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Remodel market stable in '04.

SPECIAL TO CONTRACTOR

NEW YORK -- The ratings on major retailers in the home-improvement market should remain relatively stable into 2004 as industry leaders such as Home Depot and Lowe's continue to expand their number of stores, focus on improving operating efficiencies and increase their emphasis on reaching professional contractors, Standard & Poor's Ratings Services reported Aug. 22.

"Industry demographics continue to remain favorable, as home ownership continues to increase and mortgage rates remain at low levels," said S&P's credit analyst Patrick Jef

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