Real gross domestic product — the output of goods and services produced by labor and property located in the United States — exploded at an annual rate of 4.0 percent in the second quarter of 2014

Airgas, Inc. (NYSE: ARG), one of the nation’s leading suppliers of industrial, medical, and specialty gases, and related products, reported earnings per diluted share of $1.18 for its first quarter ended June 30, 2014, up four percent over the prior year.

MSC Industrial Direct Co., Inc. (NYSE: MSM), “MSC” or the “Company,” a large distributor of Metalworking and Maintenance, Repair and Operations (“MRO”) supplies to industrial customers throughout North America, reported financial results for its fiscal third quarter ended May 31,2014.

Sales of $2.5 billion increased five percent versus $2.4 billion in the 2013 second quarter.

Fastenal Company of Winona, MN (Nasdaq:FAST) reported the results of the quarter ended June 30, 2014.

Airgas, Inc., one of the nation’s leading suppliers of industrial, medical, and specialty gases, and related products, reported sales and earnings results for its first quarter ended June 30, 2013

The Fastenal Company of Winona, MN, reported the results of the quarter ended June 30, 2013. Except for per share information, or as otherwise noted below, dollar amounts are stated in thousands.

Grainger reported record results for the 2013 second quarter ended June 30, 2013.