W.W. Grainger, Inc. engages in the distribution of maintenance, repair, and operating supplies, as well as other related products and services for businesses and institutions primarily in the United States and Canada. The company provides material handling equipment, safety and security supplies, lighting and electrical products, power and hand tools, pumps and plumbing supplies, cleaning and maintenance supplies, forestry and agriculture equipment, building and home inspection supplies, vehicle and fleet components, fasteners, instruments, welding and shop equipment, and various other items for facilities maintenance market; and services comprising inventory management and energy efficiency solutions. It sells its products and services to small and medium-sized businesses, large corporations, government entities, and other institutions through local branches, sales representatives, catalogs, and the Internet. The company also has operations in the Europe, Asia, and Latin America. W.W. Grainger, Inc. was founded in 1927 and is based in Lake Forest, Illinois.