Leading market position, with more than two times the sales of its nearest competitor; Conservative financial policy; Strong credit measures; and Maintains sizeable cash balance. The home improvement industry may be affected by a cyclical downturn in the housing market or consumer's appetites for remodeling. The ratings on Atlanta, Ga.-based Home Depot Inc. reflect the company's leading position in the still-fragmented home improvement industry, and its excellent financial profile. Home Depot, which pioneered the full-service, warehouse-style format in the 1970s, has established itself as the clear leader in the home improvement industry. It is about twice the size of its nearest competitor, Lowe's Cos. Inc. Over the past few years, Home Depot shifted its internal focus, moving away from aggressive
