W.W. Grainger Reports EPS of $2.18; Revenues $1.9B

Grainger 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 million in 2010. Earnings per share increased 66 percent to $2.18 versus $1.31 for the first quarter 2010.