Expectation of strong growth

Lowe's is expecting comparable store sales growth of around five per cent for the current business year. This was announced by the company in conjunction with an analysts' conference. It is planned to increase the number of DIY stores by 160 outlets in each of the coming business years, 2006 and 2007. Management is also expecting sales to increase by 13 to 14 per cent overall in 2006, and by 14 to 15 per cent in the following year.