Grainger (NYSE: GWW), Chicago, reported 2021 third-quarter sales of $3.4 billion, up 11.7%, compared to the third quarter of last year.

Grainger’s 2021 3Q operating earnings were $438 million, up 17.4% versus 2020 and resulting in EPS of $5.65, growth of 25% versus the third quarter of 2020.

The company returned $327 million to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases.

Grainger said its 3Q earnings figures were driven by “strong performance in both the High-Touch Solutions N.A. and Endless Assortment segments.”

“During the third quarter, I spent significant time with customers. They consistently commended Grainger on our ability to fulfill orders and deliver products faster than others, and they valued our teams’ commitment to servicing their business needs,” said DG Macpherson, chairman and CEO of Grainger. “Demand for core products was very strong throughout the quarter, and Grainger gained share and expanded margins in both segments. Despite the current market and supply chain uncertainties, we are confident in our ability to deliver solid performance in the fourth quarter and into 2022.”

Grainger ranks No. 2 on MDM’s Top Distributors list for industrial and construction distributors, with $11.8 billion in 2020 revenue.