Top 10 for financial soundness

While we couldn't pore through Graybar's balance sheet--the electrical equipment distributor and logistics operator is private--the mid-cap company's solid position stands out nonetheless. Graybar reported that net sales in the first three quarters of 2008 rose 5.7% to $4.15 billion

While Graybar says its profits have slowed in recent months, its high innovation scores bode well for a recovery. --M.K.

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