Growth in DIY segment

Black & Decker achieved sales growth of four per cent to US $ 4.48 bn (€ 3.62 bn) in the year 2003. Sales were down by one per cent when the effects of foreign currency translation are excluded. According to information provided by the company, sales in Europe decreased at a middling single-digit rate. Sales of the power tools and accessories division were down by one per cent altogether. The company saw growth of nine per cent in the hardware and home improvement segment. A positive rate of growth remains, even if the acquisition of Baldwin and Weiser is excluded.