10-Q

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

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 March 31, 2018

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)
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.  See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting 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 April 15, 2018: 19,522,586
(Number of Shares)

Graybar Electric Company, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q

For the Period Ended March 31, 2018

(Unaudited)

Table of Contents

PART I.	FINANCIAL INFORMATION			Page
	Item 1.	Financial Statements
			Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income	3
			Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income	4
			Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets	5
			Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows	6
			Condensed Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity	7
			Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements	8
	Item 2.	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations		18
	Item 3.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk		21
	Item 4.	Controls and Procedures		21
PART II.	OTHER INFORMATION
	Item 2.	Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds		23
	Item 6.	Exhibits		24
	Signatures			25

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PART I  FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.  Financial Statements.

Graybar Electric Company, Inc. and Subsidiaries
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
	(Unaudited)
	Three Months Ended   March 31,
(Stated in thousands, except per share data)	2018			2017
Gross Sales	$	1,644,976		$	1,537,869
Cash discounts	(7,324		)	(7,298		)
Net Sales	1,637,652			1,530,571
Cost of merchandise sold	(1,326,233		)	(1,230,742		)
Gross Margin	311,419			299,829
Selling, general and administrative expenses	(263,361		)	(252,995		)
Depreciation and amortization	(12,057		)	(11,876		)
Other income, net	764			608
Income from Operations	36,765			35,566
Non-operating expenses	(7,486		)	(5,847		)
Income before Provision for Income Taxes	29,279			29,719
Provision for income taxes	(8,115		)	(11,996		)
Net Income	21,164			17,723
Less:  Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(71		)	(42		)
Net Income attributable to Graybar Electric Company, Inc.	$	21,093		$	17,681
Net Income per share of Common Stock(A)	$	1.08		$	0.91
Cash Dividends per share of Common Stock	$	0.30		$	0.30
Average Common Shares Outstanding(A)	19,545			19,383

^(A)Adjusted for the declaration of a 10% stock dividend in 2017, shares related to which were issued in February 2018.  Prior to the adjustment, the average common shares outstanding were 17,621 for the three months ended March 31, 2017.

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

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Graybar Electric Company, Inc. and Subsidiaries
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
	(Unaudited)
	Three Months Ended   March 31,
(Stated in thousands)	2018			2017
Net Income	$	21,164		$	17,723
Other Comprehensive Income
Foreign currency translation	(2,555		)	657
Pension and postretirement benefits liability adjustment (net of tax of $(1,680) and $(1,974), respectively)	4,845			3,101
Total Other Comprehensive Income	2,290			3,758
Comprehensive Income	$	23,454		$	21,481
Less: comprehensive (loss) income attributable to        noncontrolling interests, net of tax	(8		)	108
Comprehensive Income attributable to Graybar Electric Company, Inc.	$	23,462		$	21,373

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

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Graybar Electric Company, Inc. and Subsidiaries
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Stated in thousands, except share and per share data)					March 31, 2018			December 31, 2017
ASSETS					(Unaudited)
Current Assets
Cash and cash equivalents					$	62,780		$	42,757
Trade receivables (less allowances of $6,041 and $5,989, respectively)					1,050,811			1,061,590
Merchandise inventory					616,819			579,350
Other current assets					22,820			34,227
Total Current Assets					1,753,230			1,717,924
Property, at cost
Land					79,672			79,787
Buildings					473,924			470,784
Furniture and fixtures					303,202			300,705
Software					87,313			87,313
Capital leases					25,652			25,610
Total Property, at cost					969,763			964,199
Less – accumulated depreciation and amortization					(548,524		)	(539,275		)
Net Property					421,239			424,924
Other Non-current Assets					115,379			118,509
Total Assets					$	2,289,848		$	2,261,357
LIABILITIES
Current Liabilities
Short-term borrowings					$	180,000		$	169,643
Current portion of long-term debt					3,413			2,052
Trade accounts payable					885,013			835,931
Accrued payroll and benefit costs					82,128			119,349
Other accrued taxes					22,637			17,228
Other current liabilities					67,070			78,225
Total Current Liabilities					1,240,261			1,222,428
Postretirement Benefits Liability					70,990			70,747
Pension Liability					163,603			169,225
Long-term Debt					8,428			7,048
Other Non-current Liabilities					22,052			30,361
Total Liabilities					1,505,334			1,499,809
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
	Shares at
Capital Stock	March 31, 2018		December 31, 2017
Common, stated value $20.00 per share
Authorized	50,000,000		50,000,000
Issued to voting trustees	16,262,114		15,912,467
Issued to shareholders	3,567,292		3,496,114
In treasury, at cost	(257,346	)	(24,243	)
Outstanding Common Stock	19,572,060		19,384,338		391,441			387,687
Advance Payments on Subscriptions to Common Stock					1,070			—
Retained Earnings					635,933			619,916
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss					(247,785		)	(250,154		)
Total Graybar Electric Company, Inc. Shareholders’ Equity					780,659			757,449
Noncontrolling Interests					3,855			4,099
Total Shareholders’ Equity					784,514			761,548
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity					$	2,289,848		$	2,261,357

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

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Graybar Electric Company, Inc. and Subsidiaries
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
	(Unaudited)
	Three Months Ended March 31,
(Stated in thousands)	2018			2017
Cash Flows from Operations
Net Income	$	21,164		$	17,723
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operations:
Depreciation and amortization	12,057			11,876
Deferred income taxes	(516		)	(644		)
Net gains on disposal of property	(27		)	(90		)
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(71		)	(42		)
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Trade receivables	10,779			23,080
Merchandise inventory	(40,777		)	(47,901		)
Other current assets	11,407			(785		)
Other non-current assets	(207		)	(2,790		)
Trade accounts payable	49,082			56,658
Accrued payroll and benefit costs	(37,221		)	(43,975		)
Other current liabilities	(7,982		)	40
Other non-current liabilities	3,372			(4,770		)
Total adjustments to net income	(104		)	(9,343		)
Net cash provided by operations	21,060			8,380
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
Proceeds from disposal of property	592			116
Capital expenditures for property	(8,354		)	(6,235		)
Net cash used by investing activities	(7,762		)	(6,119		)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
Net increase in short-term borrowings	10,357			26,036
Principal payments under capital leases	(2,346		)	(2,119		)
Sale of common stock	9,486			9,302
Purchases of common stock	(4,662		)	(3,629		)
Purchases of noncontrolling interests’ common stock	(236		)	(355		)
Dividends paid	(5,874		)	(5,306		)
Net cash provided by financing activities	6,725			23,929
Net Increase in Cash	20,023			26,190
Cash, Beginning of Year	42,757			43,339
Cash, End of Period	$	62,780		$	69,529
Non-cash Investing and Financing Activities
Acquisitions of equipment under capital leases	$	42		$	145
Acquisition of software and maintenance under financing arrangement	$	5,046		$	—

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

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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, 2016	$	348,771		$	—	$	575,380		$	(196,600	)	$	3,338		$	730,889
Net income						17,681						42			17,723
Other comprehensive income									3,692			66			3,758
Stock issued	8,282														8,282
Stock purchased	(3,629		)									(355		)	(3,984		)
Advance payments				1,020											1,020
Dividends declared						(5,306		)							(5,306		)
March 31, 2017	$	353,424		$	1,020	$	587,755		$	(192,908	)	$	3,091		$	752,382
	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, 2017	$	387,687		$	—	$	619,916		$	(250,154	)	$	4,099		$	761,548
Net income						21,093						71			21,164
Other comprehensive income (loss)									2,369			(79		)	2,290
Adoption of ASC 606, net of tax						798									798
Stock issued	8,416														8,416
Stock purchased	(4,662		)									(236		)	(4,898		)
Advance payments				1,070											1,070
Dividends declared						(5,874		)							(5,874		)
March 31, 2018	$	391,441		$	1,070	$	635,933		$	(247,785	)	$	3,855		$	784,514

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

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Graybar Electric Company, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(Stated in thousands, 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") 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"). We purchase all of the products we sell from others, and we neither manufacture nor contract to manufacture any products we sell.  Our business activity is primarily based 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 States 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, 2017, 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 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 in subsidiaries consolidated by the Company 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.

Reclassifications

Certain reclassifications have been made to prior years' financial information to conform to the December 31, 2017 presentation.

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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 March 31, 2018 that require recognition or disclosure in these financial statements.

Revenue Recognition

Sales revenue is recognized when control of the promised good or service is transferred to the customer.  Sometimes product is purchased from the manufacturer and 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 transfers to the customer. Revenues recognized are primarily for product sales, but also include freight and handling charges. Our standard shipping terms are FOB shipping point, under which control passes to the customer at the time of shipment. We also earn revenue for professional services, general contracting services, and storage services. Service revenue is recognized over time as the benefit of the services is transferred to the customer. Services are typically short-term in nature and range from one to three days.  In instances where there are multiple performance obligations within a contract (e.g., product sale and services), the transaction price is allocated to the separate performance obligations based upon its relative standalone selling price.  Service revenue represented less than 1% of total revenue in the first quarter of 2018. Revenue is reported net of all taxes assessed by governmental authorities as a result of revenue-producing transactions, primarily sales tax.

Outgoing Freight Expenses                                                                                        

We record certain 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

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 and specific risks identified in the receivables portfolio.  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 is stated at the lower of cost (generally determined using the last-in, first-out (“LIFO”) cost method) or market.  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 agreement and the deferred amounts 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.

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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 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/or 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 is then quantitatively tested for impairment. If a quantitative assessment is required, the fair value is 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 3 to 20 years. Intangible assets are tested for impairment if events or circumstances occur indicating that the respective asset might be impaired.

Income Taxes

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

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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.

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.

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, and amortization of prior service costs/gains.

New Accounting Standards

No new accounting standards that were issued or became effective during 2018 have had or are expected to have a material impact on our condensed consolidated financial statements except those noted below:

We adopted Accounting Standards Update (“ASU” or “Update”) 2017-07, “Compensation - Retirement Benefits (Topic 715)” ("ASU 2017-07") on January 1, 2018 using the retrospective transition method. The updates to the standard require us 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 are presented in the income statement separately from the service cost and outside of a subtotal of income from operations. The impact to three months ended March 31, 2017 operating results within the condensed consolidated statement of income as a result of adopting ASU 2017-07 is presented in the table below:

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income

	Three Months Ended   March 31, 2017
(Stated in thousands)	As Reported		Reclassification			As Adjusted
Selling, general and administrative expenses	$	258,045	$	(5,050	)	$	252,995
Non-operating expenses	797		5,050			5,847

On January 1, 2018, we adopted Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") Topic 606, "Revenue from Contracts with Customers." See Note 3, "Revenue", for further information.

In February 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842)” ("ASU 2016-02"). The core principle of Topic 842 requires that a lessee should recognize the assets and liabilities on the balance sheet and disclose key information about leasing arrangements. The amendments in ASU 2016-02 are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The guidance is required 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 but have decided we will not adopt the guidance early.

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3. REVENUE

On January 1, 2018, we adopted ASC Topic 606, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers” using the modified retrospective method applied to those contracts which were not completed as of January 1, 2018. Results for reporting periods beginning after January 1, 2018 are presented under ASC Topic 606, while prior period amounts are not adjusted and continue to be reported in accordance with our historic accounting under ASC Topic 605.

We recorded an increase to opening retained earnings of $798 (net of tax of $276) as of January 1, 2018 due to the cumulative impact of adopting ASC Topic 606, with the impact primarily related to the recognition of bill and hold transactions that were deferred under ASC Topic 605. The impact to revenues for the quarter ended March 31, 2018 was an increase of $311 as a result of applying ASC Topic 606.

In accordance with the new revenue standard requirement, the disclosure impact of adoption on our condensed consolidated statement of income for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and the condensed consolidated balance sheet as of March 31, 2018 was as follows:

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income

	Three Months Ended   March 31, 2018
(Stated in thousands)	As Reported		Balance without Adoption		Effect of Change
Net sales	$	1,637,652	$	1,637,341	$	311
Cost of merchandise sold	1,326,233		1,325,883		350

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet

	March 31, 2018
(Stated in thousands)	As Reported		Balance without Adoption		Effect of Change
Merchandise inventory	$	616,819	$	626,629	$	(9,810	)
Other current assets	22,820		23,096		(276		)
Other non-current liabilities	22,052		32,897		(10,845		)
Retained earnings	635,933		635,135		798

The following table summarizes the percentages of our net sales attributable to each of our vertical markets for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017:

	March 31, 2018		March 31, 2017
Construction	58.7	%	58.5	%
Industrial & Utility	22.1		21.7
CIG	19.2		19.8
Total net sales	100.0	%	100.0	%

We had no material contract assets, contract liabilities, or deferred contract costs recorded on the condensed consolidated balance sheet as of March 31, 2018. In addition, for the three months ended March 31, 2018, revenue recognized in the reporting period that was included in the contract liability balance at the beginning of the period is not material.

Revenue expected to be recognized in any future year related to remaining performance obligations, excluding revenue pertaining to contracts that have an original expected duration of one year or less, contracts where revenue is recognized as invoiced and contracts with variable consideration related to undelivered performance obligations, is not material.

4. INCOME TAXES

The provision for income taxes includes effects from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (“TCJA”) for changes that became effective January 1, 2018. We have incorporated provisional estimates for these new TCJA provisions as part of our forecasted annual effective tax rate. For the period ended March 31, 2018, we have not recorded any adjusted tax impacts with respect to provisional amounts previously recorded at December 31, 2017 for deferred tax balances and the one-time transition tax. We

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are still refining our calculations and interpreting recent guidance on both the federal and state level which could change these provisional tax amounts. No material changes are anticipated.

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 provision for income taxes in the condensed consolidated financial statements.

Our unrecognized tax benefits of $2,426 and $2,318 at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively, are uncertain tax positions that would impact our effective tax rate if recognized.  We are periodically engaged in tax return examinations, reviews of statute of limitations 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/underpayment percentages.  We have accrued $1,022 and $983 in interest and penalties at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, 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.

Our federal income tax returns for the tax years 2014 and forward are available for examination by the United States Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”).  The statute of limitations for the 2014 federal return will expire on September 15, 2018, unless extended by consent. Our state income tax returns for 2013 through 2017 remain subject to examination by various state authorities with the latest period closing on December 31, 2022.  We have not extended the statutes of limitations in any state jurisdictions with respect to years prior to 2013.

5. 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, a new Voting Trust Agreement was established effective March 3, 2017, which expires by its terms on March 1, 2027. At March 31, 2018, approximately 82% of the total shares of 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, before the shareholder action described in the next sentence became effective, a shareholder was entitled to any cash dividends 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.

Cash dividends declared were $5,874 and $5,306 for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

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 no shares of preferred stock outstanding at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017.

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6. DEBT

Revolving Credit Facility

At March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, 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.

We were in compliance with all covenants under the Credit Agreement as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017.

There were $180,000 and $169,643 in short-term borrowings outstanding under the Credit Agreement at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively.

Short-term borrowings outstanding during the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 ranged from a minimum of $140,000 and $112,292 to a maximum of $234,000 and $166,501, respectively.

We had total letters of credit of $5,371 outstanding, of which none were issued under the Credit Agreement at both March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017. The letters of credit are issued primarily to support certain workers' compensation insurance policies.

At March 31, 2018, we had unused lines of credit under the Credit Agreement amounting to $370,000 available, compared to $380,357 at December 31, 2017.  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 $1,411 and $797 for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

Private Placement Shelf Agreements

We have an uncommitted $100,000 private placement shelf agreement with PGIM, Inc., (the "Prudential Shelf Agreement") which is expected to allow 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 March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017.

We also have 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 us 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. No notes have been issued under the MetLife Shelf Agreement, which ranks equally with the Company’s Credit Agreement and Prudential Shelf Agreement, as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017.

We have agreed to 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 Credit Agreement.

Each shelf agreement contains customary representations and warranties of the Company and the applicable lender, and customary events of default.  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 shelf agreements as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017.

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7. 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 and otherwise eligible compensation deferred.

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 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 defined benefit 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 no assets held in the postretirement benefits plan at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017.

The net periodic benefit cost for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 includes the following components: 

	Pension Benefits						Postretirement Benefits
	Three Months Ended   March 31,						Three Months Ended   March 31,
Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost	2018			2017			2018			2017
Selling, general, and administrative expenses:
Service cost	$	7,100		$	6,700		$	575		$	575
Non-operating expenses:
Interest cost	6,975			7,000			650			700
Expected return on plan assets	(8,075		)	(7,725		)	—			—
Amortization of:
Net actuarial loss	6,725			5,300			225			225
Prior service cost (gain)	75			100			(500		)	(550		)
Net periodic benefit cost	$	12,800		$	11,375		$	950		$	950

We made qualified and nonqualified pension contributions totaling $11,621 and $19,584 during the three-month periods ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. Additional contributions totaling $30,005 are expected to be paid during the remainder of 2018.

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8. ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

The following table represents amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017:

	Three Months Ended   March 31, 2018									Three Months Ended   March 31, 2017
	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:
Non-operating expenses	$	6,950		$	(425	)	$	6,525		$	5,525		$	(450	)	$	5,075
Tax (benefit) expense	(1,789		)	109			(1,680		)	(2,149		)	175			(1,974		)
Total reclassifications for the period, net of tax	$	5,161		$	(316	)	$	4,845		$	3,376		$	(275	)	$	3,101

The following table represents the activity included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017:

	Three Months Ended   March 31, 2018									Three Months Ended   March 31, 2017
	Foreign Currency			Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits			Total			Foreign Currency			Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits			Total
Beginning balance January 1	$	(4,602	)	$	(245,552	)	$	(250,154	)	$	(10,343	)	$	(186,257	)	$	(196,600	)
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications	(2,476		)	—			(2,476		)	591			—			591
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (net of tax $(1,680) and $(1,974))	—			4,845			4,845			—			3,101			3,101
Net current-period other comprehensive (loss) income	(2,476		)	4,845			2,369			591			3,101			3,692
Ending balance March 31	$	(7,078	)	$	(240,707	)	$	(247,785	)	$	(9,752	)	$	(183,156	)	$	(192,908	)

9. 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. There were no assets held for sale at March 31, 2018 or December 31, 2017. We did have assets held for sale with a net book value of $464 at March 31, 2017. During the three months ended March 31, 2017, we did not sell any assets that were classified as held for sale.

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

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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-month periods ended March 31, 2018 and 2017.

10. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Graybar and our subsidiaries 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 in which such matters are resolved or a better estimate becomes available.

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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, 2017, 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 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 prices of industrial commodities; a sustained interruption in the operation of our information systems; 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; 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, 2017.

All dollar amounts, except per share data, are stated in thousands ($000s) 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") 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"). We purchase all the products we sell from others, and we neither manufacture nor contract to manufacture any products we sell.  Our business activity is primarily based 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, before the shareholder action described in the next sentence became effective, a shareholder was entitled to any cash dividends 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.

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Business Overview

Our net sales for the three months ended March 31, 2018 set a new first quarter sales record. Net sales for the first quarter of 2018 totaled $1,637,652, an increase of $107,081, or 7.0%, compared to net sales of $1,530,571 for the first quarter of 2017.

Gross margin increased $11,590, or 3.9% to $311,419 for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to $299,829 for the first quarter of 2017. Gross margin rate was 19.0% for the three months ended March 31, 2018 compared to 19.6% for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The decrease in gross margin rate was impacted by commodity supplier price increases as well as increased competitive pricing pressures during the first quarter of 2018.

Net income attributable to Graybar for the three months ended March 31, 2018 was $21,093, which was $3,412 higher, or 19.3%, more than net income attributable to Graybar of $17,681 for same period last year.

As we look towards the remainder of 2018, we will pursue our vision of leadership in digital innovation by building the culture and capabilities to reimagine the value of distribution and transform the supply chain for the future and continue our focus on organic growth as well looking for new opportunities that will enhance our long-term performance and strengthen our position as a leader in the supply chain.

Consolidated Results of Operations

The following table sets forth certain information relating to our operations stated in thousands of dollars and as a percentage of net sales for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017:

	Three Months Ended					Three Months Ended
	March 31, 2018					March 31, 2017
	Dollars			Percent		Dollars			Percent
Net Sales	$	1,637,652		100.0	%	$	1,530,571		100.0	%
Cost of merchandise sold	(1,326,233		)	(81.0	)	(1,230,742		)	(80.4	)
Gross Margin	311,419			19.0		299,829			19.6
Selling, general and administrative expenses	(263,361		)	(16.1	)	(252,995		)	(16.5	)
Depreciation and amortization	(12,057		)	(0.7	)	(11,876		)	(0.8	)
Other income, net	764			—		608			—
Income from Operations	36,765			2.2		35,566			2.3
Non-operating expenses	(7,486		)	(0.4	)	(5,847		)	(0.3	)
Income before Provision for Income Taxes	29,279			1.8		29,719			2.0
Provision for income taxes	(8,115		)	(0.5	)	(11,996		)	(0.8	)
Net Income	21,164			1.3		17,723			1.2
Less:  Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(71		)	—		(42		)	—
Net Income attributable to Graybar Electric Company, Inc.	$	21,093		1.3	%	$	17,681		1.2	%

Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 Compared to Three Months Ended March 31, 2017

Net sales increased to $1,637,652 for the quarter ended March 31, 2018, compared to $1,530,571 for the quarter ended March 31, 2017, an increase of $107,081, or 7.0%.  Net sales in our industrial & utility, construction, and CIG verticals increased for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to the same three-month period of 2017 by 9.1%, 7.3%, and 3.7%, respectively.

Gross margin increased$11,590, or 3.9%, to $311,419 for the three months ended March 31, 2018, from $299,829 for the same period in 2017. The increase in gross margin was primarily due to increased net sales in the first quarter of 2018. Our gross margin as a percent of net sales was 19.0% for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to 19.6% for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The decrease in gross margin rate was impacted by commodity supplier price increases as well as increased competitive pricing pressures during the first quarter of 2018.

Selling, general and administrative expenses ("SG&A") increased$10,366, or 4.1%, to $263,361 in the first quarter of 2018 from $252,995 in the first quarter of 2017, due primarily to higher compensation and benefit related costs.  SG&A as a percentage of net sales totaled 16.1% for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to 16.5% for the three months ended March 31, 2017.

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Depreciation and amortization expenses ("Depreciation") for the three months ended March 31, 2018increased$181, or 1.5%, to $12,057 from $11,876 in the first quarter of 2017. The increase was due to an increase in property, at cost. Total property, at cost, at March 31, 2018 was $969,763, an increase of $24,413, or 2.6%, when compared to total property, at cost, at March 31, 2017 of $945,350.

Other income, net totaled $764 for the three-month period ended March 31, 2018, compared to $608 for the three months ended March 31, 2017.  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 primarily due to an increase in trade receivable interest charges to customers for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to the same three-month period in 2017.

Non-operating expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2018, increased $1,639, or 28.0%, to $7,486 from $5,847 for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The increase was due to increases in non-service cost components of net periodic benefit costs of $1,025 and interest expense, net of $614 for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to the same three-month period in 2017.

Income before provision for income taxes totaled $29,279 for the three months ended March 31, 2018, a decrease of $440, or 1.5%, from $29,719 for the three months ended March 31, 2017. The decrease was primarily due to increases in SG&A, Depreciation, and non-operating expenses outpacing our growth in gross margin and increase in other income, net.

Our total provision for income taxes decreased$3,881, or 32.4%, to $8,115 for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to $11,996 for the same period of 2017.  The decrease in our provision for income taxes is due to the reduction of the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate to 21% as part of the enactment of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act ("TCJA") signed into law in the fourth quarter of 2017. As a result of the TCJA, our effective tax rate was 27.7% for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to 40.4% for the same period of 2017.

Net income attributable to Graybar Electric Company, Inc. for the three months ended March 31, 2018increased$3,412, or 19.3%, to $21,093 from $17,681 for the three months ended March 31, 2017.

Financial Condition and Liquidity

We manage our liquidity and capital levels so that we have the capability 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 by the collection of trade receivables and trade accounts payable terms with our suppliers, supplemented by short-term bank lines of credit.  Capital expenditures have been financed primarily by cash from working capital management, short-term bank lines of credit and long-term debt.

Our cash and cash equivalents at March 31, 2018 were $62,780, compared to $42,757 at December 31, 2017, an increase of $20,023, or 46.8%. Our short-term borrowings increased by $10,357, or 6.1%, during the three-month period to $180,000 at March 31, 2018 from $169,643 at December 31, 2017, primarily due to higher working capital investment required to support operating activities due to the growth in sales and funding of employee benefits, all funded via short-term lines of credit. Current assets exceeded current liabilities by $512,969 at March 31, 2018, an increase of $17,473, or 3.5%, from $495,496 at December 31, 2017.

Operating Activities

Cash provided by operations for the three months ended March 31, 2018 was $21,060, compared to cash provided by operations of $8,380 for the three months ended March 31, 2017. Cash provided by operations for the three months ended March 31, 2018, was attributable to net income of $21,164, an increase in collections of trade receivables of $10,779 from December 31, 2017 to March 31, 2018, and an increase in trade accounts payable of $49,082 from December 31, 2017 to March 31, 2018, partially offset by increased inventory levels during the three months ended March 31, 2018 of $40,777 and a decrease in accrued payroll benefits of $37,221 from December 31, 2017 to March 31, 2018.

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The average number of days of sales in trade receivables for the three-month period ended March 31, 2018 increased moderately compared to the same three-month period ended March 31, 2017, due to increased trade receivables in the first quarter of 2018, as compared to the first quarter of 2017. The days in inventory increased significantly for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to the three months ended March 31, 2017, due to higher merchandise inventory levels to support sales growth.

Investing Activities

Net cash used by investing activities totaled $7,762 for the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to $6,119 for the same three-month period in 2017, an increase of $1,643, or 26.9%. The increase was due to higher capital expenditures in the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to the three months ended March 31, 2017. Proceeds on the disposal of property increased during the three months ended March 31, 2018, compared to the same period in 2017.

Financing Activities

Net cash provided by financing activities for the three months ended March 31, 2018 totaled $6,725, compared to $23,929 for the three months ended March 31, 2017, a decrease of $17,204, or 71.9%. The decrease was due to a smaller increase in short-term borrowings for the three months ended March 31, 2018, as compared to the three months ended March 31, 2017.

Liquidity

We had a $550,000 revolving credit facility with $370,000 in available capacity at March 31, 2018, compared to capacity of $380,357 at December 31, 2017. At March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, we also had two uncommitted $100,000 private placement shelf agreements ("shelf agreement"). The first shelf agreement allows us to issue senior promissory notes to PGIM, Inc., formerly known as Prudential Investment Management, Inc., at fixed rate terms to be agreed upon at the time of any issuance during a three-year issuance period ending in August 2020. The second shelf agreement allows 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.

We have not issued any notes under the shelf agreements as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017. For further discussion related to our revolving credit facility and our private placement shelf agreements, refer to Note 6, "Debt", of the notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements located in Item 1.

We had total letters of credit of $5,371, outstanding, of which none were issued under the $550,000 revolving credit facility at both March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017. The letters of credit are issued primarily to support certain workers' compensation insurance policies.

New Accounting Standards Updates

Our adoption of new accounting standards are 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, 2017.

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 March 31, 2018, 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

21

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.

22

PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

Item 2.  Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use Of 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, a new Voting Trust Agreement was established effective March 3, 2017, which expires by its terms on March 1, 2027. At March 31, 2018, approximately 82% of the 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, before the shareholder action described in the next sentence became effective, a shareholder was entitled to any cash dividends 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, 2018	118,068	$20.00	N/A
February 1 - February 28, 2018	68,847	$20.00	N/A
March 1 - March 31, 2018	46,188	$20.00	N/A
Total	233,103	$20.00	N/A

23

Item 6.  Exhibits.

3.1	Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended, filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated June 8, 2017 (Commission File No. 000-00255) and incorporated herein by reference.
3.2	By-laws as amended through March 9, 2017, filed as Exhibit 3(ii) to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated March 9, 2017 (Commission File No. 000-00255) and incorporated herein by reference.
4.2	Voting Trust Agreement, dated as of March 3, 2017, a form of which is attached as Exhibit A to the Prospectus dated January 6, 2017, constituting a part of the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-1/A (Registration No. 333-214560), and incorporated herein by reference.
9	Voting Trust Agreement dated as of March 3, 2017, included at Exhibit 4.2 above.
31.1	Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 - Principal Executive Officer
31.2	Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 - Principal Financial Officer
32.1	Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 - Principal Executive Officer
32.2	Certification of Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 - Principal Financial Officer
101.INS	XBRL Instance 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

24

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.
May 2, 2018	/s/ KATHLEEN M. MAZZARELLA
Date	Kathleen M. Mazzarella
	President and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer)
May 2, 2018	/s/ RANDALL R. HARWOOD
Date	Randall R. Harwood
	Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)

25

EX-31.1

Exhibit 31.1

CERTIFICATION

I, Kathleen M. Mazzarella, certify that:

1) I have reviewed this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Graybar Electric Company, Inc.;

2) Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3) Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4) The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and

5) The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.

May 2, 2018	/s/ KATHLEEN M. MAZZARELLA
Date	Kathleen M. Mazzarella
	President and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer)

EX-31.2

Exhibit 31.2

CERTIFICATION

I, Randall R. Harwood, certify that:

1) I have reviewed this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Graybar Electric Company, Inc.;

2) Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3) Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4) The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and

5) The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.

May 2, 2018	/s/ RANDALL R. HARWOOD
Date	Randall R. Harwood
	Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)

EX-32.1

Exhibit 32.1

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO

18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,

AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO

SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

      I, Kathleen M. Mazzarella, President and Chief Executive Officer of Graybar Electric Company, Inc. (the “Company”), certify, pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, that:

(1) The Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of the Company for the period ended March 31, 2018 (the “Report”) fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

May 2, 2018	/s/ KATHLEEN M. MAZZARELLA
Date	Kathleen M. Mazzarella
	President and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer)

EX-32.2

Exhibit 32.2

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO

18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350, 

AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO 

SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

      I, Randall R. Harwood, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Graybar Electric Company, Inc. (the “Company”), certify, pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, that:

(1) The Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of the Company for the period ended March 31, 2018 (the “Report”) fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

May 2, 2018	/s/ RANDALL R. HARWOOD
Date	Randall R. Harwood
	Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)

XML

Document and Entity Information Document - shares	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Apr. 15, 2018
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	GRAYBAR ELECTRIC CO INC
Entity Central Index Key	0000205402
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Non-accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-Q
Document Period End Date	Mar. 31, 2018
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2018
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q1
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		19,522,586

XML

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017
Income Statement [Abstract]
Gross Sales	$ 1,644,976	$ 1,537,869
Cash discounts	(7,324)	(7,298)
Net Sales	1,637,652	1,530,571
Cost of merchandise sold	(1,326,233)	(1,230,742)
Gross Margin	311,419	299,829
Selling, general and administrative expenses	(263,361)	(252,995)
Depreciation and amortization	(12,057)	(11,876)
Other income, net	764	608
Income from Operations	36,765	35,566
Non-operating expenses	(7,486)	(5,847)
Income before Provision for Income Taxes	29,279	29,719
Provision for income taxes	(8,115)	(11,996)
Net Income	21,164	17,723
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(71)	(42)
Net Income attributable to Graybar Electric Company, Inc.	$ 21,093	$ 17,681
Net Income per share of Common Stock (in dollars per share)	$ 1.08	$ 0.91	[1]
Cash Dividends per share of Common Stock (in dollars per share)	$ 0.30	$ 0.30
Average Common Shares Outstanding (Shares)	19,545	19,383

[1] (A)Adjusted for the declaration of a 10% stock dividend in 2017, shares related to which were issued in February 2018. Prior to the adjustment, the average common shares outstanding were 17,621 for the three months ended March 31, 2017.

XML

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (Parenthetical) - shares shares in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017
Stock Dividend	10.00%
Average Common Shares Outstanding	19,545	19,383
As Reported
Average Common Shares Outstanding		17,621

XML

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net Income	$ 21,164	$ 17,723
Other Comprehensive Income
Foreign currency translation	(2,555)	657
Pension and postretirement benefits liability adjustment (net of tax of $(1,680) and $(1,974), respectively)	4,845	3,101
Total Other Comprehensive Income	2,290	3,758
Comprehensive Income	23,454	21,481
Less: comprehensive (loss) income attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax	(8)	108
Comprehensive Income attributable to Graybar Electric Company, Inc.	$ 23,462	$ 21,373

XML

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Pension and postretirement benefits liabilities adjustment, tax	$ (1,680)	$ (1,974)

XML

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Current Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 62,780	$ 42,757
Trade receivables (less allowances of $6,041 and $5,989, respectively)	1,050,811	1,061,590
Merchandise inventory	616,819	579,350
Other current assets	22,820	34,227
Total Current Assets	1,753,230	1,717,924
Property, at cost
Land	79,672	79,787
Buildings	473,924	470,784
Furniture and fixtures	303,202	300,705
Software	87,313	87,313
Capital leases	25,652	25,610
Total Property, at cost	969,763	964,199
Less – accumulated depreciation and amortization	(548,524)	(539,275)
Net Property	421,239	424,924
Other Non-current Assets	115,379	118,509
Total Assets	2,289,848	2,261,357
Current Liabilities
Short-term borrowings	180,000	169,643
Current portion of long-term debt	3,413	2,052
Trade accounts payable	885,013	835,931
Accrued payroll and benefit costs	82,128	119,349
Other accrued taxes	22,637	17,228
Other current liabilities	67,070	78,225
Total Current Liabilities	1,240,261	1,222,428
Postretirement Benefits Liability	70,990	70,747
Pension Liability	163,603	169,225
Long-term Debt	8,428	7,048
Other Non-current Liabilities	22,052	30,361
Total Liabilities	1,505,334	1,499,809
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Outstanding Common Stock	391,441	387,687
Advance Payments on Subscriptions to Common Stock	1,070	0
Retained Earnings	635,933	619,916
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	(247,785)	(250,154)
Total Graybar Electric Company, Inc. Shareholders’ Equity	780,659	757,449
Noncontrolling Interests	3,855	4,099
Total Shareholders’ Equity	784,514	761,548
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity	$ 2,289,848	$ 2,261,357

XML

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 6,041	$ 5,989
Common, stated value per share	$ 20	$ 20
Authorized	50,000,000	50,000,000
Issued to voting trustees	16,262,114	15,912,467
Issued to shareholders	3,567,292	3,496,114
In treasury, at cost	(257,346)	(24,243)
Outstanding common stock	19,572,060	19,384,338

XML

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017
Cash Flows from Operations
Net Income	$ 21,164	$ 17,723
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operations:
Depreciation and amortization	12,057	11,876
Deferred income taxes	(516)	(644)
Net gains on disposal of property	(27)	(90)
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(71)	(42)
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Trade receivables	10,779	23,080
Merchandise inventory	(40,777)	(47,901)
Other current assets	11,407	(785)
Other non-current assets	(207)	(2,790)
Trade accounts payable	49,082	56,658
Accrued payroll and benefit costs	(37,221)	(43,975)
Other current liabilities	(7,982)	40
Other non-current liabilities	3,372	(4,770)
Total adjustments to net income	(104)	(9,343)
Net cash provided by operations	21,060	8,380
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
Proceeds from disposal of property	592	116
Capital expenditures for property	(8,354)	(6,235)
Net cash used by investing activities	(7,762)	(6,119)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
Net increase in short-term borrowings	10,357	26,036
Principal payments under capital leases	(2,346)	(2,119)
Sale of common stock	9,486	9,302
Purchases of common stock	(4,662)	(3,629)
Purchases of noncontrolling interests’ common stock	(236)	(355)
Dividends paid	(5,874)	(5,306)
Net cash provided by financing activities	6,725	23,929
Net Increase in Cash	20,023	26,190
Cash, Beginning of Year	42,757	43,339
Cash, End of Period	62,780	69,529
Non-cash Investing and Financing Activities
Acquisitions of equipment under capital leases	42	145
Acquisition of software and maintenance under financing arrangement	$ 5,046	$ 0

XML

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Total	Common Stock	Common Stock Subscribed, Unissued	Retained Earnings	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	Noncontrolling Interests
Balance at Dec. 31, 2016	$ 730,889	$ 348,771	$ 0	$ 575,380	$ (196,600)	$ 3,338
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	17,723			17,681		42
Other comprehensive income (loss)	3,758				3,692	66
Stock issued	8,282	8,282
Stock purchased	(3,984)	(3,629)				(355)
Advance payments	1,020		1,020
Dividends declared	(5,306)			(5,306)
Balance at Mar. 31, 2017	752,382	353,424	1,020	587,755	(192,908)	3,091
Balance at Dec. 31, 2017	761,548	387,687	0	619,916	(250,154)	4,099
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	21,164			21,093		71
Other comprehensive income (loss)	2,290				2,369	(79)
Stock issued	8,416	8,416
Stock purchased	(4,898)	(4,662)				(236)
Advance payments	1,070		1,070
Dividends declared	(5,874)			(5,874)
Balance at Mar. 31, 2018	784,514	$ 391,441	$ 1,070	635,933	$ (247,785)	$ 3,855
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Adoption of ASC 606, net of tax	$ 798			$ 798

XML

Description of the Business

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2018

Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]

Description of the Business

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") 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"). We purchase all of the products we sell from others, and we neither manufacture nor contract to manufacture any products we sell.  Our business activity is primarily based in the United States (“U.S.”).  We also have subsidiary operations with distribution facilities in Canada and Puerto Rico.

XML

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2018

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

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 States 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, 2017, 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 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 in subsidiaries consolidated by the Company 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.

Reclassifications

Certain reclassifications have been made to prior years' financial information to conform to the December 31, 2017 presentation.

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 March 31, 2018 that require recognition or disclosure in these financial statements.

Revenue Recognition

Sales revenue is recognized when control of the promised good or service is transferred to the customer.  Sometimes product is purchased from the manufacturer and 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 transfers to the customer. Revenues recognized are primarily for product sales, but also include freight and handling charges. Our standard shipping terms are FOB shipping point, under which control passes to the customer at the time of shipment. We also earn revenue for professional services, general contracting services, and storage services. Service revenue is recognized over time as the benefit of the services is transferred to the customer. Services are typically short-term in nature and range from one to three days.  In instances where there are multiple performance obligations within a contract (e.g., product sale and services), the transaction price is allocated to the separate performance obligations based upon its relative standalone selling price.  Service revenue represented less than 1% of total revenue in the first quarter of 2018. Revenue is reported net of all taxes assessed by governmental authorities as a result of revenue-producing transactions, primarily sales tax.

Outgoing Freight Expenses                                                                                        

We record certain 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

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 and specific risks identified in the receivables portfolio.  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 is stated at the lower of cost (generally determined using the last-in, first-out (“LIFO”) cost method) or market.  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 agreement and the deferred amounts 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 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/or 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 is then quantitatively tested for impairment. If a quantitative assessment is required, the fair value is 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 3 to 20 years. Intangible assets are tested for impairment if events or circumstances occur indicating that the respective asset might be impaired.

Income Taxes

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.

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.

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, and amortization of prior service costs/gains.

New Accounting Standards

No new accounting standards that were issued or became effective during 2018 have had or are expected to have a material impact on our condensed consolidated financial statements except those noted below:

We adopted Accounting Standards Update (“ASU” or “Update”) 2017-07, “Compensation - Retirement Benefits (Topic 715)” ("ASU 2017-07") on January 1, 2018 using the retrospective transition method. The updates to the standard require us 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 are presented in the income statement separately from the service cost and outside of a subtotal of income from operations. The impact to three months ended March 31, 2017 operating results within the condensed consolidated statement of income as a result of adopting ASU 2017-07 is presented in the table below:

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income

	Three Months Ended   March 31, 2017
(Stated in thousands)	As Reported		Reclassification			As Adjusted
Selling, general and administrative expenses	$	258,045	$	(5,050	)	$	252,995
Non-operating expenses	797		5,050			5,847

On January 1, 2018, we adopted Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") Topic 606, "Revenue from Contracts with Customers." See Note 3, "Revenue", for further information.

In February 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842)” ("ASU 2016-02"). The core principle of Topic 842 requires that a lessee should recognize the assets and liabilities on the balance sheet and disclose key information about leasing arrangements. The amendments in ASU 2016-02 are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The guidance is required 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 but have decided we will not adopt the guidance early.

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Revenue

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2018

Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]

Revenue

REVENUE

On January 1, 2018, we adopted ASC Topic 606, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers” using the modified retrospective method applied to those contracts which were not completed as of January 1, 2018. Results for reporting periods beginning after January 1, 2018 are presented under ASC Topic 606, while prior period amounts are not adjusted and continue to be reported in accordance with our historic accounting under ASC Topic 605.

We recorded an increase to opening retained earnings of $798 (net of tax of $276) as of January 1, 2018 due to the cumulative impact of adopting ASC Topic 606, with the impact primarily related to the recognition of bill and hold transactions that were deferred under ASC Topic 605. The impact to revenues for the quarter ended March 31, 2018 was an increase of $311 as a result of applying ASC Topic 606.

In accordance with the new revenue standard requirement, the disclosure impact of adoption on our condensed consolidated statement of income for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and the condensed consolidated balance sheet as of March 31, 2018 was as follows:

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income

	Three Months Ended   March 31, 2018
(Stated in thousands)	As Reported		Balance without Adoption		Effect of Change
Net sales	$	1,637,652	$	1,637,341	$	311
Cost of merchandise sold	1,326,233		1,325,883		350

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet

	March 31, 2018
(Stated in thousands)	As Reported		Balance without Adoption		Effect of Change
Merchandise inventory	$	616,819	$	626,629	$	(9,810	)
Other current assets	22,820		23,096		(276		)
Other non-current liabilities	22,052		32,897		(10,845		)
Retained earnings	635,933		635,135		798

The following table summarizes the percentages of our net sales attributable to each of our vertical markets for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017:

	March 31, 2018		March 31, 2017
Construction	58.7	%	58.5	%
Industrial & Utility	22.1		21.7
CIG	19.2		19.8
Total net sales	100.0	%	100.0	%

We had no material contract assets, contract liabilities, or deferred contract costs recorded on the condensed consolidated balance sheet as of March 31, 2018. In addition, for the three months ended March 31, 2018, revenue recognized in the reporting period that was included in the contract liability balance at the beginning of the period is not material.

Revenue expected to be recognized in any future year related to remaining performance obligations, excluding revenue pertaining to contracts that have an original expected duration of one year or less, contracts where revenue is recognized as invoiced and contracts with variable consideration related to undelivered performance obligations, is not material.

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Income Taxes

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2018

Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]

Income Taxes

INCOME TAXES

The provision for income taxes includes effects from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (“TCJA”) for changes that became effective January 1, 2018. We have incorporated provisional estimates for these new TCJA provisions as part of our forecasted annual effective tax rate. For the period ended March 31, 2018, we have not recorded any adjusted tax impacts with respect to provisional amounts previously recorded at December 31, 2017 for deferred tax balances and the one-time transition tax. We are still refining our calculations and interpreting recent guidance on both the federal and state level which could change these provisional tax amounts. No material changes are anticipated.

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 provision for income taxes in the condensed consolidated financial statements.

Our unrecognized tax benefits of $2,426 and $2,318 at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively, are uncertain tax positions that would impact our effective tax rate if recognized.  We are periodically engaged in tax return examinations, reviews of statute of limitations 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/underpayment percentages.  We have accrued $1,022 and $983 in interest and penalties at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, 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.

Our federal income tax returns for the tax years 2014 and forward are available for examination by the United States Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”).  The statute of limitations for the 2014 federal return will expire on September 15, 2018, unless extended by consent. Our state income tax returns for 2013 through 2017 remain subject to examination by various state authorities with the latest period closing on December 31, 2022.  We have not extended the statutes of limitations in any state jurisdictions with respect to years prior to 2013.

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Capital Stock

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2018

Equity [Abstract]

Capital Stock

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, a new Voting Trust Agreement was established effective March 3, 2017, which expires by its terms on March 1, 2027. At March 31, 2018, approximately 82% of the total shares of 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, before the shareholder action described in the next sentence became effective, a shareholder was entitled to any cash dividends 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.

Cash dividends declared were $5,874 and $5,306 for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

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 no shares of preferred stock outstanding at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017.

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Debt

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2018

Debt Disclosure [Abstract]

Debt

DEBT

Revolving Credit Facility

At March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, 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.

We were in compliance with all covenants under the Credit Agreement as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017.

There were $180,000 and $169,643 in short-term borrowings outstanding under the Credit Agreement at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively.

Short-term borrowings outstanding during the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 ranged from a minimum of $140,000 and $112,292 to a maximum of $234,000 and $166,501, respectively.

We had total letters of credit of $5,371 outstanding, of which none were issued under the Credit Agreement at both March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017. The letters of credit are issued primarily to support certain workers' compensation insurance policies.

At March 31, 2018, we had unused lines of credit under the Credit Agreement amounting to $370,000 available, compared to $380,357 at December 31, 2017.  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 $1,411 and $797 for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

Private Placement Shelf Agreements

We have an uncommitted $100,000 private placement shelf agreement with PGIM, Inc., (the "Prudential Shelf Agreement") which is expected to allow 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 March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017.

We also have 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 us 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. No notes have been issued under the MetLife Shelf Agreement, which ranks equally with the Company’s Credit Agreement and Prudential Shelf Agreement, as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017.

We have agreed to 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 Credit Agreement.

Each shelf agreement contains customary representations and warranties of the Company and the applicable lender, and customary events of default.  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 shelf agreements as of March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017.

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Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2018

Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Abstract]

Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits

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 and otherwise eligible compensation deferred.

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 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 defined benefit 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 no assets held in the postretirement benefits plan at March 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017.

The net periodic benefit cost for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 includes the following components: 

	Pension Benefits						Postretirement Benefits
	Three Months Ended   March 31,						Three Months Ended   March 31,
Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost	2018			2017			2018			2017
Selling, general, and administrative expenses:
Service cost	$	7,100		$	6,700		$	575		$	575
Non-operating expenses:
Interest cost	6,975			7,000			650			700
Expected return on plan assets	(8,075		)	(7,725		)	—			—
Amortization of:
Net actuarial loss	6,725			5,300			225			225
Prior service cost (gain)	75			100			(500		)	(550		)
Net periodic benefit cost	$	12,800		$	11,375		$	950		$	950

We made qualified and nonqualified pension contributions totaling $11,621 and $19,584 during the three-month periods ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. Additional contributions totaling $30,005 are expected to be paid during the remainder of 2018.

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Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2018

Equity [Abstract]

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

The following table represents amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017:

	Three Months Ended   March 31, 2018									Three Months Ended   March 31, 2017
	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:
Non-operating expenses	$	6,950		$	(425	)	$	6,525		$	5,525		$	(450	)	$	5,075
Tax (benefit) expense	(1,789		)	109			(1,680		)	(2,149		)	175			(1,974		)
Total reclassifications for the period, net of tax	$	5,161		$	(316	)	$	4,845		$	3,376		$	(275	)	$	3,101

The following table represents the activity included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017:

	Three Months Ended   March 31, 2018									Three Months Ended   March 31, 2017
	Foreign Currency			Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits			Total			Foreign Currency			Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits			Total
Beginning balance January 1	$	(4,602	)	$	(245,552	)	$	(250,154	)	$	(10,343	)	$	(186,257	)	$	(196,600	)
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications	(2,476		)	—			(2,476		)	591			—			591
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (net of tax $(1,680) and $(1,974))	—			4,845			4,845			—			3,101			3,101
Net current-period other comprehensive (loss) income	(2,476		)	4,845			2,369			591			3,101			3,692
Ending balance March 31	$	(7,078	)	$	(240,707	)	$	(247,785	)	$	(9,752	)	$	(183,156	)	$	(192,908	)

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Assets Held For Sale

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2018

Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]

Assets Held For Sale

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. There were no assets held for sale at March 31, 2018 or December 31, 2017. We did have assets held for sale with a net book value of $464 at March 31, 2017. During the three months ended March 31, 2017, we did not sell any assets that were classified as held for sale.

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-month periods ended March 31, 2018 and 2017.

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Commitments and Contingencies

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2018

Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]

Commitments and Contingencies

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Graybar and our subsidiaries 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 in which such matters are resolved or a better estimate becomes available.

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Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2018

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Basis of Presentation

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 States 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, 2017, 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 financial statements presented.  Results for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of results to be expected for the full year.

Principles of Consolidation

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 in subsidiaries consolidated by the Company are accounted for and reported as noncontrolling interests.

Estimates

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.

Reclassification

Reclassifications

Certain reclassifications have been made to prior years' financial information to conform to the December 31, 2017 presentation.

Subsequent Events

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 March 31, 2018 that require recognition or disclosure in these financial statements.

Revenue Recognition

Revenue Recognition

Sales revenue is recognized when control of the promised good or service is transferred to the customer.  Sometimes product is purchased from the manufacturer and 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 transfers to the customer. Revenues recognized are primarily for product sales, but also include freight and handling charges. Our standard shipping terms are FOB shipping point, under which control passes to the customer at the time of shipment. We also earn revenue for professional services, general contracting services, and storage services. Service revenue is recognized over time as the benefit of the services is transferred to the customer. Services are typically short-term in nature and range from one to three days.  In instances where there are multiple performance obligations within a contract (e.g., product sale and services), the transaction price is allocated to the separate performance obligations based upon its relative standalone selling price.  Service revenue represented less than 1% of total revenue in the first quarter of 2018. Revenue is reported net of all taxes assessed by governmental authorities as a result of revenue-producing transactions, primarily sales tax.

Outgoing Freight Expenses

Outgoing Freight Expenses                                                                                        

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

Cash and Cash Equivalents

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

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

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 and specific risks identified in the receivables portfolio.  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

Merchandise Inventory

Our inventory is stated at the lower of cost (generally determined using the last-in, first-out (“LIFO”) cost method) or market.  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

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 agreement and the deferred amounts 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 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

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

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

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

Goodwill

Goodwill

Our goodwill is not amortized, but rather tested annually for impairment.  Goodwill is reviewed annually in the fourth quarter and/or 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 is then quantitatively tested for impairment. If a quantitative assessment is required, the fair value is determined using a variety of assumptions including estimated future cash flows of the reporting unit and applicable discount rates. 

Definite Lived Intangible Assets

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 3 to 20 years. Intangible assets are tested for impairment if events or circumstances occur indicating that the respective asset might be impaired.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes

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.

Other Postretirement Benefits

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

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.

Non-Operating Expenses

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, and amortization of prior service costs/gains.

New Accounting Standards

New Accounting Standards

No new accounting standards that were issued or became effective during 2018 have had or are expected to have a material impact on our condensed consolidated financial statements except those noted below:

We adopted Accounting Standards Update (“ASU” or “Update”) 2017-07, “Compensation - Retirement Benefits (Topic 715)” ("ASU 2017-07") on January 1, 2018 using the retrospective transition method. The updates to the standard require us 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 are presented in the income statement separately from the service cost and outside of a subtotal of income from operations. The impact to three months ended March 31, 2017 operating results within the condensed consolidated statement of income as a result of adopting ASU 2017-07 is presented in the table below:

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income

	Three Months Ended   March 31, 2017
(Stated in thousands)	As Reported		Reclassification			As Adjusted
Selling, general and administrative expenses	$	258,045	$	(5,050	)	$	252,995
Non-operating expenses	797		5,050			5,847

On January 1, 2018, we adopted Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") Topic 606, "Revenue from Contracts with Customers." See Note 3, "Revenue", for further information.

In February 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842)” ("ASU 2016-02"). The core principle of Topic 842 requires that a lessee should recognize the assets and liabilities on the balance sheet and disclose key information about leasing arrangements. The amendments in ASU 2016-02 are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The guidance is required 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 but have decided we will not adopt the guidance early.

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Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2018

Item Effected [Line Items]

Schedule of Prospective Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income

	Three Months Ended   March 31, 2017
(Stated in thousands)	As Reported		Reclassification			As Adjusted
Selling, general and administrative expenses	$	258,045	$	(5,050	)	$	252,995
Non-operating expenses	797		5,050			5,847

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Revenue (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2018

Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]

Schedule of New Accounting Pronouncements

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet

	March 31, 2018
(Stated in thousands)	As Reported		Balance without Adoption		Effect of Change
Merchandise inventory	$	616,819	$	626,629	$	(9,810	)
Other current assets	22,820		23,096		(276		)
Other non-current liabilities	22,052		32,897		(10,845		)
Retained earnings	635,933		635,135		798

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet

	March 31, 2018
(Stated in thousands)	As Reported		Balance without Adoption		Effect of Change
Merchandise inventory	$	616,819	$	626,629	$	(9,810	)
Other current assets	22,820		23,096		(276		)
Other non-current liabilities	22,052		32,897		(10,845		)
Retained earnings	635,933		635,135		798

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income

	Three Months Ended   March 31, 2018
(Stated in thousands)	As Reported		Balance without Adoption		Effect of Change
Net sales	$	1,637,652	$	1,637,341	$	311
Cost of merchandise sold	1,326,233		1,325,883		350

Disaggregation of Revenue

The following table summarizes the percentages of our net sales attributable to each of our vertical markets for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017:

	March 31, 2018		March 31, 2017
Construction	58.7	%	58.5	%
Industrial & Utility	22.1		21.7
CIG	19.2		19.8
Total net sales	100.0	%	100.0	%

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Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2018

Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Abstract]

Schedule of Net Benefit Costs

The net periodic benefit cost for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017 includes the following components: 

	Pension Benefits						Postretirement Benefits
	Three Months Ended   March 31,						Three Months Ended   March 31,
Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost	2018			2017			2018			2017
Selling, general, and administrative expenses:
Service cost	$	7,100		$	6,700		$	575		$	575
Non-operating expenses:
Interest cost	6,975			7,000			650			700
Expected return on plan assets	(8,075		)	(7,725		)	—			—
Amortization of:
Net actuarial loss	6,725			5,300			225			225
Prior service cost (gain)	75			100			(500		)	(550		)
Net periodic benefit cost	$	12,800		$	11,375		$	950		$	950

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Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2018

Equity [Abstract]

Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

The following table represents amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017:

	Three Months Ended   March 31, 2018									Three Months Ended   March 31, 2017
	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:
Non-operating expenses	$	6,950		$	(425	)	$	6,525		$	5,525		$	(450	)	$	5,075
Tax (benefit) expense	(1,789		)	109			(1,680		)	(2,149		)	175			(1,974		)
Total reclassifications for the period, net of tax	$	5,161		$	(316	)	$	4,845		$	3,376		$	(275	)	$	3,101

Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

The following table represents the activity included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2017:

	Three Months Ended   March 31, 2018									Three Months Ended   March 31, 2017
	Foreign Currency			Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits			Total			Foreign Currency			Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits			Total
Beginning balance January 1	$	(4,602	)	$	(245,552	)	$	(250,154	)	$	(10,343	)	$	(186,257	)	$	(196,600	)
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications	(2,476		)	—			(2,476		)	591			—			591
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (net of tax $(1,680) and $(1,974))	—			4,845			4,845			—			3,101			3,101
Net current-period other comprehensive (loss) income	(2,476		)	4,845			2,369			591			3,101			3,692
Ending balance March 31	$	(7,078	)	$	(240,707	)	$	(247,785	)	$	(9,752	)	$	(183,156	)	$	(192,908	)

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Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017
Item Effected [Line Items]
Selling, general and administrative expenses	$ 263,361	$ 252,995
Non-operating expenses	$ 7,486	5,847
As Reported
Item Effected [Line Items]
Selling, general and administrative expenses		258,045
Non-operating expenses		797
Reclassification
Item Effected [Line Items]
Selling, general and administrative expenses		(5,050)
Non-operating expenses		$ 5,050

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Revenue - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2017
Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Line Items]
Income tax expense	$ 8,115	$ 11,996
Increase in retained earnings	635,933		$ 619,916
Other current assets	22,820		$ 34,227
Net sales	1,637,652	$ 1,530,571
Difference between Revenue Guidance in Effect before and after Topic 606 | Accounting Standards Update 2014-09
Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Line Items]
Income tax expense	276
Increase in retained earnings	798
Other current assets	(276)
Net sales	$ 311

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Revenue - Adoption of ASC 605 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2017
Item Effected [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 1,637,652	$ 1,530,571
Cost merchandise sold	1,326,233	$ 1,230,742
Merchandise inventory	616,819		$ 579,350
Other current assets	22,820		34,227
Other non-current liabilities	22,052		30,361
Retained Earnings	635,933		$ 619,916
Calculated under Revenue Guidance in Effect before Topic 606
Item Effected [Line Items]
Net sales	1,637,341
Cost merchandise sold	1,325,883
Merchandise inventory	626,629
Other current assets	23,096
Other non-current liabilities	32,897
Retained Earnings	635,135
Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 | Difference between Revenue Guidance in Effect before and after Topic 606
Item Effected [Line Items]
Net sales	311
Cost merchandise sold	350
Merchandise inventory	(9,810)
Other current assets	(276)
Other non-current liabilities	(10,845)
Retained Earnings	$ 798

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Revenue - Disaggregation of Revenue (Details) - Revenue from Contract with Customer [Member]	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total net sales	100.00%	100.00%
Construction
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total net sales	58.70%	58.50%
Industrial & Utility
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total net sales	22.10%	21.70%
CIG
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total net sales	19.20%	19.80%

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Income Taxes - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Unrecognized tax benefits	$ 2,426	$ 2,318
Accrued interest and penalties	$ 1,022	$ 983

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Capital Stock (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2017
Equity [Abstract]
Percent of entity owned by current and retired employees	100.00%
Percent of entity held in voting trust	82.00%
Common, stated value (in dollars per share)	$ 20		$ 20
Dividends, Common Stock, Cash	$ 5,874	$ 5,306
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized	10,000,000
Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share	$ 0.01
Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding	0		0

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Debt - Credit Agreement (Details) - USD ($)		3 Months Ended
	Jun. 06, 2014	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity		$ 370,000,000	$ 380,357,000
Commitment fee percentage		0.40%
Line of Credit | Credit Agreement | Revolving Credit Facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Term	5 years
Maximum borrowing capacity	$ 550,000,000
Accordion feature, higher borrowing capacity option	300,000,000
Line of Credit | Credit Agreement | Letter of Credit Sub-Facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity	50,000,000
Line of Credit | Credit Agreement | Bridge Loan | Graybar Canada
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity	100,000,000
Line of Credit | Credit Agreement | Bridge Loan | UNITED STATES
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity	50,000,000
Line of Credit | Credit Agreement | Bridge Loan | CANADA
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity	$ 20,000,000
Letter of Credit
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Letters of credit outstanding, amount		$ 5,371,000	5,371,000
Letter of Credit | Revolving Credit Facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Letters of credit outstanding, amount		$ 0	$ 0

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Debt - Short-Term Borrowings (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2017
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Short-term borrowings	$ 180,000		$ 169,643
Interest expense, net	1,411	$ 797
Revolving Credit Facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Short-term borrowings	180,000		$ 169,643
Minimum
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Short-term borrowings	140,000	112,292
Maximum
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Short-term borrowings	$ 234,000	$ 166,501

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Debt - Private Placement Shelf Agreement (Details) - Maximum - Senior Notes - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Aug. 02, 2017	Sep. 22, 2016
Prudential Private Placement Shelf Agreement
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Agreement face amount	$ 100,000
MetLife Private Placement Shelf Agreement
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Agreement face amount		$ 100,000

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Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Abstract]
Requisite service period	3 years
Contributions by employer	$ 11,621	$ 19,584
Estimated future contributions in remainder of 2018	$ 30,005

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Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits - Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Line Items]
Service cost	$ 7,100	$ 6,700
Interest cost	6,975	7,000
Expected return on plan assets	(8,075)	(7,725)
Amortization of: Net actuarial loss	6,725	5,300
Amortization of: Prior service cost (gain)	75	100
Net periodic benefit cost	12,800	11,375
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Line Items]
Service cost	575	575
Interest cost	650	700
Expected return on plan assets	0	0
Amortization of: Net actuarial loss	225	225
Amortization of: Prior service cost (gain)	(500)	(550)
Net periodic benefit cost	$ 950	$ 950

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Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) - Reclassifications Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Tax (benefit) expense	$ 8,115	$ 11,996
Total reclassifications for the period, net of tax	(21,164)	(17,723)
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Non-operating expenses	6,525	5,075
Tax (benefit) expense	(1,680)	(1,974)
Total reclassifications for the period, net of tax	4,845	3,101
Actuarial Losses Recognized | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Non-operating expenses	6,950	5,525
Tax (benefit) expense	(1,789)	(2,149)
Total reclassifications for the period, net of tax	5,161	3,376
Prior Service Costs Recognized | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Non-operating expenses	(425)	(450)
Tax (benefit) expense	109	175
Total reclassifications for the period, net of tax	$ (316)	$ (275)

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Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) - Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ (250,154)	$ (196,600)
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications	(2,476)	591
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (net of tax)	4,845	3,101
Net current-period other comprehensive (loss) income	2,369	3,692
Ending balance	(247,785)	(192,908)
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Tax	(1,680)	(1,974)
Foreign Currency
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	(4,602)	(10,343)
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications	(2,476)	591
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (net of tax)	0	0
Net current-period other comprehensive (loss) income	(2,476)	591
Ending balance	(7,078)	(9,752)
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	(245,552)	(186,257)
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications	0	0
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (net of tax)	4,845	3,101
Net current-period other comprehensive (loss) income	4,845	3,101
Ending balance	$ (240,707)	$ (183,156)

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Assets Held For Sale (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2017
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Document Period End Date	Mar. 31, 2018
Loss on impairment of property	$ 0	$ 0
Disposal Group, Held-for-sale or Disposed of by Sale, Not Discontinued Operations
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Long lived assets held for sale			$ 0
Disposal Group, Disposed of by Sale, Not Discontinued Operations [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Long lived assets held for sale	$ 0	464
Net book value of assets for sale		0
Net gain on sale of assets		$ 0