Sales for the quarter increased 12.2 percent to $13.4 billion, up from $11.9 billion in the second quarter of 2005. For the six months ended August 4, 2006, sales increased 15.9 percent to $25.3 billion. Total sales results were impacted by the calendar shift described in the business outlook section of this release. Comparable store sales for the second quarter increased 3.3 percent and increased 4.4 percent in the first half of 2006.

“Despite a backdrop of higher energy costs and a tumultuous geo-political environment that has weighed on the consumer, the team remained focused on providing great customer service and compelling merchandise offerings,?EUR??,,????'?? Robert A. Niblock, Lowe’s chairman, president and CEO. ?EUR??,,????'??These efforts ensured Lowe’s continued to capture market share with notable gains in Flooring, Appliances, Outdoor Power Equipment and Cabinets and Countertops in the quarter, according to third-party estimates.