May 19, 2010. The audio webcast of the event is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. EDT and will be available for 30 days at www.grainger.com/investor. In addition the presentation slides will be posted on the Speeches and Presentations section of Grainger's Investor Relations Web site.
About Grainger
W.W. Grainger, Inc. with 2009 sales of $6.2 billion is North America's leading broad line su... |
| | | 05/12/10 | Grainger Reports April 2010 Sales Results| CHICAGO, May 12, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales results for the month of April 2010. Daily sales increased 16 percent versus April 2009. Results for the month included a 5 percentage point positive contribution from acquisitions and a 3 percentage point contribution from foreign exchange. Excluding acquisitions and foreign exchange, daily sales for the company increased 8 percent. April had 22 selling days in both 2009 and 2010. The 2010 second quarter will have the same number of selling days (64) as the 2009 second quarter.
April Daily Sales by Segment
2010 v. 2009
United States ... |
| | | 04/28/10 | Grainger's Shareholders Elect 12 Directors and Other Meeting Highlights| CHICAGO, April 28, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --At the Grainger (NYSE: GWW) annual shareholder meeting held in Lake Forest, IL, today, Grainger Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Jim Ryan addressed the state of the business and offered a recap of 2009 full year and 2010 first quarter performance. As part of his remarks, Ryan provided an update on business trends for the month of April and indicated that the company is now forecasting daily sales growth of 16 to 18 percent for the month of April over April of 2009. For a copy of his speech, go to www.grainger.com/investor.
Shareholders elected the following 12 directors:
Brian P. Anderson ... |
| | | 04/28/10 | Grainger Increases Quarterly Dividend by 17 Percent| Decision represents 39th consecutive annual increase
CHICAGO, April 28, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --W.W. Grainger, Inc. (GWW) announced today that its board of directors raised the quarterly cash dividend by 17 percent to 54 cents per share payable on June 1, 2010, to shareholders of record on May 10, 2010. This reflects the 39th consecutive year of dividend increases, a record that only 15 S&P 500 companies can claim.
"Grainger has demonstrated a history of strong, stable cash generation. Our 17 percent increase affirms our desire to continue to return cash through dividends, which rewards our long-term shareholders," said Grainger Chairman, President and Chief Executive Offi... |
| | | 04/23/10 | American Red Cross Emergency Preparedness Partnership Program with W.W. Grainger, Inc. Grows with Addition of Cisco Global Volunteer Initiative| “Ready When the Time Comes” program trains workplace disaster volunteers
WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 23, 2010) – The American Red Cross and W.W. Grainger, Inc. today welcomed Cisco as the newest participant in the Red Cross “Ready When the Time Comes” corporate volunteer program that trains employees from businesses and mobilizes them as a community-based volunteer force when disasters strike.
Grainger (NYSE: GWW), a leading industrial distributor, is National Founding Sponsor of “Ready When the Time Comes,” the nation’s premier workplace disaster volunteer program. Since its creation in 2006, “Ready When the Time Comes” has led to more than 10,000 employees of 300 organizations in the Unite... |
| | | 04/14/10 | Grainger Reports Earnings Per Share of $1.31, Including Net Negative Charge of $0.07 for the 2010 First Quarter| --Raises 2010 EPS guidance to $5.70 to $6.10 --Quarterly Highlights -- Sales of $1.7 billion, up 14 percent -- Operating earnings of $183 million, up 15 percent -- EPS of $1.31, up 5 percent, including the following items: -- $0.15 charge related to the new health care legislation -- $0.08 benefit as a result of change in paid time off policy in the U.S. -- Operating cash flow of $113 million, up $70 million from Q1 of 2009 -- U.S. business sales growth of 8 percent, earnings growth of 11 percent, excluding paid time off policy change -- Generated pretax ROIC* of 25.9 percent
CHICAGO, April 14, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported first quarter sales of $1.7 ... |
| | | 03/18/10 | Grainger Ranked #1 Company Among Diversified Wholesalers on FORTUNE Magazine's 2010 "World's Most Admired Companies" List| CHICAGO, March 18, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- FORTUNE Magazine has named Grainger (NYSE: GWW) the "most admired" company among diversified wholesalers in the magazine's annual listing of the World's Most Admired Companies. The recognition will appear in the upcoming March 22, 2010 issue. Grainger is the leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) products serving businesses and institutions.
"This honor belongs to our outstanding employees," said Grainger Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, James T. Ryan. "It is their passion for serving professionals who keep workplaces safe, efficient and functioning that sets us apart in the marketplace."
F... |
| | | 03/10/10 | Grainger Reports February 2010 Sales Results| CHICAGO, March 10, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales results for the month of February 2010. Daily sales increased 12 percent versus February 2009. Results for the month included a 5 percentage point positive contribution from acquisitions, a 1 percentage point benefit from the sales of seasonal products and 2 percentage point contribution from foreign exchange. Excluding acquisitions, seasonal sales and foreign exchange, daily sales for the company increased 4 percent. February 2009 and 2010 both had 20 selling days. The 2010 first quarter will have the same number of selling days (63) as the 2009 first quarter.
February... |
| | | 02/22/10 | Acklands-Grainger Inc. Acquires Ranson Industrial and Safety Supplies Inc.| TORONTO, February 22, 2010 – Acklands-Grainger Inc., Canada’s largest distributor of industrial and safety supplies, today announced that it has acquired the assets of Ranson Industrial and Safety Supplies Inc., effective February 20, 2010. Ranson, with 2009 sales of approximately C$8 million, is a distributor of industrial and safety products with one location in Sarnia, Ontario. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
"Ranson is a leading distributor of industrial and safety supplies in Southwestern Ontario with a track record of exceptional customer service,” said Sean O’Brien, President of Acklands-Grainger. “With this acquisition, we look forward to building upon our shared goal of helpi... |
| | | 02/17/10 | Twelve Directors Slated for Grainger's Board to be Voted on at the Company's Annual Meeting on April 28, 2010| Slate includes one new nominee, E. Scott SantiCHICAGO, Feb 17, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- The Board of Directors of W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW) today selected a slate of nominees to serve for the 2010 - 2011 period. Eleven of the candidates are current board members; the board also nominated E. Scott Santi, vice chairman of Illinois Tool Works Inc., as a twelfth candidate. The current eleven members to be voted on at the annual meeting are:
Brian P. Anderson
Wilbur H. Gantz
V. Ann Hailey
William K. Hall
Stuart L. Levenick
John W. McCarter, Jr.
Neil S. Novich
Michael J. Roberts
... |
| | | 02/11/10 | Grainger Reports January 2010 Sales Results| CHICAGO, Feb 11, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales results for the month of January 2010. Daily sales increased 12 percent versus January 2009. Results for the month included a 5 percentage point positive contribution from acquisitions, a 2 percentage point benefit from the timing of the New Years' holiday and a 2 percentage point contribution from foreign exchange. Excluding acquisitions, holiday timing and foreign exchange, daily sales for the company increased 3 percent. January 2010 had 20 selling days versus 21 in January 2009. The 2010 first quarter will have the same number of selling days (63) as the 2009 first quarter.
... |
| | | 02/08/10 | Grainger Launches its 2010 Catalog, Features Broadest Product Offering in Company's 83 Year History| LAKE FOREST, IL (Feb. 8, 2010) – Grainger (NYSE: GWW), North America’s leading distributor of facilities maintenance supplies, today announced the release of its 2010 catalog including more than 300,000 maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) products, the company’s largest offering yet.
“As businesses and institutions are challenged to find ways to do more with fewer resources, now more than ever, customers are looking to Grainger to help them reduce the cost of maintaining their facilities,” said Mike Pulick, President, Grainger U.S. “We continue to invest in the products, programs and services that businesses and institutions of all sizes need to keep their facilities safe, efficient an... |
| | | 01/27/10 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, Jan 27, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- The board of directors of W.W. Grainger, Inc. have declared a cash dividend of 46cents per share payable on March 1, 2010, to shareholders of record on February 8, 2010.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. with 2009 sales of $6.2 billion is the leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving businesses and institutions in the United States and Canada, with an expanding presence in Japan, Mexico, India, China and Panama. Through a highly integrated network including branches, distribution centers and Web sites, Grainger's employees help customers get the job done. For more information about the company, visit www.grainger.com/investor.... |
| | | 01/26/10 | Grainger Reports Sales of $6.2 Billion and Earnings Per Share of $5.62 for the Year Ended December 31, 2009| --Highlights --
4Q09 sales of $1.6 billion, up 3 percent
4Q09 EPS of $1.27, down 7 percent, including the following items:
$0.07 in asset impairment charges
$0.05 in severance charges
$732 million in operating cash flow for the year
$507 million returned to shareholders in dividends & share repurchases in 2009
Pretax ROIC* of 24.9 percent versus 29.8 percent in 2008
Visit www.grainger.com/investor to access a podcast describing Grainger's performance in more detail.
CHICAGO, Jan 26, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales, earnings and earnings per share for the year ended December 31, 2009. Sales of $6.2 billion... |
| | | 12/10/09 | Grainger Reports November 2009 Sales Results| CHICAGO, Dec. 10 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW - News) today reported sales results for the month of November 2009. Daily sales increased 2 percent versus November 2008. Results for the month included a 4 percentage point positive contribution from acquisitions and a 2 percentage point benefit from foreign exchange. Sales were negatively affected by approximately 1 percentage point due to a decline in the sales of seasonal products. Excluding acquisitions, foreign exchange and the effects of seasonal products, daily sales for the company declined 3 percent. November 2009 had 20 selling days versus 19 in November 2008. The 2009 fourth quarter will have the same number of selli... |
| | | 11/30/09 | Acklands-Grainger Inc. Acquires K&D Pratt Industrial Division| TORONTO, November 30, 2009 – Acklands-Grainger Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Grainger, North America’s leading industrial distributor, today announced that it has acquired the assets of the K&D Pratt Industrial Division effective November 28, 2009. The industrial division, with 2008 sales of approximately C$12 million, is a distributor of industrial and safety products with facilities in Dartmouth, NS, St. John’s, NL, and Saint John, NB. It was previously one of six business units owned and operated by K&D Pratt Group Inc. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
"We are very excited about joining forces with the K&D Pratt Industrial Division and anticipate it will help us enhance ... |
| | | 11/18/09 | Grainger Announces Acquisition of Alliance Energy Solutions|
CHICAGO, Nov. 18 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), North America's leading broad line distributor of facilities maintenance products, today announced it has signed and closed an all cash acquisition of Alliance Energy Solutions. Grainger anticipates the transaction should be accretive to earnings in 2010 by approximately $0.01 - 0.02 per share. Other terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Grainger Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer James T. Ryan said, "This transaction is the first service-based acquisition we're adding to our U.S. customer offering and we anticipate it will help us accelerate our strategy to become our customers' indispensable partner i... |
| | | 11/18/09 | Grainger Provides Outlook at Analyst Meeting| Issues 2010 EPS Guidance of $5.30 to $5.80
CHICAGO, Nov. 18 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), the leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving businesses and institutions, held its annual analyst meeting in Lake Forest, Illinois, today. Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, James T. Ryan, hosted the event. The meeting also included presentations from several other Grainger leaders.
As part of the meeting, Grainger provided the following outlook for sales and earnings in 2009 and 2010:
For the 2009 fourth quarter, the company is forecasting sales to be in a
range of down 2% to up 1%, with earnings per share for the qu... |
| | | 11/18/09 | Grainger Reports October 2009 Sales Results|
CHICAGO, Nov. 18 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales results for the month of October 2009. Daily sales declined 3 percent versus October 2008. Results for the month included a 3 percentage point contribution from acquisitions and a 2 percentage point benefit from foreign exchange. Excluding acquisitions and foreign exchange, daily sales for the company declined 8 percent. October 2009 had 22 selling days versus 23 in October 2008. The 2009 fourth quarter will have the same number of selling days (64) as the 2008 fourth quarter.
October Daily Sales by Segment
2009 v. 2008
United States ... |
| | | 11/16/09 | Grainger to Host Annual Analyst Meeting| CHICAGO, Nov. 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), the leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving businesses and institutions, will host its annual analyst meeting on Wednesday, November 18th, 2009, in Lake Forest, Illinois. Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, James T. Ryan, will host the event. The meeting will also include presentations from the following leaders:
-- Ron Jadin, Senior Vice President, Finance and Chief Financial Officer
-- D.G. Macpherson, Senior Vice President, Global Supply Chain
-- Mike Pulick, Senior Vice President and President, Grainger United States
-- Court Carruthers, Senior Vice... |
| | | 11/02/09 | Grainger Launches New Online Search Tool: Makes Doing Business Online Easier| CHICAGO, Nov 02, 2009 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), North America's leading distributor of facilities maintenance supplies, today announced the launch of its new online "search and select" tool. This tool makes it easier for customers to search and find any of the more than 400,000 maintenance, repair and operating products through its website, grainger.com. The new online search tool provides quicker, easier and more accurate service, helping customers save time and money. (To learn more, go to www.grainger.com/newsearch.)
"Customers tell us they need a partner to help them increase productivity and profitability, especially in this tough economy," said Sam Ki... |
| | | 10/28/09 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend|
CHICAGO, Oct. 28 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The board of directors of W.W. Grainger, Inc. at their meeting today declared a cash dividend of 46 cents per share payable on December 1, 2009, to shareholders of record on November 9, 2009.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. with 2008 sales of $6.9 billion is the leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving businesses and institutions in United States, Canada, Japan, Mexico, India, China and Panama. Through a highly integrated network including more than 600 branches, 18 distribution centers and multiple Web sites, Grainger's employees help customers get the job done. For more information about the company, visit www.grainger.com... |
| | | 10/14/09 | Grainger Announces Acquisition of Imperial Supplies, LLC|
CHICAGO, Oct. 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), North America's leading broad line distributor of facilities maintenance products, today announced it has signed and closed an all cash acquisition of Imperial Supplies, LLC from American Capital, Ltd. (Nasdaq: ACAS). No other terms of the agreement were disclosed. Grainger anticipates the transaction should be accretive to earnings by $.03-$.05 a share in 2010 including product and transportation cost savings.
Imperial is a national distributor of quality maintenance products and aftermarket components for the vehicle and fleet industry. The company has built its strong reputation by offering customers highly ... |
| | | 10/14/09 | Grainger Reports Earnings Per Share of $1.88 for the 2009 Third Quarter, Including a One-Time $0.37 Gain| Quarterly highlights
CHICAGO, Oct. 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported third quarter sales of $1.6 billion, which were down 14 percent versus third quarter 2008. Net earnings for the quarter increased 3 percent to $145 million versus $140 million in 2008. Earnings per share increased by 6 percent to $1.88 versus $1.77** for the third quarter of 2008. The 2009 third quarter included a one-time $47 million pre-tax or $0.37 per share gain from the step-up of its investment in MonotaRO Co. Ltd., after Grainger became a majority owner in September.
"Despite the effects of the sluggish economy, we are pleased with our results," said Grainger Chairman and... |
| | | 09/16/09 | Grainger to Present at Morgan Keegan Industrial Conference|
CHICAGO, Sept. 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Michael Pulick, President, Grainger U.S., will be presenting at the Morgan Keegan Industrial/Transportation Conference in Chicago, Illinois on Thursday, September 17, 2009. The audio webcast of the event, scheduled for 9:45 a.m. CDT, will be available for 30 days at the following web site, www.grainger.com/investor. In addition the presentation slides will be posted on the Speeches and Presentations section of Grainger's Investor Relations Web site, listed above.
About Grainger
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2008 sales of $6.9 billion, is a leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving businesses and institu... |
| | | 09/14/09 | Grainger Completes Tender Offer Bid; Achieves 53% Stake in MonotaRO Co., Ltd.|
CHICAGO, Sept. 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger, North America's leading broad line distributor of facilities maintenance products, today announced it has completed its tender offer bid in Japan for 380,000 shares of MonotaRO Co., Ltd., a Japanese company listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, at a price of 1,010 Yen ($11.11) per common share. As a result of the completion of the transaction, Grainger has achieved a 53% majority ownership in MonotaRO and will consolidate MonotaRO's results beginning with the balance sheet in the third quarter and the full income statement in the fourth quarter.
As a majority owner, Grainger will recognize 100% of the fair value of acquired assets an... |
| | | 09/11/09 | Grainger Reports August 2009 Sales Results|
CHICAGO, Sept. 11 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales results for the month of August 2009. Daily sales declined 13 percent versus August 2008, primarily the result of weak demand across all customer end-markets and geographies. Foreign exchange negatively affected sales by approximately 1 percentage point. There were the same number of selling days in August 2009 and August 2008 (21). The 2009 third quarter will have the same number of selling days (64) as the 2008 third quarter.
August Daily Sales by Segment
2009 v. 2008
United States -14%
... |
| | | 09/02/09 | Grainger Promotes Sean O'Brien to President, Acklands-Grainger|
CHICAGO, Sept. 2 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), a leading industrial distributor, today announced that Sean O'Brien, 42, has been named to the position of President, Acklands-Grainger Inc., Grainger's Canadian subsidiary. O'Brien's new responsibilities include oversight of the Canadian business operations which had revenues of $728 million (C$773 million) in 2008. O'Brien succeeds and reports to Court D. Carruthers who became Senior Vice President and President, Grainger International, in March of this year.
"Sean's energy and experience will help drive continued success in the Canadian maintenance, repair and operating supplies (MRO) market," said Carruthers. "We h... |
| | | 09/02/09 | Grainger to Provide Supply Chain Update at Investor Meeting|
CHICAGO, Sept. 2 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- D.G. Macpherson, Senior Vice President, Global Supply Chain, will present an update on Grainger's logistics network at an investor meeting and tour of the company's distribution center in Robbinsville, N.J., on Thursday, September 3, 2009. The audio webcast of Macpherson's presentation, scheduled to begin at 12:45 p.m. EDT, can be accessed through the company's Web site at www.grainger.com/investor. In addition, a recording of the webcast will be available for 30 days on the site.
About Grainger
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2008 sales of $6.9 billion, is a leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving bus... |
| | | 09/01/09 | Grainger Promotes Jeff Yin to Vice President and General Manager, Grainger China|
CHICAGO, Sept. 1 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), a leading industrial distributor, today announced that Jeff Yin, 47, has been named to the position of Vice President and General Manager, Grainger China, based in Shanghai. Yin's new responsibilities include oversight of the Chinese business operations, which had revenues of approximately $10 million in 2008. He reports to Court Carruthers, Senior Vice President and President, Grainger International.
"We opened in Shanghai in 2006, the first U.S. industrial distribution company to be established on a standalone basis in China. Our goal is to rapidly grow our MRO business in China, leveraging our strengths in safety prod... |
| | | 08/12/09 | Grainger Reports July 2009 Sales Results| CHICAGO, Aug. 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported sales results for the month of July 2009. Daily sales declined 14
percent versus July 2008, primarily the result of weak demand across all
customer end-markets and geographies. Foreign exchange negatively affected
sales by approximately one percentage point. There were the same number of
selling days in July 2009 and July 2008 (22). The 2009 third quarter will
have the same number of selling days (64) as the 2008 third quarter.
July Daily Sales by Segment
2009 v. 2008
United States -14%
Canada ... |
| | | 07/29/09 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, July 29, 2009 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX/ -- The board of directors of W.W. Grainger, Inc. at their meeting today declared a cash dividend of 46 cents per share payable on September 1, 2009, to shareholders of record on August 10, 2009.
W.W. Grainger, Inc., with 2008 sales of $6.9 billion, is the leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving businesses and institutions in United States, Canada, Mexico, India, China and Panama. Through a highly integrated network including more than 600 branches, 18 distribution centers and multiple Web sites, Grainger's employees help customers get the job done. For more information about the company, visit www.graing... |
| | | 07/15/09 | Grainger Reports Earnings Per Share Of $1.21 For The 2009 Second Quarter|
Quarterly highlights
Sales of $1.5 billion down 13 percent
Net earnings of $92 million down 18 percent
EPS of $1.21 down 15 percent
Operating cash flow of $190 million
Generated pretax ROIC of 23.8 percent*
Visit www.grainger.com/investor to access a podcast with Grainger's
supplemental commentary.
CHICAGO, July 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported second quarter sales of $1.5 billion, which were down 13 percent
versus second quarter 2008. Net earnings for the quarter de... |
| | | 06/19/09 | Grainger to Acquire Majority Ownership in MonotaRO Co., Ltd.| CHICAGO, June 19 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger, North America's
leading broad line distributor of facilities maintenance products, today
announced it plans to become a 53% majority owner of MonotaRO, a direct
marketer of maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) supplies in Japan.
Grainger expects to invest approximately $4M through a tender offer bid
process later this summer.
Established in 2000 in Osaka, MonotaRO started as a joint venture company
between Grainger and Sumitomo Corporation supplying MRO products in Japan.
MonotaRO has successfully innovated in the Japanese MRO market, the second
largest industrial market in the world, offering more than 110,000 products... |
| | | 06/08/09 | Grainger Reports May 2009 Sales Results| CHICAGO, June 8, 2009 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales results for the month of May 2009. Daily sales declined ten percent versus May 2008, primarily the result of weak demand across all customer end-markets and geographies. Foreign exchange negatively affected sales by approximately two percentage points. Sales from pandemic related product as a result of the H1N1 virus outbreak positively affected sales by one percentage point. There was one less selling day in May 2009 (20) versus May 2008 (21). The 2009 second quarter has the same number of selling days (64) as the 2008 second quarter.
May Daily Sales by Segment
... |
| | | 06/05/09 | Grainger to Present at William Blair Growth Stock Conference| CHICAGO, June 5 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- James T. Ryan, Grainger
Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer, will be presenting at the
William Blair & Company 29th Annual Growth Stock Conference in Chicago,
Illinois on Tuesday, June 9, 2009. The audio webcast of the event, scheduled
for 10:10 a.m. CDT, will be available for 30 days at the following web site,
http://www.wsw.com/webcast/blair17/gww/. In addition the presentation slides
will be posted on the Speeches and Presentations section of Grainger's
Investor Relations Web site, www.grainger.com/investor.
About Grainger
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2008 sales of $6.9 billion, is a
leading broad line s... |
| | | 06/04/09 | Grainger Announces Acquisition of Asia Pacific Brands| CHICAGO, June 4, 2009 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), North America's leading broad line distributor of facilities maintenance products, today announced it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire full ownership of its joint venture in India, Asia Pacific Brands India Private Limited, one of India's leading industrial and electrical wholesale distributors.
"We are excited about growing our business in India," said Grainger's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Jim Ryan. "As that economy gets more competitive, Indian companies want efficient and reliable ways to get the quality products they need to keep their facilities running and their employees safe. Wit... |
| | | 05/19/09 | Grainger to Present at 2009 EPG Spring Conference| CHICAGO, May 19 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- James T. Ryan, Grainger
Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer, will be presenting at the
Electrical Products Group's annual spring conference in Longboat Key, Florida
on Wednesday, May 20, 2009. The audio webcast of the event is scheduled for
9:00 a.m. EDT and will be available for 30 days. In addition the presentation
slides will be posted on the Speeches and Presentations section of Grainger's
Investor Relations Web site, www.grainger.com/investor.
About Grainger
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2008 sales of $6.9 billion, is a
leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses an... |
| | | 05/12/09 | Grainger Reports April 2009 Sales Results| CHICAGO, May 12, 2009 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported sales results for the month of April 2009. Daily sales declined 15 percent versus April 2008, primarily the result of weak demand across all customer end-markets and geographies. Sales were negatively affected by approximately 2 percentage points due to foreign exchange. There were 22 selling days in both April 2009 and April 2008. The 2009 second quarter will have the same number of selling days (64) as the 2008 second quarter.
April Daily Sales by Segment
2009 v. 2008
United States -14%
... |
| | | 04/29/09 | Grainger's Shareholders Approve 13 Board Members and Ratify Auditor Ernst & Young LLP, for 2009 - 2010| CHICAGO, April 29 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- At the Grainger (NYSE: GWW)
annual shareholder meeting held in Lake Forest, IL, today, Grainger Chairman,
Chief Executive Officer and President James T. Ryan provided an update on
state of the business and a recap of 2008 and 2009 first quarter performance.
For a copy of his speech, go to www.grainger.com/investor.
Shareholders re-elected 13 directors, all of whom were previously serving
on the board. The directors are:
Brian P. Anderson Neil S. Novich
Wilbur H. Gantz Michael J. Roberts
V. Ann Hailey Gary L. Rogers
Willia... |
| | | 04/29/09 | Grainger Raises Quarterly Dividend| Decision represents 38th consecutive annual increase
CHICAGO, April 29 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- W.W. Grainger, Inc. (GWW)
announced today that its board of directors today raised the cash dividend by
15 percent to 46 cents per share payable on June 1, 2009, to shareholders of
record on May 11, 2009. This decision reflects the company's confidence in
its future and ability to continue to deliver higher annual dividend income to
its shareholders, something that Grainger has done for 38 consecutive years.
Grainger Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Jim Ryan said,
"In spite of the tough economy, our strong, stable cash flow and disciplined
approach allow us to... |
| | | 04/28/09 | Grainger Promotes James T. Ryan to Chairman of the Board| CHICAGO, April 28 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- W. W. Grainger, Inc. announced
that Grainger's CEO and President James T. Ryan will add the title and
responsibilities of chairman of the board, effective today. He is succeeding
Richard L. Keyser, who was named Chairman Emeritus and remains a member of the
board of directors. Both men are standing for election to Grainger's Board of
Directors on April 29, 2009.
Keyser said, "Jim becomes chairman at a time that Grainger is poised to
deliver even greater returns for its shareholders. He brings energy,
discipline and passion to a company dedicated to providing great customer
service. Jim's depth of industry experience and tenure ... |
| | | 04/14/09 | Grainger Reports Earnings Per Share of $1.25 for the 2009 First Quarter| Generates pretax ROIC of 24.8 percent*
Highlights
- Sales of $1.5 billion down 12 percent, down 10 percent on a daily basis
- Net earnings of $96 million down 16 percent
- EPS of $1.25 down 11 percent
- Repurchased 1.9 million shares
- Generated pretax ROIC of 24.8 percent*
Visit www.grainger.com/investor to access a Podcast describing Grainger's
performance in more detail.
CHICAGO, April 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported first quarter sales of $1.5 billion, which were down 12 percent
versus first quarter 2008. There was one less selling day in the quarter; on
a daily basis sales were down 10 ... |
| | | 03/11/09 | Grainger Reports February 2009 Sales Results| CHICAGO, March 11 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported sales results for the month of February 2009. Daily sales declined
10 percent versus February 2008, primarily the result of weak demand across
all customer end-markets and geographies. Sales were negatively affected by
approximately 2 percentage points due to foreign exchange. There was one less
selling day in February 2009 (20) versus February 2008 (21). The 2009 first
quarter will have one less selling day (63) versus the 2008 first quarter
(64).
February Daily Sales by Segment
2009 v. 2008
Grainger ... |
| | | 02/11/09 | Grainger Reports January 2009 Sales Results| CHICAGO, Feb. 11 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported sales results for the month of January, 2009. Daily sales declined 9
percent versus January 2008, primarily the result of weakened demand across
all customer end-markets and geographies. Sales were negatively affected by
approximately 2 percentage points due to foreign exchange. Sales for Friday,
January 2nd, resulted in less than half of a day of normal volume and
negatively affected sales growth by about 2 percentage points. There was one
less selling day in January 2009 (21) versus January 2008 (22). The 2009
first quarter will have one less selling day (63) versus the 2008 first
quarter (64).... |
| | | 02/09/09 | Grainger Launches Its 2009 Catalog, Features Broadest Product Offering in Company's 82 Year History| CHICAGO, Feb. 9 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), North
America's leading distributor of facilities maintenance supplies, today
announced the release of its 2009 catalog including nearly 240,000
maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) products. Grainger spokesperson Mike
Rowe, creator, executive producer and host of Discovery Channel's "Dirty Jobs"
is featured on the cover (for more information on this partnership see:
http://www.grainger.com/mikerowe).
"Now more than ever, businesses and institutions of all sizes are counting
on us to be the one-stop shop for all of their facilities maintenance product
needs," said Mike Pulick, President, Grainger U.S. "We ar... |
| | | 02/02/09 | Grainger Promotes Carruthers to New Position as President, Grainger International| CHICAGO, Feb. 2 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), a leading
industrial distributor, today announced that Court Carruthers, 36, has been
named to a newly created position as President of its international businesses
in Canada (Acklands-Grainger Inc.), Mexico (Grainger S.A. de C.V.), and China.
Carruthers' new responsibilities include growing and improving Grainger's
international business operations, which had sales of more than $800 million
in 2008.
"Grainger's international opportunities to leverage its supply chain and
drive increased sales and profitability are significant," said Carruthers,
currently president of the company's Canadian subsidiary, Acklands-... |
| | | 01/28/09 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, Jan. 28 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The board of directors of W.W.
Grainger, Inc. have declared a cash dividend of 40 cents per share payable on
March 1, 2009 to shareholders of record on February 9, 2009.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2008 sales of $6.9 billion, is the
leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions in the United States, Canada, Mexico, China and
Panama. Through a highly integrated network including more than 600 branches,
18 distribution centers and multiple Web sites, Grainger's employees help
customers get the job done. For more information about the company, visit
http://www.grainger.co... |
| | | 01/26/09 | Grainger Reports Record Sales of $6.9 Billion and Earnings Per Share of $6.04 for the Year Ended December 31, 2008| 2008 Highlights
- Sales of $6.9 billion, up 7 percent, 6 percent on a daily basis
- EPS were $6.04, up 22 percent
- Earnings for the year include two unusual items totaling $0.13 per
share
- $0.08 per share in Q4 for write down of investment in joint venture
- $0.05 per share in Q2 for government legal settlement
- Operating cash flow was $530 million
- 5.7 million shares were repurchased
- $516 million to shareholders in form of dividends and share repurchases
- Pretax ROIC* was 29.8 percent versus 28.5 in 2007
Visit www.grainger.com/investor to access a podcast describing Grainger's
performa... |
| | | 01/22/09 | Grainger and Mike Rowe Kick off Partnership, Reinforce Shared Commitment to Skilled Workforce of Tomorrow| ORLANDO, Fla., Jan. 22 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- This week Grainger
(NYSE: GWW), North America's leading distributor of facilities maintenance
supplies, kicked off a partnership with Mike Rowe, creator, executive producer
and host of Discovery Channel's "Dirty Jobs." In his role as a Grainger
spokesperson, Rowe will be featured on the cover of the company's 2009 catalog
and make several appearances on behalf of the company. Rowe is also partnering
with Grainger in raising awareness about the importance of technical education
and the growing shortage of skilled workers.
"Mike is an excellent fit for Grainger because like many of our customers,
he knows what it means to roll ... |
| | | 12/12/08 | Grainger Reports November 2008 Sales Results| CHICAGO, Dec. 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported sales results for the month of November 2008. Daily sales declined 2
percent versus November 2007. Sales benefited by approximately 1 percentage
point due to Lab Safety's acquisition of Highsmith. Sales were negatively
affected by approximately 3 percentage points due to foreign exchange. There
were two fewer selling days in November 2008 (19) versus November 2007 (21).
The 2008 fourth quarter will have 64 selling days, the same as the 2007 fourth
quarter.
November Daily Sales by Segment
2008 v. 2007
Grainger Branch-based ... |
| | | 11/19/08 | Grainger Provides Outlook at Analyst Meeting| Reiterates 2008 EPS guidance of $6.00 to $6.20
Issues 2009 EPS Guidance of $5.30 to $6.70
CHICAGO, Nov. 19 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), the
leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions, held its annual analyst meeting in Lake Forest,
Illinois, today. Chairman, Richard L. Keyser, and President and Chief
Executive Officer, James T. Ryan, hosted the event along with Senior Vice
President and Chief Financial Officer, Ron Jadin. The event also included
presentations from several other Grainger leaders.
As part of the meeting, Grainger reiterated its 2008 earnings per shar... |
| | | 11/17/08 | Grainger to Host Annual Analyst Meeting| Plans to discuss outlook for remainder of 2008 and expectations for 2009CHICAGO, Nov 17, 2008 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX News Network/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), the
leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions, will host its annual analyst meeting on
Wednesday, November 19th, 2008, in Lake Forest, Illinois. President and Chief
Executive Officer, James T. Ryan, will host the event. The meeting will also
include presentations from the following leaders:
* Ron Jadin, Senior Vice President, Finance and Chief Financial Officer
* Mike Pulick, Senior Vice President and President, Grainger Industrial
Supply
... |
| | | 11/12/08 | Grainger Reports October 2008 Sales Results| CHICAGO, Nov. 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported sales results for the month of October 2008. Daily sales grew 4
percent versus October 2007. Sales benefited by approximately 1 percentage
point due to Lab Safety's acquisition of Highsmith. Sales were negatively
affected by approximately 2 percentage points due to foreign exchange.
Selling days for the month (23) were the same in both years. The 2008 fourth
quarter will have 64 selling days, the same as the 2007 fourth quarter.
October Daily Sales by Segment
2008 v. 2007
Grainger Branch-based +5%
... |
| | | 10/29/08 | Grainger Promotes Michael A. Pulick to President, Grainger Industrial Supply, and D.G. Macpherson to Head Global Supply Chain Function| CHICAGO, Oct. 29 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- W. W. Grainger, Inc.
(NYSE: GWW), the leading industrial distributor in North America, announced
today that Michael A. Pulick, Senior Vice President for Customer Service, was
promoted to Senior Vice President and President, Grainger Industrial Supply,
effective November 1, 2008. Pulick, 44, is replacing Y.C. Chen, 61, who will
stay on in a special advisory role with the company. At the same time, D.G.
Macpherson, 41, will be taking on additional responsibility as the head of a
new function.
Y.C. Chen will retire as President, Grainger Industrial Supply, on
November 1, 2008, but will stay on with the company providing guidance
inter... |
| | | 10/29/08 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, Oct. 29 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The board of directors of W.W.
Grainger, Inc. at their meeting today declared a cash dividend of 40 cents per
share payable on December 1, 2008 to shareholders of record on November 10,
2008.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW) with 2007 sales of $6.4 billion is the
leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions in the United States, Canada, Mexico, China and
Panama. Through a highly integrated network including more than 600 branches,
18 distribution centers and multiple Web sites, Grainger's employees help
customers get the job done.
CONTACT:
Media
Ernest Duplessis
... |
| | | 10/14/08 | Grainger Reports Record Sales and EPS for 2008 Third Quarter| Raises 2008 EPS guidance to $6.00 to $6.20
CHICAGO, Oct. 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported record sales, earnings and earnings per share for the quarter ended
September 30, 2008. Sales of $1.8 billion were up 11 percent, 9 percent on a
daily basis, versus the third quarter of 2007. Net earnings for the quarter
increased 28 percent to $140 million versus $109 million in 2007. Earnings
per share grew 39 percent to $1.79, versus $1.29 for the 2007 third quarter.
There were 64 sales days in the 2008 third quarter versus 63 days in 2007.
"Our third quarter and year-to-date results are a testimony to Grainger's
winning strategy and our employees' ... |
| | | 09/11/08 | Grainger Reports August 2008 Sales Results| CHICAGO, Sept. 11 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported sales results for the month of August 2008. Daily sales grew
7 percent versus August 2007. Sales benefited by approximately 1 percentage
point due to Lab Safety's acquisition of Highsmith. Sales were negatively
affected by approximately 2 percentage points due to a decline in sales of
seasonal products. There were two less selling days in August 2008 (21) versus
August 2007 (23). The 2008 third quarter will have 64 selling days, which is
one more selling day than the 2007 third quarter.
August Daily Sales by Segment
2008 v. 2007
... |
| | | 08/12/08 | Grainger Reports July 2008 Sales Results| CHICAGO, Aug. 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported sales results for the month of July 2008. Daily sales grew 11 percent
versus July 2007 including a 1 percentage point benefit from foreign currency
primarily due to the strength of the Canadian dollar. Sales were negatively
affected by approximately 1 percentage point due to softer sales of seasonal
products. Sales were positively affected by approximately 1 percentage point
due to Lab Safety Supply's acquisition of Highsmith, Inc., on July 10th. There
was one more selling day in July 2008 (22) versus July 2007 (21). The 2008
third quarter will have 64 selling days versus 63 in the 2007 third quarter.
... |
| | | 07/30/08 | Grainger Announces Joint Venture in India| Investment in local wholesaler marks first distribution initiative in India
CHICAGO, July 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), North
America's leading broad line distributor of facilities maintenance products,
today announced the company has bought a 49.9 percent stake in Asia Pacific
Brands India Ltd., one of India's largest industrial and electrical wholesale
distributors. The company paid $5.4 million; at the same time, the company
matched a $1.1 million capital infusion with its joint venture partner
intended to help grow the business. With 27 locations and more than 6,200
dealer relationships across India, Asia Pacific Brands had revenue of $47
million (USD... |
| | | 07/30/08 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, July 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The board of directors of W.W.
Grainger, Inc. at their meeting today declared a cash dividend of 40 cents per
share payable on September 1, 2008 to shareholders of record on August 11,
2008.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2007 sales of $6.4 billion, is the
leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions in the United States, Canada, Mexico and China.
Through a highly integrated network including more than 600 branches, 18
distribution centers and multiple Web sites, Grainger's employees help
customers get the job done.
CONTACT:
Media
Ernest Duplessis
Vice P... |
| | | 07/25/08 | GRAINGER ANNOUNCES RESOLUTION OF GOVERNMENT TRADE AGREEMENTS ACT AND SOURCING CASE| CHICAGO, (July 25, 2008) – Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today announced that it has agreed to a settlement of $6 million, or $0.05 a share, with the U.S. Department of Justice to resolve the Trade Agreements Act and Sourcing complaint, which had been unsealed in January 2008 in a federal court in Wisconsin. Demonstrating a commitment to cooperate fully with the Justice Department, Grainger resolved the complaint to avoid further costly legal fees. The company had previously taken a $0.05 per share reserve to fully fund the settlement.
“We value our reputation with our customers and are committed to operating with the highest level of integrity,” said Grainger President and Chief Executive Officer... |
| | | 07/15/08 | Grainger Reports 2nd Quarter 2008 Earnings Per Share of $1.43 Including a $0.05 Charge for Legal Reserve| Reiterates EPS guidance of $5.80 to $6.10 for 2008 Quarterly Highlights - Sales up 10 percent - Net earnings up 8 percent, 12 percent excluding charge - EPS up 18 percent, 22 percent excluding charge - Generated year-to-date pretax ROIC of 28.5 percent*, 28.8 percent excluding charge Visit www.grainger.com/investor to access a podcast describing Grainger's performance in more detail.
CHICAGO, July 15, 2008 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX News Network/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported sales, earnings and earnings per share for the second quarter, which
ended June 30, 2008. Sales of $1.8 billion were up 10 percent versus second
quarter 2007. Net earnings for the quarter increase... |
| | | 07/10/08 | Lab Safety Supply, Inc. Acquires Highsmith, Inc.| CHICAGO, July 10 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), North
America's leading industrial distributor, today announced that its direct
marketing subsidiary, Lab Safety Supply, Inc., (LSS) has acquired
substantially all of the assets of Highsmith, Inc. located in Fort Atkinson,
Wisconsin. Highsmith is a direct marketing leader in the library equipment,
furniture and supplies market. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
"We are pleased to be adding Highsmith to our specialty catalog group,"
said Larry Loizzo, President of Lab Safety Supply. "They have built a solid
brand position in the library and school supplies market over the past 50
years; we intend to bui... |
| | | 06/17/08 | Grainger to Present at William Blair Growth Stock Conference| CHICAGO, June 17 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger President and Chief
Executive Officer James T. Ryan will be presenting Wednesday, June 18, 2008,
at the William Blair & Company 28th Annual Growth Stock Conference in Chicago,
Ill. The audio webcast of the event, scheduled for 1:10p.m. CDT, will be
available for 30 days at the following web site,
http://www.wsw.com/webcast/blair13/gww/.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2007 sales of $6.4 billion, is the
leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions in the United States, Canada, Mexico and China.
Through a highly integrated network including more than 600 branches,
1... |
| | | 06/13/08 | Grainger Reports May 2008 Sales Results| CHICAGO, June 13 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported sales results for the month of May 2008. Daily sales grew 7 percent
versus May 2007 including a 1 percentage point benefit from foreign currency
primarily due to the Canadian dollar. Daily sales were negatively affected by
approximately 1 percentage point due to a decline in the sales of seasonal
products. There was one less selling day in May 2008 (21) versus May 2007
(22). The 2008 second quarter will have 64 selling days, the same as the 2007
second quarter.
May Daily Sales by Segment
2008 v. 2007
Grainger Bran... |
| | | 06/09/08 | Acklands - Grainger Inc. Acquires Excel Industriel| CHICAGO, June 9 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), North
America's leading industrial distributor, today announced that its Canadian
subsidiary, Acklands - Grainger Inc., has acquired substantially all of the
assets of Excel Industriel located in Granby, Quebec. Excel is a
business-to-business broad line distributor of maintenance, repair and
operating (MRO) supplies. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
"We are very excited about joining forces with Excel," said Court D.
Carruthers, President of Acklands - Grainger. "They are a leading player in
the Eastern Townships of Quebec and have a long history of excellent customer
service."
"Excel has been i... |
| | | 05/20/08 | Grainger to Present at 2008 EPG Spring Conference| CHICAGO, May 20 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- James T. Ryan -- currently
Grainger President and Chief Operating Officer and effective June 1, 2008,
Chief Executive Officer -- will be presenting Wednesday, May 21, 2008, at the
Electrical Products Group of New York's annual spring conference in Longboat
Key, Florida. The audio webcast of the event, scheduled for 9:00 a.m. ET, will
be available for 30 days in addition to the presentation slides on the
Speeches and Presentations section of Grainger's Investor Relations Web site,
http://www.grainger.com/investor.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2007 sales of $6.4 billion, is the
leading broad line supplier of facilities mainten... |
| | | 05/12/08 | Grainger Reports April 2008 Sales Results| CHICAGO, May 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported sales results for the month of April 2008. Daily sales grew 13
percent versus April 2007 including a 2 percentage point benefit from foreign
currency primarily due to the Canadian dollar. Daily sales were positively
affected by approximately 2 percentage points due to the timing of Easter.
There was one extra selling day in April 2008 (22) versus April 2007 (21).
The 2008 second quarter will have 64 selling days, the same as the 2007 second
quarter.
April Daily Sales by Segment
2008 v. 2007
Grainger Branch-based ... |
| | | 04/30/08 | Grainger's Shareholders Approve 13 Board Members and Ratify Auditor Ernst & Young LLP, for 2008 - 2009| Shareholder Meeting Highlights
CHICAGO, April 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- At Grainger's (NYSE: GWW)
annual shareholder meeting held in Lake Forest, IL, today, Grainger Chairman
and Chief Executive Officer Richard L. Keyser and President and Chief
Operating Officer James T. Ryan provided an update on the business and the
company's key growth initiatives, including market expansion and product line
expansion.
In March, the Grainger board of directors expanded President James T.
Ryan's role to add the title and responsibilities of Chief Executive Officer
effective June 1, 2008. Richard L. Keyser will remain with the company as
Chairman of the Board. ... |
| | | 04/30/08 | Grainger Increases Quarterly Dividend By 14.3 Percent| Represents 37th consecutive annual increase
CHICAGO, April 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The board of directors of W.W.
Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW) have raised the quarterly cash dividend by 14.3
percent to 40 cents per share payable on June 1, 2008, to shareholders of
record on May 12, 2008. This action marks the 37th straight year of dividend
increases. Grainger is one of only 20 companies in the S&P 500 to claim such
a record.
W.W. Grainger, Inc., with 2007 sales of $6.4 billion, is the leading broad
line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving businesses and
institutions in Canada, China, Mexico and the United States. Through a highly
integ... |
| | | 04/30/08 | Grainger Board Authorizes New Share Repurchase Program| CHICAGO, April 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
announced that its board of directors has authorized the repurchase of up to
an additional 10 million shares of the company's outstanding common stock.
Since 1984, Grainger has returned more than $2.7 billion to shareholders by
repurchasing more than 59 million shares of stock on a split-adjusted basis,
reducing the number of shares outstanding by more than 31 percent.
Repurchases under the new program are expected to be made from time to time in
the open market and/or privately negotiated transactions. The repurchased
shares will be available for general corporate purposes. As of March 31, 2008,
the company ... |
| | | 04/14/08 | Grainger Reports Earnings Per Share of $1.43 for the 2008 First Quarter|
Highlights
Sales up 7 percent
Net earnings up 12 percent
EPS up 22 percent
Repurchased 3.0 million shares
Generated pretax ROIC of 29.4 percent*
Visit www.grainger.com/investor to access a Podcast describing
Grainger's performance in more detail.
CHICAGO, April 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported record quarterly sales, earnings and earnings per share for the
quarter ended March 31, 2008. Sales of $1.7 billion were up 7 percent versus
first quarter 2007. Net earnings for the quarter increased 12 percent to
$114 million versus $102 million in 2007. Earnings per share grew 22 perce... |
| | | 04/04/08 | Grainger Announces Bank Term Loan| CHICAGO, April 4, 2008 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- W. W. Grainger, Inc.
(NYSE: GWW) announced today that it has engaged Wachovia Capital Markets, LLC
to syndicate a four year term loan of up to $500 million. The final amount of
the loan will depend on financial market conditions. Proceeds are expected to
be used primarily to pay off short-term debt.
"We believe a modest level of intermediate to long term debt is in the
best interest of our shareholders," said Senior Vice President and Chief
Financial Officer Ron Jadin. "Grainger will continue to maintain a financial
position that provides us operational flexibility and best supports us for
profitable growth."
The loan ... |
| | | 03/31/08 | Grainger Announces Leadership Succession| James T. Ryan to become chief executive officer
CHICAGO, March 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- W. W. Grainger, Inc. announced
today that as part of the company's planned succession process James T. Ryan,
Grainger's President, will add the title and responsibilities of Chief
Executive Officer effective June 1, 2008. He is succeeding Richard L. Keyser,
who will remain with the company as Chairman of the Board. Both men are
standing for election to the board on April 30, 2008.
According to Keyser, "Jim becomes the fourth chief executive officer in
Grainger's 80 year history, and we are fortunate to have someone as talented
and qualified as he to take the helm. Ji... |
| | | 03/12/08 | Grainger Reports February 2008 Sales Results| CHICAGO, March 12, 2008 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX News Network/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported sales results for the month of February 2008. Daily sales grew 7
percent versus February 2007 including a 1 percentage point benefit from
foreign currency. Sales were negatively affected by approximately 2
percentage points due to a decline in the sales of seasonal products. There
was one extra selling day in February 2008 (21) versus February 2007 (20).
February Daily Sales by Segment
2008 v. 2007
Grainger Branch-based +6 %
Acklands - Grainger (Canada) +25 %
... |
| | | 02/20/08 | Grainger Promotes Ronald L. Jadin to Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer| CHICAGO, Feb. 20 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger's Board of Directors
today elected Ronald L. Jadin to the position of Senior Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer. His new responsibilities include financial planning
and analysis, financial processes, financial reporting, internal audit, and
treasury operations. He is replacing P. Ogden Loux, who was named Vice
Chairman. Both gentlemen will report to Grainger Chairman and Chief Executive
Officer Richard L. Keyser. The change will be effective March 1, 2008.
Jadin, 47, was previously Vice President and Controller for the company.
He joined Grainger in 1998 as Director of Financial Planning and Analysis for
the com... |
| | | 02/12/08 | Grainger Reports January 2008 Sales Results| CHICAGO, Feb. 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported sales results for the month of January 2008. Sales grew 8 percent
versus January 2007 including a 2 percentage point benefit from foreign
exchange. Selling days for the month (22) were the same in both years. The
2008 first quarter will have 64 selling days, the same as the 2007 first
quarter; however, the Easter holiday is in March this year versus April in
2007.
January Daily Sales by Segment
2008 v. 2007
Grainger Branch-based +6%
Acklands - Grainger +22%
... |
| | | 02/08/08 | Grainger Responds to Complaint From Former Employee| CHICAGO, Feb 08, 2008 /PRNewswire via COMTEX News Network/ -- CHICAGO, Feb. 8 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/-- Grainger today learned that the
United States District Court Eastern District of Wisconsin Milwaukee Division
had unsealed a complaint filed by a former employee alleging contract
noncompliance in Grainger's General Services Administration (GSA) contract.
The company first entered into the contract in 1999 and both parties agreed to
extend the contract in 2004.
On December 13, 2007, the Civil Division of the U.S. Department of Justice
informed Grainger of its concern that the company had not complied with the
GSA contract's disclosure obligations and pricing provisions and had
pote... |
| | | 02/04/08 | Grainger Announces Largest Product Expansion in Company History| New catalog launches today with 183,000 products
CHICAGO, Feb. 4 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), North
America's leading distributor of facilities maintenance supplies, today
announced the release of its 2008 catalog featuring more than 183,000
facilities maintenance products. The new catalog includes an increase of
44,000 items over last year's offering.
"Our customers count on us to be the one-stop shop for all their
facilities maintenance supplies and we bolstered our offering this year in
several key categories including power transmission, raw material, and fleet
maintenance products to help ensure that when they have a need, we are ready... |
| | | 01/30/08 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, Jan. 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The board of directors of W.W.
Grainger, Inc. have declared a cash dividend of 35 cents per share payable on
March 1, 2008, to shareholders of record on February 11, 2008.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2007 sales of $6.4 billion, is the
leading broad-line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions in Canada, China, Mexico and the United States.
Through a highly integrated network including more than 600 branches, 18
distribution centers and multiple Web sites, Grainger's employees help
customers get the job done.
CONTACT:
William D. Chapman
Director, Investor Relations
+1... |
| | | 01/25/08 | Grainger Reports Record Sales of $6.4 Billion and Earnings Per Share of $4.94 for the Year Ended December 31, 2007|
Reiterates 2008 EPS guidance of $5.65 to $6.00
2007 Highlights
Sales were $6.4 billion, up 9 percent
EPS were $4.94, up 17 percent
Operating cash flow was $470 million
7.1 million shares were repurchased
Pretax ROIC* was 28.5 percent versus 26.4 percent in 2006
To access a Podcast describing Grainger's performance in more detail,
visit http://www.grainger.com/investor
CHICAGO, Jan. 25 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported record sales, net earnings and earnings per share for the year ended
December 31, 2007. Sales of $6.4 billion were up 9 percent versus 2006 and up
9 percent on a daily ... |
| | | 12/12/07 | Grainger Reports November 2007 Sales Results| CHICAGO, Dec. 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported sales results for the month of November 2007. Sales grew 10 percent
versus November 2006 including a 2 percentage point benefit from foreign
currency. Selling days for the month (21) were the same in both years. The
2007 fourth quarter will have 64 days versus 63 days in the 2006 fourth
quarter.
November Sales by Segment
2007 v. 2006
Grainger Branch-based +9 %
Acklands - Grainger +21 %
Lab Safety Supply +5 %
To access a rec... |
| | | 11/14/07 | Grainger Provides Outlook at Analyst Meeting|
Reiterates 2007 EPS Guidance of $4.85 to $4.95
Issues 2008 EPS Guidance of $5.65 to $6.00
CHICAGO, Nov. 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), the
leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions throughout North America, held its annual analyst
meeting in Lake Forest, Illinois, today. Chairman and Chief Executive Officer,
Richard L. Keyser, hosted the event along with President and Chief Operating
Officer, James T. Ryan and Senior Vice President, Finance and Chief Financial
Officer, P. Ogden Loux. The event also included presentations from the leaders
of four Grainger business ... |
| | | 11/12/07 | Grainger to Webcast November 14th Analyst Meeting| CHICAGO, Nov. 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), the
leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions, will host its annual analyst meeting on
Wednesday, November 14th, 2007, in Lake Forest, Illinois. Chairman and Chief
Executive Officer, Richard L. Keyser, will host the event along with President
and Chief Operating Officer, James T. Ryan and Senior Vice President, Finance
and Chief Financial Officer, P. Ogden Loux. The meeting will also include
presentations from the following business unit leaders:
* Y.C. Chen, President, U.S. Branch-based Business
* Court Carruthers, President, Acklands-Grainger ... |
| | | 10/31/07 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, Oct. 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The board of directors of W.W.
Grainger, Inc. at their meeting today declared a cash dividend of 35 cents per
share payable on December 1, 2007, to shareholders of record on November 12,
2007.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2006 sales of $5.9 billion, is the
leading broad-line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions in Canada, China, Mexico and the United States.
Through a highly integrated network including more than 600 branches, 18
distribution centers and multiple Web sites, Grainger's employees help
customers get the job done, saving them time and money by having the right
product... |
| | | 10/15/07 | Grainger Reports Record EPS of $1.29 for 2007 Third Quarter|
Company Raises 2007 EPS Guidance to a Range of $4.85 to $4.95
Highlights
Sales of $1.7 billion grew 9 percent
Operating earnings increased 15 percent to $174 million
Generated $157 million in operating cash flow for the quarter
Year-to-date pretax ROIC* of 28.9 percent versus 26.1 percent in 2006
CHICAGO, Oct. 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported record sales, net earnings and earnings per share for the quarter
ended September 30, 2007. Sales were up 9 percent versus third quarter 2006,
operating earnings grew 15 percent and net earnings increased 4 percent.
Earnings per share grew 11 percent compared wit... |
| | | 09/14/07 | Grainger Reports August 2007 Sales Results| CHICAGO, Sept. 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported sales results for the month of August 2007. Daily sales grew 9
percent versus August 2006. Selling days for the month (23) and quarter (64)
were the same; 2007 has one more selling day than 2006 (255 versus 254).
August Daily Sales by Segment
2007 v. 2006
Grainger Branch-based +9 %
Acklands -- Grainger +14 %
Lab Safety Supply +7 %
Daily sales at Grainger's Branch-based segment... |
| | | 08/20/07 | Grainger Executes $500 Million Accelerated Share Repurchase Program| Board increases share repurchase authorization to 10 million shares
CHICAGO, Aug. 20 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), the
leading industrial distributor in North America, today announced that it has
entered into an accelerated share repurchase (ASR) agreement with Goldman,
Sachs & Co. to purchase $500 million of its outstanding common stock, with the
majority of the shares received immediately. The exact number of shares bought
back will be determined at the conclusion of the agreement, which could take
up to eight months to complete. Grainger does not expect to make any
additional share repurchases until the program concludes. The company
anticipates funding a... |
| | | 08/13/07 | Grainger Reports July 2007 Sales Results| CHICAGO, Aug 13, 2007 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX News Network/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported sales for the month of July 2007. Daily sales for the month of July
grew 7 percent versus July 2006. Sales growth was partially offset by a
decline in sales of seasonal products due to the mild temperatures in many
parts of the United States. Sales growth was also partially offset by the
continued disengagements of low margin integrated-supply contracts, which had
a 1 percentage point negative effect. To access the Grainger sales update and
recorded message, which features additional information, visit
http://www.grainger.com/investor.
About Grainger
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NY... |
| | | 07/25/07 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, July 25, 2007 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX News Network/ -- The board of directors of
W.W. Grainger, Inc. at their meeting today declared a cash dividend of
35 cents per share payable on September 1, 2007, to shareholders of record on
August 13, 2007.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2006 sales of $5.9 billion, is a
leading broad-line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions in Canada, China, Mexico and the United States.
Through a highly integrated network including nearly 600 branches, 18
distribution centers and multiple Web sites, Grainger's employees help
customers get the job done, saving them time and money by having th... |
| | | 07/16/07 | Grainger Reports Earnings Per Share of $1.21 for 2007 Second Quarter|
Company raises annual EPS guidance to a range of $4.75 to $4.90 as a
result of quarterly performance
Highlights
Sales for the second quarter grew 8 percent
EPS for the quarter were up 19 percent
Generated $98 million in operating cash flow for the quarter
Year-to-date pretax ROIC* of 28.6 percent versus 25.4 percent in 2006
CHICAGO, July 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported record sales of $1.6 billion, net earnings of $105 million and
earnings per share of $1.21 for the quarter ended June 30, 2007. Sales were
up 8 percent versus second quarter 2006 and net earnings increased 12 perc... |
| | | 06/19/07 | Grainger President & COO James T. Ryan Speaks at William Blair Growth Stock Conference| CHICAGO, June 19 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger President & Chief
Operating Officer James T. Ryan today addressed a group of analysts attending
the William Blair & Company 27th Annual Growth Stock Conference in Chicago.
The audio webcast of the event will be available, along with the presentation
slides, on the Speeches and Presentations section of Grainger's Investor
Relations Web site, http://www.grainger.com/investor.
Ryan described the trends in the facilities maintenance industry as
businesses and institutions are reducing the cost of procuring the tools,
safety equipment, lighting and other products they use to keep their
facilities running by relying on fewer supp... |
| | | 06/18/07 | Grainger to Present at William Blair Growth Stock Conference| CHICAGO, June 18 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger President and Chief
Operating Officer James T. Ryan will be presenting Tuesday, June 19, 2007 at
the William Blair & Company 27th Annual Growth Stock Conference in Chicago,
Ill. The audio webcast of the event, scheduled for 9:50 a.m. CDT, will be
available for 30 days along with the presentation slides on the Speeches and
Presentations section of Grainger's Investor Relations Web site,
http://www.grainger.com/investor.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2006 sales of $5.9 billion, is a
leading broad-line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions in Canada, China, Mexico and the Unite... |
| | | 06/12/07 | Grainger Reports May 2007 Sales Results| CHICAGO, June 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported sales for the month of May 2007. Daily sales for the month of May
grew 8 percent versus May 2006. Sales growth was partially offset by a
decline in sales under certain low margin contracts with integrated supply
customers, which had a 1 percentage point negative effect. To access the
Grainger sales update and recorded message, which features additional
information, visit http://www.grainger.com/investor.
About Grainger
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2006 sales of $5.9 billion, is a
leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions in ... |
| | | 06/12/07 | Grainger Chairman and CEO, Richard Keyser, Receives Marco Polo Award in Beijing| BEIJING--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 12, 2007--Richard L. Keyser,
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of W.W. Grainger, Inc., the
leading North American provider of facility maintenance products,
received the prestigious Marco Polo Award today during a banquet held
at the Diaoyutai State Guest House. The award is presented in
recognition of the company's contribution to supporting foreign expert
volunteers in China.
The General Director of China's State Administration of Foreign
Experts Affairs (SAFEA) presented the Marco Polo Award to Keyser on
behalf of SAFEA, the China Association for International Exchange of
Personnel and the US-China Foundation for International Exchange... |
| | | 06/12/07 | Grainger Donates $50,000 to Help Small Businesses in Bound Brook, NJ Rebuild After April Nor’easter | Bound Brook, NJ (June 12, 2007) – Small business owners in Bound Brook, N.J., are struggling to recover from the April nor'easter that caused millions of dollars in damages across the region. Many are still paying off loans taken out after Hurricane Floyd caused massive destruction in the area in 1999. Recognizing the need to help local small businesses get back on their feet, one local company is lending a helpful hand.
Grainger, (NYSE: GWW), North America's leading business-to-business distributor of facilities maintenance supplies, today donated $50,000 to the Somerset County Business Partnership (SCBP) to help small businesses in Bound Brook, N.J. and the surrounding areas rebuild. ... |
| | | 06/01/07 | Lab Safety Supply Acquires McFeely's Square Drive Screws| CHICAGO, June 1 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger, a leading North
American industrial distributor, today announced its Lab Safety Supply (LSS)
subsidiary has acquired substantially all of the assets of McFeely's Square
Drive Screws of Lynchburg, Virginia. McFeely's is a business-to-business
direct marketer of specialty fasteners, hardware and tools for the
professional woodworking industry. Grainger expects the acquisition to be
accretive within a year. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
"Acquisitions are an efficient way for LSS to expand its served market,
increase revenue and diversify the customer base," said Grainger's Chairman
and Chief Executive Officer Ri... |
| | | 05/23/07 | Grainger President and Chief Operating Officer Addresses Electrical Products Group| Reaffirms EPS Guidance for 2007 of $4.70 to $4.85
CHICAGO, May 23, 2007 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX News Network/ -- Grainger President and Chief
Operating Officer James T. Ryan today addressed some 135 analysts attending
the annual meeting of the Electrical Products Group of New York. A copy of
his presentation can be found along with a link to the audio webcast of his
remarks on the Speeches and Presentations section of Grainger's Investor
Relations Web site, http://www.grainger.com/investor.
Ryan described the trends in the facilities maintenance industry as
businesses and institutions are reducing the cost of procuring the
tools, safety equipment, lighting and other prod... |
| | | 05/22/07 | Grainger to Present at 2007 EPG Spring Conference| CHICAGO, May 22 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger President and Chief
Operating Officer James T. Ryan will be presenting Wednesday, May 23, 2007 at
the Electrical Products Group of New York's annual spring conference in
Longboat Key, Fla. The audio webcast of the event, scheduled for 9:00 a.m.
EDT, will be available for 30 days along with the slides of the presentation
on the Speeches and Presentations section of Grainger's Investor Relations Web
site, http://www.grainger.com/investor.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2006 sales of $5.9 billion, is a
leading broad-line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions in Canada, China, Mex... |
| | | 05/17/07 | American Red Cross Honors W. W. Grainger, Inc. at Heritage of Service Dinner| A Celebration of Inspiration and Hope
WASHINGTON, D.C., May 17, 2007 – The American Red Cross honored
W. W. Grainger, Inc. with its prestigious Henry P. Davison Award at its inaugural Heritage of Service Dinner May 16, 2007, at the American Red Cross Hall of Service. The Heritage of Service Dinner recognizes the outstanding dedication and commitment from individuals and corporations who enable the organization to achieve its mission each year. Grainger's impressive Ready When the Time Comes program exemplifies the community service excellence that marked Henry Davison's tenure as chairman of the War Council that led the Red Cross through World War I and chairman of what is now the Int... |
| | | 05/11/07 | Grainger Reports April 2007 Sales Results| CHICAGO, May 11 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported sales for the month of April 2007. Daily sales for the month of April
grew 7 percent versus April 2006. Sales growth was partially offset by a
decline in sales under certain low margin contracts with integrated supply
customers, which had a 1 percentage point negative effect. To access the
Grainger sales update and recorded message, as well as today's Merrill Lynch
Global Industrials Conference audio webcast and presentation, visit
http://www.grainger.com/investor.
About Grainger
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2006 sales of $5.9 billion, is a
leading broad line supplier of facilities ma... |
| | | 05/10/07 | Grainger to Present at Merrill Lynch Conference| CHICAGO, May 10 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Kevin Peters, Grainger's Senior
Vice President, Supply Chain Management, will be presenting at the Merrill
Lynch 9th Annual Global Industrials Conference in London on Friday, May 11,
2007. Peters will speak about the company's most recent results, provide an
update on market and product line expansion, and discuss the continuous
improvement programs that are being implemented in Grainger's supply chain.
The presentation will be webcast live beginning at approximately 2:40 a.m.
CDT and, together with the slides of the presentation, may be accessed on the
"Speeches & Presentations" section of Grainger's Investor Relations Web site
at ... |
| | | 04/25/07 | Grainger Shareholders Elect Directors; Other shareholder meeting highlights| CHICAGO, April 25 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- At the 40th Annual Meeting of
W.W. Grainger, Inc., the company's shareholders elected thirteen directors to
the board.
The directors for 2007-2008 are:
Brian P. Anderson
Retired Chief Financial Officer
OfficeMax Incorporated and Baxter International, Inc.
Wilbur H. Gantz
Executive Chairman
Ovation Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
V. Ann Hailey
Executive Vice President
Limited Brands, Inc.
William K. Hall
Co-founder and Chairman
Procyon Technologies, Inc.
Richard L. Keyser
Chairman of the Board and
Chief Executive Officer
W.W.... |
| | | 04/25/07 | Grainger Increases Quarterly Dividend by 21 Percent to 35 Cents Per Share| CHICAGO, April 25 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The directors of W.W.
Grainger, Inc. at their meeting today declared a cash dividend of 35 cents per
share payable June 1, 2007, to shareholders of record May 14, 2007. This
represents an increase of 21 percent from the prior quarterly rate of 29 cents
per share.
Grainger has increased dividends for 36 consecutive years, putting the
company among only 19 companies in the S&P 500 with such a record. For the
past eleven years, Grainger has been recognized as a Dividend Aristocrat by
Standard & Poor's.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2006 sales of $5.9 billion, is a
leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance pr... |
| | | 04/16/07 | Grainger Reports Earnings Per Share of $1.17 for the 2007 First Quarter|
Company adjusts 2007 EPS forecast to reflect strong first quarter
Highlights
Sales up 9 percent
Net earnings up 18 percent
EPS up 26 percent
Repurchased 1.2 million shares
Generated pretax ROIC of 28.8 percent*
Visit http://www.grainger.com/investor to access a Podcast describing
Grainger's performance in more detail.
CHICAGO, April 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported record first quarter sales and earnings for the quarter ended March
31, 2007. Sales of $1.5 billion were up 9 percent versus first quarter 2006.
Net earnings for the quarter increased 18 percent to $102 million as compared
to ... |
| | | 03/12/07 | Grainger Reports February 2007 Sales Results| CHICAGO, March 12, 2007 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX News Network/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported sales for the month of February 2007. Daily sales for the month of
February grew 10 percent versus February 2006. Sales benefited by some
2 percentage points due to strong growth in the sales of seasonal products
related to the cold weather in many parts of North America. This growth was
partially offset by a decline in sales to low margin contracts with integrated
supply and automotive customers, which had a 1 percentage point negative
effect. To access the Grainger Update and a recorded message, which include
additional information, visit http://www.grainger.com/investo... |
| | | 02/21/07 | Grainger's Board Slates Thirteen Nominees For 2007-2008| James T. Ryan to join the board, David W. Grainger not to stand for reelection
CHICAGO, Feb. 21 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger's (NYSE: GWW) board of
directors today appointed James T. Ryan to the board of directors. He will
stand for election as a director at the company's annual meeting on April 25,
2007.
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Richard L. Keyser said, "Jim's
addition to the board is part of the company's succession plans. We are
delighted to have him participate in the decisions we need to make as we
aggressively grow the business."
David W. Grainger has decided not to stand for reelection at the company's
annual meeting.
Keyser said, "David ... |
| | | 02/21/07 | Grainger Board of Directors Sets Succession Direction| James T. Ryan adds Chief Operating Officer responsibilities;
Y.C. Chen promoted to President of U.S. branch-based business
CHICAGO, Feb. 21 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger's (NYSE: GWW) board of
directors meeting today expanded President James T. Ryan's responsibilities
and promoted Y.C. Chen to President of the U.S. branch-based business. In
addition to becoming Chief Operating Officer, Ryan joins Grainger's board of
directors. Both moves are effective immediately.
"Today's decision recognizes the contribution of two strong leaders," said
Grainger Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Richard L. Keyser. "I have
worked closely with both men for more ... |
| | | 02/12/07 | Grainger Reports January 2007 Monthly Sales Results| CHICAGO, Feb. 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported sales for the month of January 2007. Daily sales for the month of
January grew 8 percent versus January 2006. Sales benefited by some
2 percentage points due to strong growth in the sales of seasonal products
related to the cold weather in many parts of North America. This growth was
partially offset by a decline in sales to low margin contracts with integrated
supply and automotive customers, which had a 1 percentage point negative
effect. To access the Grainger Update and a recorded message, which includes
additional information, visit http://www.grainger.com/investor .
About Grainger
W... |
| | | 02/07/07 | Grainger Corrects EPS Due to Incorrect Share Count| Reported Earnings Unchanged
CHICAGO, Feb. 7 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
announced it had used an incorrect number of average shares outstanding in
calculating earnings per share in conjunction with its fourth quarter and
year-end earnings release. Net earnings for the quarter of $99 million and
year of $383 million are not affected. Earnings per share, however, were
overstated by one cent for both the quarter and the year. For the quarter,
the correct earnings per share are $1.13, and for the full year ending
December 31, 2006, the correct earnings per share are $4.24. The growth rate
of 12 percent versus 2005 EPS is unchan... |
| | | 02/01/07 | Grainger Announces Additional Product Expansion| New Catalog Launches Today With 20 Percent More Products
CHICAGO, Feb. 1 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), North
America's leading distributor of facilities maintenance supplies, today
announced the release of its enhanced 2007 product catalog featuring more than
138,000 facilities maintenance products, an increase of 23,000 items over last
year's record offering.
"Our customers count on us to be a one-stop shop for a broad selection of
maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) supplies so they can efficiently
manage their facilities," said Kevin Peters, Grainger's senior vice president
of supply chain management. "We bolstered our offering in several... |
| | | 01/31/07 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, Jan. 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The directors of W.W. Grainger,
Inc. have declared a cash dividend of 29 cents per share payable on March 1,
2007, to shareholders of record on February 12, 2007.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2006 sales of $5.9 billion, is a
leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions in Canada, China, Mexico and the United States.
Through a highly integrated network including nearly 600 branches, 17
distribution centers and multiple Web sites, Grainger's employees help
customers get the job done, saving them time and money by having the right
products to keep their facilities running. ... |
| | | 01/26/07 | Grainger Reports Record Sales of $5.9 Billion and Earnings Per Share of $4.25 for the Year Ended December 31, 2006|
Highlights
Sales for the fourth quarter grew 5 percent
EPS for the quarter were $1.14, including a $0.06 tax benefit
Generated $442 million in operating cash flow in 2006
Repurchased 7 million shares during the year
Generated pretax ROIC* of 26.4 percent versus 25.5 percent in 2005
To access a Podcast describing Grainger's performance in more detail,
visit http://www.grainger.com/investor
CHICAGO, Jan. 26 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported record sales, earnings and earnings per share for the year ended
December 31, 2006. Sales of $5.9 billion for 2006 were up 6 percent versus
2005, or 7 percent on a... |
| | | 12/20/06 | GRAINGER AWARDS SCHOLARSHIPS TO THREE TECHNICAL EDUCATION STUDENTS | Company partners with American Association of Community Colleges to complete first year of national Tools for Tomorrow scholarship program
CHICAGO (Dec. 20, 2006) – Grainger (NYSE: GWW), North America's leading distributor of facilities maintenance supplies, recently awarded three remaining 2006 scholarships to technical education students in Illinois, Ohio and Maryland, completing the first year of the company's Tools for Tomorrow scholarship program. The program provides funding for students at select community colleges to finish their second year in a technical career program.
“As we conclude our inaugural year of the Tools for Tomorrow scholarship program, we are proud to support the... |
| | | 11/15/06 | Lab Safety Supply to Acquire Professional Inspection Equipment and Construction Book Express| CHICAGO, Nov. 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), a leading
North American industrial distributor, today announced its Lab Safety Supply
(LSS) subsidiary has signed a definitive agreement to acquire in a single
transaction substantially all of the assets of Professional Inspection
Equipment, Inc. and Construction Book Express, Inc., both of Hauppauge, New
York. Professional Inspection Equipment and Construction Book Express are
business-to-business direct marketers of tools, instruments, and reference
materials to the $2.5 billion building and home inspection market. Grainger
expects the acquisition to close, subject to standard conditions, within the
next week ... |
| | | 11/15/06 | Grainger Provides Outlook for 2007| Issues 2007 EPS guidance of $4.60 to $4.85
CHICAGO, Nov. 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), a leading
broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving businesses and
institutions, conducted its annual analyst meeting in Lake Forest, Illinois,
today. Presenters included Richard L. Keyser, Chairman and Chief Executive
Officer, James T. Ryan, President, Kevin Peters, Senior Vice President, Supply
Chain Management, and P. Ogden Loux, Senior Vice President, Finance and Chief
Financial Officer.
As part of the meeting, Grainger reiterated its 2006 earnings per share
guidance of $4.10 to $4.25 and provided guidance for 2007. The comp... |
| | | 11/15/06 | Grainger to Webcast Analyst Meeting Presentation| CHICAGO, Nov. 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), a leading
North American industrial distributor, will today host their analyst meeting
in Lake Forest, Illinois. Presenters include Richard L. Keyser, Chairman and
Chief Executive Officer, James T. Ryan, President, Kevin Peters, Senior Vice
President, Supply Chain Management, and P. Ogden Loux, Senior Vice President,
Finance and Chief Financial Officer. The presentation will be webcast live
beginning at 12:15 p.m. CST and may be accessed on Grainger's Investor
Relations Web site at http://www.grainger.com/investor .
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2005 sales of $5.5 billion, is a
leading broad line supp... |
| | | 10/25/06 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, Oct. 25 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The board of directors of W.W.
Grainger, Inc. at their meeting today declared a cash dividend of 29 cents per
share payable on December 1, 2006, to shareholders of record on November 13,
2006.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2005 sales of $5.5 billion, is a
leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions in Canada, China, Mexico and the United States.
Through a highly integrated network including nearly 600 branches, 17
distribution centers and multiple Web sites, Grainger's employees help
customers get the job done, saving them time and money by having the right
products t... |
| | | 10/18/06 | Grainger Names Carruthers President of Acklands - Grainger| CHICAGO, Oct. 18 /CNW/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW - News), a leading North American industrial distributor, today announced that Court Carruthers, 34, has been named President of its Canadian subsidiary, Acklands - Grainger Inc. Carruthers' new responsibilities include growing and improving Grainger's business operations in Canada, which had sales of $428 million USD for the nine months ended September 30, 2006.
"We have a tremendous opportunity to improve our branch network and supply chain network so that we enhance service to customers across the provinces," said Y.C. Chen, Grainger's Group President in charge of Mexico and Canada. "I look forward to working with Court and his management t... |
| | | 10/16/06 | Grainger Board Authorizes New Share Repurchase Program| CHICAGO, Oct 16, 2006 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX News Network/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
announced that its board of directors has authorized the repurchase of up to
an additional 10 million shares of the company's outstanding common stock.
Since 1984, Grainger has returned more than $1.7 billion to shareholders by
repurchasing more than 47 million shares of stock on a split-adjusted basis,
reducing the number of shares outstanding by more than 25 percent.
Repurchases under the new program are expected to be made from time to time in
open market and/or privately negotiated transactions. The repurchased shares
will be available for general corporate purposes. The company pre... |
| | | 10/16/06 | Grainger Reports 2006 Third Quarter Results|
Daily sales rose 8 percent
There was one less sales day in the quarter
Operating earnings grew 11 percent
Settlement of the 2004 tax audit added $0.09 to EPS
EPS of $1.16 were up 20 percent, 10 percent without the tax-related
item
2.6 million shares repurchased during the quarter
Pretax ROIC* of 26.5 percent versus 24.9 percent last year
2006 EPS guidance raised to $4.10 to $4.25 including the tax benefit
To access a prerecorded message describing these results in more
detail, visit: http://www.grainger.com/investor
CHICAGO, Oct. 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported sales ... |
| | | 09/25/06 | Grainger Opens its First Master Branch in China| Grainger Brings First-Class Service to Businesses in China
(September 25, 2006, Shanghai): Grainger, the leading North American provider of facility maintenance products, today announced the opening of its first facility in China. The Master Branch, located in the Shanghai suburb of Minhang, will initially stock approximately 20,000 products businesses and institutions need to keep their facilities running. Guaranteed availability of products in multiple categories will make it easy and convenient for customers to get the right solution when they need it.
Grainger has also recently published a Chinese language catalogue featuring all the products carried in the Master Branch and ha... |
| | | 07/26/06 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, July 26, 2006 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX News Network/ -- The board of directors of
W.W. Grainger, Inc. at their meeting today declared a cash dividend of
29 cents per share payable on September 1, 2006, to shareholders of record on
August 14, 2006.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2005 sales of $5.5 billion, is the
leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions throughout North America. Through a highly
integrated network including nearly 600 branches, 18 distribution centers and
multiple Web sites, Grainger's employees help customers get the job done,
saving them time and money by having the right products ... |
| | | 07/17/06 | Grainger Reports 2006 Second Quarter EPS of $1.02| CHICAGO, July 17 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported an 8 percent increase in sales for the second quarter ended June 30,
2006. Sales were $1.5 billion versus $1.4 billion in the 2005 second quarter.
Net earnings were up 15 percent to $94 million. Earnings per share were $1.02
versus $0.89, up 15 percent.
"This quarter continued our strong earnings performance and we remain on
track to achieve our projected earnings per share of $4.00 to $4.15 for 2006.
Based on some softening in certain segments of the North American economies,
we now expect this year's sales to grow by 7 to 9 percent," said Grainger's
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Richard L... |
| | | 07/17/06 | Grainger Clarifies 2006 Second Quarter Earnings Release| CHICAGO, July 17, 2006 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX News Network/ -- Grainger's (NYSE: GWW) news
release issued earlier today regarding its 2006 second quarter results
contained an item in its Consolidated Statements of Earnings (Unaudited) for
the three months ended June 30, 2006 that was reported as expense rather than
income. Specifically, $293,000 under "Unclassified-net" in "Other income and
(expense)" should have been reported as income. The correction does not
affect any of the other numbers in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings
(Unaudited) or any of the other contents of the earlier earnings release. A
corrected copy of the Consolidated Statements of Earnings (Una... |
| | | 07/12/06 | Grainger Donates $1 Million for Launch of Premier Corporate Volunteer Training Program|
Grainger Donates $1 Million for Launch of Premier Corporate Volunteer Training Program
(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/pub/s?f=PRN/prnpub&p1=20060712/DCW008&xtag=PRN-prnphotos-55273&redir=print&tr=1&row=1&TAG_ID=prnphotos055273)
Washington, DC July 12, 2006---The American Red Cross and Grainger, (NYSE: GWW), North America's leading distributor of facilities maintenance supplies, have teamed up to recruit and train corporate employees as disaster volunteers to help support the 70,000 disasters that the Red Cross responds to each year. Grainger is the national founding sponsor of the program, Ready When the Time Comes, which will roll out in 16 Red Cross chapters over the ... |
| | | 06/28/06 | Grainger President James T. Ryan Speaks at William Blair Growth Stock Conference| Reaffirms EPS Guidance for 2006 of $4.00 - $4.15CHICAGO, June 28, 2006 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX News Network/ -- Grainger President James T.
Ryan today addressed a group of analysts attending the William Blair & Company
26th Annual Growth Stock Conference in Chicago. A webcast of his presentation
can be found on Grainger's Web site at http://www.grainger.com/investor .
(Photo and Bio: http://media.corporate-ir.net/media_files/irol/76/76754/James_Ryan.htm)
Ryan explained how Grainger's unique approach and scale advantages
provided by its extensive customer coverage, broad product line, efficient
logistics network, integrated information systems and experienced people
posi... |
| | | 06/27/06 | Grainger to Webcast Presentation at William Blair Conference| CHICAGO, June 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger President James T.
Ryan will be presenting Wednesday, June 28, 2006 at the William Blair &
Company 26th Annual Growth Stock Conference in Chicago, Ill. The presentation
will be webcast live beginning at 10:30 a.m. CDT and may be accessed on
Grainger's Web site at http://www.grainger.com/investor .
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2005 sales of $5.5 billion, is the
leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions throughout North America. Through a highly
integrated network including nearly 600 branches, 18 distribution centers and
multiple Web sites, Grainger's employee... |
| | | 06/01/06 | Tri-State Contractors Battle for Crown| Photo of today's 'King of the Contractors' contest now available for media use
FLORENCE, Ky., June 1 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Tri-State area contractors
battled for the title "King of the Contactors" today at an event hosted by
Grainger at its Florence, Ky. location. Contractors raced through an
industrial obstacle course designed to test their speed and precision in a
variety of tasks, including installing lighting, cutting pipe and hammering
nails. Local electrical contractor Matt Averbeck was crowned "King of the
Contractors" and received the grand prize, a Grainger shopping spree.
A photo of the event and caption are now available for use by the media
at: http://www.ne... |
| | | 05/24/06 | Grainger President James T. Ryan Addresses Electrical Products Group| Reaffirms EPS Guidance for 2006 of $4.00 to $4.15
CHICAGO, May 24, 2006 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX News Network/ -- Grainger President James T. Ryan
today addressed a group of over 115 analysts attending the annual meeting of
the Electrical Products Group of New York. A copy of his presentation can be
found along with a link to the webcast of his remarks on the Investor
Relations section of Grainger's Web site, http://www.grainger.com .
Ryan described the trends in the facilities maintenance industry as
businesses and institutions try to reduce the cost of procuring the tools,
safety equipment, lighting and other products they use to keep their
facilities running by reduc... |
| | | 05/23/06 | Grainger to Present at 2006 EPG Spring Conference| CHICAGO, May 23 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger President James T. Ryan
will be presenting Wednesday, May 24, 2006 at the Electrical Products Group of
New York's annual spring conference in Longboat Key, Fla. The webcast of the
event, scheduled for 9:00 a.m. EDT, will be available along with the slides of
the presentation on the Investor Relations section of the Grainger Web site at
http://www.grainger.com .
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2005 sales of $5.5 billion, is the
leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions throughout North America. Through a highly
integrated network including nearly 600 branches, 1... |
| | | 05/08/06 | Grainger to Present at Merrill Lynch Conference| CHICAGO, May 8 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger's Vice President,
Product Management, Michael Pulick, will be presenting Tuesday at the Merrill
Lynch 8th Annual Global Industrials Conference in London, England on May 9,
2006. The presentation will be web cast live beginning at approximately
3:50 a.m. CDT and, together with the slides of the presentation, may be
accessed on the "Speeches & Presentations" section of Grainger's Investor
Relations Web site at http://www.grainger.com/investor through Tuesday,
May 23, 2006.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2005 sales of $5.5 billion, is the
leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
busine... |
| | | 04/27/06 | Grainger Promotes Ryan to President| CHICAGO, April 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger, the leading
industrial distributor in North America, today announced that James T. Ryan,
47, has become President of Grainger.
Ryan joined Grainger in 1980 in the company's product management area. He
has held many executive positions in the company including the President of
the parts business, Chief Information Officer, President of the company's
Internet business, and most recently Group President for the U.S. branch-based
business. He has a Bachelor of Science degree in business from Miami
University of Ohio and an MBA with distinction from DePaul University in
Chicago.
"Jim's 25 years with Grainger in a vari... |
| | | 04/26/06 | Grainger Shareholders Elect Directors; Other Shareholder Meeting Highlights| CHICAGO, April 26 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- At the 39th Annual Meeting of
W.W. Grainger, Inc., the company's shareholders elected thirteen directors to
the board. Standing for election for the first time were V. Ann Hailey,
Executive Vice President of Limited Brands, Inc., Stuart L. Levenick, Group
President of Caterpillar Inc. and Michael J. Roberts, President and Chief
Operating Officer of McDonald's Corporation.
The directors for 2006-2007 are:
Brian P. Anderson Richard L. Keyser Gary L. Rogers
Retired Chief Financial Chairman of the Board Former Vice Chairman
Officer and General Electric... |
| | | 04/26/06 | Grainger Increases Quarterly Dividend to 29 Cents Per Share| CHICAGO, April 26, 2006 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX News Network/ -- The directors of W.W.
Grainger, Inc. at their meeting today declared a cash dividend of 29 cents per
share payable June 1, 2006, to shareholders of record May 8, 2006. This
represents an increase of 21 percent from the prior quarterly rate of 24 cents
per share.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2005 sales of $5.5 billion, is the
leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions throughout North America. Through a highly
integrated network including nearly 600 branches, 18 distribution centers and
multiple Web sites, Grainger's employees help customers ge... |
| | | 04/17/06 | Grainger Reports EPS of 93 Cents for 2006 First Quarter| CHICAGO, April 17 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported an 18 percent increase in earnings per share for the first quarter
ended March 31, 2006. Earnings per share were 93 cents versus 79 cents in the
2005 quarter, setting a first quarter record for the company. Sales were $1.4
billion, up 6 percent over the prior year's first quarter. Net earnings for
the quarter increased 18 percent to $86.2 million, as compared to $72.8
million in the 2005 first quarter.
Beginning with the 2006 first quarter, earnings reflect the adoption of
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123 (revised 2004) "Share-
Based Payment" for the accounting of employee st... |
| | | 03/21/06 | Grainger Announces Largest Product Expansion in Its Company History at National Manufacturing Week| CHICAGO, March 21 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- GRAINGER (NYSE: GWW), North
America's leading distributor of facilities maintenance supplies, today
announced it is adding over 39,000 products to its new 2006 catalog launching
April 3, 2006. The expansion brings the number of products offered through
its catalog from 82,000 to more than 115,000. The expanded offering consists
of some 30,000 different fasteners such as screws, bolts and nuts and an
additional 10,000 products spread across diverse product categories including
electrical, cleaning, material handling, plumbing and ventilation. To
celebrate the announcement the company commissioned a large fastener sculpture
by well-kn... |
| | | 02/22/06 | Grainger Adds New Member to Board of Directors| CHICAGO, Feb. 22 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger's Board of Directors
has appointed Michael J. Roberts to the board, bringing the total number of
members to 12. The appointment is effective February 21, 2006.
Mr. Roberts, 55, is President and Chief Operating Officer of McDonald's
Corporation, the leading global foodservice retailer. He joined the company
in 1977. Mr. Roberts oversees more than 31,000 restaurants worldwide.
Mr. Roberts graduated from Loyola University in Chicago with a bachelor of
arts degree in sociology. He also completed The CEO Perspective Program at
the Kellogg School of Management and Corporate Leadership Center at
Northwestern University... |
| | | 01/31/06 | Lab Safety Supply to Acquire Rand Materials Handling Equipment Co.| Jan 31, 2006 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX News Network/ -- Grainger, North America's
leading supplier of facilities maintenance products, today announced that its
Lab Safety Supply (LSS) subsidiary has signed a definitive agreement to
acquire substantially all the assets of Rand Materials Handling Equipment Co.
Rand is a national catalog distributor of warehouse, storage and packaging
supplies, part of the $80 billion material handling market. Grainger expects
the acquisition, which is subject to standard conditions, to close within the
week. No other terms of the agreement were disclosed.
Founded in 1972, Rand is located in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, and operates
a successful c... |
| | | 01/26/06 | Grainger Reports Sales of $5.5 Billion and Earnings Per Share of $3.78 for the Year 2005| CHICAGO, Jan 26, 2006 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX News Network/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported record sales, earnings and earnings per share for the year ended
December 31, 2005. Sales of $5.5 billion for 2005 were up 9 percent versus
2004. Net earnings for the year increased 21 percent to $346 million, as
compared to $287 million in 2004. Earnings per share grew 21 percent to
$3.78 for the year. Both 2005 and 2004 benefited from the resolution of
certain nonrecurring tax contingencies of $0.10 and $0.11 per share,
respectively.
"I'm proud of our accomplishments. We posted record results while
executing on key initiatives, market and product line expansion progra... |
| | | 01/25/06 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, Jan. 25 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The directors of Grainger have
declared a quarterly dividend of 24 cents per share payable March 1, 2006, to
shareholders of record February 13, 2006.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2004 sales of $5 billion, is the
leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions throughout North America. Through a network of
nearly 600 branches, 18 distribution centers and multiple Web sites, Grainger
helps customers save time and money by providing them with the right products
to keep their facilities running.
SOURCE W.W. Grainger, Inc.
-0- 01/25/200... |
| | | 11/16/05 | Grainger Provides 2006 Outlook| Raises long-term operating margin goal
CHICAGO, Nov. 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), the
leading North American industrial supplier of products to maintain, repair and
operate facilities, conducted its annual analyst meeting in Houston, Texas
today. Grainger Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Richard L. Keyser
presented a strategic outlook, James T. Ryan, Group President, described
several key growth programs and P. Ogden Loux, Senior Vice President, Finance
and Chief Financial Officer, provided guidance for 2006.
"Our growth strategies are playing out well and are delivering improved
performance," said Keyser. He announced that t... |
| | | 10/26/05 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, Oct 26, 2005 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX News Network/ -- The board of directors of W.W.
Grainger, Inc. at their meeting today declared a cash dividend of 24 cents per
share payable on December 1, 2005, to shareholders of record on November 14,
2005.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2004 sales of $5 billion, is the
leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions throughout North America. Through a network of
nearly 600 branches, 18 distribution centers and multiple Web sites, Grainger
helps customers save time and money by providing them with the right products
to keep their facilities running.
SOURCE W.W. Gr... |
| | | 10/26/05 | Grainger Adds Board Member to Board of Directors| CHICAGO, Oct. 26 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger's Board of Directors
has appointed Stuart L. Levenick to the board, bringing the total number of
members to 11. The appointment is effective October 25, 2005.
Levenick, 52, is a group president of Caterpillar Inc., the world's
leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural
gas engines and industrial gas turbines. He joined the company in 1977.
Levenick leads the company's Asia Pacific marketing and operations divisions,
global purchasing, the human services division and Solar Turbines,
Incorporated.
Mr. Levenick graduated from the University of Illinois with a bachelor of
science de... |
| | | 10/17/05 | Grainger Reports Record 2005 Third Quarter| Raises EPS Guidance Range for Year
CHICAGO, Oct. 17 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported sales of $1.4 billion, up 10 percent versus the prior year's third
quarter. Earnings per share increased to 97 cents versus 74 cents in the 2004
third quarter, up 31 percent. Net earnings were up 30 percent to
$88.1 million.
"This record performance is the result of our employees' commitment to
customer service, helping drive positive sales and earnings growth," said
Grainger Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Richard L. Keyser. "As a result
of our performance and outlook, we're raising our 2005 earnings per share
estimate from $3.40... |
| | | 09/12/05 | Grainger Leadership Provides Update on Market Expansion Program| Reaffirms EPS guidance for 2005 of $3.40 - $3.60
LOS ANGELES, Sept. 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), the
leading North American industrial supplier of products to maintain, repair and
operate facilities, today hosted a group of 30 financial analysts in Los
Angeles, Calif. Grainger Group President James T. Ryan presented a strategic
outlook of the company's U.S. operations. Laura D. Brown, Vice President of
Marketing, updated the financial community on the market expansion program, a
key growth initiative, and Kevin Peters, Vice President of Supply Chain
Operations, provided an overview of Grainger's logistics network and a tour of
the distribution center in... |
| | | 08/31/05 | Grainger Assists Gulf Region in Recovery Efforts| Industrial Distributor Donates Over $1 Million of Supplies and Cash to the
Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund
CHICAGO, Aug. 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), North
America's leading distributor of facilities maintenance supplies, has pledged
more than $1 million in cash and emergency supplies such as tarps, gloves,
flashlights and batteries to the Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund to help
communities and businesses recover following the devastation caused by
Hurricane Katrina. The company also is encouraging its employees to
contribute to the recovery efforts by providing a four-to-one match of
employee gifts to the Red Cross Disaster Relief ... |
| | | 07/27/05 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, July 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The board of directors of W.W.
Grainger, Inc. at their meeting today declared a cash dividend of 24 cents per
share payable on September 1, 2005, to shareholders of record on August 8,
2005.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2004 sales of $5 billion, is the
leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions throughout North America. Through its network of
nearly 600 branches, 18 distribution centers and multiple Web sites, Grainger
helps customers save time and money by providing them with the right products
to keep their facilities running.
SOURCE W.W. Grainger, Inc.
-0-... |
| | | 07/20/05 | Grainger Celebrates 10 Years of Serving Customers Through Its Web Site| Internet Channel Empowers Customers to Save Time and Money CHICAGO, July 20, 2005 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), North
America's leading distributor of facilities maintenance supplies, announces
the 10-year anniversary of its Internet channel. Originally launched as an
information repository, the Web site has grown to be an integral part of
Grainger's multi-channel business model, offering customers such as facilities
managers and contractors the ability to search, select and purchase over
250,000 products and repair parts. Since its inception in 1995, Grainger's
Web site has had over 200 million unique visits resulting in 10 million
transactions genera... |
| | | 07/15/05 | Grainger Reports Record Second Quarter| Company Raises EPS Guidance for Year to $3.40 to $3.60
CHICAGO, July 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported a 24 percent increase in earnings per share for the second quarter
ended June 30, 2005. Earnings per share of 89 cents versus 72 cents in the
2004 quarter set an all-time, second quarter high. Sales were $1.4 billion,
up 9 percent over the prior year's second quarter. Net earnings were up 22
percent to $82 million.
"Our performance in the second quarter reflects our disciplined customer-
service approach. It also demonstrates the true earnings potential of this
business," said Grainger's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Richard L.
... |
| | | 06/22/05 | Grainger Group President James T. Ryan Speaks at William Blair Growth Stock Conference| Reaffirms EPS Guidance for 2005 of $3.20 - $3.45 CHICAGO, June 22, 2005 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX/ -- Grainger Group President James
T. Ryan today addressed a group of analysts attending the William Blair &
Company 25th Annual Growth Stock Conference in Chicago. His presentation can
be found along with a webcast of his remarks on the Investor Relations section
of Grainger's Web site, http://www.grainger.com .
Ryan explained how Grainger's unique approach and scale advantages
provided by its broad product line, extensive customer coverage, new logistics
network and information systems position it to capture market share in the
fragmented, $100 billion U.S. MRO market.... |
| | | 06/21/05 | Grainger to Webcast Presentation at William Blair Conference| CHICAGO, June 21, 2005 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX/ -- Grainger Group President James
T. Ryan will be presenting Wednesday, June 22, 2005 at the William Blair &
Company 25th Annual Growth Stock Conference in Chicago, Ill. The presentation
will be webcast live beginning at approximately 3:40 p.m. CDT and, together
with the slides of the presentation, may be accessed on the Investor Relations
section of the Grainger Web site at http://www.grainger.com through
June 30, 2005.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2004 sales of $5 billion, is the
leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions throughout North America. Thr... |
| | | 05/23/05 | Grainger Recognizes Top-Performing Suppliers| Lake Forest (May 23, 2005) - Grainger (NYSE: GWW) presented its top-performing
suppliers with its prestigious CFQ1 (Customer Focused Quality) Award for 2004
at its Partners In Performance Supplier Conference held recently in Lincolnshire,
Ill. Grainger, the leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products
serving businesses, contractors and institutions throughout North America, presents
the award annually to a select group of suppliers for outstanding performance
throughout the year. Grainger recognizes the important role its suppliers play
in ensuring a broad high-quality product offering is available to meet the needs
of its customers. "Grainger is proud to p... |
| | | 05/18/05 | Grainger Group President James T. Ryan Addresses Electrical Products Group| Reaffirms EPS Guidance for 2005 of $3.20 - $3.45 LONGBOAT KEY, Fla., May 18, 2005 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX/ -- Grainger Group
President James T. Ryan today addressed a group of 80 analysts attending the
annual meeting of the Electrical Products Group of New York. Copies of his
presentation can be found along with a webcast of his remarks on the Investor
Relations section of Grainger's Web site, http://www.grainger.com .
Ryan described the trends in the facilities maintenance business as
companies try to reduce the cost of procuring the tools, safety equipment,
lighting and other products they use to keep their businesses running. He
explained how Grainger's unique appr... |
| | | 05/16/05 | Grainger to Present at 2005 EPG Spring Conference| CHICAGO, May 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger Group President James
T. Ryan will be presenting Wednesday, May 18, 2005 at the Electrical Products
Group of New York's annual spring conference in Longboat Key, Fla. The
webcast of the event, scheduled for 9:00 a.m. EDT, will be available along
with the slides of the presentation on the Investor Relations section of the
Grainger Web site at http://www.grainger.com .
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2004 sales of $5 billion, is the
leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions throughout North America. Through its network of
nearly 600 branches, 17 distribution center... |
| | | 04/27/05 | Grainger Shareholders Elect Directors; Other Shareholder Meeting Highlights| CHICAGO, April 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- At the 38th Annual Meeting of
W.W. Grainger, Inc., the company's shareholders elected ten directors to the
board. Standing for election for the first time were Gary L. Rogers, Former
Vice Chairman, General Electric Company, and William K. Hall, Co-founder and
Chairman, Procyon Technologies, Inc.
The directors for 2005-2006 are:
Brian P. Anderson William K. Hall Neil S. Novich
Retired Chief Financial Co-founder and Chairman Chairman, President
Officer Procyon Technologies, and Chief Executive
OfficeMax International Inc. Officer
and... |
| | | 04/27/05 | Grainger Increases Quarterly Dividend to 24 Cents Per Share| CHICAGO, April 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The directors of W.W.
Grainger, Inc. at their meeting today declared a cash dividend of 24 cents per
share payable June 1, 2005, to shareholders of record May 9, 2005. This
represents an increase of 20 percent from the prior quarterly rate of 20 cents
per share.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2004 sales of $5 billion, is the
leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions throughout North America. Through its network of
nearly 600 branches, 17 distribution centers and multiple Web sites, Grainger
helps customers save time and money by providing them with the right products
... |
| | | 04/15/05 | Grainger Reports EPS of 79 Cents for 2005 First Quarter| CHICAGO, April 15, 2005 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported a 14 percent increase in earnings per share for the first quarter
ended March 31, 2005. Earnings per share of 79 cents versus 69 cents in the
2004 quarter set a first quarter record. Sales were $1.3 billion, up 9
percent over the prior year's first quarter. Net earnings were up 16 percent
to $72.8 million.
Grainger's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Richard L. Keyser said,
"Overall in the first quarter we saw healthy sales growth in the government,
manufacturing, transportation and commercial sectors, even though March sales
showed some softness, particularly at the end of the... |
| | | 03/21/05 | Two Grainger Executives Promoted| CHICAGO, March 21 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger today announced that
Laura D. Brown has been promoted to Vice President, Marketing, and Debra S.
Oler to Vice President, Marketing and Sales Effectiveness. Oler has also been
temporarily given expanded responsibility for the sales organization.
Brown, 41, had been Vice President for Market Planning. She joined
Grainger in 2000 as a Vice President in the Internet Business group. Prior to
Grainger, she worked for Baxter Healthcare and Alliant Foodservice.
Oler, 50, joined Grainger in 2002 as Regional Sales Vice President for the
North Central region. She became Vice President, Sales Operations in 2003.
Oler was at Al... |
| | | 03/07/05 | Grainger Appoints Ernst & Young LLP as Its New Independent Auditor| CHICAGO, March 7 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), North
America's leading distributor of facilities maintenance supplies, today
announced that the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors has appointed
Ernst & Young LLP as its new independent auditor, effective for calendar year
2005. Ernst & Young LLP replaces Grant Thornton LLP, which has served as the
company's independent auditor since before the company went public in 1967.
"We appreciate the hard work and professionalism of Grant Thornton over
the years," said Brian P. Anderson, Chairman of the Audit Committee. "Coming
to this decision has been a long and thoughtful process, which included a
rev... |
| | | 02/23/05 | Grainger's Board Slates Ten Members for 2005 - 2006| William K. Hall Is Candidate to Join Grainger's Board CHICAGO, Feb 23, 2005 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX/ -- At its regularly scheduled
meeting, the board of directors of Grainger (NYSE: GWW) announced today that
William K. Hall was selected as a candidate for the board to serve for the
2005 - 2006 period of time.
Hall is the co-founder and Chairman of Procyon Technologies, Inc., a
Chicago-based holding company, which focuses on the acquisition and growth of
suppliers to the global aerospace and defense industry. From 1994 through
1999, he was Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Falcon Building
Products, Inc. Hall holds a bachelor's degree in engineering and
master's/... |
| | | 01/31/05 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, Jan 31, 2005 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX/ -- The directors of Grainger have
declared a quarterly dividend of 20 cents per share payable March 1, 2005, to
shareholders of record February 7, 2005.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2004 sales of $5 billion, is the
leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions throughout North America. Through its network of
nearly 600 branches, 17 distribution centers and multiple Web sites, Grainger
helps customers save time and money by providing them with the right products
to keep their facilities running.
SOURCE W.W. Grainger, Inc.
William D. Chapman, Director, I... |
| | | 01/27/05 | Grainger Reports Record EPS for 2004 Fourth Quarter and Year| Company Achieves Sales of $5 Billion
CHICAGO, Jan. 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported record sales, earnings and earnings per share for the year ended
December 31, 2004. Sales of $5 billion for 2004 were up 8 percent versus
2003. Net earnings for the year were $287 million, up 26 percent as compared
to $227 million in 2003. Earnings per share were $3.13 for the year, up
27 percent versus $2.46 in 2003.
Sales in the 2004 fourth quarter were $1.3 billion, up 10 percent versus
the prior year fourth quarter. The 2004 quarter had one less sales day than
the 2003 quarter. Sales on a daily basis were up 11 percent. Net earnings of
$90 millio... |
| | | 01/10/05 | Lab Safety Supply to Buy AW Direct, Inc.| CHICAGO, Jan. 10 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger, North America's
leading supplier of facilities maintenance products, today announced its Lab
Safety Supply subsidiary has signed a definitive agreement to acquire AW
Direct, Inc., a leading direct marketer of products to the $3 billion service
vehicle accessories market. AW Direct sells general towing and work truck
equipment and accessories to customers in the auto service, utilities,
government, and construction markets. Grainger expects the acquisition to
close, subject to standard conditions, in the 2005 first quarter and be
accretive within a year. No other terms of the agreement were disclosed.
AW Direct will be ope... |
| | | 12/15/04 | Grainger Details Growth Campaigns and Provides 2005 Outlook| Strong Performance Causes Company To Raise 2004 Guidance
CHICAGO, Dec. 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), the
leading North American industrial supplier of products to maintain, repair,
and operate facilities, today hosted financial analysts at its branch in
Norcross, Ga. Grainger Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Richard L. Keyser
presented a strategic outlook with James T. Ryan, Group President, updating
the financial community on several key programs and P. Ogden Loux, Senior Vice
President, Finance and Chief Financial Officer, providing guidance for 2005.
"In our business, service is the key," said Keyser. "I am excited by all
that we have achieve... |
| | | 10/27/04 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, Oct. 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The directors of W.W. Grainger,
Inc. at their meeting today declared a cash dividend of 20 cents per share
payable December 1, 2004, to shareholders of record November 8, 2004.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2003 sales of $4.7 billion, is the
leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions throughout North America. Through its network of
nearly 600 branches, 17 distribution centers and multiple Web sites, Grainger
helps customers save time and money by providing them with the right products
to keep their facilities running.
SOURCE W.W. Grainger, Inc.
-0- ... |
| | | 10/26/04 | Grainger Appoints Gary L. Rogers to the Board of Directors| CHICAGO, Oct. 26 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger's Board of Directors
today appointed Gary L. Rogers to the board, bringing the total number of
members to 11. The appointment is effective October 26, 2004. Mr. Rogers was
most recently Vice Chairman of General Electric Company from 2001 until his
retirement in December of 2003. Previously, he served as Senior Vice
President of General Electric Company and President and Chief Executive
Officer of GE Plastics from 1992 to 2001. From 1966 to 1992, Mr. Rogers held
positions of increasing responsibility at General Electric Company including
President and CEO, GE Electrical Distribution and Control, and President and
CEO, GE Applian... |
| | | 10/18/04 | Grainger Reports Record Quarterly Earnings for 2004 Third Quarter| Raises EPS Guidance Range for Year to $2.80 - $2.90
CHICAGO, Oct. 18 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported a 19 percent increase in earnings per share for the third quarter
ended September 30, 2004. Earnings per share were 74 cents versus 62 cents in
the 2003 third quarter, surpassing the previous record established in the 2004
second quarter. Sales were $1.3 billion, up 8 percent versus the prior year's
third quarter. Net earnings were up 19 percent to $68 million, the highest
net earnings for any quarter.
"Our results reflect how hard Grainger's employees are working to deliver
outstanding service to our customers," said Chairman and Chief Ex... |
| | | 09/28/04 | Grainger Details Technology and Supply Chain Investments| Accelerates telephony program
CHICAGO, Sept. 28 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- At an analyst meeting held at
Grainger's newest distribution center in Robbinsville, N.J., today, Grainger
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Richard L. Keyser provided an update on
the company's technology investments, including its SAP installation and
telephony program. These two initiatives are designed to help the company
become more efficient at saving customers time and money when purchasing
facilities maintenance products.
"For us, technology is not a mere indulgence or a nice to have. It is at
the very heart of our business and helps us drive our multi-channel strategy,"
said Keyser. ... |
| | | 07/28/04 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, Jul 28, 2004 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX/ -- The directors of
W.W. Grainger, Inc. at their meeting today declared a cash dividend of
20 cents per share payable September 1, 2004, to shareholders of record
August 9, 2004.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2003 sales of $4.7 billion, is the
leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions throughout North America. Through its network of
nearly 600 branches, 17 distribution centers and multiple Web sites, Grainger
helps customers save time and money by providing them with the right products
to keep their facilities running.
SOURCE W.W. Grainger, Inc.
Ro... |
| | | 07/16/04 | Grainger Reports Record Quarterly EPS| Company Raises EPS Guidance for Year to $2.65 to $2.85
CHICAGO, July 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported a 20 percent increase in earnings per share for the second quarter
ended June 30, 2004. Earnings per share were 72 cents versus 60 cents in the
2003 second quarter, setting an all-time quarterly high. Sales were
$1.3 billion, up 7 percent versus the prior year's second quarter. Net
earnings were up 19 percent to $66.6 million, also a new quarterly high. Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Richard L. Keyser said, "Thanks to
the hard work and dedication of Grainger's employees, we saw sales increase in
our Branch-based and Lab Safety segmen... |
| | | 06/24/04 | Grainger Group President to Address Analysts| CHICAGO, June 24 /PRNewswire/ -- Grainger Group President James T. Ryan
will address a group of analysts attending the William Blair & Company's 24th
Annual Growth Stock Conference in Chicago. A complete copy of the
presentation will be available today at 9:30 a.m. CDT. To view the
presentation, please visit the Investor Relations section of Grainger's Web
site, http://www.grainger.com .
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2003 sales of $4.7 billion, is the
leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions throughout North America. Through its network of
nearly 600 branches, 17 distribution centers and multiple Web sites... |
| | | 06/14/04 | Grainger Names New Senior Vice President of Human Resources| CHICAGO, June 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), North
America's leading distributor of facilities maintenance supplies, today named
James A. Garman to the role of Senior Vice President of Human Resources. In this position, Garman will provide strategic direction and leadership
for the design, development and execution of Grainger's human resource
initiatives. Garman will be responsible for ensuring that Grainger's human
resource policies support business objectives and that the company remains
competitive in the marketplace through several key human resource functions
including benefits, compensation, organization effectiveness and staffing.
Garman also will le... |
| | | 05/05/04 | Grainger Chairman and CEO Addresses Analysts and Details Plans for Growth| LONGBOAT KEY, Fla., May 5 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger Chairman and
Chief Executive Officer Richard L. Keyser today addressed a group of analysts
attending the annual meeting of the Electrical Products Group of New York.
Keyser described Grainger's strategy to accelerate growth and reiterated the
company's sales and earnings guidance for the year. A complete copy of the
presentation is available at the Investor Relations section of Grainger's Web
site, www.grainger.com . "Our initiatives are just beginning to help us grow, not only sales, but
our share of the $100 billion facilities maintenance market," said Keyser. He
described the company's planned, market-by-market ... |
| | | 04/28/04 | Grainger Announces Three Additional Markets in Its Market Expansion Program| Other Shareholder Meeting Highlights
CHICAGO, April 28 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- At Grainger's annual
shareholder meeting held in Lake Forest, IL, today, Grainger Chairman and
Chief Executive Officer Richard L. Keyser provided an update on the business
and its key growth initiatives, including its market expansion program.
Launched in October 2003, the multi-year program enhances local product
availability and sales coverage in major metropolitan markets. Keyser
announced the company plans to add three new markets to the program, Houston,
St. Louis and Tampa. Over the next year, Grainger expects to add $10 million
in inventory and almost 200,000 square feet in space in these ... |
| | | 04/28/04 | Grainger Increases Quarterly Dividend 8 Percent to 20 Cents Per Share| CHICAGO, April 28 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The directors of
W.W. Grainger, Inc. at their meeting today declared a cash dividend of
20 cents per share payable June 1, 2004, to shareholders of record May 10,
2004. This represents an increase of 8 percent from the prior quarterly rate
of 18 1/2 cents per share.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2003 sales of $4.7 billion, is the
leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions throughout North America. Through its network of
nearly 600 branches, 17 distribution centers and multiple Web sites, Grainger
helps customers save time and money by providing them with the right prod... |
| | | 04/16/04 | Grainger Reports EPS of 69 Cents for 2004 First Quarter and Raises 2004
EPS Guidance| CHICAGO, April 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported a 21 percent increase in earnings per share for the first quarter
ended March 31, 2004. Sales were $1.2 billion, up 8 percent over the prior
year's first quarter. Net earnings were up 19 percent to $62.6 million.
Earnings per share were 69 cents versus 57 cents in the 2003 first quarter.
The 2004 quarter had one additional selling day. "We achieved strong sales and earnings growth this quarter due to the
strengthening economy and our improved customer service," said Grainger's
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Richard L. Keyser. "Over the past few years we've invested in our operations to im... |
| | | 04/06/04 | Grainger Announces New Operational Structure| President Announces Plans to Leave
CHICAGO, April 6 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW)
today announced a new operational structure that better aligns the company to
meet its aggressive growth targets. At the same time, Wesley M. Clark,
president and chief operating officer, announced his plans to leave the
company to pursue other opportunities. Grainger is realigning its operations to better focus on sales and service
goals. The largest unit represents all of Grainger's businesses operating
under the Grainger brand in the United States, including the 400 branches and
nine distribution centers in its domestic supply chain network and Grainger's
outs... |
| | | 02/12/04 | Grainger Announces New Online Feature to Help Customers Save Time and Money| CHICAGO, Feb. 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), America's
leading distributor of facilities maintenance supplies, today announced the
launch of a new product comparison feature on grainger.com to help customers
drive down the costs associated with purchasing facilities maintenance
products. The new feature enables buyers to make more informed purchases and
save time by allowing them to quickly and easily view multiple products and
their attributes on one page. "We are constantly looking for ways to help our customers save time and
money regardless of the channel they use to connect with Grainger," said James
Ryan, Grainger Executive Vice President, Marketing, S... |
| | | 01/29/04 | Grainger Reports EPS of 67 Cents for 2003 Fourth Quarter and $2.46 for The
Year| CHICAGO, Jan. 29 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported earnings per diluted share of $2.46 for the year ended December 31,
2003, up 10 percent versus $2.24 in 2002. Sales for 2003 at $4.7 billion were
flat versus 2002. Net earnings for the year were $227 million, up 7 percent
versus $212 million in 2002. The year 2002 included a goodwill impairment
charge of $0.26 per share and $0.04 per share of non-operating gains from the
sale of investment securities. Sales in the 2003 fourth quarter were $1.2 billion, up 3 percent versus
the prior year fourth quarter. Net earnings of $62 million were down
1 percent versus $63 million in the 2002 fourth quarter. ... |
| | | 01/29/04 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, Jan. 29 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The directors of Grainger have
declared a quarterly dividend of 18-1/2 cents per share payable March 1, 2004,
to shareholders of record February 9, 2004. W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2003 sales of $4.7 billion, is the
leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving
businesses and institutions throughout North America. Through its network of
nearly 600 branches, 17 distribution centers and multiple Web sites, Grainger
helps customers save time and money by providing them with the right products
to keep their facilities running.
SOURCE W.W. Grainger, Inc.... |
| | | 12/15/03 | Grainger Sets Growth Course and Provides Outlook| BOSTON, Dec. 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), the
leading North American industrial supplier of products to maintain, repair,
and operate facilities, hosted a meeting in Boston today. The company's
executives reviewed key business initiatives and provided guidance to members
of the financial community. Grainger's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer,
Richard L. Keyser, spoke at the event along with Wesley M. Clark, President
and Chief Operating Officer; James T. Ryan, Executive Vice President,
Marketing, Sales and Service; and P. Ogden Loux, Senior Vice President,
Finance and Chief Financial Officer. "This company has real potential to grow. No other broad l... |
| | | 12/02/03 | Local Marines to Take Part in “Operation Candy Cane”|
Industrial Supplier Grainger To Host Marine Families For Holiday Event
CHICAGO (Dec. 2, 2003) – More than 80 Marines and family members from Marine Air Control Group-48 (MACG-48) who participated in Operation Iraqi Freedom will be hosted by Grainger, the leading North American distributor of facilities maintenance products for a morning of holiday activities as recognition for doing their patriotic duty.
The event, entitled “Operation Candy Cane” will take place on Saturday, December 6, 2003, from 9:00 a.m. – noon C.S.T. at Grainger’s corporate headquarters in Lake Forest. The event will feature breakfast with Santa, a magic show and madrigal singers. Children will also have the ... |
| | | 10/29/03 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, Oct. 29 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The directors of Grainger today
declared a quarterly dividend of 18 1/2 cents per share payable December 1,
2003, to shareholders of record November 10, 2003. W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), is the leading broad line supplier of
facilities maintenance products in North America. Grainger serves customers
through a network of nearly 600 branches, 17 distribution centers, and four
Web sites. Sales for 2002 were $4.6 billion. For more information and recent
speeches and presentations, visit Grainger online at investor.grainger.com .
SOURCE W.W. Grainger, Inc.... |
| | | 10/16/03 | Grainger Reports EPS of 62 Cents for the 2003 Third Quarter| CHICAGO, Oct. 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported flat sales and a 3 percent decline in diluted earnings per share for
the third quarter ended September 30, 2003. Sales were $1.2 billion in both
the 2003 and 2002 third quarters. Net earnings of $56.8 million decreased 5
percent and diluted earnings per share were $0.62 versus $0.64 for the 2002
third quarter. Grainger's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Richard L. Keyser said,
"We are committed to returning the company to sustained revenue growth. The
completion of our logistics network in early 2004 will provide a solid
foundation to improve service to our customers. We recently announced a
... |
| | | 10/09/03 | Grainger Sets Growth Course by Expanding Market Presence| CHICAGO, Oct. 9 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger, North America's
leading supplier of facilities maintenance products, today announced a multi-
year branch expansion program to increase its market presence in the United
States. The program will begin in three metropolitan markets, Atlanta, Denver
and Seattle, with larger branches and additional sales personnel. Over the
next three to five years, the company will assess and reinforce local
availability of products and sales coverage to increase service to customers
in 25 major metropolitan markets as well as in selected secondary markets.
Grainger expects to fund the first phase of the program by ongoing
productivity improvements... |
| | | 08/15/03 | Grainger Wins CIO 100 Award for Resourcefulness|
Company listed among 100 most innovative technology users by CIO Magazine
Lake Forest, IL, (August 15, 2003)- Grainger, the leading North American industrial distributor of products used by businesses to maintain, repair and operate their facilities, is a winner of the prestigious CIO 100 award from IDG's CIO magazine. The 2003 CIO 100 award recognizes organizations around the world that excel in positive business performance through resourceful IT management and practices.
To provide a vision of ever-changing business trends, the focus of the CIO 100 changes each year. This year, CIO honors 100 companies that demonstrate the resourceful use of technology and related assets in a t... |
| | | 07/30/03 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, July 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The directors of W.W. Grainger,
Inc. at their meeting today declared a cash dividend of 18 1/2 cents payable
September 1, 2003, to shareholders of record August 11, 2003. W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), is the leading broad line supplier of
facilities maintenance products in North America. Grainger serves customers
through a network of nearly 600 branches, 17 distribution centers, and four
Web sites. Sales for 2002 were $4.6 billion. For more information and recent
speeches and presentations, visit Grainger online at investor.grainger.com .
SOURCE W.W. Grainger, Inc.... |
| | | 07/17/03 | Grainger Reports EPS of 60 Cents for the 2003 Second Quarter| CHICAGO, July 17 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported lower sales but higher earnings for the second quarter ended June 30,
2003. Net earnings were $56.0 million, an increase of 3 percent versus the
prior year, and earnings per share were $0.60, up 5 percent compared to $0.57.
The 2002 quarter included a $5.8 million expense, or $0.04 per share, related
to severance and other costs. Sales in the 2003 second quarter were
$1,173 million, down 2 percent, versus $1,195 million for the prior year. Richard L. Keyser, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer said, "Despite the
effect of a difficult economy, we reported improved earnings. We remain
committed to i... |
| | | 06/25/03 | Grainger President and COO Addresses Analysts;
Revises Sales and Refines EPS Guidance for 2003| CHICAGO, June 25 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger President and Chief
Operating Officer Wesley M. Clark, addressing a group of analysts in Chicago
today, outlined Grainger's initiatives to capture additional market share
through investments in customer service and technology and shared his
expectations for the remainder of 2003. The presentation will be available as
a webcast at www.twst.com/econf/mm/blair2/gww.html starting at 9:10 a.m. CDT.
A complete copy of the presentation is also available at the Investor
Relations section of Grainger's Web site, www.grainger.com . In his speech Clark revised sales guidance for 2003: "The economy isn't
helping and we don't know jus... |
| | | 05/31/03 | Grainger Donates $50,000 to Help Jackson, Tenn., Rebuild| CHICAGO, May 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger, the leading broad line
supplier of facilities maintenance products in North America, today donated
$50,000 to the Jackson Downtown Development Corporation (JDDC) in Jackson,
Tenn. The donation, which is part of the Grainger Rebuilding America(SM)
program, was given to help local, small businesses rebuild from the
devastation caused by the F4-grade tornado that swept through the city's
central business district on May 4, 2003. In total, the tornado damaged more
than 300 businesses, government facilities, and historic buildings in Jackson. Local Grainger representatives presented the check to Meg Goodman,
Executive Director of ... |
| | | 05/07/03 | Grainger Chairman and CEO Addresses Analysts; Reiterates 2003 Guidance| LONGBOAT KEY, Fla., May 7 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger Chairman and
Chief Executive Officer Richard L. Keyser addressed a group of analysts
attending the annual meeting of the Electrical Products Group of New York.
Keyser outlined Grainger's initiatives to accelerate growth through
investments in customer service and technology and reiterated the company's
2003 sales and EPS guidance. A complete copy of the presentation is available
at the Investor Relations section of Grainger's Web site, www.grainger.com . In his presentation entitled "Spurring Growth Through Service," Keyser
discussed Grainger's opportunity to capture share in the $100 billion
facilities maintenance ... |
| | | 04/30/03 | Grainger Shareholders Elect Directors, Other Meeting Highlights| CHICAGO, April 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- At the annual meeting held
today, shareholders elected 11 directors, all of whom were previously serving
on the board. The directors are:
Brian P. Anderson Richard L. Keyser James D. Slavik
Senior Vice President and Chairman of the Board and Chairman
Chief Financial Officer Chief Executive Officer Mark IV Capital,
Baxter International Inc. W.W. Grainger, Inc. Inc.
Wesley M. Clark Frederick A. Krehbiel Harold B. Smith
President and Co-Chairman of the Board Chairman of the
Chief Operating Officer Molex Incorporated Exe... |
| | | 04/30/03 | Grainger Increases Quarterly Dividend to 18 1/2 Cents Per Share| CHICAGO, April 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The directors of W.W.
Grainger, Inc. at their meeting today declared a cash dividend of 18 1/2 cents
per share payable June 1, 2003, to shareholders of record May 12, 2003. This
represents an increase of 3 percent from the prior quarterly rate of 18 cents
per share. W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), is the leading broad line supplier of
facilities products in North America. Grainger serves customers through a
network of nearly 600 branches, 17 distribution centers, and four Web sites.
Sales for 2002 were $4.6 billion. For more information, visit Grainger online
at www.grainger.com .
SOURCE W.W. Grainger, Inc.... |
| | | 04/16/03 | Grainger Reports EPS of 57 Cents for the 2003 First Quarter| CHICAGO, April 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported first quarter earnings per share of 57 cents, a 58 percent increase
over 36 cents in the first quarter of 2002. Sales in the 2003 first quarter
were $1,139 million, up 1 percent, versus $1,125 million in the prior year's
first quarter. Net earnings of $52 million versus $35 million were up 52
percent. The first quarter 2002 included a non-cash goodwill impairment
charge of $24 million or 25 cents per share. Richard L. Keyser, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer said, "I am
pleased we were able to grow sales and maintain margins in a difficult
economy. We continue to position for future growth by... |
| | | 04/14/03 | Grainger Completes Acquisition of Gempler's Direct Marketing Business| CHICAGO, April 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger, North America's
leading supplier of facilities maintenance products, today announced its Lab
Safety Supply subsidiary has acquired Gempler's, a direct marketer and
division of Gempler's, Inc. Lab Safety had signed a definitive agreement in
February of this year to purchase Gempler's. Final terms of the transaction
were not disclosed. Gempler's provides the $3 billion agricultural, horticultural, grounds
maintenance and contractor markets with tools, safety supplies, clothing and
other equipment. Lab Safety is North America's premier direct marketer
providing safety and industrial supplies.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE:... |
| | | 03/25/03 | Grainger Hosts Racing Event In Plano For Sweepstakes Winner Xencom| CHICAGO, IL (March 24, 2003) – Grainger, the leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products in North America, will host an afternoon of fun, food and racing, featuring its Winston Cup driver Greg Biffle, at Plano-based Xencom Systems, LLC, winner of Grainger's "Get in the Race" Sweepstakes. Xencom is a leading supplier of quality energy, janitorial and facility services to the Retail Real Estate industry and other select markets.
The event will take place Thursday, March 27, from noon to 6:00 p.m. CST at Xencom's corporate offices located at 1609 Precision in Plano, Texas.
During the event, more than 100 Xencom employees and customers will have an opportunity to comp... |
| | | 03/03/03 | Grainger Executive To Share Insights Into Successful Supplier Relationships During National Manufacturing Week In Chicago| CHICAGO, IL (February 27, 2003) – Grainger, the leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products in North America, today announced that its Vice President Field Sales, Donna J. Broome, will address attendees at the National Plant Engineering & Facilities Maintenance Show on Wednesday, March 5, 2003, in Chicago.
The presentation, titled "Working with Suppliers to Increase Productivity and Purchasing Efficiencies," will take place from 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. CST in room N226 at the McCormick Place Convention Center.
Ms. Broome will speak to attendees about how to consolidate suppliers and products to save time and money. Through specific examples and case studies, M... |
| | | 02/19/03 | Grainger Named 'Most Admired' by Industry Peers| CHICAGO, Feb. 19 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger, the leading broad
line supplier of facilities maintenance products in North America, was named
the "most admired" company in 2002 among diversified wholesalers, as reported
in Fortune magazine's annual listing of America's Most Admired Companies. The
complete listing will appear in Fortune's Mar. 3 issue. Rankings were compiled by the Hay Group, which surveyed 10,000 executives,
directors and securities analysts from the ten largest companies by revenues
in 66 industries. This panel rated companies in their own industries based on
their performance in eight categories, including: innovation, financial
soundness, employee tal... |
| | | 02/14/03 | Grainger to Buy Direct Marketing Business Gempler's| CHICAGO, Feb. 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger, North America's
leading supplier of facilities maintenance products, today announced its Lab
Safety Supply subsidiary has signed a definitive agreement to acquire
Gempler's, a division of Gempler's, Inc. Gempler's is a direct marketer
serving the $3 billion agricultural, horticultural, grounds maintenance, and
contractor markets. Grainger expects the acquisition to close, subject to
standard conditions, early in the second quarter and to be accretive within a
year. No other terms of the agreement were disclosed. Gempler's will become part of Grainger's Lab Safety Supply subsidiary,
which is the premier direct marketer prov... |
| | | 01/29/03 | Grainger Reports EPS of 67 Cents for the 2002 Fourth Quarter| CHICAGO, Jan. 29 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today
reported earnings per diluted share of $2.24 for the year ended December 31,
2002, up 22 percent versus 2001. Sales for 2002 decreased 2 percent to
$4.64 billion versus $4.75 billion in 2001. Net earnings for the year were
$211.6 million. Excluding a goodwill impairment charge of $23.9 million, net
earnings for the year were $235.5 million, or $2.50 per share. The 2002
full-year results also include $0.04 per share in non-operating gains from the
sale of investment securities. Sales in the 2002 fourth quarter were $1.12 billion, up 1 percent over the
prior year's fourth quarter. Net earnings of $62.6 mill... |
| | | 01/29/03 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, Jan. 29 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The directors of W.W. Grainger,
Inc. today declared a quarterly dividend of 18 cents per share payable March
1, 2003, to shareholders of record February 10, 2003.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), is the leading broad line supplier of
facilities maintenance products in North America. Grainger serves customers
through a network of nearly 600 branches, 16 distribution centers, and four
Web sites. Sales for 2002 were $4.6 billion. For more information, visit
Grainger online at www.grainger.com .
SOURCE W.W. Grainger, Inc.... |
| | | 12/16/02 | Grainger Reiterates Guidance for 2002, Provides Outlook for 2003| NEW YORK CITY, Dec. 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), the
leading North American industrial distributor of products used by businesses
to maintain, repair, and operate their facilities, today reviewed key business
initiatives and provided guidance for 2003. Grainger's Chairman and Chief
Executive Officer Richard L. Keyser spoke to the financial community in New
York along with Wesley M. Clark, President and Chief Operating Officer, and P.
Ogden Loux, Senior Vice President, Finance, and Chief Financial Officer. Grainger reaffirmed 2002 EPS guidance of $2.38 to $2.52. This EPS
projection excludes both the $0.04 gain on the sale of securities and the
$0.25 goodwi... |
| | | 11/26/02 | Grainger Provides Sailors a Home Away From Home for the Holidays| Industrial Supply Giant To Host Thanksgiving Dinner For More Than 100 Recruits
From Great Lakes Naval Base CHICAGO, Nov. 26 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger will open its doors on
Thursday, Nov. 28, from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m., to more than 100 Navy recruits
who are unable to be home with their families for Thanksgiving. This marks
the second consecutive year in which the company will host the event at its
corporate headquarters in Lake Forest, Ill. Over 50 Grainger employees and their families will share a traditional
Thanksgiving dinner with the recruits at 12 p.m. CST. The company also will
offer a variety of activities throughout the day for rec... |
| | | 11/18/02 | Grainger Recognizes Greg Biffle, 2002 Nascar Busch Series Champion| Industrial Supply Giant to Sponsor Biffle in His Quest to Become the First
Driver to Win Titles in All Three NASCAR Circuits CHICAGO, Nov. 18 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Grainger, North America's
leading provider of products used by businesses to maintain, repair and
operate their facilities, today recognizes Greg Biffle, driver of the #60
Grainger Ford(R), for winning the 2002 Busch Series title. With this title,
Biffle becomes the first driver to win NASCAR championships in both the
Craftsman(R) Truck Series and the Busch Series. Championship trophies will be
presented to Biffle and Grainger president and chief operating officer, Wes
Clark, who will represent the ... |
| | | 11/18/02 | Grainger Recognizes Greg Biffle, 2002 NASCAR Busch Series Champion| W.W. Grainger, Inc.
100 Grainger Parkway
Lake Forest, IL 60045-5201
Tel: 847.535.1000
www. grainger.com
CONTACT: Michael McGrew FOR IMMEDIATE
RELEASE
Grainger
847.535.4196
mcgrew.m@grainger.com
Grainger Recognizes Greg Biffle,
2002 NASCAR Busch Series Champion
Industrial Supply Giant to Sponsor Bi... |
| | | 11/18/02 | GRAINGER RECOGNIZES GREG BIFFLE, 2002 NASCAR BUSCH SERIES CHAMPION| W.W. Grainger, Inc.
100 Grainger Parkway
Lake Forest, IL 60045-5201
Tel: 847.535.1000
www. grainger.com
CONTACT: Michael McGrew FOR IMMEDIATE
RELEASE
Grainger
847.535.4196
mcgrew.m@grainger.com
Grainger Recognizes Greg Biffle,
2002 NASCAR Busch Series Champion
Industrial Supply Giant to Sponsor Bi... |
| | | 10/30/02 | Grainger Increases Share Repurchase Program| CHICAGO, October 30, 2002 – The directors of Grainger today restored the company's share repurchase authorization to its original level of 10 million shares. Prior to this action, approximately 1.3 million shares remained available for repurchase on the existing authorization. Repurchases are expected to be made from time to time in open market and/or privately negotiated transactions. The repurchased shares will be available for general corporate purposes. The company presently has approximately 91.4 million shares of common stock outstanding.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2001 sales of $4.8 billion, is the leading North American industrial distributor of products used by bus... |
| | | 10/30/02 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend|
CHICAGO, October 30, 2002 – The directors of Grainger today declared a quarterly dividend of 18 cents per share payable December 1, 2002, to shareholders of record November 11, 2002.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2001 sales of $4.8 billion, is the leading North American industrial distributor of products used by businesses to maintain, repair, and operate their facilities. Grainger shares are traded on the New York and Chicago stock exchanges. For more information, visit Grainger online at www.grainger.com .
... |
| | | 10/28/02 | Red Cross, Grainger Model Successful Partnership for Helping Disaster Victims|
"Ready When the Time Comes" Volunteer Program To Be Introduced Nationwide
CHICAGO, October 28, 2002. - From 9-to-5 during the week, they are customer service representatives, marketing executives, data entry clerks, managers, executive assistants, and sales representatives at industrial supply giant Grainger. But when disasters strike the Chicago area, they become Red Cross disaster responders - ready when the time comes to lend a hand when it is most critically needed.
These professionals are part of the American Red Cross of Greater Chicago's Ready When the Time Comes (RWTC) corporate volunteer program, designed to increase the local Red Cross's capacity to respond instantan... |
| | | 10/16/02 | Grainger Reports EPS of 64 Cents for Third Quarter 2002| CHICAGO, October 16, 2002 - Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported improved results
for the third quarter ended September 30, 2002. Net earnings of $60.0 million
increased 7 percent and diluted earnings per share were up 8 percent to $0.64
versus $0.59 for the 2001 third quarter. Sales of $1.2 billion in the 2002
third quarter were flat versus the 2001 third quarter. The quarter included
an additional selling day.
"While operating performance of our three business segments improved,
sales results for the quarter confirm that we are not yet seeing a recovery
in the North American economy," said Grainger's Chairman and Chief Executive
Officer, Richard L. Ke... |
| | | 09/24/02 | Grainger's Online Order Management System Saves Customers Time and Effort| Grainger, the leading North American industrial distributor of products used by businesses to maintain, repair and operate their facilities, has launched an Order Management System on its web site. The Order Management System helps customers better control their online purchasing process when multiple purchasers access the site.
Customers that choose to use the Order Management System at www.grainger.com can set limits on how much each purchaser can spend per order. Grainger electronically forwards orders that exceed the prescribed purchasing limit to the approving authority designated by the company. Only after it is approved does Grainger process the order.
The com... |
| | | 07/31/02 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, July 31, 2002 – The directors of Grainger today declared a quarterly dividend of 18 cents per share payable September 1, 2002, to shareholders of record August 12, 2002.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2001 sales of $4.8 billion, is the leading North American industrial distributor of products used by businesses to maintain, repair, and operate their facilities. Grainger shares are traded on the New York and Chicago stock exchanges. For more information, visit Grainger online at www.grainger.com.
... |
| | | 07/16/02 | Grainger Recognizes a $23.9 Million After-Tax Goodwill Impairment Charge Due to Accounting Change| CHICAGO, July 16, 2002 – Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported a non-cash charge to earnings of $23.9 million, or $0.25 per share, related to the write-down of goodwill for its Canadian subsidiary. This write-down was the result of the completion of the required assessment of the impact of SFAS 142, Goodwill and Other Intangibles. This amount was recorded as the cumulative effect of an accounting change as of January 1, 2002. The effect of this charge was included in the six-months ended
June 30, 2002.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2001 sales of $4.8 billion, is the leading North American industrial distributor of products used by businesses to maintain, repair, and operat... |
| | | 07/16/02 | Grainger Reports EPS of 57 Cents for Second Quarter 2002| CHICAGO, July 16, 2002 - Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported results for the
second quarter ended June 30, 2002. Net earnings of $54.5 million increased
268 percent and earnings per share were $0.57, up 280 percent versus the 2001
second quarter. During the quarter, the company reduced headcount at its headquarters
and at Lab Safety Supply. Severance and other costs of $5.8 million ($3.4 million
after tax) or $0.04 per share were included in the 2002 second quarter. The
2001 quarter included non-recurring, after-tax charges of $38 million, or $0.40
per share, related to the closing of Material Logic and the write-down of other
digital investments. Excluding those... |
| | | 07/13/02 | Grainger to Move Up to Winston Cup With Greg Biffle and Roush Racing| Industrial Supply Giant to Let Customers Pick Design for 2003 Winston Cup Car
CHICAGO (July 13, 2002) - Grainger, together with Roush Racing, today announced it will continue its sponsorship of Greg Biffle as he moves up to the Winston Cup Series in 2003. Grainger also announced a new sweepstakes promotion that will let its customers choose the design for Biffle’s No. 16 Winston Cup car from among three different visual concepts. Customers registered on Grainger's website will be able to cast their votes by visiting www.grainger.com. One winner will be chosen. The winning company's logo will appear on Biffle's No. 16 car for one race. Biffle and the Grainger-Roush Racing team also wil... |
| | | 05/23/02 | Grainger Donation Helps Protect Dog Days of Summer Exhibit in Racine, Wis.| CHICAGO (May 23, 2002) – Grainger, North America’s leading industrial supplier of products used by businesses to maintain, repair and operate their facilities, is donating 50 movable platforms to the Downtown Racine Corp. (DRC) for its Dog Days of Summer exhibit. Several pieces of artwork from the exhibit have been vandalized in recent weeks. Grainger will present the moving platforms to Mayor Jim Smith and Kathy Hansen, executive director at the Downtown Racine Corp., at a special ceremony on Friday, May 24, at 10:30 a.m. CST, at the Grainger branch located at 3711 S. Memorial Dr., in Racine, Wis.
The DRC now will be able to move the artwork to secure locations at night, thereby h... |
| | | 04/24/02 | Grainger Shareholders Elect Directors, Other Meeting Highlights| CHICAGO, April 24, 2002 - At the annual meeting held today, shareholders elected
12 directors, all of whom were previously serving on the board. The directors are:
OTHER ACTIONS TAKEN BY SHAREHOLDERS. Shareholders ratified the appointment of Grant Thornton LLP as independent auditors for the year ending December 31, 2002.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2001 sales of $4.8 billion, is the
leading North American industrial distributor of products used by businesses to maintain, repair, and operate their facilities. Grainger shares are traded on the
New York and Chicago stock exchanges. For more information, visit Grainger
online at www.grainger.com ... |
| | | 04/24/02 | Grainger Increases Quarterly Dividend to 18 Cents Per Share| CHICAGO, April 24, 2002 – The directors of W.W. Grainger, Inc. at their meeting today declared a cash dividend of 18 cents per share payable June 1, 2002, to shareholders of record May 6, 2002. This represents an increase of 3% from the prior quarterly rate of 17 1/2 cents per share.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), with 2001 sales of $4.8 billion, is the leading North American industrial distributor of products used by businesses to maintain, repair, and operate their facilities. Grainger shares are traded on the New York and Chicago stock exchanges. For more information, visit Grainger online at www.grainger.com .
... |
| | | 04/16/02 | Grainger Reports EPS of 61 Cents for the 2002 First Quarter| CHICAGO, April 16, 2002 - Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2002. While sales declined 8 percent, net earnings increased 39 percent to $58 million, and earnings per share were $0.61, up 36 percent.
Sales in the 2002 first quarter were $1.1 billion, down 8 percent, versus $1.2 billion in the prior year's first quarter. Continuing weakness in the North American economy and the effect of one less selling day affected sales performance in the quarter.
Richard L. Keyser, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer said, "Despite a difficult economic environment, we were able to grow earnings and expand operating margins. Because we do not exp... |
| | | 04/09/02 | Grainger Donates $25,000 to Minority Management Education Program and Awards Scholarship to Minority Supplier| CHICAGO (April 9, 2002) – Grainger, North America’s largest industrial distributor of products used by businesses to maintain, repair and operate their facilities, today announced a $25,000 donation to the National Minority Supplier Development Council’s (NMSDC) Advanced Management Education Program. The company also announced Phyllis Valdez, president of The Valdez Group, an Hispanic-owned supplier of specialty tools for the manufacturing market, as the recipient of its annual scholarship award. Valdez will attend the program this summer.
The Advanced Management Education Program is held annually at Northwestern University’s Kellogg Graduate School of Management and focuses on issu... |
| | | 03/05/02 | Grainger Launches Custom Products Center Online| CHICAGO (March 5, 2002) – Grainger, the leading North American industrial distributor of products used by businesses to maintain, repair and operate their facilities, has launched a Custom Products Center online. Customers can design and order property identification tags and safety signs through its web site, www.grainger.com .
Customers can visit the Custom Products Center, at www.grainger.com/customsigns, and design, preview and order property identification tags that help label business assets for identification and tracking purposes. Customers can also design, preview and order safety signs, including styles that are compliant with OSHA and ANSI standards.
The self-s... |
| | | 03/01/02 | North America's Largest Industrial Supply Distributor Moves to New Location in Rochester| CHICAGO (March 1, 2002) - Grainger, the leading North American industrial distributor of products used by businesses to maintain, repair and operate their facilities, has relocated its branch store in Rochester, N.Y. to a new location at 1999 Mt. Read Blvd. This branch was previously located at 507 Hague St. The company's new Mt. Read Blvd. branch is one of two Grainger branches serving the Rochester area. Grainger also serves customers from its branch located at 430 W. Metro Park.
Grainger's new Mt. Read Blvd. branch will continue to bring Grainger's broad product and service offerings to area businesses. This new branch features an open-air, easy-access showroom that is dedic... |
| | | 02/28/02 | Grainger Hosts Analysts at New Dallas Distribution Center| CHICAGO, February 28, 2002 – Grainger (NYSE: GWW), North America’s leading industrial distributor of products used by businesses to maintain, repair, and operate their facilities, today hosted a group of 40 financial analysts in Dallas. The meeting, designed to showcase the company’s $200 million redesigned logistics network, detailed Grainger’s supply chain network and how its new distribution centers will expand capacity, improve productivity, reduce operating costs, and improve customer service. As part of the presentation, Grainger Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Richard L. Keyser reiterated the company’s 2002 earnings per share guidance of $2.30 to $2.65.
President and Chief... |
| | | 02/25/02 | Grainger Recognized As One Of America’s Most Admired Companies| CHICAGO (February 25, 2002) – Grainger, the leading North American industrial distributor of products used by businesses to maintain, repair and operate their facilities, has been recognized by Fortune magazine as one of “America’s Most Admired Companies.” This distinction was afforded Grainger in Fortune magazine’s March 4 listing, selected from the largest U.S. companies and U.S. subsidiaries of foreign-owned companies. Grainger was ranked fourth among the country’s largest diversified wholesalers. Companies were selected from 58 different industries, based on their industry rank in eight key categories, including: innovation, financial soundness, employee talent, use of corporate asse... |
| | | 02/04/02 | Grainger Names New Senior Vice President of Human Resources| CHICAGO (February 4, 2002) - Grainger, the leading North American industrial distributor of products used by businesses to maintain, repair and operate their facilities, today announced Peter Perez as its new senior vice president of human resources.
In this position, Perez will provide leadership and strategic direction for the design, development and execution of Grainger's human resource initiatives. Perez will be responsible for ensuring that Grainger's human resource policies support business objectives and that the company remains competitive in the marketplace through several key human resource functions including benefits, compensation, organization effectiveness and staffi... |
| | | 02/04/02 | North America's Largest Industrial Supply Distributor Moves to New Location in South San Francisco| CHICAGO (February 4, 2002) – Grainger, the leading North American industrial distributor of products used by businesses to maintain, repair and operate their facilities, has relocated its branch store in South San Francisco, Calif., to a new location at 408 N. Canal St. Grainger's South San Francisco branch previously was located at 1430 San Mateo Ave. The company's new branch will continue to bring Grainger’s broad product and service offerings to area businesses.
Grainger's new South San Francisco branch features an open-air, easy-access showroom that is dedicated to self-serve product displays, and provides immediate access to broad line of industrial products tailored to the ne... |
| | | 01/29/02 | Grainger Reports EPS of 65 Cents for the 2001 Fourth Quarter and $1.84 for the Full Year| CHICAGO, January 29, 2002 - Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2001. Sales in the 2001 fourth quarter were down 8 percent compared to the prior year fourth quarter. Net earnings of $61.5 million, or $0.65 per share, were up 28 percent and 27 percent respectively. Sales for the full year 2001 decreased 4 percent to $4.8 billion versus $5.0 billion in 2000. Net earnings for the year were $174.5 million, or $1.84 per share. The full year results include non-recurring, after-tax charges of $36.6 million or $0.39 per share.
Based on current projections, the Company reduced its non-recurring charges, originally recognized i... |
| | | 01/14/02 | Former Chicago Bear Named New Director of Diversity at Grainger| CHICAGO (January 14, 2002) – Grainger, the 75-year-old leading distributor of supplies for facilities maintenance, today announced that it has hired Mark Green as its new director of diversity effective Monday, Dec. 31, 2001.
In this position, Green will oversee the continued development and management of Grainger’s human resources strategies to promote employee diversity. Green also will help Grainger’s efforts to ensure diversity awareness in the areas of recruitment and staffing, employee development and university relations.
"At Grainger, we are committed to strengthening our company through a diverse workforce,” said Wes Clark, Grainger president and chief operating office... |
| | | 01/08/02 | Grainger Launches Online Search Options for Government Purchasers| CHICAGO (January 8, 2002) -- Grainger, the leading North American provider of maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) supplies, has introduced new timesaving capabilities to its proprietary online advanced search engine, enabling customers to quickly locate products grouped by specific criteria from Grainger’s offering of more than 220,000 products online.
New Advanced Search options include the National Stocking Number (NSN) special refinement, giving government customers the ability to locate government-approved products and a Supplier Diversity refinement, allowing customers to quickly identify products from Grainger’s diversity suppliers.
By accessing the Advanced Search opti... |
| | | 11/30/01 | Grainger Chairman and CEO Reiterates Guidance for 2001 and Provides 2002 Outlook to Analysts|
CHICAGO, November 30, 2001—Grainger (NYSE: GWW) Grainger’s
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Richard L. Keyser, spoke today to analysts
attending the Lehman Brothers 19 th Annual Industrial Select Conference in
Coral Gables, Florida. In his presentation, Keyser reiterated earnings guidance for
2001, which was originally presented on January 31. “As we close what has been a
challenging year with sales below the prior year, we have succeeded in taking costs
out of our operations. I want to reiterate that we expect to deliver earnings per share
this year between $2.20 to $2.30, excluding a $0.40 per share restructuring charge,”
he stated.
Keyser also discus... |
| | | 11/30/01 | Grainger Chairman and CEO Reiterates Guidance for 2001| CHICAGO, November 30, 2001—Grainger (NYSE: GWW) Grainger’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Richard L. Keyser, spoke today to analysts attending the Lehman Brothers 19 th Annual Industrial Select Conference in Coral Gables, Florida. In his presentation, Keyser reiterated earnings guidance for 2001, which was originally presented on January 31. “As we close what has been a challenging year with sales below the prior year, we have succeeded in taking costs out of our operations. I want to reiterate that we expect to deliver earnings per share this year between $2.20 to $2.30, excluding a $0.40 per share restructuring charge,” he stated.
Keyser also discussed expectations for 2002. “Bas... |
| | | 11/14/01 | Masco Corporation Honors Grainger With MASTAR Supplier Award|
TAYLOR, Mich. (November 13, 2001) -- Masco Corporation (NYSE: MAS) today announced Grainger as a winner of its MASTAR (Masco Supplier Team Award Recognition) 2000 Program. Other winners of the inaugural 2000 awards are: Dow Chemical, Stiles Machinery and Temple-Inland Forest Products Corporation.
The MASTAR Awards recognize and reward leadership, communication, commitment, and cooperation of Masco’s extensive supplier group to achieve world-class quality, cost reduction, delivery and service.
“We are pleased to recognize Grainger for its outstanding support of Masco Corporation,” said Richard A. Manoogian, Masco’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “Grainger shares Masco’s ... |
| | | 10/31/01 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, October 31, 2001 – Members of the board of directors of Grainger today declared a cash dividend of $0.17 ½ per share payable December 1, 2001, to shareholders of record on November 12, 2001.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (GWW), with 2000 sales of $5 billion, is the leading North American provider of maintenance, repair, and operating supplies and related information to businesses and institutions. Grainger shares are traded on the New York and Chicago stock exchanges. For more information, visit Grainger on-line at www.grainger.com .
... |
| | | 10/15/01 | Grainger Reports EPS of 59 Cents for the Third Quarter of 2001| CHICAGO, October 15, 2001 - Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported a 16 percent
increase in net earnings for the third quarter ended September 30, 2001, versus
the 2000 third quarter, and a 16 percent increase in earnings per share. Net
earnings increased to $56.0 million from $48.1 million, and earnings per share
were $0.59 versus $0.51. Net earnings in the 2000 third quarter included a
$3.2 million pretax gain, or $0.02 a share, related to the sale of investment
securities. Excluding this prior period gain, net earnings for the quarter
increased 21 percent and earnings per share were up 20 percent. Sales in the
2001 third quarter were down 6 percent to $1,199 milli... |
| | | 10/10/01 | Grainger Launches Repair Parts Center Online|
CHICAGO (October 10, 2001) – Grainger, the leading North American provider of maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) supplies, today introduced a Repair Parts Center online, enabling customers to search, view and order repair parts through Grainger’s web site.
The Repair Parts Center, at www.grainger.com/repairparts, allows customers to search for solutions from more than 110 manufacturers by manufacturer/brand name, model number or manufacturer part number. Customers can also access the Repair Parts Center through several links on the site’s home page at www.grainger.com and are alerted to parts information, if available, when viewing detailed information about a Grainger product o... |
| | | 09/17/01 | Grainger Aids Emergency Response Teams in New York|
CHICAGO (September 17, 2001) – Grainger, the leading North American provider of maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) supplies, is in the process of donating $1 million in cash and emergency supplies to aid rescue and recovery teams in New York.
Grainger has over 500,000 products in inventory and a long history of responding to emergencies. The company draws from an extensive network of more than 1000 suppliers and is able to provide many of the supplies needed in a crisis. Through this donation, the company is providing an assortment of products, including: hard hats, steel-toed boots, respirator masks, safety glasses and gloves.
Grainger also is positioned to get p... |
| | | 08/01/01 | Grainger Adds Two New Members To Board of Directors|
Chicago, August 1, 2001 – Grainger’s Board of Directors today appointed Frederick A. Krehbiel and Wesley M. Clark to the board, bringing the total number of members to 12. The appointments are effective August 2, 2001.
Fred Krehbiel is co-chairman of Molex Incorporated, a leading manufacturer of electrical/electronic interconnecting products. He is a director of Molex,
Tellabs Inc., The Northern Trust Company, and DeVry Inc. In addition, Krehbiel is a trustee of Rush-Presbyterian-St.Lukes Medical Center, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Chicago Lyric Opera, Chicago Zoological Society, Museum of Science and Industry, School of the Art Institute of Chicago, and Chicago Historical Socie... |
| | | 08/01/01 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, August 1, 2001 - The directors of W.W. Grainger, Inc. at their meeting today declared a cash dividend of $0.17 ½ per share payable September 1, 2001, to shareholders of record on August 13, 2001.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (GWW), with 2000 sales of $5 billion, is the leading North American provider of maintenance, repair, and operating (MRO) supplies, and related information to businesses and institutions. GWW shares are traded on the New York and Chicago stock exchanges. For more information, visit Grainger on-line at www.grainger.com .
... |
| | | 07/17/01 | Grainger Reports EPS of 15 Cents Including 40 Cent Non-Recurring Charge for Second Quarter 2001| CHICAGO, July 17, 2001 - Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported net earnings for
the second quarter ended June 30, 2001, of $14.8 million or $0.15 per share.
These results include previously announced, non-recurring, after-tax charges
of $38 million, or $0.40 per share. Excluding unusual items from both the 2001
and 2000 second quarters, net earnings increased 32 percent to $52.8 million
from $40.1 million, and earnings per share increased 28 percent to $0.55 from
$0.43. In the 2000 second quarter, the company's results of $55.7 million, or
$0.59 cents a share, included a gain of $26 million, or $0.16 per share, related
to sales of investment securities.
"The we... |
| | | 07/16/01 | Grainger Launches Safety Services Program|
CHICAGO (July 16, 2001) – Grainger, the leading North American provider of maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) supplies, today introduced Grainger Safety Services, a nationwide program designed to help safety managers comply with increasingly strict OSHA requirements and continually changing workplace safety laws.
Grainger, also North America’s leading distributor of safety equipment, has aligned itself with a nationwide team of safety experts to help customers achieve and maintain OSHA compliance, prevent lost time due to injury or illness, and minimize unnecessary insurance costs. In addition, the company has developed a customized safety catalog that contains more than 600 page... |
| | | 06/01/01 | Grainger Reorganizes To Focus on Core Growth Opportunities|
CHICAGO, IL, June 1, 2001—Grainger today announced that it is making a series of management changes as it focuses on targeted opportunities to gain market share in the highly fragmented maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) supply industry. The changes, which are effective immediately, include: realignment of the quality, business systems and information resources across the company into a single company-wide function;
integration of all marketing, sales, branch network and Grainger.com groups across the Grainger branded businesses;
consolidation of international operations.
Grainger Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Richard L. Keyser said, “Grainger‘s strengths have ... |
| | | 05/22/01 | Grainger.com President to Address Analysts at the Bear Stearns Industrial Power Technologies Conference|
CHICAGO, May 22, 2001 – Grainger.com president James T. Ryan will speak today to analysts attending the Second Annual Bear Stearns Industrial Power Technologies Conference in Boston, Mass. A complete copy of Ryan’s presentation is available at the investor relations section of Grainger’s website, www.grainger.com. The presentation will be audiocast live at 9:40 A.M. EDT and will be available on the Bear Stearns website, www.bearstearns.com/conferences/industrial, for 30 days following the conference.
In the presentation, Ryan discusses the importance of the online channel to Grainger’s overall growth strategy, as it offers customers unique features that help save time and ... |
| | | 05/22/01 | Grainger Vice President James T. Ryan speaks at Bear Stearns Industrial Internet Conference| CHICAGO, May 22, 2001 – Grainger (NYSE: GWW) James T. Ryan, Grainger Vice President and President, Grainger.com, today met with analysts attending the Bear Stearns Industrial Internet Conference held in Boston, MA.
A complete copy of Mr. Ryan’s presentation is available at the Investor Relations section of Grainger’s web site, www.grainger.com.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (GWW), with 2000 sales of $5 billion, is the leading North American provider of maintenance, repair, and operating (MRO) supplies, and related information to businesses and institutions.GWW shares are traded on the New York and Chicago stock exchanges.For more information, visit Grainger on-line at www.grainger.co... |
| | | 05/17/01 | Wesley M. Clark Is Named President and Chief Operating Officer for Grainger|
Chicago, May 17, 2001 – Grainger today announced that Wesley M. Clark, currently group president, has been promoted to president and chief operating officer, effective immediately. He continues to report to Richard L. Keyser, Grainger’s chairman and chief executive officer.
“Wes is a strong leader, with solid management expertise who has done a great job in each of his assignments with the company,” said Keyser. “Wes champions the integrating of our Internet initiatives with our branch network. His dedication to customer service, operational excellence and listening to employees will help Grainger focus on growing its sales in its core North American distribution business.”
Clark... |
| | | 05/14/01 | Donald E. Bielinski to Leave Grainger|
Chicago, May 14, 2001 – Donald E. Bielinski, group president for Grainger, is leaving Grainger after a 30-year career with the company to pursue his career interests in business-to-business Internet and technology-related areas.
Grainger Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Richard L. Keyser said, “Don has had a distinguished career with Grainger. He has an unusually broad set of leadership skills, which he was able to use in the finance, operations, marketing, and technology arenas. Most recently, he has overseen Grainger’s Internet-related initiatives and guided the company’s digital strategy. It was partly because of Don’s significant contributions in this area that Grainger ear... |
| | | 05/09/01 | Grainger Chairman and CEO Addresses Analysts at the Electrical Products Group of New York Annual Conference in Florida|
CHICAGO, May 9, 2001 – Grainger (NYSE: GWW) Grainger’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Richard L. Keyser, today spoke to analysts attending the annual meeting of the Electrical Products Group of New York, held on Long Boat Key, Florida. A complete copy of Keyser’s presentation is available at the Investor Relations section of Grainger’s web site, www.grainger.com.
In the presentation Keyser reiterated the importance of the Internet to the Company’s growth strategy and announced that Grainger.com, the Company’s flagship site, is expected to be profitable for the year. “Grainger.com has been making a positive variable contribution for some time, and we continue to expect it to m... |
| | | 04/25/01 | Grainger Shareholders Elect Directors, Other Meeting Highlights|
CHICAGO, April 25, 2001 - At the annual meeting held today, shareholders elected 10 directors, all of whom served the previous year. The directors are:
Brian P. Anderson
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Baxter International Inc.
Neil S. Novich
Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer
Ryerson Tull, Inc.
Wilbur H. Gantz
Retired Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
PathoGenesis Corporation
James D. Slavik
President
Mark IV Capital, Inc.
David W. Grainger
Senior Chairman of the Board
W.W. Grainger, Inc.
Harold B. Smith
... |
| | | 04/25/01 | Grainger Increases Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, April 25, 2001 - The directors of W.W. Grainger, Inc. at their meeting today declared a cash dividend of $0.17 ½ per share payable June 1, 2001, to shareholders of record on May 7, 2001. This represents an increase of 3% from the prior quarterly rate of $0.17 per share.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (GWW), with 2000 sales of $5 billion, is the leading North American provider of maintenance, repair, and operating (MRO) supplies, and related information to businesses and institutions. GWW shares are traded on the New York and Chicago stock exchanges. For more information, visit Grainger on-line at www.grainger.com .
... |
| | | 04/23/01 | Grainger to Discontinue Material Logic and Focus Its Digital Effort On Its Core Businesses|
Company to take an after-tax, non-recurring charge of $38 million including write-down of other digital investments
CHICAGO, (April 23, 2001) – Grainger today announced it will discontinue the operations of Material Logic, the digital unit formed to seek other equity participants. As a result of this action, Grainger will shut down all of Material Logic’s branded e-commerce sites except FindMRO, which will remain an integrated sourcing service for Grainger customers.
“The condition of the financial markets and the economy limited funding opportunities. Material Logic’s advanced e-procurement solution was sound, but customer adoption rates were slower than expected,” said Ric... |
| | | 04/16/01 | Grainger Reports EPS of 45 Cents for the 2001 First Quarter| CHICAGO, April 16, 2001 - Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported results for the
first quarter ended March 31, 2001. Despite flat sales, the Company achieved
a 12 percent increase in operating earnings and a 2 percent improvement in diluted
earnings per share versus the same period in 2000. Net earnings for the first
quarter of 2001 were $42.2 million versus $41.2 million for the prior year's
quarter. Earnings per diluted share were $0.45 compared to $0.44 in the first
quarter of 2000. The Company remains on target to achieve its expected earnings
per share of $1.80 to $2.10 for the year 2001.
Sales were $1,219 million versus $1,222 million in the prior year's first ... |
| | | 03/26/01 | Grainger Executives Purchase $24.4 Million in Grainger Stock|
CHICAGO, March 26, 2001 – Grainger today announced that a group of 83 executives bought $24.4 million in shares of common stock from the Company, making the management team substantial shareholders. Proceeds from the executive stock purchase program will be used to repurchase shares on the open market.
Grainger Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Richard L. Keyser said, “We feel that our stock price is attractive at current levels. Because we as a management team believe in our strategic direction, we think it is especially appropriate for management to increase its stake in the company. This program further aligns the interests of management and shareholders.”
The executives p... |
| | | 03/12/01 | Grainger and GE Lighting Team Up to Provide Customers with Innovative Lighting Solutions|
Chicago, March 12, 2001 - Grainger announced today that after an extensive, six-month review of its incandescent, fluorescent, high intensity discharge (HID), and other specialty lighting products, it has signed a five-year agreement to continue with GE Lighting as its strategic lighting supplier. The 2001 North American commercial and industrial lighting market is estimated at more than $1.4 billion and the market is expected to increase steadily over the next five years as businesses and institutions seek energy-efficient lighting solutions. Last year, Grainger sold almost 36 million GE light bulbs, making the company the leading commercial and industrial distributor of lighting product... |
| | | 02/26/01 | Grainger Subsidiary Lab Safety Supply Acquires Direct Marketing Company|
CHICAGO, February 26, 2001 -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) announced today that Lab Safety Supply, Inc., its wholly owned subsidiary, has acquired the Ben Meadows Co., Inc., of Canton, Georgia. Ben Meadows, a privately held corporation with annual sales of more than $20 million, is a business-to-business
direct marketer specializing in equipment for the environmental and forestry management markets. Ben Meadows will become part of Lab Safety Supply, a leading business-to-business direct marketer of industrial and safety products in North America.
Terms of the agreement were not disclosed. Given the size of the acquisition, no accretion or dilution of Grainger earnings per share is expect... |
| | | 01/31/01 | Grainger Chairman and CEO Speaks to Analysts; Provides Outlook for MRO Distributor|
CHICAGO, January 31, 2001—Grainger (NYSE: GWW) Grainger’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer today met with the financial community in New York City to provide an outlook for 2001. Keyser said, “The Company’s trends in the second half of 2000 were encouraging for improved operating earnings in 2001, however the slowing economic growth in December, which continued into January with 3 to 4 percent growth, has tempered our sales outlook.” Grainger reported results for 2000 yesterday. Sales grew by 7 percent and earnings per share were $1.86, excluding a 19 cents per share gain from the sale of securities.
The Company’s discussion of 2001 looked at two possible economic scenario... |
| | | 01/31/01 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, January 31, 2001 – The directors of W.W. Grainger, Inc. today declared a quarterly dividend of 17 cents per share payable March 1, 2001, to shareholders of record February 12, 2001.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (GWW), with 2000 sales of $5 billion, is the leading North American provider of maintenance, repair, and operating (MRO) supplies and related information to businesses and institutions. Grainger shares are traded on the New York and Chicago stock exchanges. For more information, visit Grainger online at www.grainger.com.
... |
| | | 01/30/01 | Grainger Reports EPS of 51 Cents for the 2000 Fourth Quarter and $2.05 for the Full Year| CHICAGO, January 30, 2001 - Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported results for
the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2000. Sales for the year
increased 7 percent in 2000 to $4.98 billion. Earnings per diluted share for
2000 were $2.05, up 7 percent over the prior year. Included in 2000 earnings
is a pretax gain of $30 million, or 19 cents per share, related to the sale
of securities; excluding this gain, earnings per diluted share were $1.86, down
3 percent. Results for both 2000 and 1999 reflect accounting changes adopted
by Grainger, which are required by Emerging Issues Task Force pronouncement
00-10: Accounting for Shipping and Handling Fees and Cos... |
| | | 01/26/01 | Grainger Consolidates Three Digital Businesses into a Separate Entity and Plans to Create an Industry-Owned Solution| Material Logic TM Provides E-procurement Solutions to Companies with Complex Purchasing Requirements, Allowing Them to Realize Significant Benefits in the MRO Arena
CHICAGO, January 26, 2001 – Grainger (NYSE: GWW) announced today that it has consolidated three of its digital businesses into a separate organization, Material Logic. The new unit is seeking participation from MRO distributors to create an industry-backed, industry-funded independent entity that will own and operate those businesses.
Grainger Chairman and CEO Richard L. Keyser, said “Material Logic includes the digital businesses of FindMRO.com, TotalMRO.com, and MROverstocks.com, as well as the Consulting, Im... |
| | | 11/27/00 | Wyndam International, Inc. Awards Grainger Energy-Saving Lamp Conversion Project| Project is Estimated At $2 Million in Lamp Sales
CHICAGO—November 27, 2000—Grainger, the leading business-to-business provider of maintenance, repair, and operating (MRO) supplies, today announced that it has been awarded Wyndham International, Inc.’s national energy-saving lamp conversion project. The project is designed to save energy and related costs for each of the 115 participating hotel properties.
The plan is to convert almost 27,000 guestrooms and common areas from incandescent light bulbs to energy-saving, long-lasting compact fluorescent and halogen lamps. According to industry standards a typical 100-watt, 120V, incandescent lamp provides approximately 750 hours of life,... |
| | | 11/15/00 | Wesley M. Clark Addresses Analysts at Baird 2000 Industrial Technology Conference on Grainger’s Internet Strategy|
CHICAGO, November 15, 2000 – Wesley M. Clark, Group President of Grainger spoke today before a group of financial analysts and business leaders attending the Robert W. Baird 2000 Industrial Technology Conference in Chicago. The conference, which was held at the Four Seasons Hotel, focused on adoption of technological solutions in industry and was attended by approximately 200 analysts.
“Being the first to develop an e-commerce Web site has given Grainger the lead in understanding how bricks and clicks must work together,” Clark told the audience. “Nobody can offer their customers the cost savings, time savings, reliable service and innovative solutions that Grainger can. We believe th... |
| | | 11/14/00 | Grainger’s Wesley M. Clark to Speak at Baird 2000 Industrial Technology Conference| CHICAGO, November 14, 2000 - Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today announced that Wesley M. Clark, Group President of Grainger, will speak on November 15, 2000, at the Robert W. Baird 2000 Industrial Technology Conference in Chicago. The two-day event will be held on November 14 and 15 at the Four Seasons Hotel and is expected to draw attendance of approximately 200 financial analysts and industry leaders.
Mr. Clark’s remarks will focus on the ways technology is expanding value to customers of maintenance, repair and operating supplies and Grainger’s strategy for harnessing the Internet for future growth. Grainger will publish a narrative text of Mr. Clark’s presentation at www.grainger.com on No... |
| | | 11/14/00 | Grainger’s Wesley M. Clark to Speak at Baird 2000 Industrial Technology Conference|
CHICAGO, November 14, 2000 - Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today announced that Wesley M. Clark, Group President of Grainger, will speak on November 15, 2000, at the Robert W. Baird 2000 Industrial Technology Conference in Chicago. The two-day event will be held on November 14 and 15 at the Four Seasons Hotel and is expected to draw attendance of approximately 200 financial analysts and industry leaders.
Mr. Clark’s remarks will focus on the ways technology is expanding value to customers of maintenance, repair and operating supplies and Grainger’s strategy for harnessing the Internet for future growth. Grainger will publish a narrative text of Mr. Clark’s presentation at www.grainger.com on Nove... |
| | | 11/09/00 | Grainger Expands its Reach in the Hard-To-Find MRO Supply Marketplace|
CHICAGO – November 9, 2000 -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today announced several new agreements signed by its FindMRO.com business that will significantly expand its presence in the filtration, marine shipping and electrical market segments. FindMRO.com is a leading provider of indirect materials sourcing and procurement solutions of hard-to-find maintenance, repair, and operating (MRO) supplies, with more than 5 million products and 100,000 brands provided through its Internet site (www.FindMRO.com). Through these new relationships, FindMRO.com will now be featured in several co-branded sites with eFiltration, a global eHub for filtration products and services; GPS Marine Supply, a provider of ... |
| | | 10/25/00 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, October 25, 2000 – The Board of Directors of W.W. Grainger, Inc. today declared a quarterly dividend of $0.17 cents per share payable December 1, 2000 to shareholders of record November 6, 2000.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (GWW), with 1999 sales of $4.5 billion, is the leading North American provider of maintenance, repair, and operating (MRO) supplies and related information to businesses and institutions. Grainger shares are traded on the New York and Chicago stock exchanges. For more information, visit Grainger online at www.grainger.com.
... |
| | | 10/16/00 | Grainger Reports EPS of 51 cents for the Third Quarter of 2000| CHICAGO, IL, October 16, 2000 - Grainger today reported that sales grew in
the third quarter ended September 30, 2000, by 6 percent to $1.2 billion while
net earnings increased by 5 percent to $48.1 million and earnings per diluted
share rose from $0.49 to $0.51. Included in the quarter's results was a $3.2
million pretax gain on the sale of securities, adding $0.02 to earnings per
diluted share.
Sales for the nine months were $3.7 billion compared to $3.4 billion for the
first nine months of 1999. Net earnings of $145.0 million for the nine months
ended September 30, 2000, were below net earnings of $152.6 million for the
same period of last year. Earnings per ... |
| | | 09/27/00 | Grainger Brands Its Auction Site As MROverstocks.com|
E-auction solution offers discounted inventory for buyers and greater returns on liquidation for suppliers
CHICAGO--September 27, 2000 – Grainger, the leading North American provider of maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) supplies, today announced that it has branded its auction Web site as MROverstocks.com. The Grainger auction site was introduced in 1999 to test online inventory liquidation of Grainger products. It now covers products in 15 major categories from over 140 brand name suppliers.
MROverstocks.com provides business-to-business customers the opportunity to buy discontinued and excess industrial products at deeply discounted prices, and suppliers can realize greater ret... |
| | | 09/27/00 | Grainger Brands Its Auction Site As MROverstocks.com|
E-auction solution offers discounted inventory for buyers and greater returns on liquidation for suppliers
CHICAGO--September 27, 2000 – Grainger, the leading North American provider of maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) supplies, today announced that it has branded its auction Web site as MROverstocks.com. The Grainger auction site was introduced in 1999 to test online inventory liquidation of Grainger products. It now covers products in 15 major categories from over 140 brand name suppliers.
MROverstocks.com provides business-to-business customers the opportunity to buy discontinued and excess industrial products at deeply discounted prices, and suppliers can realize greater ret... |
| | | 09/20/00 | FindMRO.comSM Offers Strategic Sourcing for Indirect Materials Via Commerce One.netTM|
CHICAGO-- September 20, 2000 – FindMRO.com, a Grainger company, today announced that it will provide strategic sourcing to Commerce One® customers who use the portfolio of business services now available on the latest version of Commerce One.net (formerly named MarketSite.net).
The integration of FindMRO.com as a strategic sourcing service with Commerce One.net expands choice for buyers and simplifies the sourcing process. FindMRO.com’s team of experienced sourcing specialists have established relationships with more than 12,000 suppliers and utilize FindMRO.com’s database access to five million products to provide the most comprehensive capability for finding indirect materials and ser... |
| | | 09/20/00 | FindMRO.comSM Offers Strategic Sourcing for Indirect Materials Via Commerce One.netTM|
CHICAGO-- September 20, 2000 – FindMRO.com, a Grainger company, today announced that it will provide strategic sourcing to Commerce One® customers who use the portfolio of business services now available on the latest version of Commerce One.net (formerly named MarketSite.net).
The integration of FindMRO.com as a strategic sourcing service with Commerce One.net expands choice for buyers and simplifies the sourcing process. FindMRO.com’s team of experienced sourcing specialists have established relationships with more than 12,000 suppliers and utilize FindMRO.com’s database access to five million products to provide the most comprehensive capability for finding indirect materials and ser... |
| | | 09/18/00 | TotalMRO.com and Motorola to Demo Wireless Technology at Ariba "Live Miami" Conference|
CHICAGO—September 18, 2000— TotalMRO.comSM, Grainger’s latest e-Commerce initiative, and Motorola will showcase use of Motorola’s wireless technology at the Ariba “LIVE Miami” 2000 Conference September 17-19. Highlights of the showcase will include use of Motorola’s Internet-enabled phones to access order status information on TotalMRO.com.
“Motorola’s wireless devices are ideally suited for the MRO purchasing environment. Through WAP (wireless application protocol) technology, customers can instantly access critical procurement information anywhere within their facility,” said Liz Olig, president of TotalMRO.com. “The Ariba conference offers an excellent opportunity to demonstrate our p... |
| | | 08/08/00 | TotalMRO.com Incorporates MRO News and Content from Leading Industrial Publisher Putman Media| Addition of Industry News Enhances TotalMRO.com’s Value Proposition as the Destination for Everything MRO
CHICAGO—August 8, 2000—TotalMRO.com, Grainger’s new one-stop digital solution for comprehensive maintenance, repair, and operating (MRO) supplies and information, today announced that it has incorporated industry news from Putman Media, a leading publisher of MRO information, into its online offering. Under the terms of the agreement, Putman Media will supply TotalMRO.com with informative news and information from its industry-leading publications including Plant Services.
The addition of industry content extends TotalMRO.com’s offering beyond robust commerce capabilities. In additi... |
| | | 08/02/00 | Grainger Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, August 2, 2000 – The Board of Directors of W.W. Grainger, Inc. today declared a quarterly dividend of $0.17 cents per share payable September 1, 2000 to shareholders of record August 14, 2000.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (GWW), with 1999 sales of $4.5 billion, is the leading North American provider of maintenance, repair, and operating (MRO) supplies and related information to businesses and institutions. Grainger shares are traded on the New York and Chicago stock exchanges. For more information, visit Grainger online at www.grainger.com .
... |
| | | 08/01/00 | Grainger Closes Deal with Works.com|
CHICAGO--August 1, 2000—Grainger today announced that it has completed the transaction with Works.com, which was announced in June. As part of the agreement, Grainger will combine OrderZone.com, a leading B2B multi-supplier Internet marketplace, with Works.com, a leading online purchasing service, forming one of the industry’s most comprehensive purchasing management services and e-marketplaces of indirect goods for small and mid-sized businesses.
In addition, Grainger will also invest $21 million in cash in Works.com and deliver the Works.com purchasing management service and marketplace to Grainger’s 1.4 million small and midsize customers through Grainger.com. For its contributions of... |
| | | 07/18/00 | Grainger Reports EPS of 59 Cents for the Second Quarter of 2000 including a Gain of 16 Cents a Share| CHICAGO, July 18, 2000 - Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported an increase in
sales of 8 percent for the second quarter ended June 30, 2000. Sales grew to
$1.2 billion compared to $1.1 billion reported for the second quarter of 1999.
Net earnings were $55.7 million compared to $50.6 million for the prior year
quarter, an increase of 10 percent. Earnings per diluted share were $0.59 versus
$0.53 in the second quarter of 1999, up 11 percent.
Included in the earnings for the quarter was a gain of $26 million related
to the sale of an investment security. This investment was part of the Company's
plans to help fund the development of its digital businesses. Excluding t... |
| | | 06/20/00 | Totalmro.Com Announces the Addition of Six New Mro Distributors|
TotalMRO.com To Provide Access to More Than 3.5 Million MRO Products
CHICAGO -- June 20, 2000 --TotalMRO.com, Grainger’s latest e-Commerce initiative, today announced that Wesco Distribution, a division of WESCO International, Inc., Carlton-Bates Company, Precision Industries, Magid Glove & Safety, Grainger Parts Company, and Gempler’s, Inc. will join other leading suppliers in offering products and services through its one-stop Internet-based maintenance, repair, and operating (MRO) solution. These major MRO distributors join the initial ten participants, which include Briggs-Weaver, Cameron and Barkley Company, Lab Safety Supply, Manufacturers Equipment and Supply Company, MetersandIns... |
| | | 06/19/00 | Grainger’s FindMRO.com and Commerx Form Alliance to Provide Enhanced Sourcing and E-Procurement Solutions to Commerx eMarketplace Users|
CHICAGO -- June 19, 2000 - FindMRO.com, a provider of indirect materials sourcing and procurement solutions, and Commerx, a leading developer of collaborative eMarketplace supply chain solutions for industrial markets, today announced an alliance. The agreement provides users of Commerx PlasticsNet and Commerx Metals access to unlimited sourcing services for maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) supplies through FindMRO.com, a Grainger company. This new product sourcing offering was launched earlier this month.
“The depth of the sourcing services provided by FindMRO.com, combined with Commerx’s e-procurement, connectivity and logistics solutions, is a big part of our end-to-end collab... |
| | | 06/12/00 | Grainger’s Orderzone.com and Works.com to Combine| Grainger and Works.com also form strategic partnership
Chicago and Austin, Texas-- June 12, 2000 - Grainger (NYSE:GWW) and Works.com today announced that they have signed a definitive agreement to combine Grainger’s OrderZone.com, a leading B2B multi-supplier Internet marketplace, with Works.com, a leading Internet business purchasing service. The combination will provide small and midsize businesses with one of the most advanced online business purchasing services and e-marketplaces for indirect business products.
In addition to contributing the OrderZone business and assets, Grainger will invest an additional $21 million in Works.com and deliver the Works.com purchasing service and e... |
| | | 05/18/00 | Grainger and SK Global Partner on E-Commerce Initiative in Korea|
First Korean Internet site for maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) supplies
CHICAGO, May 18, 2000-- Grainger International, a subsidiary of W.W. Grainger, Inc., the leading North American provider of maintenance, repair, and operating (MRO) supplies and information, and SK Global, a member company of the SK Group, a leading petrochemical and telecommunications company in Korea, today announced that they have entered into a joint venture agreement. The joint venture will establish the first Web-based B2B procurement solution for indirect materials in the Korean marketplace. The site is expected to be live by the end of the year.
Under the terms of the agreement, Grainger will rece... |
| | | 05/15/00 | Orderzone.Com Expands To 420,000 Products with Addition of New Partners|
CHICAGO--May 15, 2000 –OrderZone.com by Grainger,–Grainger’s OrderZone.com, a leading B2B multi-supplier Internet marketplace, today announced a major expansion of its supplier base with the addition of Fastenal Company and Motion Industries. The addition of these new distributors expands the coverage of OrderZone.com’s product offerings to include threaded fasteners, fastener accessories, bearings and power transmission products. Already one of the largest and most comprehensive B2B one-stop shopping marketplaces, OrderZone.com’s searchable, online database now offers more than 420,000 brand name products needed by small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs).
Daniel Hamburger, president of Or... |
| | | 05/12/00 | Black & Decker Products to Appear on Grainger’s Auction Site|
Grainger’s Online Auction Expands to Offer Customers More Brand Name Products
CHICAGO--May 15, 2000—Grainger today announced that it will now feature surplus products and discontinued merchandise from Black & Decker and its subsidiary brands on its online auction site at http://auction.grainger.com. Launched in November 1999, Grainger’s auction site—The Industrial Strength Online AuctionSM—offers business?to?business customers the opportunity to place real?time bids on discontinued and surplus industrial products from a variety of categories, including hand and power tools and metalworking products.
“We view our participation on Grainger’s auction site as a strategic move that not only... |
| | | 05/12/00 | Grainger Adds Dewalt to Its Auction Site Roster of Indirect Material Suppliers|
Expanded Product Offering Provides Customers Good Deals on Top-Quality Brands
CHICAGO--May 15, 2000—Grainger today announced that surplus DeWalt industrial power tools and accessories will now be available on its online auction site at http://auction.grainger.com. Launched in November 1999, Grainger’s auction site—The Industrial Strength Online AuctionSM—offers business-to-business customers an opportunity to place real-time bids on surplus industrial supply products from a variety of categories, including hand and power tools, metal working products, and janitorial supplies. By agreeing to become a Grainger auction site supplier, DeWalt joins a growing roster of top-quality indirect ma... |
| | | 04/26/00 | Grainger Increases Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, April 26, 2000 - The directors of W.W. Grainger, Inc. at their meeting today declared a cash dividend of $0.17 cents per share payable, June 1, 2000 to shareholders of record on May 8, 2000. This represents an increase of 6.3% from the prior quarterly rate of 16 cents per share.
W.W. Grainger, Inc. (GWW), with 1999 sales of $4.5 billion, is the leading North American provider of maintenance, repair, and operating (MRO) supplies, services, and related information to businesses and institutions. GWW shares are traded on the New York and Chicago stock exchanges. For more information, visit Grainger on-line at www.grainger.com .
... |
| | | 04/24/00 | FindMRO.com and ENI-Net.com Form New Partnership to Provide Improved Sourcing and Ordering Capabilities for Customers|
Chicago, IL and Newton, MA – April 24, 2000 - FindMRO.com, a Grainger company, and ENI-Net.com today announced a partnership which offers the environmental industry a comprehensive maintenance, repair, and operating (MRO) procurement solution. The new alliance provides businesses product sourcing and procurement capabilities that expedite online proposal requests and ordering. This service offering will be available to ENI-Net.com buyers during the second quarter of 2000.
"We continue to make it easier for buyers and suppliers of environmental equipment and products to do business and exchange information electronically on a global scale," said Tully Ryan, vice president and founder of E... |
| | | 04/20/00 | Grainger Announces New Management Position|
CHICAGO, IL – April 20, 2000 - - Grainger today named Tom Condon as vice president of eBusiness sales. Grainger is the leading North American provider of maintenance, repair, and operating (MRO) supplies and related information to businesses and institutions.
Mr. Condon will report to Don Bielinski, group president. In this newly created position, Mr. Condon will lead an enterprise team responsible for sales, implementation, consulting, and marketing Grainger's portfolio of digital solutions.
The new eBusiness team will work with customers seeking MRO e-procurement solutions and match their needs with Grainger's breadth of digital solutions or those of its strategic partners.
Mr.... |
| | | 04/17/00 | Grainger Reports EPS of 44 Cents for the First Quarter of 2000|
CHICAGO, April 17, 2000 - Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today reported a sales increase
of 10 percent for the first quarter ended March 31, 2000. Net earnings, however,
declined by 27 percent primarily as a result of investments the Company continues
to make in its Internet businesses. Earnings per fully diluted share were also
down 27 percent.
Sales increased to $1.2 billion for the first quarter of 2000, versus $1.1
billion for the first quarter of 1999. Net earnings for the quarter were $41.2
million, compared to $56.3 million for the prior year quarter. Earnings per
fully diluted share were $0.44 versus $0.60 in the comparable quarter in 1999.
"I am pleased ... |
| | | 04/10/00 | Grainger Launches Its Latest Ecommerce Initiative – Totalmro.com| TotalMRO.com brings together major distributors and key technology partners to revolutionize Internet-based procurement of MRO products and services.
CHICAGO, April 10, 2000 -- Grainger today announced the launch of the first ever totally open one-stop Internet-based maintenance, repair, and operating (MRO) supplies solution – TotalMRO.com. For the first time, customers will have real-time access to easily searchable product information, contract pricing, and availability for millions of MRO products and services available through major MRO distributors. TotalMRO.com’s first customer went live on March 31.
Customers will access TotalMRO.com through B2B eCommerce platforms including marke... |
| | | 03/23/00 | Grainger Announces the Election of Two New Company Officers| CHICAGO, IL – March 23, 2000 - - Grainger today announced the election of two new officers: Y.C. Chen, vice president, International Internet Commerce; and
Patrick H. Davidson, vice president, Information Services. Grainger is the leading North American provider of maintenance, repair, and operating (MRO) supplies and related information to businesses and institutions.
Mr. Chen will report to Don Bielinski, group president. In this newly
created position, Mr. Chen will lead the development of Grainger’s Internet initiatives outside of North America.
Mr. Chen brings substantial experience in international business development. Most recently as vice president, Asia Pacific,... |
| | | 03/08/00 | BFGoodrich and Grainger Enter Enterprise Purchasing Agreement| Chicago, IL and Charlotte, NC – March 8, 2000 – The BFGoodrich Company and Grainger today announced that they have signed a 10-year enterprise agreement that will better enable BFGoodrich to leverage purchasing activities, streamline procurement procedures and significantly reduce materials management costs. Under this agreement, Grainger will provide general industrial hardware products and maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) supplies estimated at $300 million while working with BFGoodrich to achieve an estimated $30 million in process and product cost savings over the 10-year period.
“Reducing overall operating costs is a strategic priority in our ongoing efforts to enhance valu... |
| | | 03/06/00 | Elizabeth Olig to Lead Grainger’s Latest E-Commerce Initiative| CHICAGO, March 6, 2000 – Grainger today announced that it has named Elizabeth Olig president of its latest Internet venture. Olig’s team is engaging major MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Operating) product distributors and other key technology partners to provide customers with more choice in their MRO needs, supporting the newly evolving market exchanges and a wide variety of other electronic procurement solutions. Grainger plans to launch the business in the coming months.
“We are taking part in the evolution from individual transactions to a large, one-stop MRO marketplace where many buyers and sellers interact. Our business expansion stems from Grainger’s rich domain expertise in ... |
| | | 02/18/00 | Corporate Purchasers Looking to MRO Management Consultants| CHICAGO, IL (February 18, 2000)—In their quest to find the most cost-effective solutions for their complex purchasing requirements, many corporate purchasing managers are turning to maintenance, repair, and operating (MRO) supply management consultants. The fourth annual Survey of MRO Purchasing Decision-Makers by W.W. Grainger, Inc. found that nearly one in five purchasers responsible for managing the MRO function of their business brought in a consultant in the last two years to help them identify ways to improve operating efficiencies. Further, approximately 20 percent of companies with more than one hundred employees plan to bring in an MRO consultant in the next two years.
These... |
| | | 02/18/00 | Use of the Internet for Purchasing Commercial and Industrial Supplies Doubles in 1999| CHICAGO, IL (February 18, 2000)—The fourth annual Survey of MRO Purchasing Decision-Makers by W.W. Grainger, Inc. has revealed that use of the Internet for purchasing maintenance, repair, and operating (MRO) supplies has doubled since last year’s survey. In addition, 86 percent of businesses report that they expect to increase their use of the Internet for MRO purchasing in the next two years. These findings are the latest examples of how the Internet is continuing to show dramatic growth in the business-to-business arena.
The barriers to growth of the Internet appear to be crumbling. Though this survey again confirmed that access to the Internet is the primary factor limiting onlin... |
| | | 02/18/00 | Purchasers of Indirect Materials Continue to Rate Availability of Repair Parts as Most Important MRO Supplier Service| CHICAGO, IL (February 18, 2000)—For the second consecutive year, MRO purchasers taking part in the fourth annual Survey of MRO Purchasing Decision-Makers by
W.W. Grainger, Inc. consider the availability of repair parts the most important MRO supplier service. Of businesses surveyed, 75 percent consider this service ‘very important’ and 54 percent consider it the single ‘most important’ service an MRO supplier can provide. Other services considered ‘most important’ include low prices on individual products, quick delivery, reduction of total MRO costs, and order and billing accuracy.
This year’s survey also found that among other MRO supplier services, three showed a dramatic incre... |
| | | 02/18/00 | Distributors Need To Maintain Multi-Channel Focus While Improving Internet Capabilities, Survey Says| CHICAGO, IL (February 18, 2000)—The fourth annual Survey of MRO Purchasing Decision-Makers by W.W. Grainger, Inc. has revealed that when it comes to purchasing indirect materials, no one distribution channel will best serve all types of businesses. The ability of distributors to make multiple channels available and to use the Internet as a purchasing vehicle is the key to satisfying the needs of a variety of unique buying preferences.
The Internet is undeniably becoming a preferred channel for many companies. This year’s Grainger Survey revealed that use of the Internet to purchase maintenance, repair, and operating (MRO) supplies doubled in 1999. Moreover, that figure understates a... |
| | | 02/01/00 | More Companies Turn to Grainger’s Outsourcing Model of Integrated Supply for Indirect MRO Materials Management| CHICAGO (February 1, 2000)—Reflecting a growing trend among large companies to create operating efficiencies through integrated supply arrangements, Procter & Gamble and SC Johnson have signed multi-year agreements with Grainger Integrated Supply, a division of W.W. Grainger, Inc.
Under a new agreement with SC Johnson and an expanded renewal agreement
with Procter & Gamble’s Cincinnati-based non-manufacturing division, Grainger Integrated Supply will assume responsibility for on-site management of indirect MRO materials expenditures for the two companies totaling more than $34 million over the life of the contracts.
“We’re pleased that these leading manufacturers have decided to... |
| | | 01/31/00 | Grainger Reports EPS of $0.30 for 1999 Fourth Quarter and $1.92 for Full Year Results|
CHICAGO, January 31, 2000 – W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW) today reported results for the fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 1999. For the year 1999, earnings per diluted share declined 21 percent to $1.92 versus $2.44 in 1998. Net earnings for 1999 were $180.7 million, down 24 percent compared to $238.5 million for the prior year. Sales increased 4 percent in 1999 to $4,533.9 million versus $4,341.3 million in 1998.
For the 1999 fourth quarter, earnings per diluted share were $0.30 versus $0.69 in the fourth quarter of 1998, a 57 percent decline. Fourth quarter net earnings were $28.2 million, compared to $66.0 million in the prior year quarter. Sales increased 7 perce... |
| | | 01/26/00 | W.W. Grainger, inc. Declares Quarterly Dividend| CHICAGO, January 26, 2000 - The Board of Directors of W.W. Grainger, Inc. today declared a quarterly dividend of 16 cents per share payable March 1, 2000, to shareholders of record February 7, 2000.... |
| | | 01/18/00 | Grainger Names New Senior Vice President and General Counsel| CHICAGO, IL – January 18, 2000 - - Grainger today named John Howard to the position of Senior Vice President and General Counsel. Grainger is the leading North American provider of maintenance, repair, and operating (MRO) supplies and related information to businesses and institutions. Following a period of transition, Howard will replace James M. Baisley, Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary, who will retire later in the year.
Howard will report to Richard L. Keyser, Grainger Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. He will be responsible for managing the company’s legal obligations on a global basis.
Howard brings considerable legal experience to Grainger, having serv... |
| | | 01/14/00 | Ace Hardware Corporation Reaches a Business Agreement with FindMRO.com by GraingerSM| Chicago, IL – January 14, 2000, -- Ace Hardware Corporation recently reached an agreement with FindMRO.com by Grainger to source product solutions for its 5000 stores nationwide. Each store will have access to over 5 million hard-to-find maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) supplies through Ace Corporation’s ACENET 2000 Intranet site. The sourcing agreement, valued in the multi-millions, will be rolled out over the first quarter in 2000 with all stores on board in time for the Ace Hardware spring convention and exhibit, April 7-10, 2000, in Atlanta, Georgia.
“This online connection to FindMRO.com is packed with benefits for the Ace Retailer and Ace Hardware Corporation,” said Paul ... |
| | | 01/10/00 | Grainger Separates Its Internet Commerce Businesses; Promotes Executives to Run Grainger.com and Orderzone.com| Chicago, January 10, 2000 – As a result of the explosive growth in its Internet Commerce business, W.W. Grainger, Inc. has separated it into three distinct units. James T. Ryan, a nineteen-year veteran of the Company, becomes President of Grainger.com. Daniel Hamburger, previously President of Grainger Internet Commerce, becomes President of OrderZone.com. In addition, the Company has hired Robert S. Wasserman to become Vice President, Grainger Internet Commerce, and to head up the Grainger auction site.
Grainger Group President Donald Bielinski said, “After growing at the breakneck pace we did in 1999, it became clear that we needed to separate the businesses to continue to provide foc... |
| | | 01/07/00 | W.W. Granger, Inc. Expects Lower 1999 Fourth Quarter Earnings|
CHICAGO, January 7, 2000 – W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW) today announced that its fourth quarter earnings per share could be as much as
45 percent lower than the current First Call consensus estimate of $0.54 when the Company reports its fourth quarter and year-end results later this month. The results reflect a negative fourth quarter adjustment to inventory, which is related to the installation of a new enterprise resource planning system. In addition, the Company experienced higher operating expenses in the quarter.
During 1999, the Company installed a new enterprise resource planning system and, as a result of problems with the installation, experienced substantial system... |
| | | 01/04/00 | Grainger Announces Election Of Two New Officers| Lake Forest, IL (January 4, 2000)—Grainger today announced the election of two new officers: Richard J. Reese, Vice President, Corporate Architecture; and George C. Rimnac, Jr., Vice President & Chief Technologist. Grainger is the leading North American provider of maintenance, repair, and operating (MRO) supplies and related information to businesses and institutions.
In this newly created position, Mr. Reese is responsible for leveraging current and future investments in technology across operating business units within Grainger. Mr. Reese joined the Company in October 1997 as Executive Director, Information Services for emerging businesses. Prior to joining the Company, he served ... |
| | | 12/10/99 | Grainger Industrial Supply Makes It Easy for Customers To Be Green-
Newly Expanded Recycling Program Keeps Pollutants Out Of Landfills|
Lake Forest, IL (December 10, 1999) – Grainger Industrial Supply announced today the availability of its national recycling program for hazardous mercury-bearing fluorescent and high intensity discharge (HID) lamps and batteries. The company is making it easy for its customers to be green through this new program. Grainger Industrial Supply, a division of W.W. Grainger, Inc., is America’s leading commercial lighting distributor.
When customers purchase recycling kits, they receive a special approved container, pre-printed instructions, a toll-free number for pickup, and a certificate of reclamation. Using this program, customers can be assured they are providing environmentally sa... |
| | | 12/06/99 | W.W. Grainger, Inc. Vice Chairman, Jere D. Fluno, to Retire|
CHICAGO (December 6, 1999)—W.W. Grainger, Inc. today announced the decision of Jere D. Fluno to retire as the Company’s Vice Chairman, effective July 1, 2000.
As Vice Chairman, Mr. Fluno is presently responsible for all of the administrative, financial, human resources, legal, and real estate functions of the Company. He is a member of the Office of the Chairman, the Company’s senior executive group, and has served on its Board of Directors since 1975. Mr. Fluno will continue to serve as a Director of the Company.
Grainger Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Richard L. Keyser said, “Jere has played an important leadership role and has made significant contributions to Graing... |
| | | 11/08/99 | Grainger.com® Debuts Business-to-Business Online Auctions|
CHICAGO, Nov. 8-- W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), the leading provider of maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) supplies, today announced that it has begun offering online auctions on its Web site, http://www.grainger.com .
Grainger Auction gives customers an opportunity to place real-time bids on surplus MRO products from a variety of categories, including janitorial, metal working and hand tools.
Grainger Auction is an early player in the online business-to-business
auction market, expected to reach $52.6 billion by 2002, according to
Forrester Research. Currently, Grainger lists approximately $5 million in
auction inventory.
"Online auctions give custome... |
| | | 11/04/99 | Consorta, Inc. Awards National Agreement to Grainger Industrial Supply|
Contract Worth an Estimated $25 Million Over Three Years
LAKE FOREST, Ill., Nov. 4-- Consorta, Inc., the sixth largest healthcare group purchasing organization (GPO) in the country, recently signed a committed, sole-source agreement with Grainger Industrial Supply, the leading North American distributor of industrial maintenance, repair and operation (MRO) supplies. The agreement, valued at $25 million in product purchases over the next three years, is effective as of November 1.
Grainger Industrial Supply, a division of W.W. Grainger, Inc.
(NYSE: GWW), is the recipient of the first, all-inclusive MRO agreement
awarded by Consorta since it became operational in July 19... |
| | | 11/03/99 | Customers Gain Access to More Than Five Million Products with Launch Of FindMRO(SM) by Grainger|
Multi-Channel Business Solution Makes Sourcing Unique Industrial Products Easy
CHICAGO, Nov. 3-- W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), announced today the launch of FindMRO ( http://www.findmro.com ). FindMRO is a complete business solution that solves the most time consuming indirect materials business problem -- finding the best product solution when a source is unknown to the buyer. This business offers a multi-channel (Internet, phone, or fax) procurement solution, which dramatically reduces the cycle time from identification of a business problem to receipt of the product/service.
FindMRO accesses more than five million maintenance, repair and operating
(MRO) products th... |
| | | 10/27/99 | W.W. Grainger, Inc. Declares Quarterly Dividend|
CHICAGO, Oct. 27-- The Board of Directors of W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW) at its meeting today declared a cash dividend of 16 cents per share payable December 1, 1999, to shareholders of record November 8, 1999.
... |
| | | 10/13/99 | W.W. Grainger, Inc. Reports Earnings Per Share of 49 Cents for 1999 Third Quarter|
CHICAGO, Oct. 13-- W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW) today reported results for the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 1999. Sales increased 5 percent to $1,175 million for the third quarter of 1999 versus the third quarter of 1998. Net earnings for the third quarter of 1999 were down 18 percent to $45.8 million, compared to the prior year's quarter. Earnings per fully diluted share were $0.49 versus $0.57 in the comparable quarter in 1998, a 14 percent decline.
For the first nine months of 1999, sales increased 4 percent to $3,412 million, compared to the first nine months of 1998. Net earnings were $152.6 million, down 12 percent compared to the first nine mo... |
| | | 09/29/99 | E-Commerce Procurement Solutions Reward Both Buyers and Sellers|
Key Findings From Study Conducted by Grainger Consulting Services
LAKE FOREST, Ill., Sept. 29-- The recent development of Internet-based procurement solutions has created efficiencies in the exchange of goods and services between buyers and sellers, according to a recent study conducted by Grainger Consulting Services. Grainger Consulting Services is a division of W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), a leader in business-to-business Internet commerce.
The results of the study were presented at the SAP Annual North American
Customer Conference, SAPPHIRE ® '99. Results show that buyers averaged
between 245 and 400 percent return on their investment to acquire... |
| | | 08/31/99 | Grainger Industrial Supply Celebrates 20 Years in Houston Community|
HOUSTON, Aug. 31-- Grainger Industrial Supply is celebrating 20 years of serving area businesses through its Pinemont branch in Houston this month. To mark the occasion, the branch is offering customers complimentary refreshments and special product discounts this week, through Friday, September 3rd. "We think the best way to celebrate our history is to show our customers
that we appreciate their business," says Keith Sobolik, Grainger Industrial
Supply branch manager. "We take our longevity as a sign that we've made a
positive contribution to the success of Houston's business community, and we
look forward to continuing to serve our customers and building on the
... |
| | | 08/17/99 | Acklands-Grainger Announces New Chairman And President|
TORONTO, Aug. 17-- Acklands - Grainger, Inc. announced today two changes in senior leadership. Current president Douglas G. Cumming has been named chairman. Douglas J. Harrison will join the company in the capacity of president. Harrison's most recent position was Vice President and Managing Director, Canada and Europe, Ryder Integrated Logistics. Acklands - Grainger is Canada's largest distributor of industrial, fleet, and safety supplies.
Cumming joined Acklands, Ltd. in 1956 and has served as President of
Acklands - Grainger, Inc. since 1997. In his new role he will focus on sales
growth and new business initiatives. Reporting to Cumming will be Douglas J.
Ha... |
| | | 08/16/99 | Grainger® Partners with Intelisys to Streamline Internet Procurement Businesses Use Net for Faster, Cheaper, Paperless Purchasing|
CHICAGO, Aug. 16-- W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW) today announced a strategic alliance agreement with Intelisys Electronic Commerce, LLC. As part of this agreement, Grainger is integrating its online catalog of more than 210,000 products into the Intelisys i-Procurement solution. Grainger is the leading provider of maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) supplies, services, and information. Intelisys is a global leader in Internet procurement solutions. The alliance will enable buyers to benefit from an automated purchasing process that is faster, cheaper, and paperless.
"This partnership joins Grainger's leading business-to-business Internet
and logistic solutions with Inteli... |
| | | 08/11/99 | Two Grainger Web Sites Ranked in Top 200 B2B Sites: OrderZone.com(SM) Ranks No. 3 Grainger.com Ranks in Top 50|
CHICAGO, Aug. 11-- W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW) continues
to demonstrate its leadership in electronic commerce with both OrderZone.com
and Grainger.com ranked among the top business-to-business Web sites,
according to Advertising Age's Net Marketing magazine. OrderZone.com makes
its debut as the No. 3-ranked site; Grainger.com continues for the third year
in the top 50.
"We're excited to receive this recognition," said Donald Bielinski, group
president, Grainger. "Since the inception of the award, only two companies,
Grainger and Cisco, have managed to maintain a site in the top 10 every year."
OrderZone.com is a unique Web site offering one-stop purchas... |
| | | 08/09/99 | Grainger Announces Addition of Two New Management Positions|
CHICAGO, Aug. 9-- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) today announced the election of two new officers: Edward J. Franczek, Senior Vice President, Marketing and Nancy A. Hobor, Vice President, Communications and Investor Relations. Grainger is the leading North American provider of maintenance, repair, and operating (MRO) supplies and related information to businesses and institutions.
Mr. Franczek will report to Wes Clark, Group President. In this newly created position, Mr. Franczek will be head of marketing for Grainger Industrial Supply's expanding branch-based business.
Mr. Franczek brings substantial consumer and business-to-business marketing experience to Grainger as a result of h... |
| | | 08/04/99 | W.W. Grainger, Inc. Declares Quarterly Dividend|
CHICAGO, Aug. 4-- The directors of W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW) at their meeting today declared a cash dividend of 16 cents per share payable September 1, 1999, to shareholders of record August 16, 1999.
... |
| | | 07/15/99 | W.W. Grainger, Inc. Reports 1999 Second Quarter and First Half Results|
CHICAGO, July 15 /PRNewswire/ -- W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), the leading provider of maintenance, repair, and operating (MRO) supplies in North America, today reported results for the second quarter and six months ended June 30, 1999. Sales increased 2.4 percent to $1,146.2 million for the second quarter of 1999 versus $1,119.0 million for the second quarter of 1998. Net earnings for the second quarter of 1999 were down 14.7 percent to $50.6 million, compared to $59.3 million for the prior year quarter. Earnings per fully diluted share were $0.53 versus $0.60 in the comparable quarter in 1998, an 11.7 percent decline. For the 1999 first half, sales... |
| | | 06/08/99 | General Services Administration Awards National Contract to Grainger Industrial Supply|
Federal Government Now Has One-Stop Shopping Option for MRO Supplies
CHICAGO, June 8 -- The General Services Administration (GSA), one of three central management agencies in the Federal Government, recently awarded a five-year, multiple award schedule contract to Grainger Industrial Supply, a division of W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW). Grainger Industrial Supply is the leading North American distributor of maintenance, repair, and operating (MRO) supplies and services to businesses and institutions. Grainger Industrial Supply is the recipient of one of the first GSA multiple award schedule contracts for a general distributor. As such, this contract will provide government age... |
| | | 06/07/99 | Grainger® Launches OrderZone.com(SM)|
New Site Offers One-Stop Procurement Solution for Businesses
CHICAGO, June 7 -- W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), the leading North American distributor of maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) supplies, today announced that OrderZone.com ( http://www.orderzone.com ), a Web site offering businesses a simplified, one-stop source to purchase a wide variety of products and services across multiple suppliers, is open for business-to-business e-commerce.
The site offers an array of products from cleaning supplies to office equipment to electronic components. OrderZone.com is aimed at businesses with a wide-variety of purchasing needs. The service looks, feels and acts ... |
| | | 05/19/99 | More Companies Outsourcing Indirect MRO Materials Management|
Universal Studios, Wyman-Gordon, Emerson Electric, and Cryovac Reach
Agreements With Grainger Integrated Supply
CHICAGO, May 19 -- Universal Studios, Wyman-Gordon Company, Emerson Electric Company's Appliance Motors division, and Cryovac, a division of Sealed Air Corporation, are the latest examples of companies that recognize value in outsourcing indirect MRO materials management. All have recently signed agreements with Grainger Integrated Supply, a division of W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), North America's leading business-to-business provider of maintenance, repair, and operating (MRO) supplies, services, and
information. Under agreements with each company, Grainger ... |
| | | 05/11/99 | Grainger and Commerce One Join Forces to Provide Advanced Internet Procurement Solutions to Customers|
Trading Network Collaboration Speeds Online Catalog Delivery To E-Commerce Customers
CHICAGO, and WALNUT CREEK, Calif., May 11 -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), the leading provider of maintenance, repair, and operating (MRO) supplies in North America and Commerce One, Inc., a global leader in enterprise procurement solutions, have announced they will align forces to provide customers with access to Grainger's industry-leading catalog of MRO supplies. Extending its strong commitment to Internet commerce, Grainger also participated in Commerce One's recent round of private funding. Grainger will occupy a premier position within Commerce One's procurement solutions BuySite 5.0... |
| | | 05/10/99 | Grainger® and Ariba® Combine Strengths To Expand Electronic Procurement Access|
Internet Commerce Collaboration Brings Buyers and Sellers Together
CHICAGO and SUNNYVALE, Calif., May 10 -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW), the leading provider of maintenance, repair, and operating (MRO) supplies in North America, and Ariba, Inc., a leading provider of intranet-and Internet-based business-to-business e-commerce solutions for operating resources, have formed an alliance to deliver expanded Internet commerce access to buyers and suppliers worldwide. As part of the alliance, Grainger has joined the Ariba Supplier Link(TM) (ASL) program and will make its product information available to Ariba customers via Ariba.com Network(TM). Grainger and Ariba also announced that the tw... |
| | | 04/28/99 | Grainger® Announces Online Sales|
CHICAGO, April 28 -- W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW), announced today that sales through its Web site, Grainger.com(TM), have achieved an annualized run rate of $70 million. Grainger.com achieved sales of $10.1 million for first quarter 1999, a 339 percent increase over the first quarter 1998. In April 1999, sales exceeded the $13.5 million recorded to the entire year of 1998. Grainger's Chairman and CEO, Richard L. Keyser released Internet sales figures at Grainger's Shareholders' Meeting today. Grainger.com offers more than 210,000 maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) supplies online. To date, Grainger has invested more than $25 million in electronic commerce. "Grainger... |
| | | 04/28/99 | W.W. Grainger, Inc. Shareholders Elect Directors -- Other Meeting Highlights|
CHICAGO, April 28 -- At the annual meeting held today, shareholders elected 12 nominees to the Board of Directors, 10 of whom served the previous year and 2 who are new. The directors who served previously are:
George R. Baker
Corporate Director/Advisor
Jere D. Fluno
Vice Chairman
W.W. Grainger, Inc.
Wilbur H. Gantz
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
PathoGenesis Corporation
David W. Grainger
Senior Chairman of the Board
W.W. Grainger, Inc.
Richard L. Keyser
Chairman of the Board and
Chief Executive Officer
W.W.Grainger, Inc.
John W. McCarter, Jr.
President and Chief Executive Officer ... |
| | | 04/28/99 | W.W. Grainger, Inc. Elects Two New Directors|
CHICAGO, April 28 -- At a meeting held today, the Board of Directors of W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW) elected Brian P. Anderson and Neil S. Novich as directors of the Company. This action brings the total number of Company directors to twelve. Anderson is Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Baxter International, Inc., a global medical products and services company that focuses on critical therapies for life-threatening conditions. He has previously served Baxter as Corporate Vice President, Finance; Corporate Controller, and Vice President, Corporate Audit. Before joining Baxter, he worked for 16 years at Deloitte & Touche where he was a partner. Novich is C... |
| | | 04/28/99 | Grainger Alliance With SAP AG Offers One-Stop Solution for Electronic Materials Procurement|
Direct Electronic Catalog Access Allows Seamless Interface Between Buyers and Suppliers
WALLDORF, Germany and CHICAGO, April 28 -- Extending their commitment to digital commerce, Grainger (NYSE: GWW), the leading provider of maintenance, repair, and operating (MRO) supplies in North America, and SAP AG (NYSE: SAP), the world's leading provider of enterprise business solutions, have announced they have formed an alliance. Grainger is integrating its online catalog into the SAP(TM) Business-to-Business Procurement(TM) solution (SAP B2B(TM)) providing direct access to Grainger products and product information through one standardized Internet procu... |
| | | 04/28/99 | W.W. Grainger, Inc. Increases Quarterly Dividend; Renews Shareholder Rights Plan|
CHICAGO, April 28 -- The directors of W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW) at their meeting today declared a cash dividend of 16 cents per share payable June 1, 1999 to shareholders of record on May 10, 1999. This represents an increase of 6.7% from the prior quarterly rate of 15 cents per share. Also at the meeting, the directors approved a shareholder rights plan to replace the 1989 shareholder rights plan which will expire on May 15, 1999. The new plan, as its predecessor, is designed to help ensure that all Grainger shareholders receive fair treatment in the event of an unsolicited attempt to gain control of Grainger, and to help discourage certai... |
| | | 04/21/99 | Grainger Alliance With PSDI Expands Customer Internet Access|
Electronic Procurement Technology Offers Business-to-Business Customers New Ordering Efficiencies
CHICAGO, April 21 -- Grainger (NYSE: GWW) has announced a strategic alliance with PSDI (Nasdaq: PSDI), a leading provider of enterprise asset maintenance (EAM) systems, and MRO.com, PSDI's new Internet commerce subsidiary. The alliance will give joint customers the ability to source Grainger products from PSDI's MAXIMO product as well as through MRO.com's Web-based procurement software. As part of the alliance, Grainger made a strategic investment in PSDI representing an equity interest of approximately 4% and an option to acquire a 5% equity interest in PSDI's subsidiary MRO.com, ... |
| | | 04/13/99 | W.W. Grainger, Inc. Reports 1999 First Quarter Results|
CHICAGO, April 13 -- W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW) today reported results for the first quarter ended March 31, 1999. Sales increased 3.2 percent to $1,091 million for the first quarter of 1999, versus $1,057 million for the first quarter of 1998. Net earnings for first quarter 1999 were $56.3 million, compared to $57.2 million for the prior year quarter. Earnings per fully diluted share increased 3.4% to $0.60 versus $0.58 in the comparable quarter in 1998. "Our record sales results were achieved despite difficult economic conditions in the markets we serve. Reflecting the underlying strength of our
business and our leadership advantages, we overcame weakness in th... |
| | | 04/06/99 | Grainger®/Netscape Agreement Provides Complete Online Access to Business Essentials|
CHICAGO, April 6 -- Grainger and Netscape Communications Corporation (Nasdaq: NSCP) have signed an agreement that gives Grainger's Web sites, Grainger.com(SM) and OrderZone.com,(SM) an even greater presence on the world wide web through Netscape's Netcenter, one of the leading Internet portal sites. This agreement represents yet another way for new and existing Grainger customers to access Grainger's e-commerce Web sites to order essential business products. Customers can order over 200,000 maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) supplies online at Grainger.com. Small business customers will now be able to access Grainger.com on The Netscape Small Business Channel on Netc... |
| | | 02/09/99 | One Stop, One Site, One Solution - OrderZone.com; New Internet Site for Business Purchasers Streamlines Supply Chain|
CHICAGO, Feb. 9 -- In an unprecedented venture, W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW) announced today that it has brought six industry leaders together to create a one-stop, on-line business-to-business service for the procurement of a wide variety of products and services. OrderZone.com (http://www.OrderZone.com) is a powerful, easy, and convenient solution for businesses looking to streamline their procurement process. Any business, regardless of size, will find OrderZone.com a better way to
purchase business supplies and services. Currently in pilot with selected
customers, OrderZone.com is expected to open for business in the second
quarter of 1999.
The participating comp... |
| | | 02/03/99 | W.W. Grainger, Inc. Reports Record Results|
1998 Earnings Per Share Increases 7.5%
CHICAGO, Feb. 3 -- W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW) today reported record results for the fourth quarter and year ended Dec. 31, 1998. For the year 1998, earnings per fully diluted share increased 7.5 percent to $2.44 versus $2.27 in 1997. Net earnings for 1998 were $238.5 million, compared to $231.8 million for the prior year. Sales increased 4.9 percent in 1998 to $4,341.3 million versus $4,136.6 million in 1997. For the 1998 fourth quarter, earnings per fully diluted share increased 9.5 percent to $0.69 versus $0.63 in the fourth quarter of 1997. Fourth quarter net earnings were $66.0 million, compared to $63.2 million in the prio... |
| | | 01/27/99 | W.W. Grainger, Inc. Declares Quarterly Dividend|
CHICAGO, Jan. 27 -- The directors of W.W. Grainger, Inc. today declared a quarterly dividend of 15 cents per share payable March 1, 1999 to shareholders of record February 8, 1999.
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| | | 01/11/99 | For the Second Year, Grainger Earns Place Among '100 Best Companies to Work For in America'|
Lincolnshire-based Supplier is One of Two Illinois Companies Ranked on 1999 List
CHICAGO, Jan. 11 -- For the second consecutive year, W.W.Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW) has earned a place on the list of "The 100 Best Companies to Work for in America." The annual list was published this month in a special issue of Fortune magazine. Grainger, the leading distributor of maintenance, repair and operating
(MRO) supplies in North America, improved its ranking on the list to 83 from
92 in spite of added competition. This year's list was compiled from 206
companies invited to participate, up from 163 last year. Grainger was the
only Illinois firm to merit a repeat spot on the ... |
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