Graco 2008 Annual Report Download - page 3

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Though much has changed in the world, in the economy and in the markets
in which we compete, Newell Rubbermaid has maintained a steadfast focus
on its journey of strategic transformation. Times are tough, but tough times
will not get in the way of pursuing our vision to become a global company of
Brands That Matter™ and great people known for best-in-class results.
We began 2008 with considerable momentum after returning the
Company to two years of consecutive growth in sales and profitability. This
momentum continued through the first half of 2008 with 60 percent of our
businesses posting year-over-year sales growth. Even with cost pressures
from record-high oil and commodity prices, our strategy was delivering the
results we intended.
LETTER TO SHAREHOLDERS
1
Mark D. Ketchum
President and Chief Executive Officer