Minority Business Gains Support from Supplier - Artículo Breve

Hispanic Times Magazine, June 22, 2001

CHICAGO, March 27, 2001 -- Grainger, the leading North American provider of maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) supplies, announced recently its support of the National Minority Supplier Development Council's (NMSDC) Advanced Management Education Program. Grainger contributed $25,000 to this customized executive program, held annually at Northwestern University's Kellogg Graduate School of Management.

Grainger has an ongoing commitment to build relationships with minority suppliers," said Richard L. Keyser, chairman and chief executive officer, Grainger, "The NMSDC provides a valuable network for identifying and partnering with minority-owned businesses. We are very pleased to participate in the Council's professional development opportunities for CEOs."

The NMSDC Advanced Management Education Program focuses on issues of growth from the minority business owner's perspective. This program provides minority business enterprises with tools and skills needed to achieve and sustain accelerated growth.

"We are proud of the fact that a company such as Grainger would support the NMSDC Advanced Management Education Program at the Kellogg School of Management," said Jim Lowry, Academic Director of the NMSDC Advanced Management Education Program and Vice President, Boston Consulting Group, "Since its inception, we have seen the program grow in size and prominence in the field of minority business enterprise development."

Grainger recognizes the importance of providing small minority business enterprises with resources that enhance their efforts in marketing to large corporations. As a result, Grainger seeks to help expand the skill-sets of talented executives, increase the number of thriving minority business enterprises and encourage greater diversity throughout the business community with its contribution to the NMSDC Advanced Management Education Program.

Furthermore, Grainger's efforts help meet customers' diversity goals in the purchase of goods and services. Grainger builds upon existing business relationships and conducts ongoing outreach to new minority suppliers through its participation with the NMSDC.

For more information, visit Grainger online at www.grainger.com