The Home Depot says sales gained 4.3% to $16.9 billion in its first quarter, while net earnings jumped to $725 million, up from $514 million, propelled by strong consumer spending.
"Our
solid start to the year was driven by great performance in seasonal categories and strong growth in customer transactions," Frank Blake, chairman/CEO of the Atlanta-based chain says in its release. As
a result, the company increased both its sales and earnings forecast for the full year, predicting a 3.5% gain.--Sarah Mahoney