Before our transition, we were one large organization serving multiple markets. Today, Grainger is a family of focused and accountable businesses, each representing a lowest total cost MRO solution to respective market segments. Each a leader in its market. Each evolving as its customers evolve. Together, our business portfolio strategically positions Grainger to expand our overall market share.
Strategic position is a powerful, positive factor in our value.
Growth Our growth in 1998 was hampered by several factors, some external and some internal. Acklands-Grainger, traditionally strong in Western Canada, was hit by the recession in natural resource industries. Internally, our Custom Solutions business is mid-stream in transitioning customers to its new systems, call centers and logistics platform. During this period we have postponed new service offerings and eliminated or phased out unprofitable business. Based on Custom Solutions' capabilities and customers' reactions, we expect this business to resume its growth once the transition is complete.