The speculative-grade ratings on WESCO International Inc. and its subsidiary WESCO Distribution Inc. reflect its somewhat aggressive financial policies, which more than offset the company's satisfactory business-risk profile as a leading distributor of electrical construction products; maintenance, repair, and operating supplies; and integrated supply and outsourcing services. WESCO is one of the largest electrical distributors in the U.S. It competes mainly in the U.S. wholesale electrical distribution industry, which is estimated to be roughly $74 billion and growing in the low- to mid-single digit range. Demand is driven in part by overall economic conditions and by the increasing use of electrical parts. The market is highly fragmented, which can lead to very intense pricing pressures, particularly during periods of weak
