NEW YORK (Standard&Poor's CreditWire) Oct. 20, 2000--Standard&Poor's today assigned its 'A-1' rating to The Stanley Works Co.'s 4(2) extendible commercial notes program. At the same time, Standard&Poor's affirmed its outstanding ratings on the company (see list below). The outlook is stable. The ratings reflect The Stanley Works' above-average business position as a leading producer of a wide array of tools and hardware products for do-it-yourself, construction, and industrial markets, as well as moderate financial policies. The company's business profile is supported by high brand name recognition, significant international market presence, and end-user diversity (including substantial sales to the more stable repair/remodel markets). These factors should serve to mitigate earnings cyclicality. Stanley Works is realizing
