UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

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Picture 1

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)

x

QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2017


March 31, 2021

or

¨

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934


For the transition period from __________ to __________


Commission File Number: 000-00255

GRAYBAR ELECTRIC COMPANY, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

New York

13-0794380

(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

34 North Meramec Avenue, St. Louis, Missouri

63105

(Address of principal executive offices)

(Zip Code)

(314) 573 - 9200

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

    Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of each class

Trading Symbol(s)

Name of each exchange on which registered

None

N/A

N/A

    Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

YES xNO ¨

    Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

YES xNO ¨

    Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company, or emerging growth company.  See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” andfiler,” “smaller reporting company”company,” and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filer  ¨

Accelerated filer                      ¨

Non-accelerated filer    x(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)     

Smaller reporting company     ¨

Emerging growth company     ¨

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

YES ¨NO x

Common Stock Outstanding at OctoberApril 15, 2017: 17,570,1672021: 22,814,618

                                                                        (Number

(Number of Shares)




Graybar Electric Company, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q

For the Period Ended September 30, 2017

March 31, 2021

(Unaudited)

Table of Contents

PART I.

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Page

PART I.

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Page

Item 1.

Financial Statements

Item 1.

Financial Statements

Item 2.

16

Item 3.

19

Item 4.

19

PART II.

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 2.

20

Item 6.

21

22


2





PART I FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.  Financial Statements.

Graybar Electric Company, Inc. and Subsidiaries      
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME   
 (Unaudited)
 Three Months Ended 
 September 30,
Nine Months Ended 
 September 30,
(Stated in thousands, except per share data)2017
 2016
2017
 2016
Gross Sales$1,708,638
 $1,697,037
$4,967,349
 $4,806,245
Cash discounts(7,795) (7,418)(23,055) (20,625)
Net Sales1,700,843
 1,689,619
4,944,294
 4,785,620
Cost of merchandise sold(1,378,859) (1,370,861)(3,999,588) (3,881,616)
Gross Margin321,984
 318,758
944,706
 904,004
Selling, general and administrative expenses(260,752) (254,969)(776,135) (750,266)
Depreciation and amortization(12,211) (12,283)(36,231) (35,158)
Other income, net1,511
 629
5,640
 3,438
Income from Operations50,532
 52,135
137,980
 122,018
Interest expense, net(1,217) (1,215)(3,082) (2,635)
Income before Provision for Income Taxes49,315
 50,920
134,898
 119,383
Provision for income taxes(19,761) (20,724)(54,220) (48,396)
Net Income29,554
 30,196
80,678
 70,987
Less:  Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests(120) (67)(229) (178)
Net Income attributable to Graybar Electric Company, Inc.$29,434
 $30,129
$80,449
 $70,809
Net Income per share of Common Stock(A)
$1.68
 $1.73
$4.57
 $4.07
Cash Dividends per share of Common Stock$0.30
 $0.30
$0.90
 $0.90
Average Common Shares Outstanding(A)
17,611
 17,402
17,618
 17,386
(A)Adjusted for the declaration of a 5% stock dividend in 2016, shares related to which were issued in February 2017.  Prior to the adjustment, the average common shares outstanding were 16,573

Graybar Electric Company, Inc. and 16,558 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, respectively.Subsidiaries

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(Unaudited)

Three Months Ended
March 31,

(Stated in millions, except per share data)

2021

2020

Net Sales

$

1,900.5

$

1,773.2

Cost of merchandise sold

(1,539.6)

(1,432.8)

Gross Margin

360.9

340.4

Selling, general and administrative expenses

(277.9)

(290.1)

Depreciation and amortization

(12.2)

(13.2)

Other income, net

0.5

0.6

Income from Operations

71.3

37.7

Non-operating expenses

(7.8)

(7.5)

Income before Provision for Income Taxes

63.5

30.2

Provision for income taxes

(16.2)

(8.7)

Net Income

47.3

21.5

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

(0.1)

(0.1)

Net Income attributable to Graybar Electric Company, Inc.

$

47.2

$

21.4

Net Income attributable to Graybar Electric Company, Inc. per share of Common Stock

$

2.07

$

0.94

Cash Dividends per share of Common Stock

$

0.30

$

0.30

Average Common Shares Outstanding

22.8

22.7


The accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.




3


Graybar Electric Company, Inc. and Subsidiaries      
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME   
 (Unaudited)
 Three Months Ended 
 September 30,
Nine Months Ended 
 September 30,
(Stated in thousands)2017
 2016
2017
 2016
Net Income$29,554
 $30,196
$80,678
 $70,987
Other Comprehensive Income      
Foreign currency translation3,616
 (1,148)6,550
 4,012
Pension and postretirement benefits liability adjustment (net of tax of $(1,997), $(1,762), $(5,990), and $(5,286), respectively)3,136
 2,767
9,408
 8,301
Total Other Comprehensive Income6,752
 1,619
15,958
 12,313
Comprehensive Income$36,306
 $31,815
$96,636
 $83,300
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to
       noncontrolling interests, net of tax
209
 25
457
 387
Comprehensive Income attributable to
       Graybar Electric Company, Inc.
$36,097
 $31,790
$96,179
 $82,913

Graybar Electric Company, Inc. and Subsidiaries

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(Unaudited)

Three Months Ended
March 31,

(Stated in millions)

2021

2020

Net Income

$

47.3

$

21.5

Other Comprehensive Income

Foreign currency translation

1.5

(9.2)

Pension and postretirement benefits liability adjustments (net of
          tax of $(2.3), and $(1.9), respectively)

6.6

5.5

Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

8.1

(3.7)

Comprehensive Income

$

55.4

$

17.8

Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling
          interests, net of tax

0.2

(0.2)

Comprehensive Income attributable to Graybar Electric Company, Inc.

$

55.2

$

18.0


The accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.





4


Graybar Electric Company, Inc. and Subsidiaries  
  
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS    
(Stated in thousands, except share and per share data) September 30,
2017

 December 31,
2016

ASSETS    (Unaudited)
  
Current Assets       
Cash and cash equivalents    $51,806
 $43,339
Trade receivables (less allowances of $5,695 and $5,025, respectively) 1,050,613
 964,180
Merchandise inventory    610,873
 516,732
Other current assets    22,659
 24,148
Total Current Assets    1,735,951
 1,548,399
Property, at cost       
Land    78,681
 78,440
Buildings    464,829
 454,587
Furniture and fixtures    295,498
 286,615
Software    87,313
 87,313
Capital leases    35,423
 33,652
Total Property, at cost    961,744
 940,607
Less – accumulated depreciation and amortization   (539,639) (512,535)
Net Property    422,105
 428,072
Other Non-current Assets    124,132
 122,761
Total Assets    $2,282,188
 $2,099,232
LIABILITIES       
Current Liabilities       
Short-term borrowings    $216,604
 $140,465
Current portion of long-term debt    2,157
 4,155
Trade accounts payable    835,939
 752,171
Accrued payroll and benefit costs    85,402
 121,421
Other accrued taxes    20,022
 16,926
Other current liabilities    86,155
 73,028
Total Current Liabilities    1,246,279
 1,108,166
Postretirement Benefits Liability    70,769
 70,628
Pension Liability    117,064
 160,950
Long-term Debt    7,063
 7,271
Other Non-current Liabilities    25,029
 21,328
Total Liabilities    1,466,204
 1,368,343
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY     
  
 Shares at    
Capital StockSeptember 30, 2017
 December 31, 2016
    
Common, stated value $20.00 per share       
Authorized50,000,000
 50,000,000
  
  
Issued to voting trustees14,717,825
 14,606,830
  
  
Issued to shareholders3,469,173
 2,850,551
  
  
In treasury, at cost(590,066) (18,854)  
  
Outstanding Common Stock17,596,932
 17,438,527
 351,939
 348,771
Advance Payments on Subscriptions to Common Stock   966
 
Retained Earnings    639,919
 575,380
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss    (180,870) (196,600)
Total Graybar Electric Company, Inc. Shareholders’ Equity 811,954
 727,551
Noncontrolling Interests    4,030
 3,338
Total Shareholders’ Equity    815,984
 730,889
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity   $2,282,188
 $2,099,232

Graybar Electric Company, Inc. and Subsidiaries

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

March 31,

December 31,

(Stated in millions, except share and per share data)

2021

2020

ASSETS

(Unaudited)

Current Assets

Cash and cash equivalents

$

138.8

$

131.2

Trade receivables (less allowances of $7.0 and $6.9, respectively)

1,138.4

1,109.0

Merchandise inventory

625.1

588.5

Other current assets

57.5

56.6

Total Current Assets

1,959.8

1,885.3

Property, at cost

Land

80.0

78.9

Buildings

508.3

504.5

Furniture and fixtures

256.1

255.7

Software

154.6

153.5

Finance leases

14.3

14.6

Total Property, at cost

1,013.3

1,007.2

Accumulated depreciation and amortization

(607.0)

(600.6)

Net Property

406.3

406.6

Operating Lease Right-of-use Assets

120.6

118.8

Other Non-current Assets

141.5

140.5

Total Assets

$

2,628.2

$

2,551.2

LIABILITIES

Current Liabilities

Short-term borrowings

$

$

50.0

Current portion of long-term debt

2.2

2.3

Trade accounts payable

979.6

884.1

Accrued payroll and benefit costs

99.7

121.7

Other accrued taxes

44.8

44.2

Current operating lease liabilities

31.6

31.2

Other current liabilities

107.1

104.4

Total Current Liabilities

1,265.0

1,237.9

Postretirement Benefits Liability

74.0

74.1

Pension Liability

192.2

197.9

Long-term Debt

5.3

5.7

Non-current Operating Lease Liabilities

97.2

95.9

Other Non-current Liabilities

4.7

4.7

Total Liabilities

1,638.4

1,616.2

SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Shares at

Capital Stock

March 31, 2021

December 31, 2020

Common, stated value $20.00 per share

Authorized

50,000,000

50,000,000

Issued to voting trustees

19,182,922

18,755,472

Issued to shareholders

3,979,373

3,905,994

In treasury, at cost

(274,887)

(57,047)

Outstanding Common Stock

22,887,408

22,604,419

457.8

452.1

Advance Payments on Subscriptions to Common Stock

1.1

Retained Earnings

765.4

725.1

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss

(238.7)

(246.7)

Total Graybar Electric Company, Inc. Shareholders’ Equity

985.6

930.5

Noncontrolling Interests

4.2

4.5

Total Shareholders’ Equity

989.8

935.0

Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity

$

2,628.2

$

2,551.2

The accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.



5


Graybar Electric Company, Inc. and Subsidiaries 
  
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS   
 (Unaudited)
 Nine Months Ended September 30,
(Stated in thousands)2017
 2016
Cash Flows from Operations 
  
Net Income$80,678
 $70,987
  Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operations: 
  
Depreciation and amortization36,231
 35,158
Deferred income taxes(6,659) 2,585
Net gains on disposal of property(270) (1,786)
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests(229) (178)
Changes in assets and liabilities:   
Trade receivables(86,433) (73,623)
Merchandise inventory(94,141) (83,059)
Other current assets1,489
 5,632
Other non-current assets(2,503) 24,369
Trade accounts payable83,768
 16,571
Accrued payroll and benefit costs(36,019) (21,835)
Other current liabilities20,875
 17,673
Other non-current liabilities(24,646) (51,832)
Total adjustments to net income(108,537) (130,325)
Net cash used by operations(27,859) (59,338)
Cash Flows from Investing Activities 
  
Proceeds from disposal of property2,015
 3,301
Capital expenditures for property(26,674) (24,820)
Acquisition of business, net of cash acquired
 (59,946)
Net cash used by investing activities(24,659) (81,465)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities 
  
Net increase in short-term borrowings76,139
 168,871
Repayment of long-term debt
 (1,853)
Principal payments under capital leases(3,613) (4,116)
Sale of common stock15,558
 15,192
Purchases of common stock(11,424) (8,793)
Sales of noncontrolling interests’ common stock627
 
Purchases of noncontrolling interests’ common stock(392) (356)
Dividends paid(15,910) (14,962)
Net cash provided by financing activities60,985
 153,983
Net Increase in Cash8,467
 13,180
Cash, Beginning of Year43,339
 37,931
Cash, End of Period$51,806
 $51,111
    
Non-cash Investing and Financing Activities 
  
Acquisitions of equipment under capital leases$1,407
 $314

Graybar Electric Company, Inc. and Subsidiaries

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Unaudited)

Three Months Ended March 31,

(Stated in millions)

2021

2020

Cash Flows from Operating Activities

Net Income

$

47.3

$

21.5

Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities:

Depreciation and amortization

12.2

13.2

Non-cash operating lease expense

8.5

8.2

Deferred income taxes

(4.4)

(1.1)

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

(0.1)

(0.1)

Changes in assets and liabilities:

Trade receivables

(29.4)

(41.3)

Merchandise inventory

(36.6)

7.6

Other current assets

(0.9)

(4.5)

Other non-current assets

(0.6)

(1.1)

Trade accounts payable

95.5

68.4

Accrued payroll and benefit costs

(22.0)

(49.0)

Other current liabilities

4.7

(27.6)

Other non-current liabilities

(5.5)

(6.6)

Total adjustments to net income

21.4

(33.9)

Net cash provided (used) by operating activities

68.7

(12.4)

Cash Flows from Investing Activities

Proceeds from disposal of property

0.3

Capital expenditures for property

(10.0)

(8.1)

Acquisition of business, net of cash acquired

(0.1)

Net cash used by investing activities

(9.8)

(8.1)

Cash Flows from Financing Activities

Net (decrease) increase in short-term borrowings

(50.0)

132.0

Principal payments under finance arrangements

(0.7)

(2.2)

Sales of common stock

11.1

10.5

Purchases of common stock

(4.3)

(4.2)

Purchases of noncontrolling interests’ common stock

(0.5)

(0.1)

Dividends paid

(6.9)

(6.9)

Net cash (used) provided by financing activities

(51.3)

129.1

Net Increase in Cash

7.6

108.6

Cash, Beginning of Year

131.2

60.8

Cash, End of Period

$

138.8

$

169.4

Non-cash Investing and Financing Activities

Acquisitions of equipment under finance leases

$

0.2

$

0.2

Acquisitions of assets under operating leases

$

10.2

$

16.0

The accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.




6


Graybar Electric Company, Inc. and Subsidiaries      
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
      
 (Unaudited, stated in thousands)    
      
 Graybar Electric Company, Inc. Shareholders’ Equity    
 
Common
Stock
 
Common
Stock
Subscribed,
Unissued
 
Retained
Earnings
 
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Loss
 
Noncontrolling
Interests
 
 
Total
Shareholders’
Equity
December 31, 2015$326,482
 $
 $548,780
 $(190,435) $3,319
 $688,146
Net income
 
 70,809
 

 178
 70,987
Other comprehensive
income

 
 

 12,104
 209
 12,313
Stock issued14,238
 

 

 

 

 14,238
Stock purchased(8,793) 

 

 

 (356) (9,149)
Advance payments

 954
 

 

 

 954
Dividends declared

 

 (14,962) 

 

 (14,962)
September 30, 2016$331,927
 $954
 $604,627
 $(178,331) $3,350
 $762,527
            
 Graybar Electric Company, Inc. Shareholders’ Equity    
 
Common
Stock
 
Common
Stock
Subscribed,
Unissued
 
Retained
Earnings
 
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Loss
 
Noncontrolling
Interests
 
 
Total
Shareholders’
Equity

December 31, 2016$348,771
 $
 $575,380
 $(196,600) $3,338
 $730,889
Net income    80,449
   229
 80,678
Other comprehensive
income
      15,730
 228
 15,958
Stock issued14,592
       627
 15,219
Stock purchased(11,424)       (392) (11,816)
Advance payments  966
       966
Dividends declared

   (15,910)     (15,910)
September 30, 2017$351,939
 $966
 $639,919
 $(180,870) $4,030
 $815,984

Graybar Electric Company, Inc. and Subsidiaries

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

(Unaudited, stated in millions)

Graybar Electric Company, Inc. Shareholders’ Equity

Common

Accumulated

Stock

Other

Total

Common

Subscribed,

Retained

Comprehensive

Noncontrolling

Shareholders’

Stock

Unissued

Earnings

Loss

Interests

Equity

December 31, 2020

$

452.1

$

$

725.1

$

(246.7)

$

4.5

$

935.0

Net income

47.2

0.1

47.3

Other comprehensive income

8.0

0.1

8.1

Stock issued

10.0

10.0

Stock purchased

(4.3)

(0.5)

(4.8)

Advance payments

1.1

1.1

Dividends declared

(6.9)

(6.9)

March 31, 2021

$

457.8

$

1.1

$

765.4

$

(238.7)

$

4.2

$

989.8

Graybar Electric Company, Inc. Shareholders’ Equity

Common

Accumulated

Stock

Other

Total

Common

Subscribed,

Retained

Comprehensive

Noncontrolling

Shareholders’

Stock

Unissued

Earnings

Loss

Interests

Equity

December 31, 2019

$

449.5

$

$

694.0

$

(250.6)

$

4.9

$

897.8

Net income

21.4

0.1

21.5

Other comprehensive loss

(3.4)

(0.3)

(3.7)

Stock issued

9.4

9.4

Stock purchased

(4.2)

(0.1)

(4.3)

Advance payments

1.1

1.1

Dividends declared

(6.9)

(6.9)

March 31, 2020

$

454.7

$

1.1

$

708.5

$

(254.0)

$

4.6

$

914.9

The accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.




7


Graybar Electric Company, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(Stated in thousands,millions, except share and per share data)

(Unaudited)

1. DESCRIPTION OF THE BUSINESS

Graybar Electric Company, Inc. (“Graybar”, “Company”, "we", "our", or "us") is a New York corporation, incorporated in 1925.  We are engaged in the distribution of electrical and communications and data networking products and are a provider of related supply chain management and logistics services.  We primarily serve customers in the construction, industrial & utility, and commercial, institutional and government ("CIG"), and industrial & utility vertical markets, with products and services that support new construction, infrastructure updates, building renovation, facility maintenance, repair and operations ("MRO"), and original equipment manufacturers ("OEM"). AllWe purchase all of the products sold by us are purchased by uswe sell from others, and we neither manufacture nor contract to manufacture any products that we sell.  Our business activity is primarily with customersbased in the United States (“U.S.”).  We also have subsidiary operations with distribution facilities in Canada and Puerto Rico.


2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES


Our accounting policies conform to generally accepted accounting principles in the U.S. ("GAAP”) and are applied on a consistent basis among all years presented. Significant accounting policies are described below.


Basis of Presentation

The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements included herein have been prepared by Graybar pursuant to the rules and regulations of the United StatesU.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Commission”) applicable to interim financial reporting.  Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP have been condensed or omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations, although we believe that our disclosures are adequate to make the information presented not misleading.  The preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP requires the use of estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts.  Our condensed consolidated financial statements include amounts that are based on management’s best estimates and judgments.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.  These condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto and Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations as of and for the year ended December 31, 2016,2020, included in our latest Annual Report on Form 10-K.

In the opinion of management, this quarterly report includes all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring accruals and adjustments, necessary for the fair presentation of the condensed consolidated financial statements presented.  Results for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of results to be expected for the full year.


Principles of Consolidation

The condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Graybar and its subsidiary companies.  All material intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated.  The ownership interests that are held by owners other than the Company are in subsidiaries consolidatedowned by the Company and are accounted for and reported as noncontrolling interests.


Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities.  Actual results could differ from these estimates.


Subsequent Events
We have evaluated subsequent events through the time of the filing of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q with the Commission.  No material subsequent events have occurred since September 30, 2017 that require recognition or disclosure in these financial statements.





Revenue Recognition

Revenue

Sales revenue is recognized when evidenceperformance obligations are satisfied, which is typically upon delivery of a customer arrangement exists, prices are fixedthe product to the customer.  Sometimes product is purchased from the manufacturer and determinable,drop-shipped to the customer. We generally take control of the goods when shipped by the manufacturer and then recognize revenue when control of the product title, ownership and risk of loss transfers to the customer, and collectability is reasonably assured.customer. Revenues recognized are primarily for product sales, but may also include freight and handling charges. Our standard warehouse shipping terms are FOB shipping point, under which product titlecontrol passes to the customer at the time of shipment. We also earn revenue for professional services, provided to customersgeneral contracting services, and storage services. Such service revenue represented less than 1% of net sales for supply chain managementthe three months ended March 31, 2021 and logistics services.  Service revenue is recognized when services are rendered and completed.2020. Revenue is reported net of all taxes, primarily sales tax, assessed by governmental authorities as a result of revenue-producing transactions, primarily sales tax.transactions.

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Outgoing Freight Expenses

We record certain95% of outgoing freight expenses as a component of selling, general and administrative expenses.


Cash and Cash Equivalents

We account for cash on hand, deposits in banks, and other short-term, highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less as cash and cash equivalents.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

Credit Losses

We perform ongoing credit evaluations of our customers, and a significant portion of our trade receivables is secured by mechanic’s lien or payment bond rights.  We maintain allowances to reflect the expected uncollectability of trade receivables based on past collection history andpooled on the aging of the receivables, specific risks identified in the receivables portfolio.portfolio based on current conditions, and expected future economic conditions when necessary.  Although actual credit losses have historically been within management’s expectations, additional allowances may be required if the financial condition of our customers were to deteriorate.

Merchandise Inventory

Our inventory, comprised entirely of finished goods, is stated at the lower of cost (determined(generally determined using the last-in, first-out (“LIFO”) cost method) or market.  Inventories valued using the LIFO method comprised 89% of the total inventories at March 31, 2021 and 91% at March 31, 2020. LIFO accounting is a method of accounting that, compared with other inventory accounting methods, generally provides better matching of current costs with current sales.

We make provisions for obsolete or excess inventories as necessary to reflect reductions in inventory value.

Vendor Allowances

Our agreements with many of our suppliers provide for us to earn volume incentives based on purchases during the agreement period.  Based on the provisions of our vendor agreements, we develop vendor accrual rates by estimating the point at which we will have completed our performance under the agreementagreements and the deferred amounts that will be earned. We perform analyses and review historical trends to ensure the deferred amounts earned are appropriately recorded. Certain vendor agreements contain purchase volume incentives that provide for increased funding when graduated purchase volumes are met. Amounts accrued throughout the year are based on estimates of future activity levels, and could be materially impacted if actual purchase volumes differ. Changes in the estimated amount of incentives are treated as changes in estimate and are recognized in earnings in the period in which the change in estimate occurs.  In the event that the operating performance of our suppliers were to decline, however, there can be no assurance that amounts earned would be paid or that the volume incentives would continue to be included in future agreements.


Property and Depreciation

Property, plant and equipment are recorded at cost. Depreciation is expensed on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the related assets. Interest costs incurred to finance expenditures for major long-term construction projects are capitalized as part of the asset's historical cost and included in property, plant and equipment, then depreciated over the useful life of the asset. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the term of the lease or the estimated useful life of the improvement, whichever is shorter. Expenditures for maintenance and repairs are charged to expense when incurred, while the costs of significant improvements, which extend the useful life of the underlying asset, are capitalized.




Credit Risk
Financial instruments that potentially expose us to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of trade receivables.  We perform ongoing credit evaluations of our customers, and a significant portion of our trade receivables may be protected by mechanic’s lien or payment bond rights.  We maintain allowances for potential credit losses, and such losses historically have been within management’s expectations.

Fair Value

We endeavor to utilize the best available information in measuring fair value.  GAAP has established a fair value hierarchy, which prioritizes the inputs used in measuring fair value.  The tiers in the hierarchy include:  Level 1, defined as observable inputs such as quoted prices in active markets; Level 2, defined as inputs other than quoted prices in active markets that are either directly or indirectly observable; and Level 3, defined as unobservable inputs for which little or no market data exists, therefore requiring an entity to develop its own data inputs and assumptions.  We have used fair value measurements to value our pension plan assets.

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate

The functional currency for our Canadian subsidiary is the Canadian dollar.  Accordingly, its balance sheet amounts are translated at the exchange rates in effect at the end of each reporting period and its statements of income amounts are translated at the average

9


rates of exchange prevailing during the current period.  Currency translation adjustments are included in accumulated other comprehensive loss.

Goodwill

Our goodwill is not amortized, but rather tested annually for impairment.  Goodwill is reviewed annually in the fourth quarter and/orand when circumstances or other events might indicate that impairment may have occurred.  We first perform a qualitative assessment of goodwill impairment. The qualitative assessment considers several factors including the excess fair value over carrying value as of the last quantitative impairment test, the length of time since the last fair value measurement, the current carrying value, market conditions, actual performance compared to forecasted performance, and the current business outlook. If the qualitative assessment indicates that it is more likely than not that goodwill is impaired, the reporting unit iswould then be quantitatively tested for impairment. If a quantitative assessment iswould be required, the fair value iswould be determined using a variety of assumptions including estimated future cash flows of the reporting unit and applicable discount rates.


Definite Lived Intangible Assets

The cost of intangible assets with determinable useful lives is amortized to reflect the pattern of economic benefits consumed, either on a straight-line or accelerated basis over the estimated periods benefited. Customer relationships, trade names and other non-contractual intangible assets with determinable lives are amortized over periods generally ranging from 53 to 20 years. Intangible assets are tested for impairment if events or circumstances occur indicating that the respective asset might be impaired.

Income Taxes

Our income tax provision is recorded in accordance with a full-year forecasted rate methodology, including discrete items in the periods in which they occur. We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities to reflect the future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in the financial statements or tax returns.  Uncertainty exists regarding tax positions taken in previously filed tax returns still subject to examination and positions expected to be taken in future returns.  A deferred tax asset or liability results from the temporary difference between an item’s carrying value as reflected in the financial statements and its tax basis and is calculated using enacted applicable tax rates.  We assess the likelihood that our deferred tax assets will be recovered from future taxable income and, to the extent we believe that recovery is not likely, a valuation allowance is established.  Changes in the valuation allowance, when recorded, are included in the provision for income taxes in the condensed consolidated financial statements.  We classify interest expense and penalties as part of our provision for income taxes based upon applicable federal and state interest/underpayment percentages.

We assess uncertainty regarding tax positions taken in previously filed returns and record reserves in accordance with the guidance under the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 740-10, "Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes".

Other Postretirement Benefits

We account for postretirement benefits other than pensions by accruing the costs of benefits to be provided over the eligible employees’ periods of active service.  These costs are determined on an actuarial basis.  Our condensed consolidated balance sheets reflect the funded status of postretirement benefits.



Pension Plan

We sponsor a noncontributory defined benefit pension plan accounted for by accruing the cost to provide the benefits over the eligible employees’ periods of active service.  These costs are determined on an actuarial basis.  Our condensed consolidated balance sheets reflect the funded status of the defined benefit pension plan.

Leases

We determine if an arrangement is a lease at inception. Operating leases are included in operating lease right-of-use (“ROU”) assets, current operating lease liabilities, and non-current operating lease liabilities on our condensed consolidated balance sheets. Amounts related to finance leases are included in property and equipment, current portion of long-term debt, and long-term debt on our condensed consolidated balance sheets. ROU assets and lease liabilities are recognized and measured on the date the underlying asset is made available to us.

Operating lease ROU assets and operating lease liabilities are recognized based on the present value of the future minimum lease payments over the lease term at commencement date. We use our incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at the commencement date in determining the present value of future payments. The operating lease ROU asset also includes any lease payments made and excludes lease incentives. Our lease terms may include options to extend or terminate the lease when it is

10


reasonably certain that we will exercise that option. Operating lease expense for minimum lease payments is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

For certain leases, such as real estate and information technology (“IT”) equipment, we account for the lease and non-lease components as a single lease component. For all other leases, we account for the lease and non-lease components separately. We have elected as an accounting policy not to apply the recognition requirements for short-term leases. Therefore, leases with a term of twelve months or less are not recorded on the condensed consolidated balance sheets. Lease expenses associated with short-term leases are immaterial and are recorded in the condensed consolidated statements of income in selling, general and administrative expenses. Additionally, for certain vehicle leases, we apply a portfolio approach to account for the operating lease ROU assets and liabilities.

Non-operating Expenses

Non-operating expenses are comprised of interest expense, net and non-service cost components of the net periodic benefit cost for the pension and other postretirement benefit plans. The non-service cost components include interest cost, expected return on plan assets, amortization of net actuarial gains/losses, amortization of prior service costs/gains, and charges due to settlement of certain plan liabilities.

New Accounting Standards

No new

In March 2020, the FASB issued Accounting Standard Update (“ASU” or “Update”) 2020-04, “Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting” that provides temporary relief to the GAAP guidance on contract modifications and hedge accounting standardsto ease the financial reporting burdens of the expected market transition from LIBOR and other interbank offered rates to alternative rates. This Update is effective for all entities as of March 12, 2020 through December 31, 2022. The guidance on contract modifications, which is applicable to Graybar, can be applied prospectively from any date beginning March 12, 2020 and may also be applied to modifications of existing contracts made earlier in the interim period that were issued or became effective during 2017includes March 12, 2020. We have had or are expectedevaluated the impact of the adoption of the Update on our contracts and our consolidated financial statements. We do not engage in hedging transactions and we anticipate that our few impacted contracts will continue to use LIBOR until at least December 31, 2021. As such, we currently believe this Update will not have a material impact on our condensed consolidated financial statements except those noted below:


In March 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU” or “Update”) 2017-07, “Compensation - Retirement Benefits (Topic 715)” ("ASU 2017-07"). The changes to the standard require employers to report the service cost component in the same line as other compensation costs arising from services rendered by employees during the reporting period. The other components of net benefit costs will be presented in the income statement separately from the service costcontracts and outside of a subtotal of income from operations. In addition, only the service cost component may be eligible for capitalization where applicable. ASU 2017-07 is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. We are currently evaluating the impact ASU 2017-07 will have on our condensed consolidated financial statements.

In February 2016,

3. REVENUE

The following table summarizes the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842)” ("ASU 2016-02"). The core principlepercentages of Topic 842 requires that a lessee should recognizeour net sales attributable to each of our vertical markets for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020:

Three Months Ended

March 31,

2021

2020

Construction

58.5

%

57.8

%

CIG

25.7

26.6

Industrial & Utility

15.8

15.6

Total net sales

100.0

%

100.0

%

Certain reclassifications have been made to the vertical market assigned to customers in the prior year’s information to conform to the March 31, 2021 presentation.

We had 0 material contract assets, andcontract liabilities, or deferred contract costs recorded on the condensed consolidated balance sheet as of March 31, 2021 and disclose key information about leasing arrangements. The amendmentsDecember 31, 2020. In addition, for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, revenue recognized in ASU 2016-02 are effective for fiscal yearsthe reporting period that was included in the contract liability balance at the beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The guidanceof the period is requirednot material.

Revenue expected to be adopted at the earliest period presented using a modified retrospective approach. We are currently evaluating the impact the provisions will have on our condensed consolidated financial statements.


In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09,recognized in any future year related to remaining performance obligations is not material. As permitted in ASC Topic 606, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers”, with amendments in 2015 and 2016 ("ASU 2014-09"). The guidance was initially effective January 1, 2017 and early adoption was not permitted. The amended guidance provideswe have elected to omit disclosure related to performance obligations for a one-year deferral of the effective date to January 1, 2018, with an option of applying the standard on the original effective date.

The new standard and related amendments provide for two alternative implementation methods:  a full retrospective approach and a modified retrospective approach. The full retrospective approach applies the new standard retrospectively to each prior reporting period presented.  This method allows the use of certain practical expedients. The modified retrospective approach applies the new standard retrospectively in the year of initial adoption and records a cumulative effect adjustment for the impact of adjusting contracts open at the date of adoption.  Under this transition method, we would apply this guidance retrospectively onlyrevenue pertaining to contracts that are not completed at the datehave an original expected duration of initial application, which for us will be January 1, 2018.  We would then recognize the cumulative effect of initially applying the standardone year or less, to contracts where revenue is recognized as an adjustmentinvoiced and to the opening balance of retained earnings. This method also requires us to disclose comparative information for the year of adoption.

Our primary source of revenues is from customer purchase orders in the construction, industrial & utility, and CIG markets for electrical and comm/data products. Revenue is currently recognized when evidence of a customer arrangement exists, prices are fixed and determinable, product title, ownership and risk of loss transfers to the customer, and collectability is reasonably assured. Given the scope of work required to implement the recognition and disclosure requirements under the new standard, we have identified and are currently assessing our revenue streams and reporting disclosures to determine the potential impactcontracts with variable consideration related to the adoption of ASU 2014-09. Upon adoption of ASU 2014-09, the timing of revenue related to our sales will remain relatively consistent, in all material respects, with current practices. We intend to adopt ASU 2014-09 under the modified retrospective approach.

wholly unsatisfied performance obligations.


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3.

4. INCOME TAXES

We determine our deferred tax assets and liabilities based upon the difference between the financial statement and tax bases of our assets and liabilities, calculated using enacted applicable tax rates.  We then assess the likelihood that our deferred tax assets will be recovered from future taxable income and, to the extent we believe that recovery is not likely, we establish a valuation allowance.  Changes in the valuation allowance, when recorded, are included in the

Our total provision for income taxes was $16.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021. We record our income tax provision using a full-year forecasted methodology, including discrete items in the condensed consolidated financial statements.

period in which they occur. Our year-to-date effective tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2021 was 25.5%.

Our unrecognized tax benefits of $2,066 and $1,755$1.7 million at September 30, 2017both March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2016, respectively,2020, are uncertain tax positions that would impact our effective tax rate if recognized.  We are periodically engaged in tax return examinations, reviewsthe review of statute of limitationslimitation periods, and settlements surrounding income taxes. We do not anticipate a material change in unrecognized tax benefits during the next twelve months.


We classify interest expense and penalties as part of our provision for income taxes based upon applicable federal and state interest/interest and underpayment percentages.  We have accrued $736$0.4 million and $650$0.3 million in interest and penalties at September 30, 2017March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2016,2020, respectively.  Interest was computed on the difference between the provision for income taxes recognized in accordance with GAAP and the amount of benefit previously taken or expected to be taken in our federal, state, and local income tax returns.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) was signed into law on March 27, 2020. The CARES Act, among other things, includes tax provisions relating to refundable payroll tax credits, deferment of employer social security payments, net operating loss utilization and carryback periods, modifications to the net interest deduction limitations and technical corrections to tax depreciation methods for qualified improvement property (“QIP”). On December 27, 2020, the Taxpayer Certainty and Disaster Tax Relief Act of 2020 was enacted as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, followed by the American Rescue Plan Act on March 1, 2021. These recent laws, among many other provisions, expand and extend the refundable employee retention tax credits previously made available under the CARES Act and allow a full deduction for business meals for the 2021 and 2022 tax years. At this point we do not believe that these changes will have a material impact on our income tax provision for 2021. We will continue to evaluate the impact of new legislation on our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

Our federal income tax returns for the tax years 20142017 and forward are available for examination by the United StatesU.S. Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”).  The statute of limitations for the 20142017 federal return will expire on SeptemberOctober 15, 2018, unless extended by consent.2021. Our state income tax returns for 20122016 through 20162020 remain subject to examination by various state authorities with the latest period closing on December 31, 2021.2025.  We have not extended the statutes of limitations in any state jurisdictions with respect to years prior to 2012.2016. 

5. DEBT

Revolving Credit Facility

At March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, we, along with Graybar Canada Limited, our Canadian operating subsidiary ("Graybar Canada"), had an unsecured, five-year, $750.0 million committed revolving credit agreement maturing in August 2023 with Bank of America, N.A. and the other lenders named therein (the "Amended Credit Agreement"), which includes a combined letter of credit sub-facility of up to $25.0 million, a U.S. swing-line loan facility of up to $75.0 million, and a Canadian swing-line loan facility of up to $20.0 million. The Amended Credit Agreement includes a $100.0 million sublimit (in U.S. or Canadian dollars) for borrowings by Graybar Canada.  The Amended Credit Agreement contains an accordion feature, which allows us to request increases in the aggregate borrowing commitments of up to $375.0 million.

We were in compliance with all covenants under the Amended Credit Agreement as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020.

There were 0 short-term borrowings under the Amended Credit Agreement at March 31, 2021, compared to $50.0 million of short-term borrowings at December 31, 2020.

Short-term borrowings outstanding during the three months ended March 31, 2021 ranged from a minimum of $0.0 million to a maximum of $50.0 million. Short-term borrowings outstanding during the three months ended March 31, 2020 ranged from a minimum of $55.0 million to a maximum of $270.0 million.

At March 31, 2021, we had unused lines of credit under the Amended Credit Agreement amounting to $749.6 million available, compared to $699.6 million at December 31, 2020.  These lines are available to meet our short-term cash requirements and are subject to annual fees of up to 40 basis points (0.40%).

Interest expense, net was $0.2 million and $0.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.


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Private Placement Shelf Agreements

We have an uncommitted, unsecured $100.0 million private placement shelf agreement (the “Prudential Shelf Agreement”) with PGIM, Inc., which is expected to allow us to issue senior promissory notes to affiliates of PGIM, Inc. at fixed rate terms to be agreed upon at the time of any issuance during a three-year issuance period ending in August 2023. We also have an uncommitted, unsecured $100.0 million private placement shelf agreement (the "MetLife Shelf Agreement") with Metropolitan Life Insurance Company and MetLife Investment Advisors, LLC and each other affiliate of MetLife that becomes a party to the agreement (collectively, "MetLife"). The MetLife Shelf Agreement is expected to allow us to issue senior promissory notes to MetLife at fixed or floating rate economic terms to be agreed upon at the time of issuance during a three-year period ending in August 2021.

We remain obligated under a most favored lender clause which is designed to ensure that any notes in the future under the Prudential Shelf Agreement and MetLife Shelf Agreement will continue to be of equal ranking with indebtedness under our Amended Credit Agreement.

NaN notes have been issued under either the Prudential Shelf Agreement or the MetLife Shelf Agreement as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020.

Each shelf agreement contains representations and warranties of the Company and the applicable lender, customary events of default and affirmative and negative covenants, customary for agreements of this type.  These covenants are substantially similar to those contained in the Amended Credit Agreement, subject to a number of exceptions and qualifications set forth in the applicable shelf agreement. All outstanding obligations of Graybar under one or both of these agreements may be declared immediately due and payable upon the occurrence of an event of default.

We were in compliance with all covenants under the Prudential Shelf Agreement and the MetLife Shelf Agreement as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020.

Letters of Credit

We had total letters of credit of $6.3 million outstanding at both March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, of which $0.4 million were issued under the Amended Credit Agreement. The letters of credit are issued primarily to support certain workers' compensation insurance policies. 

6. PENSION AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS

We have a noncontributory defined benefit pension plan (the "Pension Plan") covering substantially all employees first hired prior to July 1, 2015 after the completion of one year of service and 1,000 hours of service.  The Pension Plan provides retirement benefits based on an employee’s final average earnings and years of service.  These employees become 100% vested after three years of service, regardless of age.  A supplemental benefit plan provides nonqualified pension benefits for compensation in excess of the IRS compensation limits applicable to the Pension Plan and eligible compensation deferred by a participant.

Our funding policy is to make contributions to the Pension Plan, provided that the total annual contributions will not be less than the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (“ERISA”) and the Pension Protection Act of 2006 minimums or greater than the maximum tax-deductible amount, to review the contribution and funding strategy on a regular basis, and to allow discretionary contributions to be made by us from time to time.  The assets of the Pension Plan are invested primarily in fixed income investments and equity securities. We pay nonqualified pension benefits when they are due according to the terms of the supplemental benefit plan.

We provide certain postretirement healthcare and life insurance benefits to retired employees. Substantially all of our employees hired or rehired prior to 2014 may become eligible for postretirement medical benefits if they reach the age and service requirements of the retiree medical plan and retire on a pension (except a deferred pension) under the Pension Plan. Medical benefits are self-insured and claims are administered through a third party administrator. The cost of coverage is determined based on the annual projected plan costs. The participant's premium or cost is determined based on Company guidelines. Postretirement life insurance benefits are insured through an insurance company. We fund postretirement benefits as incurred, and accordingly, there were 0 assets held in the postretirement benefits plan at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020.

4.

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The net periodic benefit cost for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 includes the following components:

Pension Benefits

Postretirement Benefits

Three Months Ended

Three Months Ended

March 31,

March 31,

Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost

2021

2020

2021

2020

Selling, general and administrative expenses:

Service cost

$

7.6

$

7.2

$

0.6

$

0.5

Total selling, general and administrative expenses

$

7.6

$

7.2

$

0.6

$

0.5

Non-operating expenses:

Interest cost

$

6.1

$

7.0

$

0.4

$

0.6

Expected return on plan assets

(7.8)

(8.4)

Amortization of:

Net actuarial loss

8.6

7.2

0.3

0.2

Total non-operating expenses

$

6.9

$

5.8

$

0.7

$

0.8

Net periodic benefit cost

$

14.5

$

13.0

$

1.3

$

1.3

We made qualified and nonqualified pension contributions totaling $11.6 million during the three-month period ended March 31, 2021 and contributions totaling $11.8 million during the three-month period ended March 31, 2020. Additional contributions of $30.0 million are expected to be paid during the remainder of 2021, but may change at our discretion.

7. CAPITAL STOCK

Our common stock is 100% owned by active and retired employees, and there is no public trading market for our common stock.  Since 1928, substantially all of the issued and outstanding shares of common stock have been held of record by voting trustees under successive voting trust agreements. Under applicable New York law, a voting trust may not have a term greater than ten years. Accordingly, aA new Voting Trust Agreement was established effective March 3, 2017, which expires by its terms on March 1, 2027.2027 because under applicable New York law, a voting trust may not have a term greater than ten years. At September 30, 2017,March 31, 2021, approximately 82%83% of the total shares ofour outstanding common stock was held in the voting trust. The participation of shareholders in the voting trust is voluntary at the time the voting trust is created, but is irrevocable during its term. Shareholders who elect not to participate in the voting trust hold their common stock as shareholders of record.


Shareholders may elect to participate in the voting trust at any time during the term of the voting trust.

No holder of our common stock or voting trust interests representing our common stock ("common stock", "common shares", or "shares") may sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of any shares without first offering us the option to purchase those shares at the price at which they were issued.  Additionally, a shareholder was entitled to any cash dividends, if any, accrued for the quarter in which the purchase offer is made, adjusted pro rata for the number of days such shares were held prior to the dividend record date. On June 8, 2017, the shareholders voted to remove this adjustment for accruing dividends on the common stock.  We also have the option to purchase at the issue price the common shares of any shareholder who ceases to be an employee for any reason other than death or "retirement" (as defined in our amended restated certificate of incorporation), and on the first anniversary of any holder's death. In the past, we have always exercised these purchase options, and we expect to continue to do so in the foreseeable future. However, we can make no assurance that we will continue to exercise our purchase option in the future.  All outstanding shares have been issued at $20.00$20.00 per share.


Cash dividends declaredpaid were $5,286 and $4,985$6.9 million for the three months ended September 30, 2017March 31, 2021 and 2016, respectively. Cash dividends declared were $15,910 and $14,962 for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.


2020.

We also have authorized 10,000,000 shares of Delegated Authority Preferred Stock (“preferred stock”), par value one cent ($0.01). The preferred stock may be issued in one or more series, with the designations, relative rights, preferences, and limitations of shares of each such series being fixed by a resolution of our Board of Directors. There were no0 shares of preferred stock outstanding at September 30, 2017March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2016.



5. DEBT
Revolving Credit Facility

At September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, we along with Graybar Canada Limited, our Canadian operating subsidiary (“Graybar Canada”), had an unsecured, five-year, $550,000 revolving credit agreement maturing in June 2019 with Bank of America, N.A. and the other lenders named therein (the "Credit Agreement"), which includes a combined letter of credit sub-facility of up to $50,000, a U.S. swing line loan facility of up to $50,000, and a Canadian swing line loan facility of up to $20,000. The Credit Agreement includes a $100,000 sublimit (in U.S. or Canadian dollars) for borrowings by Graybar Canada and contains an accordion feature, which allows us to request increases to the aggregate borrowing commitments of up to $300,000.

The Credit Agreement contains customary affirmative and negative covenants for credit facilities of this type, including limitations on us and our subsidiaries with respect to indebtedness, liens, changes in the nature of our business, investments, mergers and acquisitions, issuance of equity securities, dispositions of assets and dissolution of certain subsidiaries, transactions with affiliates, restricted payments (subject to incurrence tests, with certain exceptions), as well as securitizations, factoring transactions, and transactions with sanctioned parties or in violation of certain U.S. or Canadian anti-corruption laws. There are also maximum leverage ratio and minimum interest coverage ratio financial covenants that we are subject to during the term of the Credit Agreement. We were in compliance with all these covenants as of September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016.
There were $216,604 and $140,465 in short-term borrowings outstanding under the Credit Agreement at September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively.

Short-term borrowings outstanding during the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016 ranged from a minimum of $112,292 and $105,014 to a maximum of $229,782 and $311,506, respectively.

We had total letters of credit of $5,371 and $5,244 outstanding, of which none were issued under the Credit Agreement at September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016. The letters of credit are issued primarily to support certain workers' compensation insurance policies.

At September 30, 2017, we had unused lines of credit under the Credit Agreement amounting to $333,396 available, compared to $409,535 at December 31, 2016.  These lines are available to meet our short-term cash requirements and are subject to annual fees of up to 40 basis points (0.40%).
Private Placement Shelf Agreements

On August 2, 2017, we amended our uncommitted $100,000 private placement shelf agreement with PGIM, Inc., formerly known as Prudential Investment Management, Inc. (the "Prudential Shelf Agreement"). The Prudential Shelf Agreement allows us to issue senior promissory notes to affiliates of Prudential at fixed rate terms to be agreed upon at the time of any issuance during a three year issuance period ending in August 2020. No notes had been issued under the Prudential Shelf Agreement as of September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016.
On September 22, 2016, we entered into an uncommitted $100,000 private placement shelf agreement (the “MetLife Shelf Agreement”) with Metropolitan Life Insurance Company and MetLife Investment Advisors, LLC and each other affiliate of MetLife that becomes a party to the agreement (collectively, “MetLife”).  Subject to the terms and conditions set forth below, the MetLife Shelf Agreement is expected to allow the Company to issue senior promissory notes to MetLife at fixed or floating rate economic terms to be agreed upon at the time of any issuance during a three-year issuance period ending in September 2019. Floating rate note interest rates will be based on London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR") plus a spread. No notes have been issued under the MetLife Shelf Agreement, which ranks equally with the Company’s Credit Agreement and Prudential Shelf Agreement. No notes had been issued under the MetLife Shelf Agreement as of September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016.
Under these shelf agreements, the term of each note issuance will be selected by us and will not exceed 12 years and will have such other particular terms as shall be set forth, in the case of any series of notes, in the Confirmation of Acceptance with respect to such series. Any notes issued under the Prudential Shelf Agreement or under the MetLife Shelf Agreement will be guaranteed by our material domestic subsidiaries, if any, as described in the Prudential Shelf Agreement and the MetLife Shelf Agreement.  Any future proceeds of any issuance under the facilities will be used for general corporate purposes, including working capital and capital expenditures, to refinance existing indebtedness and/or to fund potential acquisitions.


Each shelf agreement contains customary representations and warranties of the Company and the applicable lender.  Each shelf agreement also contains customary events of default, including: a failure to pay principal, interest or fees when due; a failure to comply with covenants; the fact that any representation or warranty made by any of the credit parties is incorrect when given; the occurrence of an event of default under the Credit Agreement or certain other indebtedness of us and our subsidiaries; the commencement of certain insolvency or receivership events affecting any of the credit parties; certain actions under ERISA; and the occurrence of a change in control of Graybar (subject to certain permitted transactions as described in the Credit Agreement).  All outstanding obligations of Graybar under one or both of these agreements may be declared immediately due and payable upon the occurrence of an event of default.
Each shelf agreement contains customary affirmative and negative covenants for facilities of this type, including limitations on us and our subsidiaries with respect to indebtedness, liens, changes in the nature of our business, investments, mergers and acquisitions, issuance of equity securities, dispositions of assets and dissolution of certain subsidiaries, transactions with affiliates, restricted payments (subject to incurrence tests, with certain exceptions), as well as securitizations, factoring transactions, and transactions with sanctioned parties or in violation of certain U.S. or Canadian anti-terrorism laws.  There are also maximum leverage ratio and minimum interest coverage ratio financial covenants that we are subject to during the term of the shelf agreements.  We were in compliance with all covenants as of September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016.

In addition, we have agreed to a most favored lender clause which is designed to ensure that any notes issued in the future under the Prudential Shelf Agreement and MetLife Shelf Agreement will continue to be of equal ranking with indebtedness under our Credit Agreement.

6. PENSION AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS
We have a noncontributory defined benefit pension plan covering substantially all employees first hired prior to July 1, 2015 after the completion of one year of service and 1,000 hours of service.  The plan provides retirement benefits based on an employee’s average earnings and years of service.  These employees become 100% vested after three years of service, regardless of age.  A supplemental benefit plan provides nonqualified benefits for compensation in excess of the IRS compensation limits applicable to the plan.

Our plan funding policy is to make contributions, provided that the total annual contributions will not be less than ERISA and the Pension Protection Act of 2006 minimums or greater than the maximum tax-deductible amount, to review the contribution and funding strategy on a regular basis, and to allow discretionary contributions to be made by us from time to time.  The assets of the defined benefit pension plan are invested primarily in fixed income investments and equity securities. We pay nonqualified pension benefits when they are due according to the terms of the supplemental benefit plan.

We provide certain postretirement health care and life insurance benefits to retired employees. Substantially all of our employees hired or rehired prior to 2014 may become eligible for postretirement medical benefits if they reach the age and service requirements of the retiree medical plan and retire on a service pension (except a deferred pension) under the defined benefit pension plan. Medical benefits are self-insured and claims are administered through an insurance company. The cost of coverage is determined based on the annual projected plan costs. The participant's premium or cost is determined based on Company guidelines. Postretirement life insurance benefits are insured through an insurance company. We fund postretirement benefits as incurred, and accordingly, there were no assets held in the postretirement benefits plan at September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016.




The net periodic benefit cost for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016 includes the following components: 

14



Pension Benefits Postretirement Benefits
 Three Months Ended 
 September 30,
 Three Months Ended 
 September 30,
 
Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost2017
2016
 2017
2016
Service cost$6,604
$6,342
 $582
$572
Interest cost6,954
7,066
 711
757
Expected return on plan assets(7,658)(6,754) 

Amortization of:

 

Net actuarial loss5,376
4,791
 197
177
Prior service cost (gain)105
106
 (545)(545)
Net periodic benefit cost$11,381
$11,551
 $945
$961
 
 Pension Benefits Postretirement Benefits
 Nine Months Ended 
 September 30,
 Nine Months Ended 
 September 30,
 
Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost2017
2016
 2017
2016
Service cost$19,812
$19,026
 $1,745
$1,716
Interest cost20,863
21,197
 2,133
2,272
Expected return on plan assets(22,973)(20,262) 

Amortization of:     
Net actuarial loss16,127
14,373
 591
531
Prior service cost (gain)315
318
 (1,635)(1,635)
Net periodic benefit cost$34,144
$34,652
 $2,834
$2,884
We made qualified and nonqualified pension contributions totaling $24,001 and $44,002 during the three-month periods ended September 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively. Contributions made during the nine-month periods ending September 30, 2017 and 2016 totaled $61,587 and $81,633, respectively. Additional contributions totaling $2 are expected to be paid during the remainder of 2017.

7.

8. ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)


LOSS

The following table represents amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)loss for the three months ended September 30, 2017March 31, 2021 and 2016:2020:

Three Months Ended
March 31, 2021

Three Months Ended
March 31, 2020

Amortization of Pension
and Other
Postretirement Benefits Items

Amortization of Pension
and Other
Postretirement Benefits Items

Actuarial
Losses
Recognized

Actuarial
Losses
Recognized

Affected Line in Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income:

Non-operating expenses

$

8.9

$

7.4

Tax benefit

(2.3)

(1.9)

Total reclassifications for the period, net of tax

$

6.6

$

5.5

  Three Months Ended 
 September 30, 2017
 Three Months Ended 
 September 30, 2016
  Amortization of Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Items Amortization of Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Items
  Actuarial Losses Recognized Prior Service Costs Recognized Total Actuarial Losses Recognized Prior Service Costs Recognized Total
Affected Line in Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income:            
Selling, general and administrative
expenses
 $5,573
 $(440) $5,133
 $4,968
 $(439) $4,529
Tax (benefit) expense (2,168) 171
 (1,997) (1,933) 171
 (1,762)
Total reclassifications for the period, net of tax $3,405
 $(269) $3,136
 $3,035
 $(268) $2,767



The following table represents amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016:
  Nine Months Ended 
 September 30, 2017
 Nine Months Ended 
 September 30, 2016
  Amortization of Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Items Amortization of Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Items
  Actuarial Losses Recognized Prior Service Costs Recognized Total Actuarial Losses Recognized Prior Service Costs Recognized Total
Affected Line in Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income:            
Selling, general and administrative expenses $16,718
 $(1,320) $15,398
 $14,904
 $(1,317) $13,587
Tax (benefit) expense (6,503) 513
 (5,990) (5,798) 512
 (5,286)
Total reclassifications for the period, net of tax $10,215
 $(807) $9,408
 $9,106
 $(805) $8,301

The following table represents the activity included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)loss for the three months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016:

  Three Months Ended 
 September 30, 2017
 Three Months Ended 
 September 30, 2016
  Foreign Currency Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Total Foreign Currency Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Total
Beginning balance July 1, $(7,548) $(179,985) $(187,533) $(7,507) $(172,485) $(179,992)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 3,527
 
 3,527
 (1,106) 
 (1,106)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (net of tax $(1,997) and $(1,762)) 
 3,136
 3,136
 
 2,767
 2,767
Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss) 3,527
 3,136
 6,663
 (1,106) 2,767
 1,661
Ending balance September 30, $(4,021) $(176,849) $(180,870) $(8,613) $(169,718) $(178,331)

The following table represents the activity included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016:
  Nine Months Ended 
 September 30, 2017
 Nine Months Ended 
 September 30, 2016
  Foreign Currency Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Total Foreign Currency Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Total
Beginning balance January 1, $(10,343) $(186,257) $(196,600) $(12,416) $(178,019) $(190,435)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 6,322
 
 6,322
 3,803
 
 3,803
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (net of tax $(5,990) and $(5,286)) 
 9,408
 9,408
 
 8,301
 8,301
Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss) 6,322
 9,408
 15,730
 3,803
 8,301
 12,104
Ending balance September 30, $(4,021) $(176,849) $(180,870) $(8,613) $(169,718) $(178,331)


8. ASSETS HELD FOR SALE

We consider properties to be assets held for sale when all of the following criteria are met: (i) a formal commitment to a plan to sell a property has been made and exercised; (ii) the property is available for sale in its present condition; (iii) actions required to complete the sale of the property have been initiated; (iv) sale of the property is probable and we expect the sale will occur within one year; and (v) the property is being actively marketed for sale at a price that is reasonable given its current market value.
Upon designation as an asset held for sale, we record the carrying value of each property at the lower of its carrying value or its estimated fair value, less estimated costs to sell, and depreciation of the property ceases. The net book value of assets held for sale was $464 at December 31, 2016, and is recorded in net property in the condensed consolidated balance sheets. During the three months ended September 30, 2017, there were no assets that were classified as assets held for sale. During the three months ended September 30, 2016, we did not sell any assets that were classified as held for sale. During the nine months ended September 30, 2017March 31, 2021 and 2016, we sold assets classified as held for sale with net book values of $464 and $58, respectively, and recorded net gains on the assets held for sale of $197 and $1,627, respectively, in other income, net.2020:

Three Months Ended

March 31, 2021

Three Months Ended

March 31, 2020

Foreign
Currency

Pension and Other Postretirement
Benefits

Total

Foreign
Currency

Pension and Other Postretirement
Benefits

Total

Beginning balance January 1,

$

(5.1)

$

(241.6)

$

(246.7)

$

(7.7)

$

(242.9)

$

(250.6)

Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications

1.4

1.4

(8.9)

(8.9)

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (net of tax $(2.3) and $(1.9))

6.6

6.6

5.5

5.5

Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss)

1.4

6.6

8.0

(8.9)

5.5

(3.4)

Ending balance March 31,

$

(3.7)

$

(235.0)

$

(238.7)

$

(16.6)

$

(237.4)

$

(254.0)


We review long-lived assets held and used for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable. For assets classified as held and used, impairment may occur if projected undiscounted cash flows are not adequate to cover the carrying value of the assets. In such cases, additional analysis is conducted to determine the amount of the loss to be recognized. The impairment loss is calculated as the difference between the carrying amount of the asset and its estimated fair value. The analysis requires estimates of the amount and timing of projected cash flows and, where applicable, selection of an appropriate discount rate. Such estimates are critical in determining whether any impairment charge should be recorded and the amount of such charge if an impairment loss is deemed necessary.

For assets held for sale, impairment occurs whenever the net book value of the property listed for sale exceeds the expected selling price less estimated selling expenses. There were no impairment charges recorded during the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2017 and 2016.

9. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Graybar and our subsidiaries

We are subject to various claims, disputes, and administrative and legal matters incidental to our past and current business activities.  As a result, contingencies may arise resulting from an existing condition, situation, or set of circumstances involving an uncertainty as to the realization of a possible loss.

Estimated loss contingencies are accrued only if the loss is probable and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated.  With respect to a particular loss contingency, it may be probable that a loss has occurred but the estimate of the loss is a wide range.  If we deem an amount within the range to be a better estimate than any other amount within the range, that amount will be accrued.  However, if no amount within the range is a better estimate than any other amount, the minimum amount of the range is accrued.  While we believe that none of these claims, disputes, administrative, and legal matters will have a material adverse effect on our financial position, these matters are uncertain and we cannot at this time determine whether the financial impact, if any, of these matters will be material to our results of operations in the period duringin which such matters are resolved or a better estimate becomes available.


15


10. ACQUISITIONS

In July 2016, we acquired Cape Electrical Supply ("Cape Electric"), a regional distributor serving electrical contractors and large engineering construction firms, as well as industrial, institutional and utility customers, for approximately $59,946 in cash, net of cash acquired. The purchase price allocation resulted in $16,377 and $23,586 of tax deductible goodwill and other intangible assets, respectively.

Since the date of acquisition, Cape Electric results are reflected in our condensed consolidated financial statements. Pro forma results of this acquisition are not material; therefore, they are not presented.




Item 2.  Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

The following discussion should be read in conjunction with our accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and notes thereto, and our audited consolidated financial statements, notes thereto, and Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations as of and for the year ended December 31, 2016,2020, included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for such period as filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Commission”).  The results shown herein are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected in any future periods.

Certain statements, other than purely historical information, including estimates, projections, statements relating to our business plans, objectives, and expected operating results, and the assumptions upon which those statements are based, are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the “PSLRA”), Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.  These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words “believes”, “projects”, “expects”, “anticipates”, “estimates”, “intends”, “strategy”, “plan”, “may”, “will”, “would”, “will

“will be”, “will continue”, “will likely result”, and other similar expressions.  We intend such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe-harbor provisions for forward-looking statements contained in the PSLRA.  Forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements.  Our ability to predict results or the actual effect of future plans or strategies is inherently uncertain.  Factors which could have a material adverse impact on our operations and future prospects on a consolidated basis include, but are not limited to: general economic conditions, particularly in the residential, commercial, and industrial building construction industries; volatility in the pricesongoing impact of industrial commodities; cyber-attacks;the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic; a sustained interruption in the operation of our information systems; volatility in the prices of industrial commodities; cyber-attacks; increased funding requirements and expenses related to our pension plan; disruptions in our sources of supply; the inability, or limitations on our ability to borrow under our existing credit facilities or any replacements thereof; disruptions in our sources of supply; compliance with increasing governmental regulations; adverse legal proceedings or other claims; compliance with changing governmental regulations; and the inability, or limitations on our ability, to raise debt or equity capital.  These risks and uncertainties should also be considered in evaluating forward-looking statements and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements.  We undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless otherwise required by applicable securities law.  Further information concerning our business, including additional factors that could materially impact our financial results, is included herein and in our other filings with the Commission.  Actual results and the timing of events could differ materially from the forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors, a number of which are outlined in Item 1A., “Risk Factors”, of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016.


2020.

All dollar amounts, except per share data, are stated in thousands ($000s)millions in the following discussion and accompanying tables.

Background

Graybar Electric Company, Inc. (“Graybar”, “Company”, "we", "our", or "us") is a New York corporation, incorporated in 1925.  We are engaged in the distribution of electrical and communications and data networking products and are a provider of related supply chain management and logistics services. We primarily serve customers in the construction, industrial & utility and commercial, institutional and government ("CIG"), and industrial & utility vertical markets, with products and services that support new construction, infrastructure updates, building renovation, facility maintenance, repair and operations ("MRO"), and original equipment manufacturers ("OEMs"OEM"). AllWe purchase all of the products sold by us are purchased by uswe sell from others, and we neither manufacture nor contract to manufacture any products we sell.  Our business activity is primarily with customersbased in the United States ("U.S.").  We also have subsidiary operations with distribution facilities in Canada and Puerto Rico.

Our common stock is 100% owned by active and retired employees, and there is no public trading market for our common stock.  No holder of our common stock or voting trust interests representing our common stock (“common stock”, “common shares”, or “shares”) may sell, transfer, or otherwise dispose of any shares without first offering us the option to purchase those shares at the price at which they were issued.  Additionally, a shareholder was entitled to any cash dividends, if any, accrued for the quarter in which the purchase offer is made, adjusted pro rata for the number of days such shares were held prior to the dividend record date. On June 8, 2017, the shareholders voted to remove this adjustment for accruing dividends on the common stock.  We also have the option to purchase at the issue price the common shares of any shareholder who ceases to be an employee for any reason other than death or "retirement" (as defined in our amended restated certificate of incorporation), and on the first anniversary of any holder's death. In the past, we have always exercised these purchase options, and we expect to continue to do so in the foreseeable future.  However, we can make no assurance that we will continue to exercise our purchase option in the future. All outstanding shares have been issued at $20.00 per share.



Business Overview


For the third quarter

Following several quarters of 2017, our net sales totaled $1,700,843, an increase of $11,224, or 0.7%, comparedvolatility and instability due to the same period last year. SalesCOVID-19 pandemic (the “pandemic”), economic conditions showed signs of improvement in our industrial & utility and construction vertical markets increased 9.9% and 0.5%, respectively, while our CIG vertical marketearly 2021. Graybar’s performance in the first quarter reflected this positive trend. Net sales decreased 7.8% for the quarter. Although gross margin rate remained constant at 18.9% for the three months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively, grossMarch 31, 2021 were $1,900.5 million, an increase of $127.3 million, or 7.2%, compared to $1,773.2 million for

16


the three months ended March 31, 2020. Gross margin increased $3,226,$20.5 million, or 1.0%6.0%, to $321,984$360.9 million for the three months ended September 30, 2017, from $318,758March 31, 2021, compared to gross margin of $340.4 million for the same three-month period of 2016 as a result oflast year.

Income from operations increased $33.6 million, or 89.1%, to $71.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021, compared to $37.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2020. Net sales growth, along with our pricing and product diversification initiatives andsustained focus on managing our acquisition in the prior year.


Our third quarter results were negatively impacted by moderate increases in selling, general and administrative expenses ("(“SG&A"&A”) that more than offset the modest increase in gross margin. SG&A increased $5,783, or 2.3%,contributed to $260,752 in the third quarter of 2017 from $254,969 in the third quarter of 2016, due primarily to increases in headcount and compensation expenses.this improvement. As a result, net income fromattributable to Graybar Electric Company, Inc. for the quarter was $29,434, down $695, or 2.3%, from the same three-month period in 2016.

For the ninethree months ended September 30, 2017, we reported net sales of $4,944,294,March 31, 2021 was $47.2 million, an increase of $158,674,$25.8 million, or 3.3%120.6%, comparedover the first quarter of 2020.

While the overall economy appears to be recovering from the same period last year. Year-to-date net sales inpandemic, the markets we serve may continue to be affected by variables such as supply chain constraints, raw material shortages, labor issues, and the ongoing spread of COVID-19 and its variants. Graybar remains focused on providing exceptional service to our industrial & utilitycustomers, minimizing potential risks, and construction vertical markets increased 10.7% and 3.9%, respectively, while our CIG vertical market net sales decreased 5.7%. Gross marginsustaining a strong financial position for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 was $944,706, an increase of $40,702, or 4.5%, compared to gross margin of $904,004 for the same nine-month period last year. Gross margin rate was 19.1% for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2017 compared to 18.9% for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2016. Net income attributable to the Company for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 increased $9,640, or 13.6%, to $80,449.


We remain focused on achieving profitable growth and strengthening our position as a leader in the supply chain. We will continue to enhance our value proposition to drive growth, while we pursue strategic investments in technology and potential acquisitions to broaden our reach and diversify our business.

long term.

Consolidated Results of Operations


Three Months Ended March 31, 2021 Compared to Three Months Ended March 31, 2020

The following table sets forth certain information relating to our operations stated in thousandsmillions of dollars and as a percentage of net sales for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017March 31, 2021 and 2016:2020:

Three Months Ended
March 31, 2021

Three Months Ended
March 31, 2020

Dollars

Percent

Dollars

Percent

Net Sales

$

1,900.5

100.0

%

$

1,773.2

100.0

%

Cost of merchandise sold

(1,539.6)

(81.0)

(1,432.8)

(80.8)

Gross Margin

360.9

19.0

340.4

19.2

Selling, general and administrative expenses

(277.9)

(14.6)

(290.1)

(16.4)

Depreciation and amortization

(12.2)

(0.6)

(13.2)

(0.7)

Other income, net

0.5

0.6

Income from Operations

71.3

3.8

37.7

2.1

Non-operating expenses

(7.8)

(0.4)

(7.5)

(0.4)

Income before Provision for Income Taxes

63.5

3.4

30.2

1.7

Provision for income taxes

(16.2)

(0.9)

(8.7)

(0.5)

Net Income

47.3

2.5

21.5

1.2

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

(0.1)

(0.1)

Net Income attributable to Graybar Electric Company, Inc.

$

47.2

2.5

%

$

21.4

1.2

%

 Three Months Ended Three Months Ended
 September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016
 Dollars
 Percent
 Dollars
 Percent
Net Sales$1,700,843
 100.0 % $1,689,619
 100.0 %
Cost of merchandise sold(1,378,859) (81.1) (1,370,861) (81.1)
Gross Margin321,984
 18.9
 318,758
 18.9
Selling, general and administrative expenses(260,752) (15.3) (254,969) (15.1)
Depreciation and amortization(12,211) (0.7) (12,283) (0.7)
Other income, net1,511
 0.1
 629
 
Income from Operations50,532
 3.0
 52,135
 3.1
Interest expense, net(1,217) (0.1) (1,215) (0.1)
Income before Provision for Income Taxes49,315
 2.9
 50,920
 3.0
Provision for income taxes(19,761) (1.2) (20,724)��(1.2)
Net Income29,554
 1.7
 30,196
 1.8
Less:  Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests(120) 
 (67) 
Net Income attributable to
Graybar Electric Company, Inc.
$29,434
 1.7 % $30,129
 1.8 %



 Nine Months Ended Nine Months Ended
 September 30, 2017 September 30, 2016
 Dollars
 Percent
 Dollars
 Percent
Net Sales$4,944,294
 100.0 % $4,785,620
 100.0 %
Cost of merchandise sold(3,999,588) (80.9) (3,881,616) (81.1)
Gross Margin944,706
 19.1
 904,004
 18.9
Selling, general and administrative expenses(776,135) (15.7) (750,266) (15.7)
Depreciation and amortization(36,231) (0.7) (35,158) (0.7)
Other income, net5,640
 0.1
 3,438
 
Income from Operations137,980
 2.8
 122,018
 2.5
Interest expense, net(3,082) (0.1) (2,635) 
Income before Provision for Income Taxes134,898
 2.7
 119,383
 2.5
Provision for income taxes(54,220) (1.1) (48,396) (1.0)
Net Income80,678
 1.6
 70,987
 1.5
Less:  Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests(229) 
 (178) 
Net Income attributable to
Graybar Electric Company, Inc.
$80,449
 1.6 % $70,809
 1.5 %

Three Months Ended September 30, 2017 Compared to Three Months Ended September 30, 2016

Net sales increased to $1,700,843$1,900.5 million for the quarterthree months ended September 30, 2017,March 31, 2021, compared to $1,689,619$1,773.2 million for the quarterthree months ended September 30, 2016,March 31, 2020, an increase of $11,224,$127.3 million, or 0.7%7.2%.  Net sales in our construction, CIG, and industrial & utility and construction vertical markets increased by 8.5%, 3.4%, and 8.7%, respectively, for the three months ended September 30, 2017,March 31, 2021, compared to the same three-month period of 2016 by 9.9% and 0.5%, respectively, while net sales in our CIG vertical market declined by 7.8%.

2020.

Gross margin increased $3,226,$20.5 million, or 1.0%6.0%, to $321,984$360.9 million from $340.4 million primarily due to increased net sales for the three months ended September 30, 2017, from $318,758 forMarch 31, 2021, compared to the same period of 2016. The increase in gross margin was primarily due to pricing and product diversification initiatives and recent acquisitions, as well as increased net sales in the third quarter of 2017.2020.  Our gross margin as a percentpercentage of net sales was 18.9%totaled 19.0% for the three months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016.

Selling, general and administrativeMarch 31, 2021, compared to 19.2% for the same three-month period of 2020.

SG&A expenses ("SG&A") increased$5,783,decreased $12.2 million, or 2.3%4.2%, to $260,752 in$277.9 million, for the third quarter of 2017 from $254,969 inthree months ended March 31, 2021, compared to $290.1 million for the third quarter of 2016,three months ended March 31, 2020, due primarily to growth in headcountlower compensation costs and normal compensation increases.  Selling, generallower travel and administrativeentertainment expenses as a result of our continued response to the pandemic.  SG&A expenses as a percentage of net sales totaled 15.3%were 14.6% for the three months ended September 30, 2017, compared to 15.1%March 31, 2021, down from 16.4% for the three months ended September 30, 2016.


March 31, 2020.

Depreciation and amortization expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2017March 31, 2021 decreased$72, $1.0 million, or 0.6%7.6%, to $12,211$12.2 million from $12,283$13.2 million for the same three-month period in the third quarter of 2016. The decrease was2020, due to an increasea decrease in disposalsproperty, at cost. Total property, at cost, at March 31, 2021 was $1,013.3 million, a decrease of property during the third quarter of 2017,$13.2 million, or 1.3%, when compared to the third quartertotal property, at cost, at March 31, 2020 of 2016.$1,026.5 million. Depreciation and amortization expenses as a percentage of net sales totaled 0.7%was 0.6% for the three months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016.


Other income, net totaled $1,511March 31, 2021, down from 0.7% for the three-month period months ended September 30, 2017,March 31, 2020.

17


Non-operating expenses increased $0.3 million to $7.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021, compared to $629$7.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2016.  Other income, net consists primarilysame period of gains on the disposal of property, trade receivable interest charges to customers, and other miscellaneous income items related to our business activities.2020. The increase in other income, net was primarily due to favorable settlementsan increase in non-service cost components of prior claimspension net periodic benefit costs of $1.1 million offset by a decrease in interest expense, net of $0.7 million for the three months ended September 30, 2017March 31, 2021, compared to the same three-monththree-month period in 2016.


2020.

Income before provision for income taxes totaled $49,315$63.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2017, a decreaseMarch 31, 2021, an increase of $1,605,$33.3 million, or 3.2%110.3%, from $50,920$30.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2016.March 31, 2020. The decreaseincrease was primarily due to anour increase in SG&A partially offset by our growth in gross margin and increaseour decrease in other income, net.


SG&A expenses.

Our total provision for income taxes decreased $963,increased $7.5 million, or 4.6%86.2%, to $19,761$16.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2017,March 31, 2021, compared to $20,724$8.7 million for the same period of 2016.in 2020.  The decreaseincrease in our provision for income taxes is due to loweryear over year resulted from increased pretax incomeincome. Our year-to-date effective tax rate was 25.5% for the three months ended September 30, 2017 asMarch 31, 2021, compared to the same period28.8% for 2020, primarily driven by reductions in 2016. Our effective2021 permanent adjustment limitations, state expense, and discrete tax rate was 40.1% for the three months ended September 30, 2017, compared to 40.7% for the same period of 2016.charges. The effective tax rate for the three months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016March 31, 2021 was higher than the 35.0%21.0% U.S. federal statutory rate primarily due to state, local, and localforeign income taxes.



Net income attributable to Graybar Electric Company, Inc. for the three-month period ended March 31, 2021 increased $25.8 million, or 120.6%, to $47.2 million from $21.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2017decreased$695, or 2.3%, to $29,434 from $30,129 for the three months ended September 30, 2016.


Nine Months Ended September 30, 2017 Compared to Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016
Net sales increased to $4,944,294 for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2017, compared to $4,785,620 for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2016, an increase of $158,674, or 3.3%.  Net sales in our industrial & utility and construction vertical markets increased by 10.7% and 3.9%, respectively, for the nine months ended September 30, 2017, compared to the same nine-month period of 2016, while net sales in our CIG vertical market declined by 5.7%.
Gross margin increased $40,702, or 4.5%, to $944,706 from $904,004 primarily due to pricing and product diversification initiatives and recent acquisitions, as well as increased net sales in the first nine months of 2017, compared to the same period of 2016.  Our gross margin as a percent of net sales totaled 19.1% for the nine months ended September 30, 2017, up from 18.9% for the nine months ended September 30, 2016.
Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $25,869, or 3.4%, to $776,135, for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2017, compared to $750,266 for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2016, due primarily to growth in headcount and normal compensation increases for the nine months ended September 30, 2017.  Selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales were 15.7% for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016.

Depreciation and amortization expenses for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 increased $1,073, or 3.1%, to $36,231 from $35,158 for the same nine-month period in 2016, due to an increase in property, at cost. Total property, at cost, at September 30, 2017 was $961,744, an increase of $27,119, or 2.9%, when compared to total property, at cost, at September 30, 2016 of $934,625. Depreciation and amortization expenses as a percentage of net sales remained constant at 0.7% for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016.
Other income, net totaled $5,640 for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2017, compared to $3,438 for the nine months ended September 30, 2016.  Other income, net consists primarily of gains on the disposal of property, trade receivable interest charges to customers, and other miscellaneous income items related to our business activities.  The increase in other income, net was due to a favorable settlement of a prior claim partially offset by reduced net gains on the disposal of real and personal property of $1,517 for the nine months ended September 30, 2017, compared to the same nine-month period in 2016.
Interest expense, net increased $447, or 17.0%, to $3,082 for the nine months ended September 30, 2017, compared to $2,635 for the same period of 2016. The increase was due to higher interest rates on our short-term borrowings for the nine months ended September 30, 2017, compared to the same nine-month period in 2016.

Income before provision for income taxes totaled $134,898 for the nine months ended September 30, 2017, an increase of $15,515, or 13.0%, from $119,383 for the nine months ended September 30, 2016. The increase was primarily due to our growth in gross margin and increase in other income, net partially offset by increases in SG&A and depreciation and amortization expenses.
Our total provision for income taxes increased $5,824, or 12.0%, to $54,220 for the nine months ended September 30, 2017, compared to $48,396 for the same period in 2016.  The increase in our provision for income taxes is due to higher pretax income for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 as compared to the same period in 2016. Our year-to-date effective tax rate was 40.2% for the nine months ended September 30, 2017, compared to 40.5% for the same period in 2016.  The effective tax rate for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 was higher than the 35.0% U.S. federal statutory rate primarily due to state and local income taxes.
Net income attributable to Graybar Electric Company, Inc. for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2017 increased $9,640, or 13.6%, to $80,449 from $70,809 for the nine months ended September 30, 2016.



March 31, 2020.

Financial Condition and Liquidity

We manage our liquidity and capital levels so that we have the capacitycapability to invest in the growth of our business, meet debt service obligations, finance anticipated capital expenditures, pay dividends, make benefit payments, finance information technology needs, fund acquisitions and finance other miscellaneous cash outlays. We believe that maintaining a strong company financial condition enables us to competitively access multiple financing channels, maintain an optimal cost of capital and enable our company to invest in strategic long-term growth plans.


We have historically funded our working capital requirements using cash flows generated byfrom the collection of trade receivables and trade accounts payable terms with our suppliers, supplemented by short-term bank lines of credit.credit, if necessary.  Capital expenditures have been financed primarily bywith cash from working capital management and short-term bank lines of credit and long-term debt.


credit.

Our cash and cash equivalents at September 30, 2017March 31, 2021 were $51,806,$138.8 million, compared to $43,339$131.2 million at December 31, 2016,2020, an increase of $8,467,$7.6 million, or 19.5%5.8%. OurCash on hand at March 31, 2021 is reflective of improved cash flows from operations as a result of effective working capital management. As a result, we had no short-term borrowings increased significantly, $76,139, or 54.2% during the nine-month periodat March 31, 2021, compared to $216,604 at September 30, 2017 from $140,465$50.0 million at December 31, 2016, primarily due to higher working capital investment required to support operating activities due to the growth in sales, funding of employee benefits, and additional voluntary pension contributions, all funded via short-term lines of credit.2020. Current assets exceeded current liabilities by $489,672$694.8 million at September 30, 2017,March 31, 2021, an increase of $49,439,$47.4 million, or 11.2%7.3%, from $440,233$647.4 million at December 31, 2016.

2020.

Operating Activities

Cash usedflows provided by operationsoperating activities for the ninethree months ended September 30, 2017March 31, 2021 was $27,859,$68.7 million, compared to cash flows used by operationsoperating activities of $59,338$12.4 million for the ninethree months ended September 30, 2016.March 31, 2020, an increase of $81.1 million. Cash usedprovided by operationsoperating activities for the ninethree months ended September 30, 2017March 31, 2021 was primarily attributable to net income of $47.3 million, and an increase in trade accounts payable of $95.5 million during the three months ended March 31, 2021, partially offset by an increase in merchandise inventory levels of $36.6 million, and an increase in trade receivables of $86,433 as a result of increased sales, increased inventory levels of $94,141$29.4 million from December 31, 2020 to support our continued growth of sales for the nine months ended September 30, 2017, and a decrease in accrued payroll benefits of $36,019, partially offset by net income of $80,678 and increases in trade accounts payable of $83,768.


March 31, 2021.

The average number of days of sales in trade receivables for the nine-monththree-month period ended September 30, 2017 decreased modestlyMarch 31, 2021 improved significantly compared to the same nine-monththree-month period ended September 30, 2016. MerchandiseMarch 31, 2020. The days in inventory turnover improved modestlymoderately for the ninethree months ended September 30, 2017,March 31, 2021, compared to the ninethree months ended September 30, 2016.


March 31, 2020.

Investing Activities

Net cash used by investing activities totaled $24,659$9.8 million for the ninethree months ended September 30, 2017,March 31, 2021, compared to $81,465net cash used by investing activities of $8.1 million for the same nine-monththree-month period in 2016, a decrease2020, an increase of $56,806, or 69.7%.$1.7 million. The decreaseincrease was primarily due to the purchase of Cape Electric for $59,946 during the nine months ended September 30, 2016, partially offset by slightly higher capital expenditures in the ninethree months ended September 30, 2017,March 31, 2021, compared to the ninethree months ended September 30, 2016. Proceeds onMarch 31, 2020.

18


Financing Activities

Net cash used by financing activities for the disposal of property decreased during the ninethree months ended September 30, 2017,March 31, 2021 totaled $51.3 million, compared to 2016 primarily as a result of disposing of a local distribution facility that provided proceeds of $1,686 in the first quarter of 2016.


Financing Activities
Netnet cash provided by financing activities of $129.1 million for the ninethree months ended September 30, 2017 totaled $60,985, compared to $153,983 for the nine months ended September 30, 2016,March 31, 2020, a decrease of $92,998, or 60.4%.$180.4 million. The decrease was primarily due to lowernet payments on short-term borrowings forof $50.0 million during the ninethree months ended September 30, 2017,March 31, 2021, compared to net short-term borrowings of $132.0 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2016.

same three-month period in 2020.

Liquidity


Our cash and cash equivalents at March 31, 2021 were $138.8 million, compared to $131.2 million at December 31, 2020. We also had a $550,000$750.0 million amended committed revolving credit facility (“Amended Credit Agreement”) with $333,396$749.6 million in available capacity at September 30, 2017,March 31, 2021, compared to $409,535available capacity of $699.6 million at December 31, 2016.2020. At September 30, 2017March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2016,2020, we also had two uncommitted, $100,000unsecured $100.0 million private placement shelf agreements ("shelf agreement"Shelf Agreements"). The first shelf agreement allowsOne of the Shelf Agreements is expected to allow us to issue senior promissory notes to PGIM, Inc. at fixed rate terms to be agreed upon at the time of any issuance during a three yearthree-year issuance period ending in August 2020. The second shelf agreement allows2023. Our other Shelf Agreement is expected to allow us to issue senior promissory notes to Metropolitan Life Insurance Company and MetLife Investment Advisors, LLC and each other affiliate of MetLife Investment Advisors, LLC that becomes a party to the agreement at fixed or floating rate terms to be agreed upon at the time of any issuance during a three-year issuance period ending in September 2019.




August 2021.

We have not issued any notes under the shelf agreementsShelf Agreements as of September 30, 2017March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2016.2020. For further discussion related to our revolving credit facilityAmended Credit Agreement and our private placement shelf agreements,Shelf Agreements, refer to Note 5, "Debt", of the notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements located in Item 1.


, “Financial Statements”, of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

We had total letters of credit of $5,371$6.3 million outstanding at both March 31, 2021 and $5,244 outstanding,December 31, 2020, of which none were$0.4 million was issued under the $550,000 revolving credit facility at September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016.Amended Credit Agreement. The letters of credit are issued primarily to support certain workers' compensation insurance policies.


New Accounting Standards Updates

Our adoption of new accounting standards areis discussed in Note 2, "Summary of Significant Accounting Policies", of the notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements located in Item 1., "Financial Statements", of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.


Item 3.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.

There have been no material changes in the policies, procedures, controls, or risk profile from those provided in Item 7A., “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk”, of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016.


2020.

Item 4.  Controls and Procedures.

(a)  Evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures

An evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) as of September 30, 2017,March 31, 2021, was performed under the supervision and with the participation of management.  Based on that evaluation, our management, including the Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer, concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed in the reports filed or submitted by us under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms.

(b)  Changes in internal control over financial reporting

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q that have materially affected, or are likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.


19




PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

Item 2.  Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use Ofof Proceeds.

Our common stock is 100% owned by active and retired employees, and there is no public trading market for our common stock.  Since 1928, substantially all of the issued and outstanding shares of common stock have been held of record by voting trustees under successive voting trust agreements.  Under applicable New York law, a voting trust may not have a term greater than ten years.  Accordingly, aA new Voting Trust Agreement was established effective March 3, 2017, which expires by its terms on March 1, 2027.2027 because under applicable New York law, a voting trust may not have a term greater than ten years. At September 30, 2017,March 31, 2021, approximately 82%83% of theour outstanding common stock was held in the voting trust.  The participation of shareholders in the voting trust is voluntary at the time the voting trust is created, but is irrevocable during its term.  Shareholders who elect not to participate in the voting trust hold their common stock as shareholders of record.

Shareholders may elect to participate in the voting trust at any time during the term of the voting trust.

No holder of our common stock or voting trust interests representing our common stock ("common stock", "common shares", or "shares") may sell, transfer, or otherwise dispose of any shares without first offering us the option to purchase those shares at the price at which they were issued.  Additionally, a shareholder was entitled to any cash dividends, if any, accrued for the quarter in which the purchase offer is made, adjusted pro rata for the number of days such shares were held prior to the dividend record date. On June 8, 2017, the shareholders voted to remove this adjustment for accruing dividends on the common stock.  We also have the option to purchase at the issue price the common shares of any shareholder who ceases to be an employee for any cause other than death or "retirement" (as defined in our amended restated certificate of incorporation), and on the first anniversary of any holder's death.  In the past, we have always exercised these purchase options, and we expect to continue to do so in the foreseeable future.  However, we can make no assurance that we will continue to exercise our purchase option in the future. All outstanding shares have been issued at $20.00 per share.

The following table sets forth information regarding purchases of common stock by the Company, all of which were made pursuant to the foregoing provisions:

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

Period

Total Number of
Shares Purchased

Average
Price Paid
Per Share

Total Number of Shares
Purchased as Part of Publicly
Announced Plans or Programs

January 1 - January 31, 2021

62,652

$20.00

N/A

February 1 - February 28, 2021

48,475

$20.00

N/A

March 1 - March 31, 2021

106,713

$20.00

N/A

Total

217,840

$20.00

N/A


20


Period 
Total Number of
Shares Purchased
 
Average
Price Paid
per Share
 
Total Number of Shares
Purchased as Part of Publicly
Announced Plans or Programs
July 1 - July 31, 2017 100,701
  $20.00 N/A
August 1 - August 31, 2017 97,188
  $20.00 N/A
September 1 - September 30, 2017 42,697
  $20.00 N/A
Total 240,586
  $20.00 N/A


Item 6.  Exhibits.


Exhibits.

3.1

3.1

3.2

4.2

4

9

Voting Trust Agreement dated as of March 3, 2017, included at Exhibit 4.24 above.

10

10.1

31.1

10.2

31.1

Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 - Principal Executive Officer

31.2

32.1

32.2

101.INS

XBRL Instance Document – the instance document does not appear in the interactive data file because its XBRL tags are embedded within the inline XBRL document.

101.SCH

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document

101.CAL

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document

101.DEF

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document

101.LAB

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document

101.PRE

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

104

Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted in Inline XBRL contained in Exhibit 101)

* Compensation arrangement




21




SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

GRAYBAR ELECTRIC COMPANY, INC.

October 31, 2017

April 26, 2021

/s/ KATHLEEN M. MAZZARELLA

DateKathleen M. Mazzarella

Date

Kathleen M. Mazzarella

President and Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)

October 31, 2017

April 26, 2021

/s/ RANDALL R. HARWOODScott S. Clifford

Date

Randall R. Harwood

Scott S. Clifford

Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

(Principal Financial Officer)



22

26