News Release

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 talent, use of corporate assets, long-term investment value, social responsibility, quality of management, and quality of products and services.

This is the second consecutive year in which Grainger has been recognized. Grainger improved its position in 2002, ranking first among diversified wholesalers, versus being ranked fourth in 2001.

"We're honored to be selected as the 'most admired' company in our industry and we are committed to living up to that title," said Grainger Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Richard L. Keyser. "We look forward to a solid year in 2003 as Grainger continues to focus on enhancing its service to customers and increasing shareholder value."

About Grainger

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 websites. Sales for 2002 were $4.6 billion. For more information, visit Grainger online at www.grainger.com .

SOURCE W.W. Grainger, Inc.