On April 1, 2009, Standard&Poor's Ratings Services raised its ratings on Goodlettsville, Tenn.-based Dollar General Corp., including its corporate credit rating to 'B+' from 'B'. The outlook is stable. The rating action follows Dollar General's better-than-expected operating results for the fiscal year ended Jan. 30, 2009, and our expectations that this positive operating momentum will continue for the remainder of 2009, resulting in improving cash flow and stronger credit protection measures. Due to its extreme value proposition, we believe Dollar General is benefiting from consumers trading down in a harsh economic environment. In addition, restructuring initiatives in recent years, including improved merchandising and better operating efficiency, have contributed to better sales and earnings. Still, we anticipate the U.S.
