WESCO INTERNATIONAL INC
S-1/A, 1999-05-03
ELECTRICAL APPARATUS & EQUIPMENT, WIRING SUPPLIES
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<PAGE>   1
 
   
      AS FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION ON MAY 3, 1999
    
                                                      REGISTRATION NO. 333-73299
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                             WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
                           -------------------------
 
   
                               AMENDMENT NO. 3 TO
    
                                    FORM S-1
                             REGISTRATION STATEMENT
                                     UNDER
                           THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
 
                           -------------------------
 
                           WESCO INTERNATIONAL, INC.
             (EXACT NAME OF REGISTRANT AS SPECIFIED IN ITS CHARTER)
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                <C>                                <C>
             DELAWARE                             5063                            25-1723345
 (STATE OR OTHER JURISDICTION OF      (PRIMARY STANDARD INDUSTRIAL             (I.R.S. EMPLOYER
  INCORPORATION OR ORGANIZATION)      CLASSIFICATION CODE NUMBER)           IDENTIFICATION NUMBER)
</TABLE>
 
                           COMMERCE COURT, SUITE 700
                              FOUR STATION SQUARE
                         PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA 15219
                                 (412) 454-2200
  (ADDRESS, INCLUDING ZIP CODE, AND TELEPHONE NUMBER OF REGISTRANT'S PRINCIPAL
                               EXECUTIVE OFFICES)
 
                             JEFFREY B. KRAMP, ESQ.
                           COMMERCE COURT, SUITE 700
                              FOUR STATION SQUARE
                         PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA 15219
                                 (412) 454-2200
 (NAME, ADDRESS, INCLUDING ZIP CODE AND TELEPHONE NUMBER OF AGENT FOR SERVICE)
 
                           -------------------------
 
                                   COPIES TO:
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                          <C>
             MICHAEL C. MCLEAN                           VINCENT PAGANO, JR.
         Kirkpatrick & Lockhart LLP                   Simpson Thacher & Bartlett
            1500 Oliver Building                         425 Lexington Avenue
    Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15222-2312                New York, New York 10017
               (412) 355-6500                               (212) 455-2000
</TABLE>
 
                           -------------------------
 
     Approximate date of commencement of proposed sale to the public:  AS SOON
AS PRACTICABLE AFTER THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT BECOMES EFFECTIVE.
 
     If any of the securities being registered on this Form are to be offered on
a delayed or continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities Act of
1933, check the following box. [ ]
 
     If this Form is filed to register additional securities for an offering
pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, check the following box and
list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective
registration statement for the same offering. [ ]
 
     If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(c)
under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act
registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement
for the same offering. [ ]
 
     If delivery of the prospectus is expected to be made pursuant to Rule 434,
please check the following box. [ ]
 
                           -------------------------
 
     THE REGISTRANT HEREBY AMENDS THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON SUCH DATE OR
DATES AS MAY BE NECESSARY TO DELAY ITS EFFECTIVE DATE UNTIL THE REGISTRANT SHALL
FILE A FURTHER AMENDMENT WHICH SPECIFICALLY STATES THAT THIS REGISTRATION
STATEMENT SHALL THEREAFTER BECOME EFFECTIVE IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 8(a) OF
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 OR UNTIL THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT SHALL BECOME
EFFECTIVE ON SUCH DATE AS THE SEC, ACTING PURSUANT TO SAID SECTION 8(a), MAY
DETERMINE.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>   2
 
THE INFORMATION IN THIS PROSPECTUS IS NOT COMPLETE AND MAY BE CHANGED. WE MAY
NOT SELL THESE SECURITIES UNTIL THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT FILED WITH THE
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION IS EFFECTIVE. THIS PROSPECTUS IS NOT AN OFFER
TO SELL THESE SECURITIES AND IT IS NOT SOLICITING AN OFFER TO BUY THESE
SECURITIES IN ANY STATE WHERE THE OFFER OR SALE IS NOT PERMITTED.
 
   
                    SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED MAY 3, 1999
    
PROSPECTUS
 
                                9,725,000 SHARES
                               [WESCO INTL. LOGO]
 
                           WESCO INTERNATIONAL, INC.
 
                                  COMMON STOCK
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
THIS IS OUR INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERING OF SHARES OF OUR COMMON STOCK. WE ARE
OFFERING 9,725,000 SHARES. 7,780,000 SHARES ARE INITIALLY BEING OFFERED IN THE
UNITED STATES AND CANADA AND 1,945,000 SHARES ARE INITIALLY BEING OFFERED
OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES AND CANADA. NO PUBLIC MARKET CURRENTLY EXISTS FOR OUR
SHARES.
 
THE COMMON STOCK HAS BEEN APPROVED FOR LISTING ON THE NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE,
SUBJECT TO NOTICE OF ISSUANCE, UNDER THE SYMBOL "WCC." ANTICIPATED PRICE RANGE
$17.00 TO $19.00 PER SHARE.
 
     INVESTING IN THE SHARES INVOLVES RISKS. RISK FACTORS BEGIN ON PAGE 8.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                              PER SHARE    TOTAL
                                                              ---------    ------
<S>                                                           <C>          <C>
Public Offering Price.......................................  $            $
Underwriting Discount.......................................  $            $
Proceeds to WESCO International, Inc........................  $            $
</TABLE>
 
We have granted the underwriters a 30-day option to purchase up to 1,458,750
additional shares of common stock on the same terms and conditions as set forth
above solely to cover over-allotments, if any.
 
Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities
commission has approved or disapproved of these securities or determined if this
prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a
criminal offense.
 
Lehman Brothers expects to deliver the shares on or about                , 1999.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
LEHMAN BROTHERS
                 BEAR, STEARNS & CO. INC.
 
                                   DONALDSON, LUFKIN & JENRETTE
 
                                                 GOLDMAN, SACHS & CO.
 
ROBERT W. BAIRD & CO.                                 ING BARING FURMAN SELZ LLC
        INCORPORATED
 
               , 1999
<PAGE>   3
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                      PAGE
                                      ----
<S>                                   <C>
Prospectus Summary..................    2
Risk Factors........................    8
Use of Proceeds.....................   12
Dividend Policy.....................   12
Capitalization......................   13
Dilution............................   14
Unaudited Pro Forma Financial
  Information.......................   15
Selected Historical Consolidated
  Financial Data....................   20
First Quarter 1999 Results..........   24
Management's Discussion and Analysis
  of Financial Condition and Results
  of Operations.....................   25
Our Business........................   34
</TABLE>
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                      PAGE
                                      ----
<S>                                   <C>
Management..........................   47
Certain Relationships and Related
  Transactions......................   60
Principal Stockholders..............   62
Description of Capital Stock........   64
Description of Certain
  Indebtedness......................   66
Shares Eligible For Future Sale.....   71
United States Federal Tax
  Considerations....................   73
Underwriting........................   76
Legal Matters.......................   80
Experts.............................   80
Available Information...............   80
Index to Financial Statements.......  F-1
</TABLE>
    
 
                           -------------------------
 
                             ABOUT THIS PROSPECTUS
 
     You should only rely on the information contained in this prospectus. We
have not authorized anyone to provide you with information different from that
contained in this prospectus. We are offering to sell, and seeking offers to
buy, shares of common stock only in jurisdictions where offers and sales are
permitted. The information contained in this prospectus is accurate only as of
the date of this prospectus, regardless of the time of delivery of this
prospectus or of any sale of common stock.
 
     This preliminary prospectus is subject to completion prior to this
offering. Among other things, this preliminary prospectus describes WESCO as we
currently expect it to exist at the time of this offering.
 
     Certain persons participating in this offering may engage in transactions
that stabilize, maintain or otherwise affect the price of the common stock,
including stabilizing bids, syndicate covering transactions or the imposition of
penalty bids. For a discussion of these activities, see "Underwriting."
 
                                        1
<PAGE>   4
 
                               PROSPECTUS SUMMARY
 
     This is only a summary and it does not contain all the information that may
be important to you. Unless we otherwise indicate, all information appearing in
this prospectus gives effect to a 57.8 to one stock split in the form of a stock
dividend of our common stock to occur prior to the offering. You should read the
following summary together with the more detailed information about WESCO and
the common stock being sold in this offering and our historical and pro forma
financial statements including the notes to those statements appearing elsewhere
in this prospectus.
 
                                  OUR COMPANY
 
     With sales of over $3 billion in 1998, we are a leading North American
distributor of electrical products and other industrial maintenance, repair and
operating supplies, commonly referred to as MRO. We are the second largest
distributor in the $72 billion U.S. electrical distribution industry. We are
also the largest provider of integrated supply services in the United States.
Our integrated supply solutions allow customers to reduce their operating costs
through comprehensive outsourcing of all of their MRO procurement purchases
through a single supplier with a highly automated process. We have over 330
branches and five distribution centers strategically located in 48 states, nine
Canadian provinces, Puerto Rico, Guam, Mexico, the United Kingdom and Singapore.
We serve over 130,000 customers worldwide, offering over 1,000,000 products from
over 23,000 suppliers.
 
     Combining strong internal growth with acquisitions, our sales and income
from operations plus depreciation, amortization and recapitalization costs, or
EBITDA before recapitalization costs, increased at a compounded annual growth
rate of over 16% and over 42%, respectively, since 1994. WESCO's earnings
increased from a loss of $0.5 million in 1994 to $36.2 million in 1997. In 1998,
we recorded a net loss of $7.7 million resulting from a $51.8 million one-time
charge associated with our recapitalization.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
'94'                                                                        1636
- ----                                                                        ----
<S>                                                           <C>                                <C>
'95'                                                                      1857.00
'96'                                                                      2275.00
'97'                                                                      2595.00
'98'                                                                      3025.00
'94'                                                                           -1                              30.00
'95'                                                                        17.00                              63.00
'96'                                                                        32.00                              79.00
'97'                                                                        36.00                              91.00
'98'                                                                           -8                             123.00
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
 
     For information concerning sales, net income and EBITDA before
recapitalization costs for 1994, see Notes 1 and 7 to "Selected Historical
Consolidated Financial Data." EBITDA before recapitalization costs is presented
since management believes that such information is considered by some investors
to be a non-GAAP alternative basis for evaluating WESCO's ability to pay
interest and repay debt.
                                        2
<PAGE>   5
 
     We generate a significant amount of cash flow and require low capital
investment to maintain our business. This significant cash flow is available to
be used to enhance stockholder value by making acquisitions, reducing debt or
repurchasing common stock.
 
     Our key management personnel are both operators and owners, many of whom
have purchased significant equity positions over the past five years. Prior to
the offering, over 220 of our executives and managers collectively held over 32%
of our common stock on a fully diluted basis. None of our executives and
managers will sell any shares of common stock in the offering. Our stock
ownership and other incentive programs have closely aligned the interests of our
managers with those of our stockholders.
 
                             OUR BUSINESS STRATEGY
 
     Our objective is to be the leading distributor of electrical products and
other MRO supplies and the leading provider of value-added related services to
companies in North America and selected international markets. In achieving this
leadership position, our goal is to grow earnings at a faster rate than sales by
focusing on continuous productivity improvement. Our growth strategy leverages
our existing strengths and focuses on developing new initiatives and programs
to:
 
     -  enhance our leadership position in electrical distribution;
 
     -  grow national programs;
 
     -  extend our leadership position in integrated supply;
 
     -  gain share in key local markets;
 
     -  actively pursue strategic acquisitions;
 
     -  leverage our e-commerce and information system capabilities;
 
     -  continue to improve profit margins; and
 
     -  expand our international operations.
 
                                   OWNERSHIP
 
     Upon completion of this offering, management will own approximately 29% of
our common stock on a fully diluted basis. The Cypress Group L.L.C. ("Cypress")
will own approximately 35% of our common stock on a fully diluted basis. None of
management, Cypress or its affiliates will sell any shares in the offering.
Three of the seven members of our Board of Directors are affiliated with
Cypress.
 
     Cypress is a private equity firm which currently manages over $3 billion of
equity capital on behalf of major public and private pension funds, university
endowments, trusts and other leading financial institutions. Cypress seeks to
invest alongside experienced executives in growth businesses to achieve
long-term capital appreciation. The Cypress professionals have successfully
employed this strategy in numerous other investments such as Infinity
Broadcasting Corporation, Lear Corporation, R.P. Scherer Corporation, Cinemark
USA, Inc., Williams Scotsman, Inc. and Frank's Nursery & Crafts, Inc.
 
                                  RISK FACTORS
 
     See the section of this prospectus entitled "Risk Factors" for a discussion
of factors that you should consider before investing in the common stock offered
in this prospectus. These risk factors include competition, our substantial debt
and related restrictions, growth strategy, our product supply, the importance of
our information systems, our year 2000 compliance, our foreign operations, the
significant influence of our controlling stockholders, the possible volatility
in the price of our common stock, shares eligible for future sale, and
anti-takeover provisions in our corporate documents.
                                        3
<PAGE>   6
 
                                  THE OFFERING
 
Common stock offered by WESCO:
 
          U.S. offering.....................     7,780,000 shares
 
          International offering............     1,945,000 shares
                                               -----------                      
 
                       Total................     9,725,000 (1)
 
   
Common stock outstanding after the
offering....................................    46,510,614 shares (2)
    
 
   
Use of Proceeds.............................    We intend to use net proceeds of
                                                $163.0 million from this
                                                offering to retire all of the
                                                outstanding 11 1/8% senior
                                                discount notes due 2008, and to
                                                repay all or a portion of the
                                                existing revolving credit
                                                facility and term loans under
                                                our credit facilities. Pending
                                                application of the net proceeds
                                                to repay the senior discount
                                                notes, we intend to borrow
                                                additional funds under our
                                                delayed draw term loan facility
                                                to further reduce existing
                                                indebtedness. See "Use of
                                                Proceeds."
    
 
NYSE Symbol.................................    WCC
- -------------------------
(1) Excludes shares that may be sold upon the exercise of the underwriters'
    over-allotment option.
 
   
(2) Based on 34,774,503 shares outstanding as of April 1, 1999, after giving
    effect to the 57.8 to one stock split in the form of a stock dividend and
    the conversion of certain outstanding notes in an aggregate principal amount
    of $36.2 million into 2,011,111 shares of common stock at the offering
    price. Currently, we also have authorized and issued Class B (non-voting)
    common stock, which is identical to the common stock except that it has no
    voting rights other than as required by law. The common stock to be
    outstanding after this offering also reflects the possible future conversion
    of outstanding shares of Class B common stock, at any time at the option of
    the holders, on a share for share basis into common stock and the
    termination concurrent with this offering of the rights of certain employee
    holders of common stock to require us under certain limited circumstances to
    repurchase all of their shares. See "Description of Capital Stock."
    
                                        4
<PAGE>   7
 
                SUMMARY HISTORICAL AND PRO FORMA FINANCIAL DATA
 
     The following table sets forth summary historical consolidated financial
data of WESCO as of and for the four years ended December 31, 1998, which have
been derived from WESCO's audited financial statements. Our business was part of
Westinghouse for the first two months of 1994. The results of operations and
financial data for that period have been combined with the results of WESCO for
the ten months ended December 31, 1994. For information concerning the period
ended December 31, 1994, see Note 1 to the "Selected Historical Consolidated
Financial Data."
 
     The following table also presents certain summary unaudited pro forma
financial data of WESCO as of and for the year ended December 31, 1998, which
have been derived from the "Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information" and
related notes included elsewhere in this prospectus. The summary unaudited pro
forma income statement data give effect to the recapitalization, the acquisition
of Bruckner and the offering as if they had occurred as of January 1, 1998. The
summary unaudited pro forma balance sheet data give effect to the offering as if
it occurred as of December 31, 1998. The summary unaudited pro forma financial
data are provided for informational purposes only and do not purport to be
indicative of the results that would have actually been obtained had the
recapitalization, the acquisition of Bruckner and the offering been completed on
the dates indicated or that may be expected to occur in the future. Pro forma
results of the other acquisitions completed in 1998 are not included as they
would not be materially different from the consolidated results presented.
 
     EBITDA before recapitalization costs represents income from operations plus
depreciation, amortization and recapitalization costs. EBITDA before
recapitalization costs is presented since management believes that such
information is considered by certain investors to be an additional basis for
evaluating WESCO's ability to pay interest and repay debt. EBITDA before
recapitalization costs should not be considered an alternative to measures of
operating performance as determined in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles or as a measure of WESCO's operating results and cash
flows or as a measure of WESCO's liquidity. Since EBITDA before recapitalization
costs is not calculated identically by all companies, this presentation may not
be comparable to other similarly titled measures of other companies. Adjusted
working capital is defined as trade accounts receivable plus inventory less
accounts payable. Redeemable common stock is described in Note 11 to the
Consolidated Financial Statements. Under certain limited circumstances, the
holders of redeemable common stock have the right to require us to repurchase
all of the redeemable shares and the exercisable portion of the options. These
repurchase rights terminate upon consummation of the offering. The redemption
value of the shares and exercisable portion of the options at December 31, 1998
was approximately $130.3 million.
 
     The summary historical and pro forma financial data should be read in
conjunction with, and are qualified in their entirety by, the historical
consolidated financial statements of WESCO and the notes thereto, "Selected
Historical Consolidated Financial Data," "Management's Discussion and Analysis
of Financial Condition and Results of Operations," and "Unaudited Pro Forma
Financial Information," contained elsewhere in this prospectus.
                                        5
<PAGE>   8
 
                SUMMARY HISTORICAL AND PRO FORMA FINANCIAL DATA
                        (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                          ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                            1994        1995         1996         1997         1998          1998
                                          --------   ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------    -----------
                                                                                                          (PRO FORMA)
<S>                                       <C>        <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>           <C>
INCOME STATEMENT DATA:
Sales, net..............................  $1,635.8   $  1,857.0   $  2,274.6   $  2,594.8   $  3,025.4    $  3,205.3
Gross profit............................     262.5        321.0        405.0        463.9        537.6         556.4
Selling, general and administrative
  expenses..............................     232.6        258.0        326.0        372.5        415.0         421.8
Depreciation and amortization...........       8.7          7.3         10.8         11.3         14.8          16.8
Recapitalization costs..................        --           --           --           --         51.8(1)       51.8(1)
                                          --------   ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------    ----------
Income from operations..................      21.2         55.7         68.2         80.1         56.0          66.0
Interest expense, net...................      20.0         15.8         17.4         20.1         45.1          40.7
Other expense...........................        --           --           --           --         10.1(2)       15.3(2)
                                          --------   ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------    ----------
Income before income taxes..............       1.2         39.9         50.8         60.0          0.8          10.0
Provision for income taxes..............       1.7         14.8         18.3         23.8          8.5(3)       12.1(3)
                                          --------   ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------    ----------
Income (loss) before extraordinary
  charge, net of taxes..................      (0.5)        25.1         32.5         36.2         (7.7)         (2.1)
Extraordinary charge, net of applicable
  taxes.................................        --          8.1(4)         --          --           --            --
                                          --------   ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------    ----------
Net income (loss).......................  $   (0.5)  $     17.0   $     32.5   $     36.2   $     (7.7)(1) $     (2.1)(1)
                                          ========   ==========   ==========   ==========   ==========    ==========
Earnings (loss) per common share (5),(6)
  Basic before extraordinary charge, net
    of taxes............................        --   $     0.43   $     0.55   $     0.61   $    (0.17)(1) $    (0.05)(1)
  Basic.................................        --         0.29         0.55         0.61        (0.17)        (0.05)
  Diluted before extraordinary charge,
    net of taxes........................        --         0.41         0.51         0.55        (0.17)        (0.05)
  Diluted...............................        --         0.28         0.51         0.55        (0.17)        (0.05)
Weighted average common shares
  outstanding
  Basic.................................        --   57,842,483   58,680,756   59,030,100   45,051,632    45,982,139
  Diluted...............................        --   60,883,283   63,670,919   66,679,063   45,051,632    45,982,139
OTHER FINANCIAL DATA:
EBITDA before recapitalization costs....  $   29.9   $     63.0   $     79.0   $     91.4   $    122.6    $    134.6
Capital expenditures....................        --          6.5          9.3         11.6         10.7
Net cash provided by (used for)
  operating activities..................        --         25.7         15.1        (12.0)       276.9
Net cash provided by (used for)
  investing activities..................        --        (12.0)      (110.9)       (21.5)      (184.1)
Net cash provided by (used for)
  financing activities..................        --         (9.8)        87.2         41.1        (92.3)
BALANCE SHEET DATA:
Adjusted working capital................  $  196.5   $    222.5   $    291.6   $    338.8   $    146.7(7) $    146.7(7)
Total assets............................     533.7        581.3        773.5        870.9        950.5         951.1
Total long-term debt (including current
  portion)..............................     180.6        177.9        262.2        295.2        595.8         407.5
Redeemable common stock.................       5.5          7.7          8.9          9.0         21.5            --
Stockholders' equity (deficit)..........      99.5        116.4        148.7        184.5       (142.6)         68.4
OTHER DATA:
Sales growth............................                   13.5%        22.5%        14.1%        16.6%         23.5%
Growth of EBITDA before recapitalization
  costs.................................                  110.7%        25.4%        15.6%        34.1%         47.3%
</TABLE>
    
 
                                        6
<PAGE>   9
 
- -------------------------
 
   
 (1) Reflects a one-time charge related to the recapitalization, and primarily
     includes noncapitalized financing expenses, professional and legal fees and
     management compensation costs. Excluding the effects of this charge, net
     income would have been $30.6 million and diluted earnings per share would
     have been $0.59 and pro forma net income would have been $36.2 million and
     pro forma diluted earnings per share would have been $0.73.
    
 (2) Represents costs relating to the sale of accounts receivable pursuant to
     the receivables facility.
 (3) Certain nondeductible recapitalization costs and other permanent
     differences significantly exceeded income before income taxes and resulted
     in an unusually high provision for income taxes.
 (4) Represents a charge, net of taxes, relating to the writeoff of unamortized
     debt issuance and other costs associated with the early extinguishment of
     debt.
   
 (5) For the year ended December 31, 1998, $1.3 million of interest on
     convertible debt and 6,630,180 common share equivalents on a historical
     basis and $0.1 million of interest on convertible debt and 3,344,672 common
     share equivalents on a pro forma basis have not been included, since the
     impact was anti-dilutive.
    
 (6) Reflects a 57.8 to one stock split effected in the form of a stock dividend
     of WESCO's common stock approved by the board of directors on April 11,
     1999 to be effective prior to consummation of the offering.
 (7) Excludes $274.2 million of accounts receivable pursuant to the sale in 1998
     of such receivables in connection with the receivables facility.
                                        7
<PAGE>   10
 
                                  RISK FACTORS
 
     You should carefully consider the following factors and other information
contained in this prospectus in evaluating our business before deciding to
invest in the shares of our common stock.
 
AN INCREASE IN COMPETITION COULD DECREASE SALES OR EARNINGS
 
     The distribution industry for electrical products and other industrial MRO
supplies and services is very competitive. Competition is primarily focused on
the local service area. We compete directly with national and regional
broad-based companies, niche companies carrying only specialized products, and
small, local companies with one or a few locations. Another source of
competition in this industry is buying groups formed by smaller distributors to
increase purchasing power and provide some cooperative marketing capability.
 
     Some of our existing competitors have, and new market entrants may have,
greater financial and marketing resources than we do. To the extent existing or
future competitors seek to gain or retain market share by reducing prices, we
may be required to lower our prices, thereby adversely affecting financial
results.
 
OUR SUBSTANTIAL AMOUNT OF DEBT COULD LIMIT OUR GROWTH AND IMPOSES RESTRICTIONS
ON OUR BUSINESS
 
     We have incurred substantial indebtedness. Our level of debt could
adversely affect the interests of our stockholders, for example, by limiting our
ability to:
 
     - use operating cash flow in other areas of our business since we must
       dedicate a substantial portion of these funds to pay interest and retire
       debt;
 
     - obtain additional financing to fund our growth strategy, capital
       expenditures and other purposes; and
 
     - react to changing market conditions and economic downturns.
 
   
     Before giving effect to this offering, we had $595.8 million of
indebtedness as of December 31, 1998, and on a pro forma basis after giving
effect to the use of net proceeds in this offering, we would have had $407.5
million of indebtedness. We may incur additional indebtedness in the future to
fund our growth strategy and for general corporate purposes, subject to certain
limitations contained in the instruments governing our indebtedness.
    
 
     Our debt agreements contain numerous financial and operating covenants that
limit our discretion with respect to certain business matters. These covenants
place significant restrictions on, among other things:
 
     - our ability to incur additional indebtedness;
 
     - to pay dividends and other distributions;
 
     - to repay our obligations; and
 
     - to merge or consolidate with other entities.
 
SUCCESS OF OUR GROWTH STRATEGY MAY BE LIMITED BY THE AVAILABILITY OF APPROPRIATE
ACQUISITIONS AND OUR ABILITY TO INTEGRATE ACQUIRED BUSINESSES INTO OURS
 
     A principal component of our strategy is to continue to expand through
additional acquisitions that complement our operations in new or existing
markets. Our acquisitions will involve risks, including the successful
integration and management of acquired operations and personnel. The integration
of acquired businesses may also lead to the loss of key employees of the
acquired companies and diversion of management attention from ongoing business
concerns. We may not be able to identify businesses that meet our strategic
criteria and acquire them on satisfactory terms. We
 
                                        8
<PAGE>   11
 
also may not have access to sufficient capital to complete certain acquisitions.
Future acquisitions may not prove advantageous and could have a material adverse
effect on our operating results.
 
LOSS OF KEY SUPPLIERS OR LACK OF PRODUCT AVAILABILITY COULD DECREASE SALES AND
EARNINGS
 
     Most of our agreements with suppliers are generally terminable by either
party on no more than 60 days notice. Our ten largest suppliers in 1998
accounted for approximately 38% of our purchases for the period. Our largest
supplier was Eaton Corporation, through its Cutler-Hammer division, accounting
for approximately 15% of our purchases. The loss of, or a substantial decrease
in the availability of, products from any of these suppliers, or the loss of key
preferred supplier agreements, could have a material adverse effect on our
business. In addition, supply interruptions could arise from shortages of raw
materials, labor disputes or weather conditions affecting products or shipments,
transportation disruptions or other reasons beyond our control. An interruption
of operations at any of our five distribution centers could have a material
adverse effect on the operations of branches served by the affected distribution
center. Furthermore, we cannot assure that particular products, or product
lines, will be available to us, or available in quantities sufficient to meet
customer demand. This limited product access could put us at a competitive
disadvantage.
 
A DISRUPTION OF OUR INFORMATION SYSTEMS COULD INCREASE EXPENSES, DECREASE SALES
OR REDUCE EARNINGS
 
     A serious disruption of our information systems could have a material
adverse effect on our business and results of operations. Our computer systems
are an integral part of our business and growth strategies. We depend on our
information systems to process orders, manage inventory and accounts receivable
collections, purchase products, ship products to our customers on a timely
basis, maintain cost-effective operations and provide superior service to our
customers.
 
OUR SYSTEMS MAY NOT BE YEAR 2000 COMPLIANT AND COULD CAUSE A TEMPORARY
DISRUPTION OF OUR BUSINESS OPERATIONS RESULTING IN INCREASED EXPENSES, DECREASED
SALES OR REDUCED EARNINGS
 
     The Year 2000 issue concerns the ability of automated applications to
process date-dependent processes, calculations, and information by properly
interpreting the year. With respect to WESCO, the Year 2000 issue may
potentially impact business-critical computerized applications related to, among
others, customer sales, service and invoicing, purchasing, inventory management,
payroll, financing, and financial accounting and reporting. In addition, other
non business-critical systems and services may also be affected.
 
     Year 2000 compliance has already been achieved in many systems. Other
systems and processes critical to our business which are not Year 2000 compliant
are either being replaced or corrected through program changes, application
upgrades or replacement. We expect to have substantially completed required
remediation efforts by July 1999. Our project team is also developing or
enhancing contingency plans to minimize the potential adverse effect the Year
2000 issue could have on WESCO in the event business-critical systems and
processes fail to be compliant.
 
OUR FOREIGN OPERATIONS ARE SUBJECT TO POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC RISKS AND MAY BE
ADVERSELY AFFECTED BY FOREIGN CURRENCY FLUCTUATIONS
 
     Although only 1% of our sales are presently realized outside of the United
States and Canada, we believe substantial opportunities exist for us in other
international markets. As our business activities increase in these markets,
economic and political conditions of each local market may adversely affect our
results of operations, cash flows and financial condition. Our results of
operations and the value of our foreign assets are affected by fluctuations in
foreign currency exchange rates, new and different legal, tax, accounting and
regulatory requirements.
 
                                        9
<PAGE>   12
 
OUR CONTROLLING STOCKHOLDERS WILL OWN APPROXIMATELY 42% OF OUR COMMON STOCK AND
CAN EXERCISE SIGNIFICANT INFLUENCE OVER OUR AFFAIRS
 
     After the offering, approximately 42% of the issued and outstanding shares
of common stock will be held by Cypress and its affiliates. Accordingly, Cypress
and its affiliates can exercise significant influence over our affairs,
including the election of our directors, appointment of our management and
approval of actions requiring the approval of our stockholders, including the
adoption of amendments to our certificate of incorporation and approval of
mergers or sales of substantially all of our assets. The voting power of these
stockholders under certain circumstances could have the effect of delaying or
preventing a change in control of WESCO.
 
OUR COMMON STOCK HAS NEVER BEEN PUBLICLY TRADED AND THE PRICE OF OUR COMMON
STOCK MAY FLUCTUATE SIGNIFICANTLY
 
     Prior to this offering, there has been no public market for our common
stock. Our common stock has been approved for listing on the NYSE, subject to
notice of issuance, under the symbol "WCC". We do not know how the common stock
will trade in the future. We determined the initial public offering price
through negotiations with the underwriters. You may not be able to resell your
shares at or above the initial offering price because the market price for
shares of our common stock may fluctuate based on a number of factors including:
 
     - our operating performance and the performance of other similar companies;
 
     - news announcements relating to us, our industry or our competitors;
 
     - changes in earnings estimates or recommendations by research analysts;
 
     - changes in general economic conditions;
 
     - other developments affecting us, our industry, or our competitors; and
 
     - the stock market has experienced significant price and volume
       fluctuations in recent years, which are often unrelated to the operating
       performance of specific companies.
 
A SUBSTANTIAL NUMBER OF SHARES WILL BE ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE BY OUR CURRENT
STOCKHOLDERS, AND THE SALE OF THOSE SHARES COULD ADVERSELY AFFECT OUR STOCK
PRICE
 
     Upon completion of the offering, our current stockholders and holders of
options to acquire common stock, including our executive officers and directors
and their affiliates, will beneficially own approximately 79.1% of the
outstanding shares of our common stock (76.7%, if the underwriters'
over-allotment option is exercised in full) and the rights to purchase an
additional 2.4% of our outstanding common stock through the exercise of
currently exercisable options. After expiration of a 180-day "lock-up" period,
these holders will in general be entitled to dispose of their shares. Sales of
substantial amounts of our common stock, or the perception that such sales could
occur at the expiration of such 180 day period, may materially adversely affect
the prevailing market price of our common stock from time to time.
 
PROVISIONS IN OUR CORPORATE DOCUMENTS COULD DELAY OR PREVENT A CHANGE IN CONTROL
OF OUR COMPANY
 
     Our certificate of incorporation and bylaws contain several provisions
which may have anti-takeover effects and may discourage, delay or prevent a
takeover attempt that a stockholder might consider in his best interest. These
provisions include the requirements that:
 
     - our board of directors will be classified into three classes with
       staggered terms; and
 
     - our board of directors will have the authority to authorize the issuance
       of preferred stock, which could adversely affect the voting and other
       rights of the holders of our common stock.
 
                                       10
<PAGE>   13
 
THIS PROSPECTUS CONTAINS FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
 
     This prospectus contains forward-looking statements regarding our business.
When used in this prospectus, the words "anticipates," "plans," "believes,"
"estimates," "intends," "expects," "projects" and similar expressions may
identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements
contain such words. Such statements, including, but not limited to, our
statements regarding business strategy, growth strategy, productivity and
profitability enhancement, new product and service introductions and liquidity
and capital resources are based on management's beliefs, as well as on
assumptions made by, and information currently available to, management, and
involve various risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond our
control. Our actual results could differ materially from those expressed in any
forward-looking statement made by or on our behalf. In light of these risks and
uncertainties there can be no assurance that the forward-looking information
will in fact prove to be accurate. Factors that might cause actual results to
differ from such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to,
those discussed in "Risk Factors."
 
                                       11
<PAGE>   14
 
                                USE OF PROCEEDS
 
   
     Based on an assumed initial public offering price of $18.00 per share (the
midpoint of the estimated range of initial public offering prices), we will
receive approximately $163.0 million from the sale of shares of common stock in
the offering after deduction of estimated underwriting discounts and commissions
and estimated expenses (approximately $187.6 million if the underwriters' over-
allotment option is exercised in full). We intend to use net proceeds of
approximately $60.0 million from the offering to retire all of the outstanding
11 1/8% senior discount notes due 2008 (of which approximately $54.0 million
will be applied to the principal amount of such notes and approximately $6.0
million will be applied to a prepayment premium), and the balance to repay all
or a portion of the existing revolving credit facility and term loans under the
credit facilities. Pending application of the net proceeds from the offering to
repay the senior discount notes, we plan to borrow approximately $60.0 million
in funds under the delayed draw term loan facility to further reduce outstanding
indebtedness under the credit facilities.
    
 
   
     The senior discount notes were sold at a discount resulting in a yield to
maturity of 11.175% per annum and will mature on June 1, 2008. As of December
31, 1998, the interest rate on borrowings under the revolving credit facility
was 8.3% per annum, the interest rate on the Tranche A term loan was 7.6% per
annum, and the interest rate on the Tranche B term loan was 7.8% per annum. The
revolving credit facility matures on June 5, 2004. The Tranche A term loan
matures on June 5, 2004, and the Tranche B term loan matures on June 5, 2006.
WESCO used the proceeds of the revolving credit facility for general corporate
purposes. WESCO used the proceeds of the term loans and the proceeds of the
issuance of senior discount notes to pay certain fees and expenses and to repay
certain indebtedness in connection with the recapitalization. See Note 9 to
Consolidated Financial Statements.
    
 
                                DIVIDEND POLICY
 
     We have not paid or declared any dividends on our capital stock since our
inception. We anticipate that, following the completion of the offering,
earnings will be retained to support the growth of our business and will not be
distributed to stockholders as dividends. The declaration and payment of any
future dividends and the amount thereof will be determined by our board of
directors and will depend upon our results of operations, financial condition,
cash requirements, future prospects, limitations imposed by credit and debt
agreements and other factors deemed relevant by our board of directors. See
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations -- Liquidity and Capital Resources."
 
     Pursuant to our credit and debt agreements, we may not declare or make, or
agree to declare or make, directly or indirectly, any dividends, except that we
may declare and pay dividends with respect to our capital stock payable solely
in additional shares of our common stock or options, warrants or other rights to
purchase our common stock. For further information concerning dividend
restrictions, see Note 9 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
                                       12
<PAGE>   15
 
                                 CAPITALIZATION
 
     The following table sets forth our consolidated capitalization as of
December 31, 1998. Our capitalization is presented on an actual basis and on a
pro forma basis. The pro forma presentation gives effect to:
 
   
     - our sale of 9,725,000 shares of common stock in the offering at an
       assumed initial public offering price of $18.00 per share (the midpoint
       of the estimated range of initial public offering prices) after deducting
       estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering
       expenses and the anticipated application of the net proceeds from the
       offering and, pending application of such proceeds, borrowings under the
       delayed draw term facility to further reduce existing debt; and
    
 
   
     - the conversion of certain outstanding notes in the aggregate principal
       amount of $36.2 million and the termination of certain employees' rights
       to require WESCO to repurchase outstanding redeemable common stock.
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                  DECEMBER 31, 1998
                                                              -------------------------
                                                                           PRO FORMA
                                                              ACTUAL     AS ADJUSTED(1)
                                                              -------    --------------
                                                                (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                           <C>        <C>
Cash and cash equivalents...................................  $   8.1       $   8.1
                                                              =======       =======
Total debt:
  Credit facilities:
    Revolving facility......................................  $  42.4       $    --
    Delayed draw term facility..............................       --          59.8
    Term loans..............................................    169.5          49.5
  Senior subordinated notes.................................    289.2         289.2
  Senior discount notes.....................................     52.1            --
  Other debt................................................     42.6           9.0
                                                              -------       -------
         Total debt.........................................    595.8         407.5
Redeemable common stock, 4,901,902 shares issued and
  outstanding; as adjusted, none............................     21.5            --
Stockholders' Equity:
  Preferred stock: $.01 par value, none; as adjusted,
    20,000,000 shares authorized, no shares issued and
    outstanding.............................................       --            --
  Common stock:
  Common stock, $.01 par value, 210,000,000 shares
    authorized, 25,209,817 shares issued and outstanding; as
    adjusted, 41,847,830 shares issued and outstanding......      0.3           0.4
  Class B common stock (non-voting), $.01 par value,
    20,000,000 shares authorized, 4,653,131 shares issued
    and outstanding; as adjusted, 4,653,131 shares issued
    and outstanding.........................................       --            --
 
  Additional capital........................................    326.7         544.7
  Retained earnings (deficit)...............................   (468.2)(2)     (475.3)(2)
  Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).............     (1.4)         (1.4)
                                                              -------       -------
         Total stockholders' equity (deficit)...............   (142.6)         68.4
                                                              -------       -------
              Total capitalization..........................  $ 474.7       $ 475.9
                                                              =======       =======
</TABLE>
    
 
- -------------------------
 
(1) See "Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information."
   
(2) Reflects the effects of the recapitalization. See Note 3 to the Consolidated
    Financial Statements.
    
 
                                       13
<PAGE>   16
 
                                    DILUTION
 
   
     Our pro forma deficit in consolidated net tangible book value as of
December 31, 1998 was $(347.4) million or $(9.45) per share of our common stock.
Pro forma deficit in consolidated net tangible book value per share represents
the excess of total liabilities over total tangible assets adjusted for the
conversion of certain outstanding notes in the aggregate principal amount of
$36.2 million and the termination of certain employees' rights to require WESCO
to repurchase outstanding redeemable common stock divided by the adjusted number
of shares of common stock outstanding. After giving effect to the sale of the
shares of our common stock in the offering (at an assumed initial offering price
of $18.00 per share) and after deducting anticipated offering expenses and
underwriting discounts and commissions, our adjusted pro forma deficit in
consolidated net tangible book value as of December 31, 1998 would have been
$(184.4) million or $(3.97) per share, representing an immediate $21.97 per
share dilution to new investors purchasing shares at the initial public offering
price. The following table illustrates such per share dilution.
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<S>                                                           <C>        <C>
Assumed initial public offering price per share.............             $ 18.00
  Pro forma deficit in consolidated net tangible book value
  per share as of
     December 31, 1998......................................  $ (9.45)
  Increase per share attributable to new investors..........     5.48
                                                              -------
Deficit in consolidated net tangible book value per share
  after the offering........................................               (3.97)
                                                                         -------
Dilution per share to new investors.........................             $ 21.97
                                                                         =======
</TABLE>
    
 
   
     The following table sets forth, on a pro forma basis as of December 31,
1998, the number of shares of common stock purchased from WESCO, the total
consideration paid and the average price per share paid by existing stockholders
and by new investors (assuming the sale by WESCO of 9,725,000 shares in the
offering at an assumed initial public offering price of $18.00 per share),
before deduction of underwriting discounts and commissions and offering expenses
(dollars in thousands):
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                      SHARES PURCHASED       TOTAL CONSIDERATION
                                    ---------------------    -------------------
                                                 PERCENT                PERCENT      AVERAGE
                                                  AFTER                  AFTER        PRICE
                                      NUMBER     OFFERING     AMOUNT    OFFERING    PER SHARE
                                    ----------   --------    --------   --------    ---------
<S>                                 <C>          <C>         <C>        <C>         <C>
Existing stockholders(1)..........  36,775,961     79.1%     $376,280     68.2%      $10.23
New investors.....................   9,725,000     20.9       175,050     31.8        18.00
                                    ----------    -----      --------    -----
     Total........................  46,500,961    100.0%     $551,330    100.0%
                                    ==========    =====      ========    =====
</TABLE>
    
 
- -------------------------
 
   
(1) Includes shares issuable upon the conversion of certain outstanding notes in
    the aggregate principal amount of $36.2 million.
    
 
   
     The foregoing tables assume no exercise of any outstanding stock options or
the underwriters' over-allotment options. As of December 31, 1998, there were
outstanding exercisable options to purchase 5,133,912 shares of common stock at
a weighted average exercise price of approximately $2.05 per share. To the
extent that the outstanding exercisable options are exercised, the percent of
shares held by new investors would be 18.8% after the option exercises compared
to 20.9% prior to the option exercises, and the dilution to new investors would
be $20.73 per share after the option exercises compared to $21.97 per share
prior to the option exercises.
    
 
                                       14
<PAGE>   17
 
                   UNAUDITED PRO FORMA FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
   
     The following unaudited pro forma financial information of WESCO has been
prepared to give effect to the acquisition of Bruckner, the recapitalization,
the offering and borrowings under the delayed draw term facility. We treated the
recapitalization as a leveraged recapitalization for financial reporting
purposes; accordingly, the historical basis of our assets and liabilities was
not affected by the transaction. For a discussion of the recapitalization, see
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations -- Recent Developments."
    
 
     The pro forma adjustments presented are based upon available information
and include certain assumptions and adjustments that we believe are reasonable
under the circumstances. These adjustments are directly attributable to the
transactions referenced above and are expected to have a continuing impact on
our business, results of operations and financial condition. Our historical
condensed consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 1998 and the statement
of operations for the year ended December 31, 1998 were derived from our
Consolidated Financial Statements included elsewhere herein.
 
     Our unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated balance sheet gives effect
to the offering as if it had occurred on December 31, 1998. Our unaudited pro
forma condensed consolidated statement of operations for the year ended December
31, 1998 gives effect to the acquisition of Bruckner, the recapitalization and
the offering as if they occurred on January 1, 1998.
 
     The historical financial data of Bruckner for the period January 1, 1998 to
September 11, 1998 (the acquisition date) was derived from its unaudited
financial statements. The acquisition of Bruckner was accounted for using the
purchase method of accounting pursuant to which the total purchase price was
allocated to the tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed
based on their estimated fair values. None of the acquisitions described in the
prospectus, excluding Bruckner, met the individual or aggregate criteria
outlined by the SEC's significant subsidiary test.
 
   
     The unaudited pro forma financial information and related notes thereto are
provided for informational purposes only. They do not necessarily reflect our
results of operations or financial condition that would have actually resulted
had the events referred to above or in the notes to the unaudited pro forma
financial information been consummated. In addition, the unaudited pro forma
financial information is not intended to project our financial condition or
results of operations for any future period and does not necessarily reflect the
effect of an extraordinary charge of $11.7 million expected to result from the
offering related to the early extinguishment of outstanding 11 1/8% senior
discount notes and a portion of the credit facilities.
    
 
                                       15
<PAGE>   18
 
                           WESCO INTERNATIONAL, INC.
                         UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED
                           CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
                             (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
 
                            AS OF DECEMBER 31, 1998
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     WESCO        OFFERING           WESCO
                                                   HISTORICAL    ADJUSTMENTS      AS ADJUSTED
                                                   ----------    -----------      -----------
<S>                                                <C>           <C>              <C>
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents........................  $   8,093                       $  8,093
Trade accounts receivable........................    181,511                        181,511
Other accounts receivable........................     22,265                         22,265
Inventories......................................    343,764                        343,764
Other current assets.............................     26,438     $     4,547(1)      30,985
                                                   ---------     -----------       --------
     Total current assets........................    582,071           4,547        586,618
Property, buildings and equipment, net...........    107,596                        107,596
Goodwill, net of accumulated amortization........    234,049                        234,049
Other assets.....................................     26,806          (3,962)(2)     22,844
                                                   ---------     -----------       --------
     Total assets................................  $ 950,522     $       585       $951,107
                                                   =========     ===========       ========
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Accounts payable.................................  $ 378,590                       $378,590
Accrued payroll and benefit costs................     19,614                         19,614
Current portion long-term debt...................     16,592     $    (6,200)(3)     10,392
Other current liabilities........................     51,671            (539)(4)     51,132
                                                   ---------     -----------       --------
     Total current liabilities...................    466,467          (6,739)       459,728
Long-term debt...................................    579,238        (182,097)(3)    397,141
Other noncurrent liabilities.....................      7,040                          7,040
Deferred income taxes............................     18,832                         18,832
                                                   ---------     -----------       --------
     Total liabilities...........................  1,071,577        (188,836)       882,741
Redeemable common stock..........................     21,506         (21,506)(5)         --
Stockholders' equity.............................   (142,561)        210,927(6)      68,366
                                                   ---------     -----------       --------
     Total liabilities and stockholders'
       equity....................................  $ 950,522     $       585       $951,107
                                                   =========     ===========       ========
</TABLE>
    
 
     See notes to unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated balance sheet
                                       16
<PAGE>   19
 
                           WESCO INTERNATIONAL, INC.
                     NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED
                           CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
                             (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
 
   
(1) Reflects the tax benefit associated with an extraordinary loss on the early
    extinguishment of debt discussed in footnote (3) below of $11,658 (before
    tax benefit of $4,547) at an assumed rate of 39%.
    
(2) Reflects the write-off of deferred financing costs in connection with the
    repayment of debt discussed in footnote (3) below.
   
(3) Reflects adjustments relating to long-term debt as follows:
    
 
   
<TABLE>
   <S>                                                             <C>
   Borrowings under the delayed draw term facility.............    $  60,261
   Repayment of senior discount notes (net of unamortized
     purchase discount of $1,645)..............................      (52,565)
   Repayment of Tranche A term loan............................      (30,511)
   Repayment of Tranche B term loan (including $500 current
     portion)..................................................      (89,500)
   Repayment of revolving credit facility......................      (42,450)
   Conversion of acquisition notes (including $5,700 current
     portion)..................................................      (33,532)
                                                                   ---------
                                                                   $(188,297)
                                                                   =========
</TABLE>
    
 
   The assumed conversion of the acquisition notes results from requirements of
   three notes for automatic conversion upon the offering and anticipated firm
   commitment from one noteholder as to their intent to convert at the assumed
   offering price.
(4) Reflects payment of accrued interest associated with extinguished
    indebtedness.
(5) Reflects the termination of certain employees' rights to require WESCO to
    repurchase the redeemable common stock.
(6) Reflects adjustments relating to stockholders' equity as follows:
 
   
<TABLE>
   <S>                                                             <C>
   Net proceeds from the offering..............................    $163,000
   Termination of redemption feature...........................      21,506
   Conversion of acquisition notes.............................      33,532
   Extraordinary charge, net of tax benefit of $4,547..........      (7,111)
                                                                   --------
                                                                   $210,927
                                                                   ========
</TABLE>
    
 
   The proceeds from the offering have been assumed since the transaction
   reflects an underwritten offering and the underwriters have a firm commitment
   to purchase all of the offered securities.
 
                                       17
<PAGE>   20
 
                           WESCO INTERNATIONAL, INC.
                   UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED
                            STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
 
                   (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
 
                      FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      BRUCKNER
                          WESCO        BRUCKNER       PRO FORMA    RECAPITALIZATION     WESCO       OFFERING        WESCO
                        HISTORICAL   HISTORICAL(1)   ADJUSTMENTS     ADJUSTMENTS      PRO FORMA    ADJUSTMENTS   AS ADJUSTED
                        ----------   -------------   -----------   ----------------   ----------   -----------   -----------
<S>                     <C>          <C>             <C>           <C>                <C>          <C>           <C>
Sales, net............  $3,025,439     $179,894                                       $3,205,333                 $3,205,333
Cost of goods sold....   2,487,780      161,218                                        2,648,998                  2,648,998
                        ----------     --------                                       ----------                 ----------
  Gross profit........     537,659       18,676                                          556,335                    556,335
Selling, general and
  administrative
  expenses............     415,028        6,792                        $    (67)(5)      421,753                    421,753
Depreciation and
  amortization........      14,805           77        $ 1,899(2)                         16,781                     16,781
Recapitalization costs
  (9).................      51,800                                                        51,800                     51,800
                        ----------     --------        -------         --------       ----------    --------     ----------
  Income (loss) from
    operations........      56,026       11,807         (1,899)              67           66,001                     66,001
Interest expense,
  net.................      45,121                       2,575(3)         9,696(6)        57,392    $(16,446)(8)     40,946
Other income..........                     (264)                                            (264)                      (264)
Other expenses........      10,122                                        5,168(7)        15,290                     15,290
                        ----------     --------        -------         --------       ----------    --------     ----------
  Income (loss) before
    income taxes......         783       12,071         (4,474)         (14,797)          (6,417)     16,446         10,029
Provision (benefit)
  for income taxes....       8,519                       2,963(4)        (5,771)(4)        5,711       6,414(4)      12,125
                        ----------     --------        -------         --------       ----------    --------     ----------
  Income (loss) from
  continuing
  operations before
  extraordinary charge
  directly
  attributable to the
  offering (9)........  $   (7,736)    $ 12,071        $(7,437)        $ (9,026)      $  (12,128)   $ 10,032     $   (2,096)
                        ==========     ========        =======         ========       ==========    ========     ==========
Earnings (loss) per
  common share (11)
Basic.................  $    (0.17)                                                                              $    (0.05)
                        ==========                                                                               ==========
Diluted (9)(10).......  $    (0.17)                                                                              $    (0.05)
                        ==========                                                                               ==========
Weighted average
  common shares used
  in computing basic
  earnings (loss) per
  share...............  45,051,632                                                                               45,982,139
                        ==========                                                                               ==========
Weighted average
  common shares and
  common share
  equivalents used in
  computing diluted
  earnings (loss) per
  share...............  45,051,632                                                                               45,982,139
                        ==========                                                                               ==========
</TABLE>
    
 
See notes to unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated statement of operations
                                       18
<PAGE>   21
 
                           WESCO INTERNATIONAL, INC.
                     NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED
                      CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
 
                             (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
 
 (1) Reflects Bruckner historical financial data for the period January 1, 1998
     to September 11, 1998 (the acquisition date). Certain reclassifications
     have been made to Bruckner's historical financial statements to conform to
     the presentation used by WESCO upon completion of the acquisition.
 (2) Reflects incremental amortization of goodwill resulting from the
     acquisition of Bruckner over an estimated period of 35 years.
 (3) Reflects incremental interest expense on new obligations related to the
     acquisition of Bruckner. The obligations consist of $19,000 of new
     borrowings and a non-interest bearing convertible note due March 31, 2000
     and discounted to a value of $26,621 for financial reporting purposes (face
     value $30,000). The assumed interest rate on the $19,000 of new borrowings
     under WESCO's existing credit agreement was 8.3%. For purposes of this pro
     forma financial information, the original issue discount on the
     non-interest bearing convertible note is accreted on a straight-line basis
     (which approximates the effective interest method) over the period ending
     March 31, 2000. Assuming a 0.125 percentage point change in interest rates,
     interest expense would change by $24 for the year ended December 31, 1998.
 (4) Reflects the income tax effect of converting Bruckner from a subchapter S
     corporation to a C corporation and the income tax effects of the pro forma
     adjustments at an assumed rate of 39%.
 (5) Reflects the elimination of non-recurring advisory, management consulting
     and monitoring fees paid to WESCO's investors prior to the recapitalization
     during the periods presented. Historical revenue and expenses would not
     have been materially changed without these services.
 (6) Reflects the incremental interest expense relating to the recapitalization
     assuming interest rates of 9 1/8% for the senior subordinated notes, 7.60%
     for the Tranche A term loan and 7.75% for the Tranche B term loan
     borrowings under a new credit agreement, and amortization of original issue
     and purchase discounts, as well as the incremental amortization expense
     resulting from the capitalization of transaction fees and expenses of
     $10,570 related to the recapitalization. The amortization of debt issuance
     costs was $1,355 for the year ended December 31, 1998. The senior discount
     notes were issued with an original issue discount of $36,522. The original
     issue discount is being accreted over the period ending June 1, 2003.
     Assuming a 0.125 percentage point change in interest rates, interest
     expense would change by $213 for the year ended December 31, 1998.
 (7) Reflects the incremental costs related to the sale of certain accounts
     receivable in connection with the recapitalization at an assumed discount
     rate of 6.19%.
   
 (8) Reflects adjustments to interest expense in connection with borrowings,
     repayments and conversions of debt associated with the offering as follows:
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                      AMORTIZATION
                                                                      ACCRETION OF     INTEREST
                                                                        DISCOUNTS      EXPENSE      TOTAL
                                                                      -------------    --------    -------
        <S>                                                           <C>              <C>         <C>
        Senior discount notes, net..................................     $5,308                    $ 5,308
        Revolving credit facility...................................                    $3,131       3,131
        Tranche A term loan.........................................                     2,319       2,319
        Tranche B term loan.........................................                     6,975       6,975
        Acquisition notes...........................................      2,175            503       2,678
        Delayed draw term facility..................................                    (4,520)     (4,520)
                                                                         ------         ------     -------
                                                                         $7,483         $8,408     $15,891
                                                                         ======         ======     =======
</TABLE>
    
 
   
    In addition, amortization of debt issuance costs totaling $555 associated
    with the above debt were eliminated.
    
   
 (9) Includes a one-time charge primarily related to the noncapitalized
     financing expenses, professional and legal expenses and management
     compensation costs. Assuming such charges were not incurred, pro forma net
     income would have been $36,204 and pro forma diluted earnings per share
     would have been $0.73.
    
   
(10) Excludes interest on convertible debt of $1,266 and $58 for Historical and
     As Adjusted, respectively, and 6,630,180 and 3,344,672 common share
     equivalents for Historical and As Adjusted, respectively, as the inclusion
     would be anti-dilutive.
    
(11) Reflects a 57.8 to one stock split effected in the form of a stock dividend
     of WESCO's common stock approved by the board of directors on April 11,
     1999 to be effective prior to the consummation of the offering.
 
                                       19
<PAGE>   22
 
                SELECTED HISTORICAL CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA
 
     The following table sets forth selected historical consolidated financial
data of WESCO as of and for the four years ended December 31, 1998 which have
been derived from audited financial statements. The period ended December 31,
1994 represents the combined financial data of our predecessor, Westinghouse
Electric Supply Company, a division of Westinghouse, for the two months ended
February 28, 1994 and of WESCO for the ten months ended December 31, 1994. The
combined selected data do not purport to represent what WESCO's consolidated
results of operations would have been if the acquisition had actually occurred
on January 1, 1994. The selected historical consolidated financial data of WESCO
as of December 31, 1997 and 1998 and for the three years ended December 31, 1998
have been derived from our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere
herein, which have been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP. The selected
historical consolidated financial data should be read in conjunction with, and
is qualified in its entirety by, our historical consolidated financial
statements and the accompanying notes thereto and "Management's Discussion and
Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" included elsewhere in
this prospectus.
 
                                       20
<PAGE>   23
 
                SELECTED HISTORICAL CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA
 
                    (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                  YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                            --------------------------------------------------------------------
                                            1994(1)        1995           1996           1997           1998
                                            --------    -----------    -----------    -----------    -----------
<S>                                         <C>         <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>
INCOME STATEMENT DATA:
Sales, net................................  $1,635.8    $   1,857.0    $   2,274.6    $   2,594.8    $   3,025.4
Gross profit..............................     262.5          321.0          405.0          463.9          537.6
Selling, general and administrative
  expenses................................     232.6          258.0          326.0          372.5          415.0
Depreciation and amortization.............       8.7            7.3           10.8           11.3           14.8
Recapitalization costs....................        --             --             --             --           51.8(2)
                                            --------    -----------    -----------    -----------    -----------
Income from operations....................      21.2           55.7           68.2           80.1           56.0
Interest expense, net.....................      20.0           15.8           17.4           20.1           45.1
Other expense.............................        --             --             --             --           10.1(3)
                                            --------    -----------    -----------    -----------    -----------
Income before income taxes................       1.2           39.9           50.8           60.0            0.8
Provision for income taxes................       1.7           14.8           18.3           23.8            8.5(4)
                                            --------    -----------    -----------    -----------    -----------
Income (loss) before and extraordinary
  charge, net of taxes....................      (0.5)          25.1           32.5           36.2           (7.7)
Extraordinary charge, net of applicable
  taxes...................................        --            8.1(5)          --             --             --
                                            --------    -----------    -----------    -----------    -----------
Net income (loss).........................  $   (0.5)   $      17.0    $      32.5    $      36.2    $      (7.7)(2)
                                            ========    ===========    ===========    ===========    ===========
Earnings (loss) per common share (6)
    Basic before extraordinary charge, net
      of taxes............................        --    $      0.43    $      0.55    $      0.61    $     (0.17)(2)
    Basic.................................        --           0.29           0.55           0.61          (0.17)
    Diluted before extraordinary charge,
      net of taxes........................        --           0.41           0.51           0.55          (0.17)
    Diluted...............................        --           0.28           0.51           0.55          (0.17)
Weighted average common shares outstanding
    Basic.................................        --     57,842,483     58,680,756     59,030,100     45,051,632
    Diluted...............................        --     60,883,283     63,670,919     66,679,063     45,051,632
OTHER FINANCIAL DATA:
EBITDA before recapitalization costs
  (7).....................................  $   29.9    $      63.0    $      79.0    $      91.4    $     122.6
Capital expenditures......................        --            6.5            9.3           11.6           10.7
Net cash provided by (used for) operating
  activities..............................        --           25.7           15.1          (12.0)         276.9
Net cash provided by (used for) investing
  activities..............................        --          (12.0)        (110.9)         (21.5)        (184.1)
Net cash provided by (used for) financing
  activities..............................        --           (9.8)          87.2           41.1          (92.3)
BALANCE SHEET DATA:
Adjusted working capital (8)..............  $  196.5    $     222.5    $     291.6    $     338.8    $     146.7(9)
Total assets..............................     533.7          581.3          773.5          870.9          950.5
Total long-term debt (including current
  portion)................................     180.6          177.9          262.2          295.2          595.8
Redeemable common stock (10)..............       5.5            7.7            8.9            9.0           21.5
Stockholders' equity (deficit)............      99.5          116.4          148.7          184.5         (142.6)
</TABLE>
 
                                       21
<PAGE>   24
 
- ---------------
 
 (1) Our business was part of Westinghouse for the first two months of 1994. The
     results of operations and financial data for that period are as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                  THE PREDECESSOR (i)        WESCO
                                                  --------------------    ------------
                                                       TWO MONTHS          TEN MONTHS       COMBINED
                                                         ENDED               ENDED         YEAR ENDED
                                                      FEBRUARY 28,        DECEMBER 31,    DECEMBER 31,
                                                          1994                1994          1994(ii)
                                                  --------------------    ------------    ------------
      <S>                                         <C>                     <C>             <C>
      Sales, net................................         $237.3             $1,398.5        $1,635.8
      Gross profit..............................           32.5                230.0           262.5
      Selling, general and administrative
        expenses................................           34.9                197.7           232.6
      Depreciation and amortization.............            1.2                  7.5             8.7
                                                         ------             --------        --------
      Income (loss) from operations.............           (3.6)                24.8            21.2
      Interest expense, net (iii)...............            2.4                 17.6            20.0
                                                         ------             --------        --------
      Income (loss) before income taxes.........           (6.0)                 7.2             1.2
      Provision (benefit) for income taxes
        (iv)....................................           (1.9)                 3.6             1.7
                                                         ------             --------        --------
      Net income (loss).........................         $ (4.1)            $    3.6        $   (0.5)
                                                         ======             ========        ========
      Other Financial Data:
        EBITDA before recapitalization costs....         $ (2.4)            $   32.3        $   29.9
        Net cash provided by operating
           activities...........................          (11.5)                63.7              --
        Net cash used for investing
           activities...........................            0.1               (256.6)             --
        Net cash provided by financing
           activities...........................           11.9                197.5              --
</TABLE>
 
      (i) Presents consolidated financial data of our predecessor, the
          Westinghouse Electric Supply Company, a division of Westinghouse, for
          the periods prior to WESCO's acquisition of substantially all of the
          assets and certain liabilities of our predecessor, effective February
          28, 1994. Consolidated financial data of our predecessor have been
          derived from our predecessor's consolidated financial statements,
          which have been audited by our predecessor's accountants. The
          Commission, in Staff Accounting Bulletin Number 55 (SAB 55), requires
          that historical financial statements of a subsidiary, division or
          lesser business component of another entity include certain expenses
          incurred by the parent on its behalf. These expenses include officer
          and employee salaries; rent; depreciation; advertising; accounting and
          legal services; other selling, general and administrative expenses;
          and other such expenses. The financial statements of our predecessor
          include such adjustments, estimates or allocations as the management
          of our predecessor's parent company believed necessary to reflect
          these expenses. Because of such items, certain aspects of the
          consolidated results of operations for periods prior to the period
          beginning February 28, 1994 are not comparable with those for
          subsequent periods.
      (ii) Presents combined results of operations of our predecessor for the
           two months ended February 28, 1994 and of WESCO for ten months ended
           December 31, 1994. The combined operations data does not purport to
           represent what WESCO's consolidated results of operations would have
           been if the acquisition had actually occurred on January 1, 1994.
     (iii) Our predecessor received a charge from its parent company in the form
           of interest expense for the portion of the parent company investment
           that, for internal reporting purposes, represented debt. For the two
           months ended February 28, 1994, approximately 40% of the average
           parent company investment was considered to be debt for internal
           reporting purposes. The effective annual interest rates for all
           periods was approximately 10%. This
                                       22
<PAGE>   25
 
           method of reporting interest expense for internal reporting purposes
           is not necessarily indicative of interest expense that would have
           been incurred had our predecessor operated as a separate stand-alone
           entity.
      (iv) Our predecessor's results of domestic operations were included in the
           consolidated U.S. federal income tax return of Westinghouse. The
           income tax expense and other tax-related information in our
           predecessor's consolidated financial statements were calculated as if
           our predecessor had not been eligible to be included in the
           consolidated tax returns of Westinghouse (i.e., on a "stand-alone"
           basis). The calculation of tax provisions and deferred taxes
           necessarily required certain assumptions, allocations and estimates
           that our predecessor's management believed were reasonable to
           accurately reflect the tax reporting for our predecessor as if a
           stand-alone taxpayer.
 (2) Reflects a one-time charge primarily related to noncapitalized financing
     expenses, professional and legal fees and management compensation costs.
     Reference is made to Note 1 to "Prospectus Summary -- Summary Historical
     and Pro Forma Financial Data" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of
     Financial Condition and Results of Operations -- Results of
     Operations -- 1998 compared to 1997."
 (3) Represents costs relating to the sale of accounts receivable pursuant to
     the receivables facility.
 (4) Certain nondeductible recapitalization costs and other permanent
     differences significantly exceeded income before income taxes and resulted
     in an unusually high provision for income taxes.
 (5) Represents a charge, net of taxes, relating to the write-off of unamortized
     debt issuance and other costs associated with the early extinguishment of
     debt.
 (6) Reflects a 57.8 to one stock split effected in the form of a stock dividend
     of WESCO's common stock approved by the board of directors on April 11,
     1999 to be effective prior to consummation of the offering. For a
     description of the calculation of basic and diluted earnings per common
     share, see Notes 2 and 13 to Consolidated Financial Statements included
     elsewhere in this prospectus. For the year ended December 31, 1998, $1.3
     million of the interest on convertible debt and 6,630,180 common share
     equivalents have not been included, since the impact was anti-dilutive.
 (7) EBITDA before recapitalization costs represents income from operations plus
     depreciation, amortization and recapitalization costs. EBITDA before
     recapitalization costs is presented since management believes that such
     information is considered by certain investors to be an additional basis
     for evaluating WESCO's ability to pay interest and repay debt. EBITDA
     before recapitalization costs should not be considered an alternative to
     measures of operating performance as determined in accordance with
     generally accepted accounting principles or as a measure of WESCO's
     operating results and cash flows or as a measure of WESCO's liquidity.
     Since EBITDA before recapitalization costs is not calculated identically by
     all companies, this presentation may not be comparable to other similarly
     titled measures of other companies.
 (8) Defined as trade accounts receivable plus inventories less accounts
     payable.
 (9) Excludes $274.2 million of accounts receivable pursuant to the sale in 1998
     of such receivables in connection with the receivables facility.
(10) Represents redeemable common stock as described in Note 11 to Consolidated
     Financial Statements. Under certain limited circumstances, the holders
     thereof have the right to require us to repurchase all of the redeemable
     shares and the exercisable portion of the options. These repurchase rights
     terminate upon consummation of the offering. The redemption value of the
     shares and exercisable portion of the options at December 31, 1997 and 1998
     was approximately $68.6 million and $130.3 million, respectively. See
     "Certain Relationships and Related Transactions -- Management
     Stockholders."
 
                                       23
<PAGE>   26
 
   
                           FIRST QUARTER 1999 RESULTS
    
 
   
     Net sales for the three months ended March 31, 1999 increased $84.0
million, or 12.1%, to $777.4 million compared with $693.4 million for the first
three months in 1998. Income from operations in the first three months of 1999
was $23.9 million, an increase of $3.7 million, or 18.6%, compared with $20.2
million in the first three months of 1998. Net income and diluted earnings per
share totalled $2.9 million and $0.08 per share, respectively, for the three
months of 1999, compared with net income and diluted earnings per share of $8.5
million and $0.13 per share, respectively, for the first three months of 1998.
The decrease in net income and diluted earnings per share in 1999 is primarily
due to an increase in interest expense associated with higher debt levels as a
result of the recapitalization and acquisitions.
    
 
   
     EBITDA before recapitalization costs for the first three months of 1999
increased to $28.4 million, or 22.9%, compared to $23.1 million in the first
three months of 1998.
    
 
                                       24
<PAGE>   27
 
          MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
                           AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
     The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the audited
consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included elsewhere in this
prospectus.
 
GENERAL
 
     WESCO is a leading distributor of electrical products and other industrial
MRO supplies and the leading provider of value-added related services in North
America. WESCO has over 330 branches and five distribution centers strategically
located in 48 states, nine Canadian provinces, Puerto Rico, Guam, Mexico, the
United Kingdom and Singapore. WESCO serves over 130,000 customers worldwide,
offering over 1,000,000 products from over 23,000 suppliers. WESCO's diverse
customer base includes a wide variety of industrial companies; contractors for
industrial, commercial, and residential projects; utility companies; and
commercial, institutional and governmental customers. Approximately 90% of
WESCO's net sales are generated from operations in the U.S., 9% from Canada and
the remainder from other countries.
 
     WESCO's sales can be categorized as stock, direct ship and special orders.
Stock orders are filled directly from existing inventory and generally represent
40% to 50% of total sales. Approximately 35% to 45% of WESCO's total sales are
direct ship sales. Direct ship sales are typically custom-built products, large
orders or products that are too bulky to be easily handled and, as a result, are
shipped directly to the customer from the supplier. Special orders are for
products that are not ordinarily stocked in inventory and are ordered based on a
customer's specific request. Special orders represent the remainder of total
sales. Gross profit margins on stock and special order sales are approximately
50% higher than those on direct ship sales. Although direct ship gross margins
are lower, operating profit margins are often higher, since the product handling
and fulfillment costs associated with direct shipments are much lower.
 
     WESCO continues to emphasize a number of initiatives designed to improve
its working capital performance, primarily in the area of inventory management.
Such initiatives include:
 
     - coordinating purchasing and inventory investment activities among groups
       of branches or "districts;"
 
     - upgrading the automated stock replenishment programs used to supply
       branches from the distribution centers;
 
     - negotiating improved inventory return and consignment arrangements with
       suppliers;
 
     - increasing the use of preferred suppliers; and
 
     - shortening lead times between order and delivery from suppliers.
 
     WESCO has historically financed its acquisitions, new branch openings,
working capital needs and capital expenditures through internally generated cash
flow and borrowings under its credit facilities. During the initial phase of an
acquisition or new branch opening, WESCO typically incurs expenses related to
installing or converting information systems, training employees and other
initial operating activities. With some acquisitions, WESCO may incur expenses
in connection with the closure of any of its own redundant branches.
Historically, the costs associated with opening new branches, and closing
branches in connection with certain acquisitions, have not been material. WESCO
has accounted for its acquisitions under the purchase method of accounting.
 
     WESCO is the leading consolidator in its industry, having acquired 18
companies since August 1995 representing annual sales of over $1.1 billion.
Management distinguishes sales attributable to core operations separate from
sales of acquired businesses. The distinction between sales from core
 
                                       25
<PAGE>   28
 
operations and from acquired businesses is based on WESCO's internal records and
on management estimates where the integration of acquired businesses results in
the closing or consolidation of branches.
 
RECENT DEVELOPMENTS
 
     The recent results of operations and financial position of WESCO were
affected by the following:
 
     Recapitalization.  On June 5, 1998, WESCO repurchased and retired all of
its common stock, with the exception of certain shares held by members of
management, for an aggregate consideration of approximately $654 million and
repaid approximately $379 million of the then outstanding indebtedness. In
connection with the transaction, WESCO also sold 89% of its common stock to an
investor group led by affiliates of Cypress for an aggregate cash consideration
of $318 million, issued $300 million of senior subordinated notes and
approximately $50 million of senior discount notes, borrowed $170 million under
a new credit facility and sold approximately $250 million of accounts receivable
as part of an off-balance sheet securitization transaction. Following the
recapitalization, management's retained ownership interest amounted to 11% of
the common stock.
 
     Acquisitions.  During 1998, WESCO completed six acquisitions with total
annual sales exceeding $600 million for an aggregate purchase price of $250
million. The most significant acquisition, Bruckner, a provider of integrated
supply procurement services for large industrial companies, was completed in
September 1998. Bruckner had annual sales of approximately $222 million in 1997.
The purchase price paid at closing was $99.1 million, consisting of $72.5
million in cash and a convertible note discounted to a value of $26.6 million.
 
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
     The following table sets forth the percentage relationship to net sales of
certain items in WESCO's Consolidated Statements of Operations for the periods
presented:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                              YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                              -----------------------
                                                              1996     1997     1998
                                                              -----    -----    -----
<S>                                                           <C>      <C>      <C>
Sales, net..................................................  100.0%   100.0%   100.0%
Gross profit................................................   17.8     17.9     17.8
Selling, general and administrative expenses................   14.3     14.3     13.7
Depreciation and amortization...............................    0.5      0.5      0.5
Recapitalization costs......................................     --       --      1.7
                                                              -----    -----    -----
     Income from operations.................................    3.0      3.1      1.9
Interest expense............................................    0.8      0.8      1.6
Other expense...............................................     --       --      0.3
                                                              -----    -----    -----
     Income before income taxes.............................    2.2      2.3       --
Income taxes................................................    0.8      0.9      0.3
                                                              -----    -----    -----
     Net income (loss)......................................    1.4%     1.4%    (0.3)%
                                                              =====    =====    =====
</TABLE>
 
  1998 Compared to 1997
 
     Net Sales.  Sales in 1998 increased $430.6 million, or 16.6%, to $3,025.4
million compared with $2,594.8 million for 1997. Sales from core operations
increased approximately 4% with the balance of the sales increase coming from
eight acquisitions since the beginning of 1997. The mix of direct shipment sales
increased to approximately 42% in 1998 from 39% in 1997 as a result of the
Bruckner acquisition. Substantially all of Bruckner's sales are direct shipment.
Consistent with recent trends, branches with a high volume of sales to utility
customers experienced somewhat higher levels of sales
 
                                       26
<PAGE>   29
 
growth. Also, the Canadian branches recorded sales growth of 4% in 1998 in
Canadian currency and when translated to U.S. dollars, those sales declined 3%.
 
     Gross Profit.  Gross profit for the year ended December 31, 1998 increased
$73.7 million to $537.6 million from $463.9 million for 1997. Gross profit
margin declined slightly to 17.8% in 1998 from 17.9% in 1997. This decrease
resulted from a higher proportion of direct ship sales attributable to the
Bruckner acquisition. Direct ship gross margins are lower than those of other
sales; however, operating profit margins are often higher, since the product
handling and fulfillment costs associated with direct shipments are much lower.
Excluding the effects of the Bruckner acquisition, the 1998 gross profit margin
increased to 18.1%. WESCO believes that this increase in gross margin is the
result of numerous gross margin improvement initiatives.
 
     Selling, General and Administrative Expenses.  Selling, general and
administrative ("SG&A") expenses increased $42.5 million, or 11.4%, to $415.0
million. The majority of this increase was associated with companies acquired
during 1998; the remainder of the increase was associated with certain expenses
that are variable in nature and increase when sales increase. As a percent of
sales, SG&A expenses declined to 13.7% compared with 14.3% a year ago,
reflecting cost containment initiatives in the core business representing a 0.4%
decrease as a percent of sales, and the effects of a lower cost structure
associated with the Bruckner acquisition.
 
     Depreciation and Amortization.  Depreciation and amortization increased
$3.5 million to $14.8 million reflecting higher amortization of goodwill from
acquisitions and increases in property, buildings and equipment over the prior
year.
 
     Recapitalization Costs.  During 1998, WESCO completed the recapitalization
and incurred one-time costs associated with this transaction amounting to $51.8
million. These costs are related to noncapitalized financing expenses,
professional and legal fees and management compensation costs.
 
     Interest and Other Expense.  Interest expense totaled $45.1 million, an
increase of $25.0 million over 1997. The increase was primarily due to the
higher levels of borrowings associated with acquisitions and the
recapitalization. Other expense totaled $10.1 million in 1998 reflecting costs
associated with the accounts receivable securitization.
 
     Income Taxes.  Income tax expense totaled $8.5 million in 1998 compared
with $23.8 million in 1997. In 1998 WESCO recorded $51.8 million of costs
associated with the recapitalization which contributed to income before taxes of
$0.8 million. Certain nondeductible recapitalization costs and other permanent
differences significantly exceeded the $0.8 million of income before taxes and
resulted in an unusually high effective tax rate. The effective tax rate in 1997
was 39.6%.
 
     Net Income (Loss).  Net loss and diluted loss per share totaled $7.7
million and $(0.17) per share, respectively, for 1998, compared with net income
and diluted earnings per share of $36.2 million and $0.55 per share,
respectively, for 1997. The comparability of the results was affected by the
one-time charge of $51.8 million related to the recapitalization, the impact of
the nondeductibility of a portion of these costs on taxes and an increase in
interest expense associated with higher debt levels, as a result of the
recapitalization and acquisitions. Excluding the recapitalization costs of $51.8
million, net income for 1998 would have been approximately $30.6 million.
 
  1997 Compared to 1996
 
     Net Sales.  Sales in 1997 increased $320.2 million, or 14.1%, to $2,594.8
million, compared with $2,274.6 million for 1996. Sales from core operations
increased approximately 7%. Within the U.S., the branches with a high volume of
sales to utility customers experienced a somewhat higher level of sales growth.
In addition to growth from core operations, the remaining sales increase
resulted from the nine companies acquired since the beginning of 1996. Sales of
product from stock rose 21%, as compared to the prior period, increasing the mix
of stock sales three percentage points to 48% of total
 
                                       27
<PAGE>   30
 
sales. This was a result of several ongoing initiatives designed to increase
stock sales, such as the continued emphasis on growing National Accounts sales,
and, to a lesser extent, the impact of acquired company sales, which have tended
to have a higher mix of stock sales. Direct ship sales rose 4% over the prior
period. This sales increase was below that experienced by WESCO in other areas
and was primarily due to the slower growth in the non-residential construction
market for commercial and industrial projects, which constitutes the majority of
direct ship sales.
 
     Gross Profit.  Gross profit in 1997 totaled $463.9 million compared with
$405.0 million in 1996. The increase of $58.9 million, or 14.5%, was due to
higher sales volume in 1997 from both acquisitions and existing operations.
Gross profit margin increased in the comparison to 17.9% from 17.8%. In 1996,
gross profit of approximately $9.3 million was recorded in connection with a
one-time international construction project with a gross profit margin that was
higher than WESCO's usual margins on similar projects due to the service
requirements and risk considerations associated with the order. Excluding this
project, gross profit margins would have been 17.9% and 17.6% in 1997 and 1996,
respectively. The increase in gross profit margin was due to the increase in the
mix of higher margin stock sales including sales associated with acquired
companies.
 
     Selling, General and Administrative Expenses.  SG&A expenses increased
$46.5 million, or 14.3%, to $372.5 million and was primarily attributable to
companies acquired since the beginning of 1996. As a percent of net sales, SG&A
expenses remained unchanged at 14.3%. Acquisitions with higher SG&A expense
rates were partially offset by cost containment in WESCO's core business, as
well as cost reductions in acquired companies.
 
     Interest and Other Expenses.  Interest expense increased by $2.7 million in
1997 to $20.1 million from $17.4 million in the prior year. This increase is due
to the higher levels of borrowings associated with acquisitions and increased
working capital to support sales growth, partially offset by lower interest
rates during 1997.
 
     Income Taxes.  The effective tax rate was 39.6% for 1997 compared to 36.1%
for 1996. The increase in the effective tax rate was due to the reduction of a
valuation allowance for deferred tax assets in 1995 and 1996, which had the
effect of reducing the income tax rate during those periods. WESCO began its
operations as a stand-alone entity in early 1994 with no history of generating
taxable income. Accordingly, a valuation allowance was established for the net
deferred tax assets that were generated during 1994. In 1995 and 1996, as WESCO
subsequently demonstrated an ability to utilize such deferred tax assets, the
valuation allowance was reduced and had the effect of reducing the effective tax
rate for both 1995 and 1996. Since the valuation allowance was eliminated during
1996, there was no similar effect on the 1997 tax rate.
 
     Net Income.  Net income and diluted earnings per share totaled $36.2
million and $0.55 per share, respectively, for 1997, compared with $32.5 million
and $0.51 per share in 1996. The earnings increase was due to an increase in
gross profit partially offset by higher operating expenses and a higher
effective tax rate in the comparison.
 
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
 
     Total assets were $950.5 million at December 31, 1998 and $870.9 million a
year earlier. In addition, stockholders' equity was a deficit of $142.6 million
at December 31, 1998 compared with total stockholders' equity of $184.5 million
at December 31, 1997. The changes in these categories, as well as long-term debt
discussed below, reflect the effects of the sale and repurchase of common stock,
debt refinancing and sale of accounts receivable completed in connection with
the recapitalization.
 
                                       28
<PAGE>   31
 
     Primarily as a result of the recapitalization completed in June 1998, WESCO
has increased its debt as set forth below:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                DECEMBER 31
                                                              ----------------
                                                               1997      1998
                                                              ------    ------
                                                               (IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                           <C>       <C>
Term loans..................................................  $   --    $169.5
Revolving credit facility...................................      --      42.4
Old revolving credit facility...............................   226.2        --
Senior subordinated notes (1)...............................      --     289.2
Senior discount notes (2)...................................      --      52.1
Mortgage notes (3)..........................................    65.3        --
Other.......................................................     3.7      42.6
                                                              ------    ------
                                                               295.2     595.8
Less current portion........................................    (1.0)    (16.6)
                                                              ------    ------
                                                              $294.2    $579.2
                                                              ======    ======
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
(1) Net of original issue discount of $0.9 million and purchase discount of $9.9
    million.
(2) Net of original issue discount of $33.2 million and purchase discount of
    $1.7 million.
(3) Net of original issue discount of $16.6 million.
 
     The term loans and revolving facility borrowings are made pursuant to a
credit agreement. The credit agreement provides for three term loan facilities
consisting of Tranche A term loan, Tranche B term loan and a delayed draw term
facility, as well as a $100 million revolving credit facility. Tranche A term
loan provides for borrowings of $80 million, Tranche B term loan provides for
borrowings of $90 million and the delayed draw facility provides for borrowings
of up to $100 million. Borrowings under the credit agreement bear rates of
interest equal to various indices, at WESCO's option, such as an adjusted LIBOR,
prime rate or the Federal Funds rate, plus a borrowing margin. The revolving
credit facility and the Tranche A term loan matures in 2004. The delayed draw
term facility matures in 2005 and the Tranche B term loan matures in 2006. All
term loans provide for amortizations of principal payments prior to maturity.
 
     The senior subordinated notes issued by WESCO Distribution have an
aggregate principal amount of $300 million. The senior subordinated notes bear
interest at 9 1/8%, payable semiannually on June 1 and December 1 of each year.
The notes are due June 1, 2008 and are redeemable at the option of WESCO, in
whole or in part, at any time after June 1, 2003 at certain specified prices.
Prior to June 1, 2001, up to $105 million of the notes may be redeemed at
109.125% in connection with any offering of WESCO's equity securities.
 
     The senior discount notes have an aggregate principal amount of $87
million. The notes were issued with an original issue discount of $36.5 million
that is being accreted over the period ending June 1, 2003. Beginning June 1,
2003, interest accrues at 11 1/8% payable semiannually on June 1 and December 1.
Approximately $30.9 million of the notes must be redeemed on June 1, 2003. The
remaining notes are due June 1, 2008 and are redeemable at the option of WESCO,
in whole or in part, at any time after June 1, 2003 at certain specified prices.
Prior to June 1, 2001, the notes may be redeemed in certain specified instances
at 111.125%.
 
     The debt agreements contain various restrictive covenants that, among other
things, impose limitations on:
 
     - dividend payments or certain other restricted payments or investments;
 
     - the incurrence of additional indebtedness and guarantees or issuance of
       additional stock;
 
                                       29
<PAGE>   32
 
     - creation of liens;
 
     - mergers, consolidation or sales of substantially all of WESCO's assets;
 
     - certain transactions among affiliates;
 
     - payments by certain subsidiaries to WESCO; and
 
     - capital expenditures.
 
     In addition, the agreements require WESCO to meet certain leverage, working
capital and interest coverage ratios. See "Description of Certain Indebtedness."
 
     Aggregate principal repayment requirements for all indebtedness as of
December 31, 1998 are $16.9 million, $40.7 million, $13.1 million, $16.5 million
and $51.4 million in each of the next five years.
 
     An analysis of cash flows for 1998 and 1997 follows:
 
     Operating Activities.  For the year ended December 31, 1998, cash provided
by operating activities totaled $276.9 million compared to cash used by
operating activities of $12.0 million for 1997. In connection with WESCO's asset
securitization program, cash provided by operations in 1998 included proceeds of
$274.2 million from the sale of accounts receivable. Excluding this transaction,
operating activities provided $2.7 million. On this basis, the year-to-year
variance in operating cash flow was primarily due to a net loss of $7.7 million,
the $16.9 million increase in certain components of net working capital offset
by increases in non-cash costs associated with the recapitalization,
depreciation, amortization and accretion.
 
     Investing Activities.  Net cash used in investing activities was $184.1
million in 1998, compared to $21.5 million in 1997, primarily reflecting an
increase of $160.1 million in investments in businesses acquired in the current
period. WESCO's capital expenditures for the year ended December 31, 1998 were
$10.7 million as compared to $11.6 million for the year ended December 31, 1997.
Such capital expenditures were primarily for computer equipment and software,
telecommunications equipment, branch and distribution center facility
improvements, forklifts and delivery vehicles.
 
     Financing Activities.  Cash used for financing activities totaled $92.3
million for year ended December 31, 1998 compared to $41.1 million provided by
financing activities in 1997, primarily reflecting the recapitalization
completed in June 1998 and borrowings for acquisitions and other general
business purposes.
 
     WESCO's liquidity needs arise from seasonal working capital requirements,
capital expenditures, debt service obligations and acquisitions. In addition,
with the acquisition of Bruckner, WESCO agreed to pay additional contingent
consideration based on a multiple of annual increases in Bruckner's EBITDA
through 2004. Additional contingent payments will not exceed an aggregate of
$130 million, including $30 million which is payable in July, 1999. After the
offering, at the election of Bruckner, up to 50% of any additional contingent
payment is convertible into common stock at its then market value.
 
     In addition to cash generated from operations and amounts available under
the credit facilities, WESCO entered into a receivables facility which provides
liquidity. Pursuant to the receivables facility, WESCO through its wholly-owned
special purpose, bankruptcy-remote subsidiary may sell trade accounts
receivables, on a revolving basis up to $300 million. WESCO may, under certain
circumstances, increase the size of the receivables facility when the amount of
eligible trade accounts receivables exceeds $300 million. See Note 4 to
Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
   
     After the Offering.  WESCO intends to use the net proceeds of the offering
to retire all of the outstanding senior discount notes due 2008, and to repay
all or a portion of the existing revolving
    
 
                                       30
<PAGE>   33
 
   
credit facility and term loans under our credit facilities. Pending application
of the net proceeds to repay the senior discount notes, we intend to borrow
additional funds under our delayed draw term loan facility to further reduce
outstanding indebtedness under the credit facilities. See "Capitalization" and
"Use of Proceeds." Following the offering, WESCO will have $100 million
available under the revolving credit facility, under its current provisions, for
working capital and other corporate purposes and approximately $40.0 million
available under the delayed draw term facility to fund acquisitions. In
addition, WESCO intends to seek modifications of its credit agreement to
increase the amounts available to borrow on more favorable terms and conditions.
WESCO can give no assurance that it will be able to negotiate acceptable
modifications to the credit agreement.
    
 
     Management believes that cash generated from operations, together with
amounts available under the credit agreement after the offering and the
receivables facility, will be sufficient to meet WESCO's working capital,
capital expenditure and other cash needs for the next three years. There can be
no assurance, however, that this will be the case. Financing of acquisitions can
be funded under the existing credit agreement and may, depending on the number
and size of acquisitions, require the issuance of additional debt and equity
securities.
 
YEAR 2000 READINESS DISCLOSURE
 
     The Year 2000 issue concerns the ability of automated applications to
process date-dependent processes, calculations and information by properly
interpreting the year. The Year 2000 issue may potentially impact WESCO's
business-critical computerized applications related to, among others, customer
sales, service and invoicing, purchasing, inventory management, payroll,
financing and financial accounting and reporting. In addition, other non
business-critical systems and services may also be affected. WESCO has assembled
an internal project team composed of information systems, operations, finance
and executive personnel to:
 
      - assess the readiness of our systems, vendors and suppliers, third-party
        service providers, customers and financial institutions;
      - replace or correct through program changes all non-compliant
        applications;
      - develop remediation action plans for systems that may not be Year 2000
        compliant; and
      - develop contingency plans in the event systems and services are not
        compliant.
 
     The readiness assessment phase of the project is complete and consisted of
a detailed assessment and testing of substantially all internal computer
systems, surveys of significant vendors and suppliers, service providers and
customers. WESCO has received, or is seeking, documentation from many external
parties, including its major suppliers, customers and service providers,
indicating their Year 2000 readiness. Over the past three years, WESCO has
invested approximately $5.5 million in new information systems to support the
growth and diversity of its business. In addition to meeting this objective,
Year 2000 compliance was also achieved in many systems. Systems and processes
critical to our business that remain non-compliant are either being replaced or
corrected through program changes and application upgrades.
 
     As of the date of this prospectus, many of WESCO's information technology
and non-information technology systems are Year 2000 compliant, and management
expects to have substantially completed the required remediation efforts by July
1999. The project team is also developing or enhancing contingency plans to
minimize the potential adverse effect the Year 2000 issue could have on WESCO in
the event business-critical systems and processes of WESCO or its suppliers or
customers fail to be compliant. Such contingent plans include identifying
alternative suppliers or service providers. Costs specifically associated with
modifying WESCO's systems for Year 2000 compliance are expensed as incurred.
Through December 31, 1998, such costs totaled approximately $1.1 million. Costs
to be incurred in 1999 to address Year 2000 problems are estimated to be $2.3
million. Such costs do not include normal system upgrades and replacements.
 
                                       31
<PAGE>   34
 
     Based on current information, WESCO believes that the most likely worst
case scenario to result from a Year 2000 failure by WESCO, its suppliers or
customers would be a temporary limitation in its ability to distribute
electrical products from certain operating locations or provide integrated
supply services to its customers. Based on its own efforts and information
received from third parties, WESCO does not believe that Year 2000 issues are
likely to result in significant operational problems or have a material adverse
impact on its consolidated financial position, operations or cash flow.
Nonetheless, failures of suppliers, third party vendors or customers resulting
from Year 2000 issues could result in a short-term material adverse effect.
 
INFLATION
 
     The rate of inflation, as measured by changes in the consumer price index,
did not have a material effect on the sales or operating results of WESCO during
the periods presented. However, inflation in the future could affect WESCO's
operating costs. Price changes from suppliers have historically been consistent
with inflation and have not had a material impact on WESCO's results of
operations. However, during 1998 WESCO experienced price reductions on certain
of its products, particularly wire and cable. These price declines did not have
a material effect on WESCO's results of operations.
 
SEASONALITY
 
     WESCO's operating results are affected by certain seasonal factors. Sales
are typically at their lowest during the first quarter due to a reduced level of
activity during the winter months. Sales increase during the warmer months
beginning in March and continuing through November. Sales drop again slightly in
December as the weather cools and also as a result of reduced level of activity
during the holiday season. As a result, WESCO reports sales and earnings in the
first quarter that are generally lower than that of the remaining quarters.
 
     The following table presents unaudited quarterly operating results for each
of WESCO's last eight quarters as well as the percentage of WESCO's sales
represented by each item. This information has been prepared by WESCO on a basis
consistent with WESCO's audited financial statements and includes all
adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring adjustments) that management
considers necessary for a fair presentation of the data. These quarterly results
are not necessarily indicative of future results of operations. This information
should be read in conjunction with WESCO's consolidated financial statements and
notes thereto included elsewhere in this prospectus.
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                         QUARTER ENDED
                              --------------------------------------------------------------------
                                 MARCH 31         JUNE 30(1)       SEPTEMBER 30      DECEMBER 31
                              --------------    --------------    --------------    --------------
                                                     (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                           <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>
1997:
Sales, net..................  $576.7   100.0%   $659.4   100.0%   $680.0   100.0%   $678.7   100.0%
Gross profit................   104.4    18.1     114.7    17.4     120.9    17.8     123.9    18.3
Income from operations......    14.9     2.6      20.8     3.2      23.4     3.4      21.0     3.1
1998:
Sales, net..................  $693.4   100.0%   $748.3   100.0%   $777.7   100.0%   $806.0   100.0%
Gross profit................   126.7    18.3     133.3    17.8     137.8    17.7     139.8    17.3
Income (loss) from
  operations................    20.2     2.9     (23.4)   (3.1)     28.2     3.6      31.0     3.8
</TABLE>
    
 
- -------------------------
 
(1) Includes a one-time charge of $51.8 million related to the recapitalization
    in 1998. See Note 3 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
                                       32
<PAGE>   35
 
IMPACT OF RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
 
     In April 1998, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
issued Statement of Position 98-5, "Reporting on the Costs of Start-Up
Activities." This Statement, which is effective for fiscal years beginning after
December 15, 1998, requires costs incurred to open a new facility, introduce a
new product, commence a new operation or other similar activities to be expensed
as incurred. Management does not expect this Statement will have a material
impact on the results of operations or financial position of WESCO.
 
     In June 1998, The Financial Accounting Standards Board issued SFAS No. 133,
"Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities." This Statement
is effective in fiscal years beginning after June 15, 1999, although early
adoption is permitted. This Statement requires the recognition of the fair value
of any derivative financial instrument on the balance sheet. Changes in fair
value of the derivative and, in certain instances, changes in the fair value of
an underlying hedged asset or liability, are recognized through either income or
as a component of other comprehensive income. Management does not expect this
Statement will have a material impact on the results of operation or financial
position of WESCO.
 
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISKS
 
     The information required to be furnished relative to market risk has not
been included as it is not material to WESCO.
 
                                       33
<PAGE>   36
 
                                  OUR BUSINESS
OVERVIEW
 
     With sales of over $3 billion in 1998, we are a leading North American
distributor of electrical products and other industrial MRO supplies. We are the
second largest distributor in the $72 billion U.S. electrical distribution
industry, which has grown at a compounded annual rate of 7% over the last 15
years. We have capitalized on our leadership position in electrical distribution
to become the largest provider of integrated supply services in the United
States. Our integrated supply solutions allow customers to reduce their
operating costs through comprehensive outsourcing of all of their industrial MRO
procurement purchases through a single supplier with a highly automated process.
Demand for integrated supply services has increased approximately 90% annually
since 1994, and the total U.S. market potential, measured as all purchases of
industrial MRO supplies and services, is estimated to be $250 billion.
 
     We have over 330 branches and five distribution centers strategically
located in 48 states, nine Canadian provinces, Puerto Rico, Guam, Mexico, the
United Kingdom and Singapore. We serve over 130,000 customers worldwide,
offering over 1,000,000 products from over 23,000 suppliers. Our diverse
customer base includes a wide variety of industrial companies; contractors for
industrial, commercial, and residential projects; utility companies; and
commercial, institutional and governmental customers.
 
     We are the leading consolidator in our industry, having acquired 18
companies since August 1995, representing annual sales of over $1.1 billion.
Combining strong internal growth with acquisitions, our sales and EBITDA before
recapitalization costs increased at a compounded annual growth rate of over 16%
and over 42%, respectively, since 1994. WESCO's earnings increased from a loss
of $0.5 million in 1994 to $36.2 million in 1997. In 1998, we recorded a net
loss of $7.7 million resulting from a $51.8 million one-time charge associated
with our recapitalization.
 
     To achieve this substantial growth in sales and profitability, our
management team has realigned operations and successfully implemented strategic
initiatives which we believe have:
 
     - significantly expanded our national marketing programs;
     - established us as the leader in providing integrated supply services;
     - organized our operations to focus on key customer markets;
     - positioned us as the industry's leading consolidator;
     - significantly improved gross margins, reduced operating costs and
       increased return on assets;
     - utilized proprietary information technology to reduce costs, streamline
       operations and better serve customers;
     - established new performance-based incentive systems for branch managers
       and sales personnel; and
     - promoted broad-based employee participation in common stock ownership and
       stock option programs.
 
     Our customers choose WESCO because of our ability to manage large, complex
multi-site plant maintenance programs and procurement for projects that require
special sourcing, technical advice, logistical support and locally based
service. Our national programs - including integrated supply, National Accounts
and Major Projects - meet our customers' growing needs to reduce costs
throughout their supply chain. These needs include value-added procurement
solutions and uniformity of service throughout many locations, a single point of
contact and coordinated pricing and project management. Our national programs
enable customers to reduce material and labor costs, working capital
investments, administration and redundant processes while increasing
reliability, quality, productivity and other efficiencies. Since a customer's
costs of procuring MRO supplies can be over 50% of the cost of the products, the
opportunity for savings is significant.
 
                                       34
<PAGE>   37
 
INDUSTRY OVERVIEW
 
  Electrical Distribution
 
     With 1998 sales estimated at $72 billion, the U.S. industry is large and
growing. The industry is also stable with compounded annual growth of 7% since
1982, and it is projected to grow another 7% in 1999. The following chart
illustrates the historical growth and relative stability of the electrical
distribution industry:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
'1982'                                                                           24.6
- ------                                                                           ----
<S>                                                           <C>
'1983'                                                                           26.6
'1984'                                                                           29.5
'1985'                                                                           32.7
'1986'                                                                           34.0
'1987'                                                                           36.1
'1988'                                                                           35.9
'1989'                                                                           39.0
'1990'                                                                           39.6
'1991'                                                                           38.1
'1992'                                                                           39.7
'1993'                                                                           45.6
'1994'                                                                           51.1
'1995'                                                                           56.7
'1996'                                                                           61.4
'1997'                                                                           67.3
'1998'                                                                           72.9
'1999'                                                                           77.6
</TABLE>
 
     Source: Electrical Wholesaling Magazine
 
     The U.S. electrical distribution industry is also highly fragmented. In
1997, the latest year for which data is available, the four national
distributors, including WESCO, accounted for less than 15% of estimated total
industry sales.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                    10 MULTI-           BALANCE OF TOP 250|FULL-
4 NATIONAL DISTRIBUTORS                       REGIONAL|DISTRIBUTORS         LINE DISTRIBUTORS       4,000+|ALL OTHER DISTRIBUTORS
- -----------------------                       ---------------------     ------------------------    -----------------------------
<S>                                         <C>                         <C>                         <C>
14.7                                                  5.80                        23.90                         55.60
</TABLE>
 
     Source: Electrical Wholesaling Magazine
 
     The electrical distribution industry serves customers in the industrial,
commercial, construction and utility markets. The distribution channel enables
customers to more efficiently purchase a broad
 
                                       35
<PAGE>   38
 
range of products and services from a single point of contact and eliminates the
costs and complexity of purchasing directly from many manufacturers. As a
result, distributors have approximately doubled their share of total electrical
products sold in the U.S. from 1972 to 1998, with sales by distributors
representing approximately 60% of the U.S. electrical market in 1997. In
addition to sourcing electrical products, many customers also seek logistical
and technical services from those distributors able to package a wide range of
products and services. Increasingly, customers are seeking distributors that
provide an even broader and more comprehensive package of products and services,
such as integrated supply, as customers outsource non-core functions and strive
to reduce their cost of purchasing, inventory and supply chain management.
 
  Integrated Supply
 
     Demand for integrated supply services is growing rapidly, as more companies
realize they can lower costs by outsourcing their MRO procurement and related
services. The total market for MRO industrial supplies is approximately $250
billion, based on published industry sources. The following chart reflects the
historical and projected annual growth of integrated supply services within that
market:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
'1994'                                                                            0.7
- ------                                                                            ---
<S>                                                           <C>
'1995'                                                                           2.00
'1996'                                                                           3.30
'1997'                                                                           5.00
'2000'                                                                          11.00
</TABLE>
 
                   Source: Frank Lynn & Associates, Inc. 1998 Study
 
     Companies with integrated supply capabilities seek to consolidate all of a
customer's MRO procurement requirements into a single automated process.
Features of an integrated supply arrangement usually include a combination of
one or more of the following:
 
     - consolidated billing across multiple locations;
 
     - product standardization;
 
     - inventory item reductions;
 
     - order entry systems simplification;
 
     - vendor managed inventory; and
 
     - storeroom management.
 
                                       36
<PAGE>   39
 
     Integrated supply services enable customers to reduce labor costs, working
capital investments, administration and redundant processes while increasing
reliability, quality, productivity and other efficiencies. Since the customers'
costs of procuring MRO supplies can be over 50% of the cost of the products,
such improvements can be significant.
 
OUR BUSINESS STRATEGY
 
     Our objective is to be the leading distributor of electrical products and
other MRO supplies and the leading provider of value-added related services to
companies in North America and selected international markets. In achieving this
leadership position, our goal is to grow earnings at a faster rate than sales by
focusing on continuous productivity improvement. Our growth strategy leverages
our existing strengths and focuses on developing new initiatives and programs.
 
     ENHANCE OUR LEADERSHIP POSITION IN ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTION.  We intend to
leverage our extensive market presence and brand equity in the WESCO name to
further our leadership position in electrical distribution. We are the second
largest electrical distributor in the U.S. and, through our value-added products
and services, we believe we have become the industry leader in serving several
important and growing markets including:
 
     - industrial customers with large, complex plant maintenance operations,
       some of which require a national multi-site service solution for their
       electrical distribution product needs;
     - large contractors for major industrial and commercial construction
       projects;
     - the electric utility industry; and
     - manufacturers of factory-built homes, recreational vehicles and other
       modular structures.
 
     GROW NATIONAL PROGRAMS.  Since 1994, revenue from our National Accounts
program has increased in excess of 20% annually. Through our National Accounts
program, we coordinate electrical MRO procurement and purchasing activities
primarily for large industrial companies across multiple locations. We have well
established relationships with over 300 companies, providing us with a recurring
base of revenue through multi-year agreements. We believe that we can continue
to increase revenue generated through our National Accounts program by:
 
     - increasing sales to existing National Account customers through new
       products, more services and additional locations;
     - extending established National Account relationships to include
       integrated supply;
     - expanding our customer base by leveraging our existing expertise and
       presence within the automotive, petrochemical, pulp and paper and metals
       and mining industries; and
     - entering new industries such as multi-site retail, financial, commercial
       and telecommunications.
 
     In addition, through our Major Projects Group, we plan to intensify our
focus on large projects such as industrial sites, water treatment plants,
airport expansions, healthcare facilities, correctional institutions and new
sports stadiums. We intend to secure new Major Projects contracts through:
 
     - aggressive national marketing of our demonstrated project management
       capabilities;
     - further development of relationships with leading contractors and
       engineering firms;
     - close coordination with National Accounts customers on their renovation
       and new plant improvement projects; and
     - comprehensive materials management services, involving a multi-commodity
       integrated supply approach to large projects.
 
     EXTEND OUR LEADERSHIP POSITION IN INTEGRATED SUPPLY.  We are the largest
provider of integrated supply services for MRO goods and services in the United
States. We provide a full complement of outsourcing solutions, focusing on
improving the supply chain management process for our customers' indirect
purchases. Our integrated supply programs replace the traditional multi-vendor,
resource-
                                       37
<PAGE>   40
 
intensive procurement process with a single, outsourced, fully automated process
capable of managing all MRO and related service requirements. Our solutions
range from timely product delivery to taking over the entire procurement
function. Our customers include some of the largest industrial companies in the
United States. Competitive strengths of our integrated supply business include:
 
     - a proven and profitable business model highly adaptable to the scale of
       our customers' operations;
     - low operating costs;
     - highly automated proprietary information systems; and
     - established relationships with a large industrial customer base.
 
     We intend to utilize these competitive strengths to increase our integrated
supply sales to both new and existing customers, including our existing National
Account customers.
 
     GAIN SHARE IN KEY LOCAL MARKETS.  Significant opportunities exist to gain
local market share, since many local markets are highly fragmented. We intend to
increase our market share in key geographic markets through a combination of
increased sales and marketing efforts at existing branches, acquisitions to
expand our product and customer base and new branch openings. Furthermore, we
intend to leverage our existing relationships with preferred suppliers to
increase sales of their products in local markets through various initiatives,
including sales promotions, cooperative marketing efforts, direct participation
by suppliers in National Accounts implementation, dedicated sales forces and
product exclusivity. To promote growth, we have instituted a compensation system
for branch managers based on profit increases and efficient working capital
management at the branch level. Our compensation system encourages our branch
managers to optimize business activities in their local markets, including
managing the sales force, configuring inventories, targeting potential customers
for marketing efforts and tailoring local service options.
 
     ACTIVELY PURSUE STRATEGIC ACQUISITIONS.  We are the industry's leading
consolidator. We believe that the highly fragmented nature of the electrical and
industrial MRO distribution industry will provide us with a significant number
of acquisition opportunities. We utilize a disciplined approach toward
acquisitions which includes well defined strategic criteria and established
targets for return on investment and earnings accretion.
 
     EXPAND PRODUCT AND SERVICE OFFERINGS.  We intend to build on our
demonstrated ability to introduce new products and services to meet customer
demands and capitalize on market opportunities. For example, we will continue
expanding our presence in the fast-growing data communications market. We have
significantly increased our focus on this market, generating sales of almost
$100 million in 1998, up from $52 million in 1995. By utilizing a dedicated data
communications sales team and training our existing sales force to sell data
communications products, we intend to increase sales to new and existing
customers. In addition, through a recent acquisition, we now have a platform to
sell integrated lighting control and power distribution equipment in a single
package for multi-site specialty retailers, restaurant chains and department
stores. This is a well defined and attractive growth market where our marketing
programs and logistics infrastructure provide measurable benefits for
renovation, new construction and ongoing maintenance activities.
 
     LEVERAGE OUR e-COMMERCE AND INFORMATION SYSTEM CAPABILITIES.  We conduct a
significant amount of business electronically and continue to invest in
information technology to create tighter linkages with both customers and
suppliers and to lower costs and shorten cycle time in the supply chain process
for our customers and ourselves by:
 
     - conducting business transactions electronically; we routinely process
       customer orders, shipping notices, supplier purchase orders, and funds
       transfer electronically with our trading partners; in our integrated
       supply business, 95% of all transactions are electronic;
 
                                       38
<PAGE>   41
 
     - creating tighter linkages to both customers and suppliers through the use
       of technological advances, including an ability to order over the
       Internet and through CD-ROM catalogs, bar-coding, and electronic funds
       transfer;
     - providing low cost, highly functional processing of a full-range of our
       business operations such as customer service, inventory, logistics
       management, accounting and administrative support; and
     - analyzing market potential, sales performance and cost of doing business
       by branch, customer, product, sales representative and shipment type
       enabling us to work with customers to streamline activities and reduce
       costs.
 
     CONTINUE TO IMPROVE PROFIT MARGINS.  We have more than doubled our profit
margins since 1994 and are committed to seeking continuous improvement in
productivity and profitability. We use innovative and disciplined techniques to
manage our business processes, employee productivity and return on capital.
These initiatives include:
 
     - using performance-based, branch level incentive programs to promote
       profitable growth;
     - employing more disciplined and sophisticated pricing strategies;
     - expanding use of information technology to continuously monitor
       operations and enhance decision making in order to streamline activities
       and reduce costs;
     - utilizing activity-based costing to accurately measure profitability by
       branch, salesperson and customer;
     - improving inventory management among suppliers, branches and regional
       distribution centers; and
     - improving sales productivity through sales management and training
       programs.
 
     LOWER OPERATING COSTS.  Through our national scale, use of technology,
quality of our information management capabilities, strategically located
distribution centers and over 100 separate ISO 9002 quality certifications, we
operate with one of the lowest cost structures in our industry. We will utilize
our low cost advantage to continue to offer our customers competitive pricing
while improving our overall profitability. Our low operating costs make it
possible to fund strategic marketing initiatives and also make it difficult for
less efficient competitors to match our combination of pricing and ability to
service a wide range of customers on a profitable basis.
 
     EXPAND OUR INTERNATIONAL OPERATIONS.  Our international sales, the majority
of which are in Canada, accounted for 10% of sales in 1998. We believe that
there is significant additional demand for our products and services outside the
U.S. and Canada. Many of our multinational domestic customers are seeking
distribution, integrated supply and project management solutions globally. Our
approach to international operations is consistent with our domestic philosophy.
We follow our established customers and will only pursue business that we
believe utilizes and extends our existing capabilities. This strategy of working
through well-developed customer and supplier relationships reduces risks and
provides the opportunity to establish a profitable business. In 1998 we opened
two branch locations in Mexico, which are growing and profitable, and we
recently opened sales offices in London, Scotland and Singapore.
 
     PROMOTE PERFORMANCE-ORIENTED CULTURE.  All named executives, as well as
many other managers purchased significant equity positions over the past five
years. These investments represent a significant portion of their personal net
worth. Prior to the offering, over 220 of our executives and managers
collectively held approximately 32% of our common stock on a fully diluted
basis. None of our executives and managers will sell any shares of common stock
in the offering. Our stock ownership programs and other incentive systems have
closely aligned the interests of the managers with those of our stockholders.
Our performance based stock option programs are directly linked to margin
expansion and operating profit growth objectives.
 
                                       39
<PAGE>   42
 
ACQUISITION AND INTEGRATION PROGRAM
 
     Our philosophy towards growth includes a continuous evaluation to determine
whether a particular opportunity, capability, or customer need is best developed
internally or purchased through a strategic acquisition. We evaluate potential
acquisitions, including those in the electrical distribution industry, the
integrated supply market and other non-electrical distributors that would
complement our customers' overall supply needs. We have completed 18
acquisitions representing total annual sales of over $1.1 billion. In addition,
we have recently entered into an asset purchase agreement to acquire a
northeastern electrical distributor with annual sales of approximately $22
million, subject to regulatory approval.
 
                           WESCO ACQUISITION HISTORY
                             (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEAR                        ACQUISITIONS    BRANCH LOCATIONS    ANNUAL SALES(1)
- ----                        ------------    ----------------    ----------------
<S>                         <C>             <C>                 <C>
1995......................        2                 2                $   47
1996......................        7                67                   418
1997......................        2                 9                    52
1998......................        6                21                   608
1999 to date..............        1                 3                    25
                                 --               ---                ------
     Total:...............       18               102                $1,150
</TABLE>
 
        ---------------------------------
 
        (1) Represents our estimate of annual sales of acquired businesses at
            the time of acquisition, based on our review of internal and/or
            audited statements of the acquired business.
 
     Our business development department consists of a dedicated team of
professionals who locate, evaluate, and negotiate all aspects of any
acquisition, with particular emphasis on compatibility of management philosophy
and strategic fit. Since 1995 we have considered over 250 potential
acquisitions. We initially evaluate potential acquisitions based on their
ability to:
 
     - better serve our existing customers;
     - offer expansion into key growth markets;
     - add new product or service capabilities;
     - support new National Account customers; and
     - strengthen relationships with important manufacturers.
 
     If a potential acquisition meets our strategic objectives, we then perform
a rigorous financial and operational evaluation of the candidate. We adhere
strictly to our acquisition criteria, which include targeted returns on
investment, net income accretion and first year cash flow objectives. Retention
of key management has always been an important element in our transaction
structure.
 
     Upon completing an acquisition, we strive to rapidly integrate the acquired
business into our existing operations. Our focus is to fully understand the
capabilities, strategic opportunities and needs of our new business partners,
shorten the transition period to the extent feasible, maintain the acquired
organization's stability, bolster the organization to better serve the defined
market, adjust incentive programs, assure profitability and closely monitor
sales and customer service. We believe that our disciplined integration process
offers a number of opportunities to improve productivity and customer service,
consolidate purchasing power and reduce operating costs.
 
PRODUCTS AND SERVICES
 
     PRODUCTS.  Our network of branches and distribution centers stock over
215,000 products. Each branch tailors its inventory to meet the needs of the
customers in its local market, typically stocking
 
                                       40
<PAGE>   43
 
approximately 4,000 to 8,000 products. Our integrated supply business allows our
customers to access over 1,000,000 products for direct shipment.
 
     Representative products that we sell include:
 
     - Supplies: Fuses, terminals, connectors, boxes, fittings, tools, lugs,
       tape and other MRO supplies
     - Distribution Equipment: Circuit breakers, transformers, switchboards,
       panelboards and busway
     - Lighting: Lamps (light bulbs), fixtures and ballasts
     - Wire and Conduit: Wire, cable, metallic and non-metallic conduit
     - Control, Automation and Motors: Motor control devices, drives,
       programmable logic controllers, pushbuttons and operator interfaces
     - Data Communications: Premise wiring, patch panels, terminals, connectors
 
     We purchase products from a diverse group of over 23,000 suppliers. In
1998, the ten largest suppliers accounted for approximately 38% of our
purchases. The largest of these was Eaton Corporation, through its Cutler-Hammer
division, accounting for approximately 15% of total purchases. No other supplier
accounted for more than 6%.
 
   
     Our supplier relationships are strategically important to us, providing
access to a wide range of products, technical training and sales and marketing
support. We have preferred supplier agreements with approximately 150 of our
suppliers and purchase approximately 60% of our stock inventory pursuant to
these agreements. Consistent with industry practice, most of our agreements with
suppliers, including both distribution agreements and preferred supplier
agreements, are terminable by either party on no more than 60 days notice. See
"Risk Factors -- Loss of Key Suppliers or Lack of Product Availability Could
Decrease Sales and Earnings."
    
 
     SERVICES.  In conjunction with product sales, we offer customers a wide
range of services and procurement solutions that draw on our product and supply
management expertise and systems capabilities. These services include National
Accounts programs, integrated supply programs and Major Project programs. We are
responding aggressively to the needs of our customers, particularly those in
processing and manufacturing industries. To more efficiently manage the MRO
process on behalf of our customers, we offer a range of supply management
services, including:
 
     - outsourcing of the entire MRO purchasing process;
     - providing manufacturing process improvements using state-of-the-art
       automated solutions;
     - implementing inventory optimization programs;
     - participating in joint cost savings teams;
     - assigning our employees as on-site support personnel;
     - recommending energy-efficient product upgrades; and
     - offering safety and product training for customer employees.
 
     National Accounts Programs.  The typical National Accounts customer is a
Fortune 500 industrial company, a large utility or other major customer, in each
case with multiple locations. Recently, through rigorous selection processes,
these customers have been seeking to substantially reduce their electrical
supply base -- in some cases from several hundred suppliers to just one -- with
expectations for documented cost reductions, high levels of service and
consistent product and pricing across all locations. Our national platform,
strong branch network and product breadth give us the capacity to offer
multi-site agreements with the scope required by these customers.
 
     Our National Accounts programs provide customers with total supply chain
cost reductions by coordinating purchasing activity for MRO supplies across
multiple locations. We typically are able to demonstrate documented savings of
over 10% within the first year of program launch. Comprehensive implementation
plans establish jointly-managed teams at the local and national level to
prioritize activities, identify key performance measures and track progress
against objectives. We involve our
 
                                       41
<PAGE>   44
 
preferred suppliers early in the implementation process, where they can
contribute expertise and product knowledge to accelerate program implementation
and the achievement of cost savings and process improvements.
 
     Integrated Supply Programs.  Our integrated supply programs offer customers
a variety of services to support their objectives for improved supply chain
management. We integrate our personnel, product and distribution expertise,
electronic technologies and service capabilities with the customer's own
internal resources to meet particular service requirements. Each integrated
supply program is uniquely configured to deliver a significant reduction in the
number of MRO suppliers, reduce total procurement costs, improve operating
controls and lower administrative expenses. Our solutions range from basic order
fulfillment to taking over the entire procurement function for all indirect
purchases. We believe that customers will increasingly seek to utilize us as an
"integrator," responsible for selecting and managing the supply of a wide range
of MRO and direct material products.
 
     Major Projects.  We are one of the industry leaders in serving the complex
needs of large commercial and industrial contractors. We have established a
Major Projects Group, comprised of our most experienced personnel, which focuses
on the top 50 U.S. electrical contractors on a multi-regional basis. These
contractors typically specialize in building industrial sites, water treatment
plants, airport expansions, healthcare facilities, correctional institutions and
new sports stadiums.
 
MARKETS AND CUSTOMERS
 
     We have a large base of approximately 130,000 customers diversified across
our principal markets. With no customer accounting for more than 3% of 1998
sales, we are not dependent on any single customer.
 
     INDUSTRIAL CUSTOMERS.  Sales to industrial customers accounted for
approximately 40% of our sales in 1998, while representing approximately 32% of
the electrical distribution market in 1997.
 
     MRO products are needed to maintain and upgrade the electrical and
communications networks at all industrial sites. Expenditures are greatest in
the heavy process industries, such as pulp and paper and petrochemical.
Typically, electrical MRO is the first or second ranked product category by
purchase value for total MRO requirements for an industrial site. Other MRO
product categories include, among other things, lubricants; pipe, valves and
fittings; fasteners; and power transmission products. MRO activity has been
difficult and costly for industrial users to manage, as it is characterized by a
fragmented supplier base, a high volume of low dollar transactions, poor usage
and cost information and relatively high inventory levels. For example, it is
not unusual for a customer to inventory as many as 10,000 MRO products.
Furthermore, customers are sensitive to supply reliability, since a lack of
critical spares could cause an entire manufacturing process to shut down.
 
     Certain manufacturing customers incorporate electrical components and
assemblies into their own products, which are commonly referred to as original
equipment manufacturers or OEMs. Original equipment manufacturers typically
require a reliable, high volume supply of a narrow range of electrical items.
Customers in this segment are particularly service and price sensitive due to
the volume and the critical nature of the product used. They expect value-added
services such as design and technical support, timely supply and electronic
commerce. Long term customer relationships are common and lead to an efficient
supply process and stable, recurring revenues.
 
     ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS.  Sales to electrical contractors accounted for
approximately 39% of our sales in 1998, while representing approximately 41% of
the electrical distribution market in 1997. These customers range from large
contractors for major industrial and commercial projects, the customer types we
principally serve, to small residential contractors which represent a small
portion of our sales. Electrical products purchased by contractors typically
account for approximately 40% to
 
                                       42
<PAGE>   45
 
50% of the total installed project cost, and, therefore, accurate cost estimates
and competitive material costs are critical to a contractor's success in
obtaining profitable projects. Contractors choose a distributor on the basis of
price, various support services such as design assistance, bill of material
development, project management capabilities, credit policies and inventory
availability.
 
     UTILITIES.  Sales to utilities accounted for approximately 15% of our sales
in 1998, while representing approximately 8% of the electrical distribution
market in 1997. This market includes large investor-owned utilities, rural
electric cooperatives and municipal power authorities. We provide our utility
customers with an extensive range of supplies to meet their MRO and capital
projects needs. Integrated supply arrangements are also important in this market
as cost pressures and deregulation cause utility customers to streamline
procurement practices.
 
     Recent trends in the utility industry favor utility-oriented electrical
distributors like us. The most important trend is the deregulation of utility
power generation, which has forced large utilities to seek better asset
utilization and cost savings in all aspects of their operations, including
purchasing and supply management. In focusing on their core business, some have
outsourced supply functions in order to reduce costs and enhance cash flow.
 
     COMMERCIAL, INSTITUTIONAL AND GOVERNMENTAL CUSTOMERS.  Sales to commercial,
institutional and governmental customers accounted for approximately 5% of our
sales in 1998, while representing approximately 13% of the electrical
distribution market in 1997. This fragmented market includes schools, hospitals,
property management firms, retailers and government agencies of all types.
Through a recent acquisition, we now have a platform to sell integrated lighting
control and distribution equipment in a single package for multi-site specialty
retailers, restaurant chains and department stores.
 
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK
 
     BRANCH NETWORK.  We have over 330 branches, of which approximately 275 are
located in the U.S., approximately 50 are located in Canada and the remainder
are located in Puerto Rico, Mexico, Guam, Singapore and the United Kingdom. Over
the last three years we have opened approximately 15 branches per year,
principally to service National Accounts customers. In addition to
consolidations in connection with acquisitions, we occasionally close or
consolidate existing branch locations to improve operating efficiency.
 
     DISTRIBUTION CENTERS.  To support our branch network, we have five
distribution centers located near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, serving the
Northeast and Midwest U.S.; near Reno, Nevada, serving the Western U.S.; near
Memphis, Tennessee, serving the Southeast and Central U.S.; near Montreal,
Quebec, serving Eastern and Central Canada; and near Vancouver, British
Columbia, serving Western Canada.
 
     Our distribution centers add value for our branches and customers through
the combination of a broad and deep selection of inventory, on-line ordering,
same day shipment and central order handling and fulfillment. Our distribution
center network reduces the lead-time and improves the reliability of our supply
chain, giving us a distinct competitive advantage in customer service.
Additionally, the distribution centers reduce the time and cost of supply chain
activities through automated replenishment and warehouse management systems, and
economies of scale in purchasing, inventory management, administration and
transportation.
 
SALES ORGANIZATION
 
     GENERAL SALES FORCE.  Our general sales force is based at the local
branches and comprises approximately 2,200 of our employees, almost half of whom
are outside sales representatives and the remainder are inside sales personnel.
Outside sales representatives, who have an average of more than
 
                                       43
<PAGE>   46
 
eight years of experience with us, are paid under a compensation structure which
is heavily weighted towards commissions. They are responsible for making direct
customer calls, performing on-site technical support, generating new customer
relations and developing existing territories. The inside sales force is a key
point of contact for responding to routine customer inquiries such as price and
availability requests and for entering and tracking orders.
 
     NATIONAL ACCOUNTS.  We believe that we have the largest National Accounts
sales force in the electrical distribution industry, led by an experienced group
of sales executives who negotiate and administer contracts, coordinate branch
participation and identify sales and service opportunities. National Accounts
managers' efforts are aligned by targeted customer industries, including
automotive, pulp and paper, petrochemical, steel, mining and food processing.
 
     DATA COMMUNICATIONS.  Sales of data communications products are supported
by a dedicated group of outside and inside sales representatives who focus
primarily on the premise wiring systems market. This team is supported by
additional resources in the purchasing, inventory management, product training,
product management and regional sales areas. We also operate a training facility
where customers and the general sales force can receive industry-recognized
certification in data communications product installation.
 
     MAJOR PROJECTS.  Since 1995 a group of highly experienced sales managers
target, on a national basis, the market for large construction projects with
electrical material valued in excess of $1 million. Our approach distinguishes
us from almost all of our competitors, which typically handle even the largest
construction projects on a local basis. Through the Major Projects Group, we can
meet the needs of contractors for complex construction projects such as new
sports stadiums, industrial sites, water treatment plants, airport expansions,
healthcare facilities and correctional institutions.
 
     e-COMMERCE.  We have recently entered into a strategic alliance with
Datastream Systems, Inc. to unite their customer base, the largest in the
maintenance software market, with our nationwide distribution network. The
initiative is part of Datastream's overall electronic commerce effort, called
e-MRO(SM), which enables customers to search, select and purchase from a broad
selection of MRO supplies through the Internet.
 
INTERNATIONAL OPERATIONS
 
     To serve the Canadian market, we operate a network of approximately 50
branches in nine provinces. Branch operations are supported by two distribution
centers located near Montreal and Vancouver. With sales of approximately US$272
million, Canada represented 9% of our total sales in 1998. The Canadian market
for electrical distribution is considerably smaller than the U.S. market, with
roughly US$2.4 billion in total sales in 1997, according to industry sources.
 
     We are continuing to build our international presence outside of the U.S.
and Canada, principally by following our National Accounts customers and key
suppliers into their high growth markets, thereby limiting start-up risk and
enhancing profit. We sell internationally through domestic export sales offices
located within North America and sales offices in international locations. We
have recently opened offices in Aberdeen, Scotland and London, England to
support our sales efforts in Europe, Africa and the former Soviet Union, and an
office in Singapore to support our sales in Asia. We also recently opened two
branches in the Mexico City area.
 
MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS
 
     Our corporate information system, WESCOM, provides low cost, highly
functional processing of a full range of our business operations, such as
customer service, inventory and logistics management, accounting and
administrative support. The system has been upgraded with decision support,
 
                                       44
<PAGE>   47
 
executive information system analysis and retrieval capabilities to provide
detailed income statement and balance sheet variance and trend reporting at the
branch level. The system also provides activity-based costing capabilities for
analyzing profitability by customer, sales representative and shipment type.
Sales and margin trends and variances can be analyzed by branch, customer,
product category, supplier or account representative.
 
     The WESCOM system is fully distributed within WESCO, and every branch
(other than EESCO and certain newly acquired branches) utilizes its own computer
system to support local business activities. Telecommunication links through a
central system give each branch access to information on inventory status in our
distribution centers as well as other branches and an increasing number of
on-line suppliers. We are developing an upgraded version of the WESCOM system to
be released in 1999. This new version, WESNET, will link all branch operations
through an intranet technology. EESCO operates its own system which is linked to
our central system. We intend to integrate EESCO into the WESNET system over the
next 12 months which is expected to reduce costs associated with operating dual
systems.
 
     We routinely process customer orders, shipping notices, suppliers purchase
orders, and funds transfer via EDI transactions with our trading partners. Our
electronic commerce strategy calls for tighter linkages to both customers and
suppliers through greater use of technological advances, including Internet and
CD-ROM catalogs, bar-coding, enhanced EDI and other innovative improvements.
 
     Our integrated supply services are supported by our proprietary procurement
and inventory management systems. These systems provide a fully integrated,
flexible supply chain platform that currently handles over 95% of our integrated
supply customers' transactions electronically. Our configuration options for a
customer range from on-line linkages to the customer's business and purchasing
systems, to total replacement of a customer's procurement and inventory
management system for MRO supplies.
 
COMPETITION
 
     We compete directly with national, regional and local providers of
electrical and other industrial MRO supplies. Competition is primarily focused
on the local service area and is generally based on product line breadth,
product availability, service capabilities and price. We believe that we have
certain competitive advantages over many of our local competitors, which are not
able to carry the range of products stocked by us, offer our depth of
value-added services or achieve our level of purchasing economies of scale.
Another source of competition is buying groups formed by smaller distributors to
increase purchasing power and provide some cooperative marketing capability.
While increased buying power may improve the competitive position of buying
groups locally, we believe these groups have not been able to compete
effectively with us for National Accounts customers due to the difficulty in
coordinating a diverse ownership group.
 
EMPLOYEES
 
     As of December 31, 1998, we had approximately 5,450 employees worldwide, of
which approximately 4,700 were located in the U.S. and approximately 750 in
Canada and our other foreign locations. Less than 5% of our employees are
represented by unions. We believe our labor relations are generally good.
 
PROPERTIES
 
     We have over 330 branches, of which approximately 275 are located in the
U.S., approximately 50 are located in Canada and the remainder are located in
Puerto Rico, Mexico, Guam, Singapore
 
                                       45
<PAGE>   48
 
and the United Kingdom. Approximately 30% of branches are owned facilities, and
the remainder are leased.
 
     The following table summarizes our distribution centers:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
LOCATION                                            SQUARE FEET     LEASED/OWNED
- --------                                            -----------   ----------------
<S>                                                 <C>           <C>
Warrendale, PA....................................    252,700     Owned and Leased
Sparks, NV........................................    195,800     Leased
Byhalia, MS.......................................    148,000     Owned
Dorval, QE........................................     97,000     Leased
Burnaby, BC.......................................     34,300     Owned
</TABLE>
 
     We also lease our 60,400 square foot headquarters in Pittsburgh,
Pennsylvania. We do not regard the real property associated with any single
branch location as material to our operations. We believe our facilities are in
good operating condition.
 
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
 
     Our trade and service mark, composed of the words "WESCO the extra effort
people(R)," together with the running man design, is registered in the United
States Patent and Trademark Office, the Canadian Trademark Office and the
Mexican Instituto de la Propriedad Industrial. All trademarks and trade names
referred to in this business section are the property of their respective
holders.
 
ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS
 
     Our facilities and operations are subject to federal, state and local laws
and regulations relating to environmental protection and human health and
safety. Some of these laws and regulations may impose strict, joint and several
liability on certain persons for the cost of investigation or remediation of
contaminated properties. These persons may include present or future owners and
operators of properties, and persons that arranged for the disposal of hazardous
substances. In addition, the disposal of certain products we distribute, such as
ballasts, fluorescent lighting and batteries, must comply with environmental
laws. Our owned and leased real property may carry with it certain liabilities
under environmental laws.
 
     We believe that we are in compliance in all material respects with
applicable environmental laws. There are no significant capital expenditures for
environmental control matters either estimated in the current year or expected
in the near future.
 
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
 
     We are party to routine litigation incidental to our business. We do not
believe that any legal proceedings to which we are a party or to which any of
our property is subject will have a material adverse effect on our financial
position or results of operations.
 
                                       46
<PAGE>   49
 
                                   MANAGEMENT
 
DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
 
     Our directors and executive officers and their respective ages and
positions are set forth below.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NAME                                           AGE                      POSITION
- ----                                           ---                      --------
<S>                                            <C>    <C>
Roy W. Haley.................................   52    Chairman, President and Chief Executive
                                                      Officer
Steven A. Burleson...........................   39    Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and
                                                        Treasurer
William M. Goodwin...........................   53    Vice President, Operations
James H. Mehta...............................   43    Vice President, Business Development
James V. Piraino.............................   39    Vice President, Marketing
Robert B. Rosenbaum..........................   41    Vice President, Operations
Patrick M. Swed..............................   56    Vice President, Operations
Donald H. Thimjon............................   55    Vice President, Operations
Ronald P. Van, Jr............................   38    Vice President, Operations
Robert E. Vanderhoff.........................   44    Vice President, Operations and Supplier
                                                      Business Development
Jeffrey B. Kramp.............................   39    Corporate Secretary and General Counsel
James L. Singleton...........................   43    Director
James A. Stern...............................   48    Director
Anthony D. Tutrone...........................   34    Director
Michael J. Cheshire..........................   50    Director
Robert J. Tarr, Jr...........................   55    Director
Kenneth L. Way...............................   59    Director
</TABLE>
 
     Set forth below is biographical information for our executive officers and
directors listed above.
 
     ROY W. HALEY became Chairman of the Board upon the recapitalization. Mr.
Haley has been President and Chief Executive Officer and a Director of WESCO
since February 1994. From 1988 to 1993, Mr. Haley was an executive at American
General Corporation, a diversified financial services company, where he served
as Chief Operating Officer and as President and Director. Mr. Haley is also a
director of United Stationers, Inc. and Cambrex Corporation.
 
     STEVEN A. BURLESON joined WESCO in January 1995 as Corporate Controller and
became Vice President and Corporate Controller in 1997. In 1998, Mr. Burleson
became Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer. From 1990 to 1995, Mr. Burleson
was Vice President and Treasurer of The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc.
 
     WILLIAM M. GOODWIN has been Vice President, Operations of WESCO since March
1984. Since 1977, Mr. Goodwin has served as a branch, district and region
manager for WESCO in various locations and also served as Managing Director of
WESCOSA, a former Westinghouse affiliated manufacturing and distribution
business in Saudi Arabia.
 
     JAMES H. MEHTA has been Vice President, Business Development of WESCO since
November 1995. From 1993 to 1995, Mr. Mehta was a principal with Schroder
Ventures, a private equity investment firm based in London, England.
 
                                       47
<PAGE>   50
 
     JAMES V. PIRAINO has been Vice President, Marketing since joining WESCO in
August 1996. From 1995 to 1996, Mr. Piraino was a Vice President of AlliedSignal
Corp. From 1989 to 1995, Mr. Piraino occupied marketing and sales management
positions with W.W. Grainger, Inc.
 
     ROBERT B. ROSENBAUM has been Vice President, Operations of WESCO since
September 1998. Prior to joining WESCO, Mr. Rosenbaum was the President of
Bruckner Supply Company, Inc., an integrated supply company we acquired in
September 1998.
 
     PATRICK M. SWED has been Vice President, Operations of WESCO since March
1994. Mr. Swed had been Vice President of Branch Operations for WESCO from 1991
to 1994.
 
     DONALD H. THIMJON has been Vice President, Operations of WESCO since March
1994. Mr. Thimjon served as Vice President, Utility Group for WESCO from 1991 to
1994 and as Regional Manager from 1980 to 1991.
 
     RONALD P. VAN, JR. has been Vice President, Operations of WESCO since
October 1998. Mr. Van served as Controller of the EESCO Division for WESCO from
1996 to October 1998. From 1994 to 1996, Mr. Van was a Vice President and
Controller of EESCO, an electrical distributor we acquired in 1996.
 
     ROBERT E. VANDERHOFF has been Vice President, Operations and Supplier
Business Development since April 1998, and Vice President, Manufactured
Structures Group since March 1994. Mr. Vanderhoff had been Vice President of
WESCO since April 1993.
 
     JEFFREY B. KRAMP has been our Corporate Secretary and General Counsel since
March 1994. From 1987 to February 1994, Mr. Kramp served as Assistant General
Counsel at Westinghouse, with WESCO as his primary legal responsibility during
this time period.
 
     JAMES L. SINGLETON became a Director of WESCO upon the recapitalization.
Mr. Singleton has been a Vice Chairman of Cypress since its formation in April
1994. Prior to joining Cypress, he was a Managing Director in the Merchant
Banking Group at Lehman Brothers Inc. ("Lehman Brothers"). Mr. Singleton is also
a director of Able Body Corporation, Cinemark USA, Inc., Genesis ElderCare
Corp., L.P. Thebault Company and Williams Scotsman, Inc.
 
     JAMES A. STERN became a Director of WESCO upon the recapitalization. Mr.
Stern has been Chairman of Cypress since its formation in April 1994. Prior to
joining Cypress, Mr. Stern was a Managing Director with Lehman Brothers, and
served as head of the Merchant Banking Group. During his career at Lehman
Brothers, he also served as head of that firm's Investment Banking, High Yield
and Primary Capital Markets Groups. Mr. Stern is also a director of AMTROL Inc.,
Cinemark USA, Inc., Frank's Nursery & Crafts, Inc., Lear Corporation, Noel
Group, Inc., Genesis ElderCare Corp. and a trustee of Tufts University.
 
     ANTHONY D. TUTRONE became a Director of WESCO upon the recapitalization.
Mr. Tutrone has been a Managing Director of Cypress since 1998 and has been a
member of Cypress since its formation in April 1994. Prior to joining Cypress,
he was a member of the Merchant Banking Group of Lehman Brothers. Mr. Tutrone is
also a director of AMTROL Inc.
 
     MICHAEL J. CHESHIRE became a Director of WESCO in 1998. Mr. Cheshire is
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Gerber Scientific. Prior to joining
Gerber Scientific in 1997, Mr. Cheshire spent 21 years with General Signal
Corporation and was most recently President of their electrical group. Mr.
Cheshire is also a Director of the Connecticut Business and Industry
Association.
 
     ROBERT J. TARR, JR. became a Director of WESCO in 1998. Mr. Tarr worked for
more than 20 years in senior executive roles for Harcourt General, including six
years as President, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer of
Harcourt General, Inc. (formerly General Cinema
 
                                       48
<PAGE>   51
 
Corporation) and the Neiman Marcus Group, Inc. Mr. Tarr is also a Director of
the John Hancock Mutual Life Insurance Company, Houghton Mifflin & Co.,
Hannaford Bros., Inc., and Barneys Inc.
 
     KENNETH L. WAY became a Director of WESCO in 1998. Mr. Way has been
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Lear Corporation since 1988 and has been
affiliated with Lear Corporation and its predecessor companies for 33 years in
engineering, manufacturing, and general management capacities. Mr. Way is also a
Director of Comerica, Inc. and CMS Energy Corporation.
 
COMPOSITION OF OUR BOARD AND COMMITTEES
 
     After the offering, WESCO's Board of Directors will be divided into three
classes. Each class will consist, as nearly as possible, of one-third of the
whole number of the Board of Directors. Directors for each class will be elected
at the annual meeting of stockholders held in the year in which the term for
such class expires. Upon election, directors will serve thereafter for three
years, and will hold office until their successors are elected and qualified.
There are currently seven members of the Board of Directors. The term of Class I
directors will expire in 2000, the term of Class II directors in 2001 and the
term of Class III directors in 2002.
 
     Our Board of Directors has three standing committees: an Executive
Committee, an Audit Committee and a Compensation Committee.
 
     The Executive Committee consists of Messrs. Singleton, Cheshire, Haley and
Stern, with Mr. Singleton serving as Chairman. It is responsible for overseeing
the management of the affairs and business of WESCO and has been delegated
authority to exercise the powers of the Board during intervals between Board
meetings.
 
   
     The Audit Committee consists of Messrs. Singleton, Tarr and Tutrone, with
Mr. Singleton serving as Chairman. After the offering, the Audit Committee will
consist of Mr. Tarr as Chairman and Mr. Cheshire. It is responsible for
recommending the firm to be appointed as independent accountants to audit
WESCO's financial statements and to perform services related to the audit;
reviewing the scope and results of the audit with the independent accountants;
reviewing with the management and the independent accountants WESCO's year end
operating results; considering the adequacy of the internal accounting and
control procedures of WESCO, reviewing the non-audit services to be performed by
the independent accountants, if any, and considering the effect of such
performance on the accountants' independence.
    
 
   
     The Compensation Committee consists of Messrs. Stern, Singleton, Tarr,
Tutrone and Way, with Mr. Stern serving as Chairman. It is responsible for the
review, recommendation and approval of compensation arrangements for directors
and executive officers, for the approval of such arrangements for other senior
level employees, and for the administration of certain benefit and compensation
plans and arrangements of WESCO.
    
 
OUTSIDE DIRECTOR COMPENSATION
 
     Each director of WESCO who is not an employee of WESCO or any of its
subsidiaries or Cypress is entitled to receive an annual director's fee of
$25,000. Effective January 1, 1999, WESCO established the 1999 deferred
compensation plan for non-employee directors under which non-employee directors
can elect to defer 25% or more of the annual director's fee. Amounts deferred
under this arrangement will, on the deferral date, be converted into stock units
(common stock equivalents) which will be credited to a bookkeeping account in
the director's name. For purposes of determining the number of stock units to be
credited to a director for a particular year, the average of the high and low
trading prices of the common stock on the first trading day in January of that
year will be used. Distribution of deferred stock units will be made in a lump
sum or installments, in the
 
                                       49
<PAGE>   52
 
form of shares of common stock, in accordance with the distribution schedule
selected by the director at the time the deferral election is made.
 
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
 
     The information set forth below describes the components of the total
compensation of our Chief Executive Officer and our four other most highly
compensated executive officers, based on 1998 salary and bonuses. The principal
components of these individuals' current cash compensation are the annual base
salary and bonus included in the Summary Compensation Table. Also described
below is other compensation these individuals can receive under employment
agreements and our stock and option programs.
 
                           SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                       LONG-TERM
                                                                     COMPENSATION
                                                               -------------------------
                                                                        AWARDS
                                               ANNUAL          -------------------------
                                            COMPENSATION              SECURITIES             ALL OTHER
                                        --------------------          UNDERLYING            COMPENSATION
NAME AND PRINCIPAL POSITION      YEAR   SALARY($)   BONUS($)      OPTIONS/SARS(#)(1)        ($)(2)(3)(4)
- ---------------------------      ----   ---------   --------   -------------------------    ------------
<S>                              <C>    <C>         <C>        <C>                          <C>
Roy W. Haley, Chairman,
  President & CEO..............  1998    500,000    425,000             867,000              1,074,000
                                 1997    466,667    425,000                  --                 52,300
James H. Mehta, Vice President,
  Business Development.........  1998    275,000    115,000             190,740                564,637
                                 1997    258,339    115,000                  --                 13,325
Patrick M. Swed, Vice
  President, Operations........  1998    200,000    130,000             190,740                473,000
                                 1997    200,000    130,000                  --                 33,000
James V. Piraino, Vice
  President, Marketing.........  1998    175,840    110,000             127,160                374,920
                                 1997    165,000    110,000                  --                 14,463
Stanley C. Weiss, Executive
  Vice President, Industry
  Affairs(5)...................  1998    300,000    150,000                  --                 62,160(6)
                                 1997    300,000    150,000                  --                 62,010(6)
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
 
(1) All options were granted under the 1998 stock option plan. All options
    granted in 1998 have an exercise price of $10.75 per share. See "1998 Stock
    Option Plan."
(2) Includes contributions by us under the WESCO Distribution, Inc. retirement
    savings plan in the amounts of (a) $12,800, $7,737, $16,100, $8,562 and
    $13,950, for Messrs. Haley, Mehta, Swed, Piraino and Weiss, respectively, in
    1998 and (b) $9,550, $7,675, $15,950, $7,543 and $13,700, for Messrs. Haley,
    Mehta, Swed, Piraino and Weiss, respectively, in 1997.
(3) Includes contributions by us under the WESCO Distribution, Inc. deferred
    compensation plan in the amounts of (a) $61,200, $6,900, $16,900, $10,350
    and $31,800, for Messrs. Haley, Mehta, Swed, Piraino and Weiss,
    respectively, in 1998 and (b) $42,750, $5,650, $17,050, $6,920 and $31,900,
    for Messrs. Haley, Mehta, Swed, Piraino and Weiss, respectively, in 1997.
(4) Includes special retention bonus payment in 1998 in the amounts of
    $1,000,000, $550,000, $440,000 and $356,008 for Messrs. Haley, Mehta, Swed
    and Piraino, respectively.
(5) Mr. Weiss retired from WESCO effective December 31, 1998.
(6) Includes life insurance premiums in the amount of $16,410.
 
                                       50
<PAGE>   53
 
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENTS
 
     In connection with the recapitalization, we entered into an employment
agreement with Mr. Haley providing for a rolling employment term of three years.
Pursuant to his agreement, Mr. Haley is entitled to an annual base salary of
$500,000 and an annual incentive bonus equal to a percentage of his annual base
salary ranging from 0% to 200%. The actual amount of Mr. Haley's annual
incentive bonus will be determined based upon our financial performance as
compared to the annual performance objectives established for the relevant
fiscal year. If Mr. Haley's employment with us is terminated by us without
"cause", by Mr. Haley for "good reason" or as a result of Mr. Haley's death or
disability, Mr. Haley is entitled to continued payments of his average annual
base salary and his average annual incentive bonus, reduced by any disability
payments for the three-year period, or in the case of a termination due to Mr.
Haley's death or disability, the two-year period, following such termination,
and continued welfare benefit coverage for the two-year period following such
termination. In addition, in the event of any such qualifying termination, all
outstanding options held by Mr. Haley will become fully vested. The agreement
further provides that, in the event of the termination of Mr. Haley's employment
by us without cause or by Mr. Haley for good reason, in either such case, within
the two-year period following a "change in control" of WESCO, in addition to the
termination benefits described above, Mr. Haley is entitled to receive continued
welfare benefit coverage and payments in lieu of additional contributions to our
Retirement Savings Plan and Deferred Compensation Plan for the three year period
following such change in control. We have agreed to provide Mr. Haley with an
excise tax gross up with respect to any excise taxes Mr. Haley may be obligated
to pay pursuant to Section 4999 of the United States Internal Revenue Code of
1986 on any excess parachute payments. In addition, following a change in
control, Mr. Haley is entitled to a minimum annual bonus equal to 50% of his
base salary and the definition of "good reason" is modified to include certain
additional events. The agreement also contains customary covenants regarding
nondisclosure of confidential information and non-competition and
non-solicitation restrictions.
 
     In connection with our acquisition of EESCO, we entered into an employment
agreement with Mr. Weiss, pursuant to which we agreed to employ Mr. Weiss during
the period commencing on the date of the acquisition and ending on December 31,
1998. During the employment term under the agreement, Mr. Weiss was entitled to
an annual base salary of $300,000 and an annual performance-based incentive
bonus equal to a percentage of his annual base salary, not to exceed 75%. The
agreement also contained customary covenants regarding nondisclosure of
confidential information and non-competition and non-solicitation restrictions.
Mr. Weiss retired from WESCO effective December 31, 1998.
 
1998 STOCK OPTION PLAN
 
     In connection with the recapitalization, we established a 1998 stock option
plan to provide certain of WESCO's executive and key employees options to
purchase shares of common stock. The 1998 stock option plan is administered by
the Compensation Committee, which is constituted in such a way that, to the
extent practicable, awards under the 1998 stock option plan qualify, or will
qualify when granted, for exemption under Rule 16b-3 of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934 and as performance-based compensation under Section 162(m) of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986. The Compensation Committee has the authority to
select employees to whom awards are granted and to set the terms, conditions and
provisions of such awards. In addition, the Compensation Committee is
authorized, by majority action, to prescribe, amend and rescind rules and
regulations relating to the administration of the 1998 stock option plan, to
make determinations with respect to the vesting and exercisability of the 1998
plan options, and to make all other determinations necessary or advisable for
the administration and interpretation of the 1998 stock option plan. The 1998
stock option plan provides that the Board may adjust the number and class of
shares available for issuance under the
 
                                       51
<PAGE>   54
 
1998 stock option plan and the number and class of shares subject to and
exercise price of any outstanding 1998 plan options as necessary or appropriate
to reflect any common stock dividend, stock split or share combination or any
recapitalization, merger, consolidation, exchange of shares, liquidation or
dissolution of WESCO.
 
     A total of 3,612,500 shares of common stock were authorized for issuance
under the 1998 stock option plan.
 
     The exercise price per share of common stock to be purchased upon exercise
of the 1998 plan options is determined by the Compensation Committee's
evaluation of the fair market value per share of the common stock on the date of
the grant of the option. At the discretion of the Compensation Committee, the
exercise price of any 1998 plan options exercised after the offering may be paid
in full or in part in the form of shares of common stock already owned and held
for at least six months by the participant, based on the fair market value of
such common stock on the date of exercise, as determined by the Board. As of
March 31, 1999, options to purchase 3,462,798 shares of common stock had been
granted under the 1998 stock option plan, of which (1) none had been canceled or
exercised, (2) 3,462,798 with a weighted average exercise price of $10.75 per
share remained outstanding, and (3) none were exercisable. We expect to file a
registration statement on Form S-8 with respect to the 1998 stock option plan
after the offering. After giving effect to the foregoing, 149,702 options
remained available for grant under the 1998 stock option plan.
 
  Change in Control Provisions
 
     In the event of a "change in control", outstanding 1998 plan options,
whether or not exercisable, will be canceled in exchange for a cash payment with
respect to each share of common stock subject to such 1998 plan options equal to
the excess of (1) the value per share of the common stock in the transaction
giving rise to the change in control over (2) the per share exercise price,
unless the Compensation Committee determines in good faith, prior to the change
in control, that the outstanding 1998 plan options will be honored or assumed by
the successor in a manner that provides the 1998 stock option plan participants
with rights at least as favorable as those prevailing immediately prior to the
change in control. The offering has not resulted in a "change in control."
 
  Management Stock Option Agreements
 
     Each participant under the 1998 stock option plan is required to enter into
a management stock option agreement specifying the exercise price and duration
of the 1998 plan options being granted and such other terms consistent with the
1998 stock option plan as the Compensation Committee determines. Certain other
terms of the management stock option agreements are summarized below.
 
  Transferability of Options; Repurchase of Options
 
     The 1998 stock option plan provides that no award granted under the 1998
stock option plan may be disposed of in any way, other than by will or by the
laws of descent and distribution. All 1998 plan options granted pursuant to the
1998 stock option plan are exercisable only by the participant to whom such 1998
plan options were granted during his or her lifetime. Following the death of a
participant, all rights with respect to 1998 plan options that were exercisable
by the participant at the time of his or her death may be exercised by the
participant's beneficiary or estate provided that the deceased participant's
beneficiary agrees in writing to be bound by the provisions of the 1998 stock
option plan and the management stock option agreement. The management stock
option agreements also contain certain repurchase rights and obligations of
WESCO, which will terminate upon consummation of the offering.
 
                                       52
<PAGE>   55
 
  Exercise of Options
 
     Outstanding 1998 plan options granted under the 1998 stock option plan
consist of two parts: a portion which is subject to time-based vesting and a
portion which is subject to performance-based vesting. The time-based 1998 plan
options will vest at a rate of 25% on each June 5 beginning in 1999 and ending
in 2002. Performance-based 1998 plan options will become fully vested and
exercisable on the earlier of January 1, 2008 or the grantee's sixty-fifth
birthday, but may vest earlier at the rate of 25% per year from 1998 through
2001, if WESCO meets certain annual performance goals.
 
  Termination of Options
 
     All 1998 plan options terminate on the tenth anniversary of the date of
grant, unless terminated earlier as described below. Upon termination of a
participant's employment with WESCO, unless otherwise determined by the
Compensation Committee, (1) any unexercisable 1998 plan options will terminate
and will not be exercisable, and (2) then exercisable 1998 plan options will
terminate within certain specified periods depending upon the circumstances of
the termination of employment.
 
  Federal Income Tax Aspects of the 1998 Stock Option Plan
 
     The 1998 plan options are non-qualified stock options, i.e., they do not
qualify as "incentive stock options" under Section 422 of the U.S. Internal
Revenue Code. The grant of a 1998 plan option has no tax consequences to WESCO
or to the participant. Upon exercise of a 1998 plan option, however, the
participant will recognize taxable ordinary income equal to the excess of the
fair market value on the date of the exercise of the shares of the common stock
acquired over the exercise price of the 1998 plan option, and that amount will
be deductible for federal income tax purposes by WESCO. The holder of the option
shares will, upon a later disposition of such shares, recognize short term or
long term capital gain or loss, depending on the holding period of the shares
but WESCO will not be entitled to an additional tax deduction.
 
1994 STOCK OPTION PLAN
 
     Under our 1994 stock option plan, the Compensation Committee, which is
responsible for administering the 1994 stock option plan, may grant to certain
executives, officers, and other key employees options to purchase up to an
aggregate of 10,461,800 shares of common stock. In connection with the
recapitalization, future issuances of options under the 1994 stock option plan
were terminated and all options granted under the 1994 stock option plan became
fully vested. The outstanding 1994 plan options were granted with an exercise
price per share equal to the fair market value per share on the date of grant as
determined by the Compensation Committee. We expect to file a registration
statement on Form S-8 with respect to the 1994 stock option plan after the
offering.
 
     As of March 31, 1999, 1994 plan options to purchase 4,666,714 shares of
common stock with a weighted average exercise price of $1.92 were exercisable.
 
  Change in Control Provisions
 
     In the event of a change in control, outstanding 1994 plan options will be
canceled in exchange for a cash payment with respect to each share of common
stock subject to such 1994 plan options equal to the excess of (1) the value per
share of the common stock in the transaction giving rise to the change in
control over (2) the per share exercise price, unless the Compensation Committee
determines in good faith, prior to the change in control, that the outstanding
1994 plan options will be honored or assumed by the successor in a manner that
provides the option participants with rights at least as favorable as those
prevailing immediately prior to the change in control. The offering will not
result in a change in control.
                                       53
<PAGE>   56
 
  Termination of Options
 
     All 1994 plan options terminate on the tenth anniversary of the date of
grant, unless terminated earlier as described below. Upon termination of a
participant's employment with WESCO, unless otherwise determined by the
Compensation Committee, in the case of termination other than for cause, then
exercisable 1994 plan options will terminate within certain specified periods
depending upon the circumstances of the termination of employment.
 
  Transferability of Options; Repurchase of Options
 
     The 1994 plan options will not be transferable or assignable other than by
will or by the laws of descent, and a 1994 plan option can be exercised only by
the participant to whom it is granted or by the participant's estate or
designated beneficiary upon such participant's death. Unless the Compensation
Committee otherwise determines, each 1994 plan option agreement provides that
the participant, in respect of shares purchased upon the exercise of any 1994
plan option, is entitled to the benefits of, and bound by the obligations in,
the registration and participation agreement, including certain demand and
"piggyback" registration rights thereunder. The 1994 stock option plan also
contains certain repurchase rights and obligations of WESCO, which will
terminate upon the consummation of the offering.
 
  Federal Income Tax Aspects of the 1994 Stock Option Plan
 
     The grant and exercise of 1994 plan options will have the same tax
consequences as the grant and exercise of 1998 plan options. See "1998 Stock
Option Plan -- Federal Income Tax Aspects."
 
STOCK OPTION PLAN FOR BRANCH EMPLOYEES
 
     A total of 2,890,000 shares of common stock may be issued under our stock
option plan for branch employees. The Compensation Committee, which is
responsible for administering the branch option plan, may grant to our branch
managers and other key employees employed at a branch or contributing
significantly to growth and profitability of a branch options to purchase shares
of common stock. Branch options that are canceled, terminated or forfeited
without exercise will again be available for grant. The Board may at any time
amend or terminate the branch option plan, but may not adversely affect the
rights of any participant with respect to branch options granted prior to such
action, unless the participant consents. As of March 31, 1999, 1,459,450 options
had been granted, of which (1) 98,260 branch options had been canceled without
exercise, (2) 9,653 branch options had been exercised at an exercise price of
$3.38, (3) 1,351,537 branch options granted with a weighted average exercise
price of $3.38 per share were outstanding, and (4) 453,730 branch options with
an exercise price of $3.38 were exercisable. After giving effect to the
foregoing, 1,528,810 branch options remained available for grant under the
branch option plan. The outstanding branch options were granted with an exercise
price per share determined by the Board to represent the estimated fair market
value per share on the date of grant. At the discretion of the Compensation
Committee, the exercise price of any branch option exercised after the offering
may be paid in full or in part in the form of shares of common stock already
owned and held for at least six months by the participant, based on the fair
market value of such common stock on the date of exercise, as determined by the
Board. None of the named executives currently participate in the branch option
plan.
 
     Branch options are granted to participants as soon as practicable following
the end of each performance period under the branch option plan. The first such
performance period commenced on February 28, 1994 and ended on December 31,
1996, and the second such performance period commenced on January 1, 1997 and is
scheduled to end on December 31, 1999. Branch options are allocated to branch or
division employees by the Compensation Committee based primarily on the
achievement of branch or division performance objectives during each performance
period.
 
                                       54
<PAGE>   57
 
     Under the terms of the recapitalization agreement, the Compensation
Committee adopted a resolution causing 100% of all branch options to be rolled
over and remain outstanding without any acceleration of the vesting schedule. We
expect to file a registration statement on Form S-8 with respect to the branch
option plan after the offering.
 
  Change in Control Provisions
 
     In the event of a change in control, outstanding branch options, whether or
not exercisable, will be canceled in exchange for a cash payment with respect to
each share of common stock subject to such branch options equal to the excess of
(1) the value per share of the common stock in the transaction giving rise to
the change in control over (2) the per share exercise price, unless the
Compensation Committee determines in good faith, prior to the change in control,
that the outstanding branch options will be honored or assumed by the successor
in a manner that provides the participants with rights at least as favorable as
those prevailing immediately prior to the change in control. The offering will
not result in a change in control.
 
  Branch Option Agreements
 
     Each participant is required to enter into a branch option agreement
specifying the exercise price and duration of the branch options being granted
and such other terms consistent with the branch option plan as the Compensation
Committee determines. Other terms of the branch option agreement are summarized
below.
 
  Exercise of Branch Options; Exercise Price
 
     Except as otherwise determined by the Compensation Committee or in
connection with a change in control, branch options become exercisable in
one-third installments on each of the first, third, and fifth anniversaries of
the date of grant. Upon exercise of a branch option, the participant is required
to enter into a stock subscription agreement. The per share exercise price of
any branch option may not be less than the greatest of (1) the fair market value
per share of common stock as of the end of the related performance period, (2)
such fair market value as of the date of grant, and (3) $1.73.
 
  Termination of Branch Options
 
     All branch options terminate on the tenth anniversary of the date of grant,
unless terminated earlier as described below. Upon termination of a
participant's employment with WESCO, unless otherwise determined by the
Compensation Committee, (1) any unexercisable branch options held by such
participant will terminate and will not be exercisable, (2) in the case of
termination other than for cause, then exercisable branch options will terminate
within certain specified periods depending upon the circumstances of the
termination of employment, and (3) in the case of termination for cause, all
branch options held by such participant, whether or not then exercisable, will
terminate immediately.
 
  Transferability of Branch Options; Repurchase of Branch Options
 
     The branch options will not be transferable or assignable other than by
will or by the laws of descent, and a branch option can be exercised only by the
participant to whom it is granted or by the participant's estate or designated
beneficiary upon such participant's death. Unless the Compensation Committee
otherwise determines, each branch option agreement provides that the branch plan
participant, in respect of shares purchased upon the exercise of any branch
option, is entitled to the benefits of, and bound by the obligations in, the
registration and participation agreement, including certain demand and
"piggyback" registration rights thereunder. The branch option agreements also
 
                                       55
<PAGE>   58
 
contain certain repurchase rights and obligations of WESCO, which will terminate
upon the consummation of the offering.
 
  Federal Income Tax Aspects of the Branch Options
 
     The grant and exercise of branch options will have the same federal income
tax consequences as the grant and exercise of the 1998 options. See "1998 Stock
Option Plan -- Federal Income Tax Aspects."
 
LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLAN
 
     In April 1999, we established the 1999 Long-Term Incentive Plan, or LTIP,
to assist us in attracting and retaining key employees and to act as an
incentive for such employees to achieve corporate objectives. The LTIP will
become effective upon the completion of this offering and is designed to be a
successor plan to our 1994 stock option plan, 1998 stock option plan and branch
option plan. Outstanding options granted under the prior plans will continue to
be governed by their existing terms and any remaining options under such plans
will be granted under the LTIP. We expect to file a registration statement on
Form S-8 with respect to the LTIP after the offering.
 
   
     An initial reserve of 6,936,000 shares of common stock has been authorized
for issuance under the LTIP. This reserve will be automatically increased by (i)
the number of shares of common stock lowered by unexercised options granted
under our prior option plans that are canceled or terminated after the effective
date of the LTIP and (ii) the number of shares of common stock surrendered by
employees to pay the exercise price and/or withholding taxes in connection with
the exercise of stock options granted under our prior option plans.
    
 
     The Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors will administer the
LTIP, and has the sole discretionary authority to interpret the LTIP, to
establish and modify administrative rules for the LTIP, to impose appropriate
conditions or restrictions on awards granted under the LTIP and to take any
other steps in connection with the LTIP that the Compensation Committee believes
are necessary or advisable.
 
     The Compensation Committee may grant awards under the LTIP in the form of
stock options, restricted stock awards and performance awards to our key
employees at its discretion. Each participant is required to execute an award
agreement with WESCO which sets forth the specific terms and conditions of the
award. Except under certain circumstances involving a change in our capital
structure no participant may be granted awards with respect to more than
1,000,000 shares of common stock during any calendar year.
 
     With respect to stock options granted under the LTIP, the Compensation
Committee has the discretion to determine the exercise price of each share of
common stock that may be purchased upon the exercise of those options. The LTIP
provides that fair market value is to be determined according to the closing
price per share of the common stock on the New York Stock Exchange on the date
of the grant.
 
   
     The Compensation Committee may designate options granted under the LTIP as
incentive stock options or non-qualified stock options. However, the aggregate
value on the date of the grant of the incentive stock option of any person which
became exercisable for the first time in any calendar year may not be greater
than $100,000. In addition, the exercise price of any incentive stock option
granted to any participant who owns more than 10% of the total combined voting
power of all classes of our stock must be at least 110% of the fair market value
of a share of common stock on the date of the grant and the term of any such
stock option may not be more than five years.
    
 
     The LTIP contains an accelerated ownership feature. This feature is
intended to encourage employees to exercise options at an earlier date and to
retain the shares so acquired, in furtherance of
 
                                       56
<PAGE>   59
 
our policy of encouraging increased employee stock ownership. Under the
accelerated ownership feature, participants who tender previously owned shares
or have shares withheld to pay all or a portion of the exercise price of vested
stock options or to cover the associated tax liability may be eligible, in the
discretion of the Compensation Committee, to receive an option covering the same
number of shares as are tendered or withheld for such purposes. The market value
on the date of grant of an accelerated ownership option establishes the exercise
price of such option, and such option will have a term equal to the remaining
term of the original option.
 
     Subject to the Compensation Committee's authority to accelerate or extend
the time during which an option granted under the LTIP would be exercisable,
options granted under the LTIP will expire on the first to occur of: expiration
of the option provided in the related award agreement, termination of the award
upon the lapse of a specific period of time following the termination of the
participant's employment, depending on the reasons for the termination, or ten
years from the date of the grant. If certain events occur which would constitute
a change in control under the LTIP, all options outstanding on the date of the
change in control will become immediately and fully exercisable.
 
     The Compensation Committee may also award restricted shares of common stock
to our employees under the LTIP based on performance standards, periods of
service or other criteria that the Compensation Committee establishes.
Restricted shares awarded under the LTIP are subject to the restrictions, terms
and conditions contained in the LTIP and the award agreements executed by the
participants and may not be transferred, other than by will or the laws of
descent and distribution or to an inter vivos trust to which the participant is
treated as the owner, pledged or sold prior to the lapse of those restrictions.
If certain events occur which would constitute a change in control under the
LTIP, all restrictions applicable to the restricted shares awarded under the
LTIP will terminate.
 
     Finally, the Compensation Committee may also grant to our employees
performance awards consisting of the right to receive a payment which is
measured by the fair market value of a specific number of shares of common
stock, increases in that fair market value during a specified time period,
called the "award period", or a fixed cash amount which is contingent upon the
extent to which certain predetermined performance targets are met. The
performance targets may be related to the performance of WESCO or the individual
performance of the participant and are determined by the Compensation Committee
at its discretion. If certain events occur which would constitute a change in
control under the LTIP, all performance awards for all award periods will become
immediately payable to all participants and will be paid to all participants
within 30 days after the change in control.
 
                                       57
<PAGE>   60
 
OPTION GRANTS
 
     The following table sets forth as to persons named in the Summary
Compensation Table additional information with respect to stock options granted
during 1998:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           % OF
                                          TOTAL
                                         OPTIONS
                           NUMBER OF     GRANTED                                  POTENTIAL REALIZABLE VALUE AT
                           SECURITIES       TO                                    ASSUMED RATES OF STOCK PRICE
                           UNDERLYING   EMPLOYEES                                APPRECIATION FOR OPTION TERM(2)
                            OPTIONS     IN FISCAL      EXERCISE     EXPIRATION   -------------------------------
          NAME             GRANTED(1)      YEAR      PRICE ($/SH)      DATE          5%                 10%
          ----             ----------   ----------   ------------   ----------   -----------        ------------
<S>                        <C>          <C>          <C>            <C>          <C>                <C>
Roy W. Haley.............   867,000        20.8%        $10.75       8/6/2008    $5,858,908         $14,847,624
James H. Mehta...........   190,740         4.6          10.75       8/6/2008     1,288,960           3,266,477
Patrick M. Swed..........   190,740         4.6          10.75       8/6/2008     1,288,960           3,266,477
James V. Piraino.........   127,160         3.1          10.75       8/6/2008       859,307           2,177,651
Stanley C. Weiss.........        --          --             --             --            --                  --
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
 
(1) A portion of these options will vest on the basis of time ratably over four
    years and the remainder will vest in full on January 1, 2008, or if earlier,
    on the grantee's 65th birthday or the attainment of pre-established
    performance goals.
(2) Amounts represent hypothetical gains that could be achieved for the
    respective options if exercised at the end of the option term. These gains
    are based on assumed rates of stock price appreciation of 5% and 10%
    compounded annually from the date the respective options were granted to
    their expiration date. These assumptions are not intended to forecast future
    appreciation of our stock price. The potential realizable value computation
    does not take into account federal or state income tax consequences of
    option exercises or sales of appreciated stock.
 
AGGREGATED OPTION EXERCISES IN LAST FISCAL YEAR AND FISCAL YEAR-END OPTION
VALUES
 
     The following table sets forth information for each named executive with
regard to the aggregate stock options held at December 31, 1998. No stock
options were exercised by any of the named executives during 1998.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                            NUMBER OF SECURITIES           VALUE OF UNEXERCISED
                                                 UNEXERCISED               IN-THE-MONEY OPTIONS
                                            OPTIONS AT FY-END(#)              AT FY-END($)(1)
NAME                                     (EXERCISABLE/UNEXERCISABLE)    (EXERCISABLE/UNEXERCISABLE)
- ----                                     ---------------------------    ---------------------------
<S>                                      <C>                            <C>
Roy W. Haley...........................       1,287,784/867,000            20,952,112/6,289,800
James H. Mehta.........................         495,346/190,740             7,936,677/1,383,756
Patrick M. Swed........................         330,038/190,740             5,369,684/1,383,756
James V. Piraino.......................          82,654/127,160               1,208,350/922,504
Stanley C. Weiss.......................                   --/--                           --/--
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
 
(1) Based on the offering price of $18.00 per share of common stock.
 
     The foregoing options were issued under our existing stock option plans. In
connection with the June 1998 recapitalization, the Board caused all unvested
1994 plan options, including those held by the named executives, to vest and
become exercisable upon the closing of the recapitalization.
 
                                       58
<PAGE>   61
 
RETENTION BONUS PAYMENT
 
     We paid an aggregate amount of approximately $11 million to a group of
approximately 45 managers, including the named executives, upon the closing of
the recapitalization. With respect to each of these managers, payment was equal
to approximately one to two times base salary. Immediately prior to the closing
of the recapitalization, Clayton, Dubilier & Rice, or CD&R, which was the
majority shareholder of WESCO prior to the recapitalization, made an equity
contribution to WESCO equal to approximately one-half of this aggregate amount.
 
COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDER PARTICIPATION
 
     During 1998 prior to the recapitalization, a former outside director and
three former directors affiliated with CD&R served on the Compensation
Committee. We had agreed to indemnify certain former members of the Board
affiliated with CD&R and such CD&R affiliates against liabilities incurred under
securities laws or with respect to their previous services for us.
 
     At December 31, 1998, three directors affiliated with Cypress served on the
Compensation Committee.
 
                                       59
<PAGE>   62
 
                 CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
 
AMENDED AND RESTATED REGISTRATION AND PARTICIPATION AGREEMENT
 
     In connection with the recapitalization, an investor group led by Cypress
which included, among others, Chase Capital Partners and Co-Investment Partners,
L.P., CD&R, Westinghouse and WESCO entered into a registration and participation
agreement, which amended and restated the previous agreement among CD&R,
Westinghouse and WESCO, to reflect, among other things, the succession of the
investor group to CD&R's and Westinghouse's rights and obligations thereunder.
Pursuant to the registration and participation agreement, the investor group and
the management stockholders have the right, under certain circumstances and
subject to certain conditions, to request that we register under the Securities
Act shares of common stock held by them. Subject to certain conditions and
exceptions, the investor group and the management stockholders also have the
right to require that shares of common stock held by them be included in any
registration under the Securities Act commenced by us. Neither the investor
group nor any of the management stockholders have requested that shares of
common stock held by them be included in this offering. The registration and
participation agreement provides that we will pay all expenses in connection
with the first three registrations requested by the investor group and the
management stockholders. The registration and participation agreement also
provides that we will indemnify the investors and the management stockholders
and their affiliates for certain liabilities they may incur under the securities
laws.
 
     The registration and participation agreement also contains certain
restrictions which prohibit the sale of common stock by Cypress unless Cypress
provides each holder of common stock entitled to the benefits of the
registration and participation agreement, including the other members of the
investor group and the management stockholders, with a 30-day prior notice
pursuant to which such holders may agree to participate in such sale on a pro
rata basis with Cypress. The registration and participation agreement provides
that, if Cypress sells all of its shares of common stock to a third party,
Cypress may require such other holders of common stock to sell all of their
shares to such third party pursuant to such sale at the same price and on the
same terms as Cypress. In addition, the registration and participation agreement
provides that if prior to any public equity offering by us, we issue additional
shares of common stock to Cypress, subject to some exceptions, we will offer to
all holders of registrable securities that are "accredited investors" the right
to purchase a pro rata share of the newly-issued shares, based on each holder's
equity interest in us, at the same price and on the same terms as Cypress.
 
     In addition, the registration and participation agreement provides that so
long as Cypress owns any of our securities, Cypress shall have the right to
designate one director to our board of directors and the board of directors of
WESCO Canada.
 
     At the time we entered the registration and participation agreement,
Cypress was not affiliated with WESCO, and we believe the transaction was made
on terms no less favorable to us than we could have obtained from an
unaffiliated third party.
 
MANAGEMENT STOCKHOLDERS
 
     Each member of management who holds common stock is a party to a stock
subscription agreement with us which provides that each management stockholder
is entitled to certain benefits of, and bound by certain obligations in, the
registration and participation agreement, including certain registration rights
thereunder. These stock subscription agreements also provide the management
stockholder with the right under certain limited circumstances to require us to
purchase all of the management stockholder's shares of common stock at the then
fair market value based upon certain events. Pursuant to the stock option
agreements governing each management stockholder's stock
 
                                       60
<PAGE>   63
 
options, such management stockholder also has the right under certain limited
circumstances to require us to purchase all of such management stockholder's
options at the then fair market value of the common stock minus the exercise
price upon such events. At December 31, 1998, the redemption value of the shares
and exercisable portion of the options was $130.3 million. See Note 11 to
Consolidated Financial Statements. These repurchase rights will terminate upon
the consummation of this offering. In addition, such stock subscription
agreements and stock option agreements provide that such rights are subject to,
and limited by, any restrictions contained in the credit facilities, the
indentures or other debt instruments on our ability to redeem or repurchase
equity held by management stockholders.
 
     A portion of the purchase price paid for the common stock purchased by
certain management stockholders has been financed by full-recourse bank loans
guaranteed by us. As of December 31, 1998, Messrs. Burleson, Goodwin, Haley,
Kramp, Mehta, Piraino, Swed, Thimjon, Van and Vanderhoff had outstanding loans
guaranteed by us in the amount of $0, $260,572, $3,054,872, $68,700, $1,487,903,
$266,634, $343,200, $0, $49,686 and $282,832, respectively and since January 1,
1997, the largest amounts outstanding under such loans were $68,800, $260,572,
$3,054,872, $68,800, $1,487,903, $266,634, $587,959, $167,262, $49,686 and
$282,832, respectively.
 
PAYMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH THE RECAPITALIZATION
 
     In connection with the recapitalization, Cypress received a transaction fee
of approximately $9.5 million from us and was reimbursed for all out-of-pocket
expenses. We have also agreed to indemnify Cypress to the fullest extent
allowable under applicable Delaware law and against any suits, claims, damages
or expenses which may be made against or incurred by Cypress under applicable
securities laws, including in connection with the offering.
 
     Approximately $517.5 and $62.1 million of the equity consideration paid in
connection with the recapitalization was paid to CD&R and Westinghouse,
respectively, to purchase their shares of common stock. In addition,
approximately $52.1 million of the equity consideration was paid to purchase
5,780,000 shares held by Westinghouse upon exercise of an option granted at the
date of formation with an exercise price of $1.73 per share. Westinghouse also
held approximately $66.6 million of our formerly existing indebtedness which was
repaid in connection with the recapitalization. See "Management's Discussion and
Analysis of Financial Conditions and Results of Operations -- Recent
Developments" and Notes 3 and 16 to Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
     The recapitalization was a negotiated transaction between WESCO, CD&R and
Cypress, and we believe the transaction was made on terms no less favorable to
us than could have been obtained from an unaffiliated third party.
 
OTHER TRANSACTIONS
 
     Prior to the recapitalization, Westinghouse and CD&R were considered to be
related parties. In 1998, we purchased $2.8 million from, and sold $7.3 million
worth of products to, Westinghouse. See Note 16 to Consolidated Financial
Statements. We paid an affiliate of CD&R fees of approximately $0.1 million for
advisory, management consulting and monitoring services rendered during 1998.
 
     We believe these transactions were made on terms no less favorable to us
than we could have obtained from an unaffiliated third party.
 
                                       61
<PAGE>   64
 
                             PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS
 
     The following table sets forth certain information known to us with respect
to the beneficial ownership of common stock as of March 31, 1999 and as adjusted
to reflect WESCO's sale of the common stock in the offering by (i) each person
known by us to beneficially own more than five percent of our outstanding common
stock, (ii) each of our directors, (iii) each executive officer named in the
Summary Compensation Table, and (iv) all of our directors and officers as a
group. Unless otherwise indicated, the person or persons named have sole voting
and investment power. In determining the number and percentage of shares
beneficially owned by each person, shares that may be acquired by such person
pursuant to options or convertible stock exercisable or convertible within 60
days of the date hereof are deemed outstanding for purposes of determining the
total number of outstanding shares for such person and are not deemed
outstanding for such purpose for all other stockholders.
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                  PERCENT OWNED
                                                                                  BENEFICIALLY
                                                                               -------------------
                                                           NUMBER OF           PRIOR TO    AFTER
NAME                                               SHARES OWNED BENEFICIALLY   OFFERING   OFFERING
- ----                                               -------------------------   --------   --------
<S>                                                <C>                         <C>        <C>
Cypress Merchant Banking Partners L.P.(1)
  c/o The Cypress Group L.L.C.
  65 East 55th Street
  New York, New York 10222.......................          18,580,966            53.4%      40.0%
Cypress Offshore Partners L.P.(1)
  Bank of Bermuda (Cayman) Limited
  P.O. Box 513 G.T. Third Floor
  British America Tower
  George Town, Grand Cayman
  Cayman Islands, B.W.I..........................             962,370             2.8%       2.1%
Chase Equity Associates, L.P.(2)
  c/o Chase Capital Partners, L.P.
  380 Madison Avenue, 12th Floor
  New York, New York 10017.......................           4,653,131            13.4%      10.0%
Co-Investment Partners, L.P.
  c/o CIP Partners, LLC
  660 Madison Avenue
  New York, New York 10021.......................           4,653,189            13.4%      10.0%
Roy W. Haley.....................................           2,644,350             7.3%       5.5%
James H. Mehta...................................           1,007,743             2.9%       2.1%
James V. Piraino.................................             187,850               *          *
Patrick M. Swed..................................             625,685             1.8%       1.3%
Stanley C. Weiss(3)..............................                  --               *          *
James L. Singleton(1)............................          19,543,336            56.2%      42.1%
James A. Stern(1)................................          19,543,336            56.2%      42.1%
Anthony D. Tutrone...............................                  --               *          *
Michael J. Cheshire..............................              23,120               *          *
Robert J. Tarr, Jr...............................              23,120               *          *
Kenneth L. Way...................................              23,120               *          *
All executive officers and directors as a group
  (18) persons...................................          25,269,004            71.3%      53.6%
</TABLE>
    
 
                                       62
<PAGE>   65
 
- -------------------------
 
* Represents holdings of less than 1%.
(1) Cypress Merchant Banking Partners L.P. and Cypress Offshore Partners L.P.
    are affiliates of Cypress. The general partner of Cypress Merchant Banking
    Partners L.P. and Cypress Offshore Partners L.P. is Cypress Associates L.P.
    and The Cypress Group L.L.C. is the general partner of Cypress Associates
    L.P. Messrs. Singleton and Stern are members of Cypress and may be deemed to
    share beneficial ownership of the shares of common stock shown as
    beneficially owned by such Cypress funds. Such individuals disclaim
    beneficial ownership of such shares.
(2) These shares constitute shares of non-voting Class B common stock which are
    convertible at any time into common stock at the option of the holder.
(3) Mr. Weiss retired from WESCO effective December 31, 1998.
 
                                       63
<PAGE>   66
 
                          DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STOCK
 
   
     At the time of the offering, the authorized capital stock consists of
210,000,000 shares of common stock, par value of $.01 per share, 20,000,000
shares of Class B common stock, par value $.01 per share, and 20,000,000 shares
of preferred stock, par value $.01 per share.
    
 
COMMON STOCK
 
     VOTING RIGHTS.  Each holder of shares of common stock is entitled to one
vote per share on all matters to be voted on by stockholders. Holders of common
stock are not entitled to cumulative votes in the election of directors.
 
     DIVIDEND RIGHTS.  The holders of common stock are entitled to dividends and
other distributions if, as and when declared by the Board out of assets legally
available therefor, subject to the rights of any holder of preferred stock,
restrictions set forth in WESCO's credit facilities and restrictions, if any,
imposed by other indebtedness outstanding from time to time. See "Dividend
Policy" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Conditions and
Results of Operations -- Liquidity and Capital Resources." The holders of common
stock and Class B common stock are entitled to equivalent per share dividends
and distributions.
 
     OTHER RIGHTS.  Upon the liquidation, dissolution or winding up of WESCO,
the holders of shares of common stock would be entitled to share pro rata (on an
equal basis with the holders of the Class B common stock) in the distribution of
all of WESCO's assets remaining available for distribution after satisfaction of
all its liabilities and the payment of the liquidation preference of any
outstanding preferred stock. The holders of common stock have no preemptive or
other subscription rights to purchase shares of WESCO, nor are they entitled to
the benefits of any sinking fund provisions. No share of common stock issued in
connection with or outstanding prior to the offering is subject to any further
call or assessment.
 
     REDEEMABLE COMMON STOCK.  Certain employees and key management of WESCO who
hold common stock and options may require WESCO to repurchase in the event of
death, disability or termination without cause during the term of employment,
all of their shares and the exercisable portion of the options they hold. This
repurchase right will terminate upon the consummation of the offering.
 
CLASS B COMMON STOCK
 
     The Class B common stock (nonvoting) is identical to the common stock in
all respects except that the holders of Class B common stock will have no right
to vote, except as required by law. Shares of Class B common stock automatically
convert into the same number of shares of common stock upon the sale or transfer
by the holder thereof to a non-affiliate. To the extent permitted by law, each
holder of Class B common stock is entitled to convert any or all shares of Class
B common stock held into the same number of shares of common stock.
 
PREFERRED STOCK
 
     The Board of Directors has the authority, without further action by the
stockholders, to issue up to 20,000,000 shares of preferred stock in one or more
series and to fix the number of shares, designations, voting powers,
preferences, optional and other special rights and the restrictions or
qualifications thereof. The rights, preferences, privileges and powers of each
series of preferred stock may differ with respect to dividend rates, amounts
payable on liquidation, voting rights, conversion rights, redemption provisions,
sinking fund provisions and other matters. The issuance of shares of preferred
stock could decrease the amount of earnings and assets available for
distribution to holders of shares of common stock and Class B common stock and
could adversely affect the rights and
 
                                       64
<PAGE>   67
 
powers, including voting rights, of holders of shares of common stock and Class
B common stock. The existence of authorized and undesignated shares of preferred
stock may also have an adverse effect on the market price of the common stock.
In addition, the issuance of any shares of preferred stock could have the effect
of delaying, deferring or preventing a change of control of WESCO. No shares of
preferred stock are outstanding, and WESCO has no current intention to issue any
shares of preferred stock.
 
CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF THE AMENDED AND RESTATED CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION
 
     WESCO's Certificate of Incorporation, as amended and restated, provides for
a classified Board of Directors in which directors are divided into three
classes, each class being elected for a term of three years expiring at
successive yearly intervals. In addition, the Certificate of Incorporation
requires a vote of a majority of the remaining Board of Directors to fill a
vacancy on the Board and does not permit vacancies to be filled by a vote of the
stockholders. The Certificate of Incorporation provides that vacancies filled by
the Board of Directors will be filled for the remainder of the term of the class
in which the vacancy occurs. The Certificate of Incorporation further states
that a decrease in the number of directors will not shorten the term of any
incumbent.
 
SECTION 203 OF THE DELAWARE GENERAL CORPORATION LAW
 
     We are a Delaware corporation subject to Section 203 of the DGCL. Section
203 provides in general that an interested stockholder acquiring more than 15%
of the outstanding voting stock of a corporation subject to Section 203 but less
than 85% of such stock may not engage in certain business combinations (as
defined in Section 203) with the corporation for a period of three years
subsequent to the date on which the stockholder became an interested stockholder
unless:
 
     - prior to such date the corporation's board of directors approve either
       the business combination or the transaction in which the stockholder
       became an interested stockholder or
 
     - the business combination is approved by the corporation's board of
       directors and authorized by a vote of at least 66 2/3% of the outstanding
       voting stock of the corporation not owned by the interested stockholder.
 
     A "business combination" includes mergers, asset sales and other
transactions resulting in financial benefit to a stockholder. Section 203 could
prohibit or delay mergers or other takeover or change of control attempts with
respect to WESCO and, accordingly, may discourage attempts that might result in
a premium over the market price for the shares held by stockholders.
 
TRANSFER AGENT AND REGISTRAR
 
   
     The Transfer Agent and Registrar for our common stock will be ChaseMellon
Shareholder Services.
    
 
                                       65
<PAGE>   68
 
                      DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN INDEBTEDNESS
 
CREDIT FACILITIES
 
     The following is a summary of the material terms of the credit agreement
entered into among WESCO, WESCO Distribution--Canada, Inc., WESCO Distribution,
certain financial institutions party thereto, The Chase Manhattan Bank, as U.S.
administrative agent, syndication agent and U.S. collateral agent, The Chase
Manhattan Bank of Canada, as Canadian administrative agent and Canadian
collateral agent, and Lehman Commercial Paper Inc., as documentation agent. The
following summary is qualified in its entirety by reference to the credit
agreement.
 
     THE FACILITIES.  The credit agreement provides for three term loan
facilities in an aggregate principal amount of up to $270.0 million, consisting
of:
 
        - a Tranche A term loan facility providing for term loans to WESCO
          Distribution in an aggregate principal amount of up to $80.0 million,
 
        - a Tranche B term loan facility providing for term loans to WESCO
          Distribution in an aggregate principal amount of up to $90.0 million,
          and
 
        - a delayed draw term facility providing for term loans to WESCO
          Distribution in an aggregate principal amount of up to $100.0 million;
          and
 
a revolving credit facility providing for:
 
        - dollar revolving loans in an aggregate principal amount outstanding at
          any time not to exceed $50.0 million and
 
        - U.S. dollar and/or Canadian dollar revolving loans in an aggregate
          principal amount outstanding at any time not to exceed U.S. $50.0
          million.
 
     An aggregate principal amount not to exceed $25.0 million is available
under the revolving credit facility for acquisitions permitted under the credit
agreement. The revolving credit facility and the term facilities are referred to
in this prospectus as the credit facilities.
 
   
     AVAILABILITY.  The full amount of the Tranche A term facility and the
Tranche B term facility was drawn upon the closing of WESCO Distribution's notes
offering on June 5, 1998 and amounts repaid or prepaid will not be able to be
reborrowed. The delayed draw term facility is available for two years after June
5, 1998 and amounts repaid or prepaid will not be able to be reborrowed. Amounts
under the revolving credit facility are available on a revolving basis.
    
 
     INTEREST. At the option of WESCO Distribution, borrowings under the term
facilities and borrowings in U.S. dollars under the revolving credit facility
bear interest at a rate per annum equal to LIBOR or the highest of Chase's
published prime rate, a certificate of deposit rate plus 1% and the Federal
Funds effective rate plus 0.5%, referred to as ABR, plus, in each case a
borrowing margin based on WESCO Distribution's financial performance. At the
option of WESCO Distribution, borrowings in Canadian dollars under the revolving
credit facility bear interest at a rate per annum equal to the higher of Chase
Canada's published prime rate and the Canadian Dollar Offered Rate plus 1%,
plus, in each case, a borrowing margin based on WESCO Distribution's financial
performance. Amounts outstanding under the credit facilities not paid when due
will bear interest at a default rate equal to 2% above the rates otherwise
applicable to the loans under the credit agreement.
 
     FEES. WESCO Distribution has agreed to pay certain fees with respect to the
credit agreement, including:
 
     - fees on the unused commitments of the lenders;
 
     - letter of credit fees on the aggregate face amount of outstanding letters
       of credit;
                                       66
<PAGE>   69
 
     - annual administration fees; and
 
     - agent, arrangement and other similar fees.
 
     SECURITY; GUARANTEES. WESCO has irrevocably guaranteed the obligations of
WESCO Distribution under the credit facilities jointly and severally, with each
existing and subsequently acquired or organized domestic subsidiary and, to the
extent no adverse tax consequences would result, any foreign subsidiary other
than WESCO Distribution and the receivables subsidiary. In addition, the
obligations of WESCO Distribution under the credit facilities and the related
guarantees are secured by substantially all of the assets of WESCO and each
other existing and subsequently acquired and organized domestic subsidiary and,
to the extent no adverse tax consequences would result, foreign subsidiary other
than the receivables subsidiary.
 
     WESCO has irrevocably guaranteed the obligations of WESCO Canada under the
revolving credit facility jointly and severally, with WESCO Distribution and
each existing and subsequently acquired or organized subsidiary of WESCO Canada
and any other subsidiary of WESCO organized under the laws of Canada and the
U.S. guarantors. In addition, the obligations of WESCO Canada under the
revolving credit facility and the related guarantees are secured by the U.S.
collateral and substantially all of the assets of WESCO Canada and each existing
and subsequently acquired or organized subsidiary of WESCO Canada and any other
subsidiary of WESCO organized under the laws of Canada.
 
     COMMITMENT REDUCTIONS AND REPAYMENTS. The revolving credit facility will
mature in 2004. The Tranche A term loan will mature in 2004 with quarterly
amortization payments during the term of such loan in an annual aggregate
principal amount as follows: 1999, $4.0 million; 2000, $8.0 million; 2001, $12.0
million; 2002, $16.0 million; 2003, $20.0 million; and 2004, $20.0 million. The
Tranche B term loan will mature in 2006, with quarterly amortization payments
during the term of such loan in an annual aggregate principal amount as follows:
1999 through 2004, $500,000; 2005, $34.2 million; and 2006, $52.3 million. The
delayed draw term facility will mature in 2005, with quarterly amortization
payments during the term of such facility in an annual aggregate principal
amount as follows: 2002, $25.0 million; 2003, $25.0 million; 2004, $25.0
million; and 2005, $25.0 million assuming WESCO Distribution borrows the full
amount available under the delayed draw term facility.
 
     In addition, the credit facilities are subject to mandatory prepayment and
reductions in an amount equal to:
 
     - 100% of the net cash proceeds of certain equity issuances by WESCO, WESCO
       Distribution, WESCO Canada or any of their respective subsidiaries,
 
     - 100% of the net cash proceeds of certain debt issuances of WESCO, WESCO
       Distribution, WESCO Canada or any of their respective subsidiaries,
 
     - 75% of WESCO Distribution's excess cash flow, subject to a reduction to
       50% if WESCO Distribution's long-term senior unsecured debt receives an
       investment grade rating from Standard and Poor's Rating Service or
       Moody's Investors Service, Inc. and
 
     - 100% of the net cash proceeds of certain asset sales or other
       dispositions of property by WESCO, WESCO Distribution or any of its
       subsidiaries, in each case subject to exceptions.
 
     AFFIRMATIVE, NEGATIVE AND FINANCIAL COVENANTS. The credit agreement
contains a number of covenants that, among other things, restrict the ability of
WESCO, WESCO Distribution, WESCO Canada and their respective subsidiaries to
dispose of assets, incur additional indebtedness, incur or guarantee
obligations, repay other indebtedness or amend other debt instruments, pay
dividends, create liens on assets, make investments, loans or advances, make
acquisitions, engage in mergers or consolidations, change the business conducted
by WESCO Distribution, WESCO Canada and their
                                       67
<PAGE>   70
 
respective subsidiaries, make capital expenditures, or engage in certain
transactions with affiliates and otherwise restrict certain corporate
activities. In addition, the credit agreement requires us to comply with
specified financial ratios and tests.
 
     EVENTS OF DEFAULT. The credit agreement contains customary events of
default.
 
RECEIVABLES FACILITY
 
     The following is a summary of the material terms of the receivables
facility entered into among WESCO Distribution, WESCO Canada, WESCO Receivables
Corp., a special purpose wholly-owned subsidiary of WESCO Distribution, Chase as
liquidity bank and funding agent for a multi-seller asset-backed commercial
paper issuer. The following summary is qualified in its entirety by reference to
the receivables sale agreements and the pooling agreement.
 
     THE RECEIVABLES FACILITY. WESCO Receivables purchases the receivables
generated by WESCO, WESCO Canada and certain other subsidiaries pursuant to two
receivables sale agreements. The receivables sale agreements contain customary
terms for similar transactions.
 
     WESCO Receivables has entered into a pooling agreement with Chase as
trustee pursuant to which WESCO Receivables transfers all the receivables to a
trust, and the commercial paper issuer, or in certain circumstances, the
liquidity bank provides through the purchase of an undivided percentage
ownership interest in the Trust. If the commercial paper issuer no longer wishes
to, or is unable to, provide financing, which may occur at any time, the
liquidity bank is committed to thereafter be the receivables purchaser. The
receivables facility is supported by a commitment of the liquidity bank, subject
to the terms and conditions of the pooling agreement, to purchase transferred
interests for a period of approximately six years on a revolving basis in an
amount not to exceed $300 million at any time. See Note 4 to Consolidated
Financial Statements for further information concerning funding under the
receivables facility.
 
     The trust, on behalf of the receivables purchasers, has a first priority
perfected ownership or security interest in the receivables, the rights of WESCO
Receivables under the receivables sale agreements and cash collections and other
proceeds received in respect of the receivables. Pursuant to a servicing
agreement entered into by the receivables sellers, WESCO Receivables and the
trust, the receivables sellers have agreed to service the receivables for the
trust; provided, that, upon the occurrence of certain events, the servicing
agreement may be terminated by the trustee.
 
     COSTS. The effective financing rate under the receivables facility will be
the weighted average of the interest rates on all outstanding commercial paper
issued by the commercial paper issuer to fund its purchase of the transferred
interests, except if the liquidity bank is the receivables purchaser, the
effective financing rate will be either adjusted LIBOR plus a margin of up to
2.25% per annum or ABR plus a margin of up to 1.25% per annum, at the option of
WESCO Receivables, plus in each case the fees described below.
 
     FEES. WESCO Receivables has agreed to pay certain fees with respect to the
receivables facility, including a commitment fee to the liquidity bank, a
program fee and agent, arrangement and other similar fees.
 
     FACILITY REDUCTIONS. After the end of the revolving period, all collections
in respect of receivables purchased by WESCO Receivables from the receivables
sellers will be used to reduce the transferred interests of the receivables
purchasers in the receivables. Additionally, at any time, WESCO Receivables at
its option may reduce the purchase commitment upon notice to the receivables
purchasers or terminate the purchases of transferred interests by the
receivables purchasers.
 
                                       68
<PAGE>   71
 
     EARLY TERMINATION EVENTS. The pooling agreement contains certain early
amortization events which will cause the termination of, or permit the
Receivables Purchasers to terminate, the revolving period and effectively reduce
the amount of financing available under the receivables facility to zero.
 
     REPLACEMENT FACILITY. Although WESCO Distribution received a six-year
commitment, WESCO Distribution intends to replace the receivables facility
through a securitization of the receivables in the capital markets or another
securitization transaction. However, no assurance can be made that such
transaction will be completed or, if completed, whether such transaction may
have materially different terms from the receivables facility.
 
9 1/8% SENIOR SUBORDINATED NOTES DUE 2008
 
     WESCO Distribution has outstanding $300 million in aggregate principal
amount of its senior subordinated notes. The senior subordinated notes are
subject to the terms and conditions of an indenture dated as of June 5, 1998
between WESCO Distribution and Bank One, N.A., as trustee. The following summary
of the material provisions of the senior subordinated notes does not purport to
be complete, and is subject to, and qualified in its entirety by reference to,
all of the provisions of the senior subordinated indenture and those terms made
a part of the senior subordinated indenture and not otherwise defined herein are
used below with the meanings set forth in the senior subordinated indenture.
 
     GENERAL. The senior subordinated notes will mature on June 1, 2008 and bear
interest at 9 1/8% per annum, payable semi-annually on June 1 and December 1 of
each year. The senior subordinated notes are general unsecured obligations of
WESCO Distribution and are subordinated in right of payment to all existing and
future senior debt of WESCO Distribution. The notes are unconditionally
guaranteed, on an unsecured senior subordinated basis, jointly and severally, by
WESCO.
 
     OPTIONAL REDEMPTION. The senior subordinated notes are subject to
redemption at any time, at the option of WESCO Distribution, in whole or in
part, on or after June 1, 2003 at redemption prices, plus accrued and unpaid
interest, starting at 104.563% of principal, plus accrued and unpaid interest,
during the 12-month period beginning June 1, 2003 and declining annually to 100%
of principal, plus accrued and unpaid interest, on June 1, 2006 and thereafter.
 
   
     In addition, prior to June 1, 2001, WESCO Distribution may redeem up to 35%
of the aggregate principal amount of the senior subordinated notes with the net
proceeds of this offering or other equity offerings, to the extent such proceeds
are contributed within 120 days of any such offering to WESCO Distribution as
common equity, at a price equal to 109.125% of the principal, plus accrued and
unpaid interest, provided that at least 65% of the original aggregate principal
amount of the senior subordinated notes remains outstanding thereafter.
    
 
     CHANGE OF CONTROL. Upon the occurrence of a change of control, each holder
of the senior subordinated notes may require WESCO Distribution to repurchase
all or a portion of such holder's senior subordinated notes at a purchase price
equal to 101% of the principal amount thereof plus accrued and unpaid interest.
 
     SUBORDINATION. The senior subordinated notes are general unsecured
obligations of WESCO Distribution and are subordinate to all existing and future
senior debt of WESCO Distribution. The senior subordinated notes will rank
senior in right of payment to all subordinated Indebtedness of WESCO
Distribution.
 
     CERTAIN COVENANTS. The senior subordinated indenture contains a number of
covenants restricting the operation of WESCO Distribution, which, among other
things, limit the ability of WESCO Distribution to incur additional
indebtedness, pay dividends or make distributions, sell assets, issue subsidiary
stock, restrict distributions from subsidiaries, create certain liens, enter
into certain consolidations or mergers and enter into certain transactions with
affiliates.
                                       69
<PAGE>   72
 
     EVENTS OF DEFAULT. Upon the occurrence of an event of default, with certain
exceptions, the trustee or the holders of at least 25% in principal amount of
the then outstanding senior subordinated notes may accelerate the maturity of
all the senior subordinated notes as provided in the senior subordinated
indenture.
 
11 1/8% SENIOR DISCOUNT NOTES DUE 2008
 
     WESCO has outstanding $87 million in aggregate principal amount of its
senior discount notes. The senior discount notes are subject to the terms and
conditions of an indenture dated as of June 5, 1998 between WESCO and Bank One,
N.A., as trustee. The following summary of the material provisions of the senior
discount notes does not purport to be complete, and is subject to, and qualified
in its entirety by reference to, all of the provisions of the senior discount
indenture and those terms made a part of the senior discount indenture and not
otherwise defined herein are used below with the meanings set forth in the
senior discount indenture.
 
     GENERAL. The senior discount notes will mature on June 1, 2008 and were
sold at a discount resulting in a yield to maturity of 11.175% per annum,
payable semi-annually on June 1 and December 1 of each year. The senior discount
notes are generally unsecured obligations of WESCO and are subordinated in right
of payment to all existing and future senior debt of WESCO.
 
     OPTIONAL REDEMPTION. The senior discount notes are subject to redemption at
any time, at the option of WESCO, in whole or in part, on or after June 1, 2003
at redemption prices, plus accrued and unpaid interest, starting at 105.563% of
principal, plus accrued and unpaid interest, during the 12-month period
beginning June 1, 2003 and declining annually to 100% of principal, plus accrued
and unpaid interest, on June 1, 2006 and thereafter. At any time prior to June
1, 2001, WESCO may redeem, in whole but not in part, the senior discount notes
with the proceeds of an equity offering at a redemption price equal to 111.125%
of the accreted value at the date of redemption.
 
     CHANGE OF CONTROL. Upon the occurrence of a change of control, each holder
of the senior discount notes has the option to sell its senior discount notes to
WESCO at a purchase price equal to 101% of the principal amount thereof plus
accrued and unpaid interest.
 
     SUBORDINATION. The senior discount notes are general unsecured obligations
of WESCO and are subordinate to all existing and future senior debt of WESCO.
The senior discount notes will rank senior in right of payment to all
subordinated indebtedness of WESCO.
 
     CERTAIN COVENANTS. The senior discount indenture contains a number of
covenants restricting the operations of WESCO, which, among other things, limit
the ability of WESCO to incur additional indebtedness, pay dividends or make
distributions, sell assets, issue subsidiary stock, restrict distributions from
subsidiaries, create certain liens, enter into certain consolidations or mergers
and enter into certain transactions with affiliates.
 
     EVENTS OF DEFAULT. Upon the occurrence of an event of default, with certain
exceptions, the trustee or the holders of at least 25% in principal amount of
the then outstanding senior discount notes may accelerate the maturity of all
the senior discount notes as provided in the senior discount indenture.
 
CONVERTIBLE PROMISSORY NOTES
 
   
     WESCO issued four promissory notes to certain sellers in connection with
four acquisitions, including Bruckner, which are convertible in whole or in part
into common stock. Three outstanding notes in the aggregate principal amount of
$31.2 million are automatically convertible into shares of common stock upon the
offering. One note is convertible as to $5 million of its principal amount, at
the election of the payee, into shares of common stock upon the offering. The
number of shares of common stock into which each note is convertible is
determined by dividing the unpaid principal amount, or the amount elected by the
payee to be received in the form of shares of common stock, as the case may be,
by the offering price.
    
                                       70
<PAGE>   73
 
                        SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE
 
   
     Upon the consummation of this offering, we will have 46,510,614 shares of
common stock issued and outstanding, including outstanding shares of Class B
common stock which are convertible into common stock. All of the 9,725,000
shares of common stock to be sold in the offering and any shares sold upon
exercise of the underwriters' over-allotment option will be freely tradable
without restrictions or further registration under the Securities Act, except
for any shares purchased by an "affiliate" of WESCO as that term is defined in
Rule 144 under the Securities Act, which will be subject to the resale
limitations of Rule 144. After the completion of the offering, we will have
36,785,614 shares of common stock outstanding which are "restricted securities"
as that term is defined in Rule 144 and are also subject to certain restrictions
on disposition. Restricted securities may be sold in the public market only if
registered or if they qualify for an exemption from registration under Rule 144
or Rule 701 under the Securities Act. Sales of restricted securities in the
public market, or the availability of such shares for sale, could have an
adverse effect on the price of the common stock. See "Risk Factors -- Our Common
Stock Has Never Been Publicly Traded and the Price of our Common Stock May
Fluctuate Significantly" and "Risk Factors -- A Substantial Number of Shares
Will be Eligible for Future Sale by Our Current Stockholders, and the Sale of
Those Shares Could Adversely Affect Our Stock Price."
    
 
     In general, under Rule 144, as currently in effect, a person (or persons
whose shares are required to be aggregated) who has beneficially owned shares of
common stock for at least one year, including a person who may be deemed an
"affiliate" of WESCO, is entitled to sell, within any three-month period, a
number of shares that does not exceed the greater of 1% of the total number of
shares of the class of stock sold or the average weekly reported trading volume
of the class of stock being sold during the four calendar weeks preceding such
sale. A person who is not deemed an "affiliate" of WESCO at any time during the
three months preceding a sale and who has beneficially owned shares for at least
two years is entitled to sell such shares under Rule 144 without regard to the
volume limitations as described above. As defined in Rule 144, an "affiliate" of
an issuer is a person that directly or indirectly through the use of one or more
intermediaries controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with, such
issuer. The foregoing summary of Rule 144 is not intended to be a complete
description thereof.
 
LOCK-UP AGREEMENTS
 
     Existing stockholders, including directors and executive officers of WESCO,
who, after the offering, will hold in the aggregate 36,209,324 shares of common
stock, have agreed, pursuant to lock-up agreements, that they will not, for a
period of 180 days after the date of this prospectus, subject to certain limited
exceptions, without the prior written consent of Lehman Brothers Inc., offer,
sell, contract to sell or otherwise dispose of any shares of common stock or
securities exercisable or exchangeable for common stock or enter into any
derivative transaction with similar effect as a sale of common stock. The
restrictions described in this paragraph do not apply to:
 
     - the sale of common stock to the underwriters in this offering,
 
     - the issuance by WESCO of shares of common stock upon the exercise of an
       option or the conversion of a security outstanding on the date of this
       prospectus,
 
     - transactions by any person other than WESCO relating to shares of common
       stock or
 
     - the issuance by WESCO of shares of common stock pursuant to employee
       benefit plans, qualified stock option plans or other employee
       compensation existing on the date of this prospectus.
 
REGISTRATION RIGHTS
 
     Pursuant to the registration and participation agreement, the investor
group and the management stockholders have the right, under certain
circumstances and subject to certain conditions, to request that we register
under the Securities Act shares of our common stock held by them. Subject to
 
                                       71
<PAGE>   74
 
certain conditions and exceptions, the investor group and the management
stockholders also have the right to require that shares of common stock held by
them be included in any registration under the Securities Act commenced by us.
No such stockholder has requested to register its shares of common stock in the
offering. The registration and participation agreement provides that we will pay
all expenses in connection with the first three registrations requested by the
investor group and the management stockholders. The registration and
participation agreement also provides that we will indemnify the investors and
the management stockholders and their affiliates for certain liabilities they
may incur under the securities laws.
 
                                       72
<PAGE>   75
 
                    UNITED STATES FEDERAL TAX CONSIDERATIONS
 
     The following summary describes United States federal income and estate tax
consequences that may be relevant to the purchase, ownership and disposition of
common stock by a Non-U.S. Holder. For this purpose, a "Non-U.S. Holder" is any
person who is, for United States federal income tax purposes, a foreign
corporation, a non-resident alien individual, a foreign partnership or a foreign
estate or trust. This discussion does not address all aspects of United States
federal income and estate taxes and does not deal with foreign, state and local
consequences that may be relevant to such Non-U.S. Holders in light of their
personal circumstances. Furthermore, this discussion is based on provisions of
the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, existing and proposed regulations promulgated
thereunder and administrative and judicial interpretations thereof, as of the
date hereof, all of which are subject to change. EACH PROSPECTIVE PURCHASER OF
COMMON STOCK IS ADVISED TO CONSULT A TAX ADVISOR WITH RESPECT TO CURRENT AND
POSSIBLE FUTURE TAX CONSEQUENCES OF ACQUIRING, HOLDING AND DISPOSING OF COMMON
STOCK AS WELL AS ANY TAX CONSEQUENCES THAT MAY ARISE UNDER THE LAWS OF ANY U.S.
STATE, MUNICIPALITY OR OTHER TAXING JURISDICTION.
 
DIVIDENDS
 
     We do not anticipate paying cash dividends on our capital stock in the
foreseeable future. See "Dividend Policy." In the event, however, that dividends
are paid on shares of common stock, dividends paid to a Non-U.S. Holder of
common stock generally will be subject to withholding of United States federal
income tax at a 30% rate or such lower rate as may be specified by an applicable
income tax treaty. However, dividends that are effectively connected with the
conduct of a trade or business by the Non-U.S. Holder within the United States
and, where a tax treaty applies, are attributable to a United States permanent
establishment of the Non-U.S. Holder, are not subject to the withholding tax,
but instead are subject to United States federal income tax on a net income
basis at applicable graduated individual or corporate rates. Certification and
disclosure requirements must be complied with in order for dividends to be
exempt from withholding under such effectively connected income exemption. Any
such effectively connected dividends received by a foreign corporation may be
subject to an additional "branch profits tax" at a 30% rate or such lower rate
as may be specified by an applicable income tax treaty.
 
     Until December 31, 1999, dividends paid to an address outside the United
States are presumed to be paid to a resident of such country, unless the payer
has knowledge to the contrary, for purposes of the withholding tax discussed
above and, under the current interpretation of United States Treasury
regulations, for purposes of determining the applicability of a tax treaty rate.
However, a Non-U.S. Holder of common stock who wishes to claim the benefit of an
applicable treaty rate, and avoid back-up withholding as discussed below for
dividends paid after December 31, 1999, will be required to satisfy applicable
certification and other requirements. Special rules apply to dividend payments
made after December 31, 1999 to foreign intermediaries, U.S. or foreign
wholly-owned entities that are disregarded for U.S. federal income tax purposes
and entities that are treated as fiscally transparent in the United States, the
applicable income tax treaty jurisdiction, or both. In addition, U.S. tax
legislation, effective August 4, 1997, denies income tax treaty benefits to
foreigners receiving income derived through a partnership, or otherwise fiscally
transparent entity, in certain circumstances.
 
     A Non-U.S. Holder of common stock eligible for a reduced rate of United
States withholding tax pursuant to an income tax treaty may obtain a refund of
any excess amounts withheld by filing an appropriate claim for refund with the
Internal Revenue Service.
 
                                       73
<PAGE>   76
 
GAIN ON DISPOSITION OF COMMON STOCK
 
     A Non-U.S. Holder generally will not be subject to United States federal
income tax with respect to gain recognized on a sale or other disposition of
common stock unless:
 
     - the gain is effectively connected with a trade or business of the
       Non-U.S. Holder in the United States and, where a tax treaty applies, is
       attributable to a United States permanent establishment of the Non-U.S.
       Holder,
 
     - in the case of a Non-U.S. Holder who is an individual and holds the
       common stock as a capital asset, such holder is present in the United
       States for 183 or more days in the taxable year of the sale or other
       disposition and certain other conditions are met,
 
     - the Non-U.S. Holder is subject to tax pursuant to the provisions of the
       U.S. tax law applicable to certain U.S. expatriates,
 
     - we are or have been a "U.S. real property holding corporation" for United
       States federal income tax purposes, and the Non-U.S. Holder owned,
       directly or pursuant to certain attribution rules, more than 5% of
       WESCO's common stock at any time within the shorter of the five-year
       period preceding such disposition or such Non-U.S. Holder's holding
       period.
 
     WESCO believes it is not, and does not anticipate becoming, a "U.S. real
property holding corporation" for United States federal income tax purposes.
 
     An individual Non-U.S. Holder described in the first point above will be
subject to tax on the net gain derived from the sale under regular graduated
United States federal income tax rates. An individual Non-U.S. Holder described
in the second point above will be subject to a flat 30% tax on the gain derived
from the sale, which may be offset by United States source capital losses (even
though the individual is not considered a resident of the United States). If a
Non-U.S. Holder that is a foreign corporation falls under the first point above,
it will be subject to tax on its gain under regular graduated United States
federal income tax rates and, in addition, may be subject to the branch profits
tax equal to 30% of its effectively connected earnings and profits within the
meaning of the Code for the taxable year, as adjusted for certain items, unless
it qualifies for a lower rate under an applicable income tax treaty.
 
FEDERAL ESTATE TAX
 
     Common stock owned or treated as owned by an individual Non-U.S. Holder at
the time of death will be included in such holder's gross estate for United
States federal estate tax purposes, unless an applicable estate tax treaty
provides otherwise.
 
INFORMATION REPORTING AND BACKUP WITHHOLDING
 
     WESCO must report annually to the IRS and to each Non-U.S. Holder the
amount of dividends paid to such Non-U.S. Holder and the tax withheld with
respect to such dividends, regardless of whether withholding was required.
Copies of the information returns reporting such dividends and withholding may
also be made available to the tax authorities in the country in which the
Non-U.S. Holder resides under the provisions of an applicable income tax treaty.
 
     Until December 31, 1999, backup withholding generally will not apply to
dividends paid to a Non-U.S. Holder at an address outside the United States,
unless the payer has knowledge that the payee is a U.S. person. With respect to
dividends paid after December 31, 1999, however, a Non-U.S. Holder will be
subject to back-up withholding unless applicable certification requirements are
met.
 
     Payment of the proceeds of a sale of common stock within the United States
or conducted through certain U.S.-related financial intermediaries is subject
to:
 
     - information reporting; and
 
                                       74
<PAGE>   77
 
     - backup withholding other than payments made before January 1, 2000, by or
       through certain U.S.-related financial intermediaries, unless the
       beneficial owner certifies under penalties of perjury that it is a
       Non-U.S. Holder, and the payor does not have actual knowledge that the
       beneficial owner is a United States person, or the holder otherwise
       establishes an exemption.
 
     Any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules may be allowed as a
refund or a credit against such holder's U.S. federal income tax liability
provided the required information is furnished to the IRS.
 
                                       75
<PAGE>   78
 
                                  UNDERWRITING
 
     Under the terms of, and subject to the conditions contained in, the U.S.
underwriting agreement, the form of which is filed as an exhibit to the
registration statement, the U.S. underwriters named below, for whom Lehman
Brothers Inc., Bear, Stearns & Co. Inc., Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette Securities
Corporation, Goldman, Sachs & Co., Robert W. Baird & Co., Incorporated and ING
Baring Furman Selz LLC are acting as the U.S. representatives, have severally
agreed, subject to the terms and conditions of the U.S. underwriting agreement,
to purchase from WESCO, and WESCO has agreed to sell to each U.S. underwriter,
the aggregate number of shares of common stock set forth opposite the name of
each such U.S. underwriter below:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                NUMBER OF
                     U.S. UNDERWRITERS                            SHARES
                     -----------------                          ----------
<S>                                                             <C>
Lehman Brothers Inc. .......................................
Bear, Stearns & Co. Inc. ...................................
Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette Securities Corporation.........
Goldman, Sachs & Co. .......................................
Robert W. Baird & Co. Incorporated..........................
ING Baring Furman Selz LLC..................................
                                                                ----------
     Total..................................................     7,780,000
                                                                ==========
</TABLE>
 
     Under the terms of, and subject to the conditions contained in, the
international underwriting agreement, the form of which is filed as an exhibit
to the registration statement, the international managers named below of the
concurrent offering of the shares of common stock outside the U.S. and Canada,
for whom Lehman Brothers International (Europe), Bear, Stearns International
Limited, Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette International, Goldman Sachs
International, Robert W. Baird & Co. Incorporated and Baring Brothers Limited,
as agent for ING Bank NV are acting as lead managers, have severally agreed,
subject to the terms and conditions of the international underwriting agreement,
to purchase from WESCO, and WESCO has agreed to sell to each international
manager, the aggregate number of shares of common stock set forth opposite the
name of each international manager below:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                NUMBER OF
                   INTERNATIONAL MANAGERS                         SHARES
                   ----------------------                       ----------
<S>                                                             <C>
Lehman Brothers International (Europe)......................
Bear, Stearns International Limited.........................
Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette International..................
Goldman Sachs International.................................
Robert W. Baird & Co. Incorporated..........................
Baring Brothers Limited, as agent for ING Bank NV...........
                                                                ----------
     Total..................................................     1,945,000
                                                                ==========
</TABLE>
 
     The international managers and the U.S. underwriters are collectively
referred to as the underwriters, and the lead managers and the U.S.
representatives are collectively referred to as the representatives. The U.S.
underwriting agreement and the international underwriting agreement provide that
the obligations of the U.S. underwriters and the international managers to
purchase shares of common stock are subject to certain conditions, and that if
any of the foregoing shares of
 
                                       76
<PAGE>   79
 
common stock are purchased by the U.S. underwriters pursuant to the U.S.
underwriting agreement or by the international managers pursuant to the
international underwriting agreement then all the shares of common stock agreed
to be purchased by the U.S. underwriters and the international managers, as the
case may be, pursuant to their respective underwriting agreements, must be so
purchased. The offering price and underwriting discounts and commissions per
share for the U.S. offering and the international offering are identical. The
closing of the U.S. offering is a condition to the closing of the international
offering and the closing of the international offering is a condition to the
closing of the U.S. offering.
 
     The initial public offering price will be determined by negotiations
between representatives of the underwriters and us and may not be indicative of
prices that will prevail in the trading market. The representatives have advised
us that the U.S. underwriters and the international managers propose to offer
the shares of common stock directly to the public at the public offering price
set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, and to certain selected dealers,
who may include the U.S. underwriters and the international managers, at such
public offering price less a selling concession not in excess of $     per
share. The selected dealers may reallow a concession not in excess of $     per
share to certain brokers and dealers. After this offering, the public offering
price, the concession to selected dealers and the reallowance may be changed by
the U.S. underwriters and the international managers.
 
     We have agreed to indemnify, under certain circumstances, the U.S.
underwriters and the international managers against certain liabilities,
including liabilities under the Securities Act, and to contribute, under certain
circumstances, to payments that the U.S. underwriters and the international
managers may be required to make in respect thereof.
 
     We have granted to the U.S. underwriters an option to purchase up to an
aggregate 1,167,000 additional shares of common stock and have granted to the
international managers an option to purchase up to 291,750 additional shares of
common stock, in each case exercisable solely to cover over-allotments, at the
public offering price less the underwriting discounts and commissions shown on
the cover page of this prospectus. Such options may be exercised at any time
until 30 days after the date of the underwriting agreements. To the extent that
the over-allotment option is exercised, each U.S. underwriter or international
manager, as the case may be, will be committed, subject to certain conditions,
to purchase a number of additional shares of common stock proportionate to such
U.S. underwriter's or international manager's initial commitment as indicated in
the preceding tables.
 
     The U.S. underwriters and the international managers have entered into an
agreement between U.S. underwriters and international managers pursuant to which
each U.S. underwriter has agreed that, as part of the distribution of the shares
of common stock offered in the U.S. offering:
 
     - it is not purchasing any such shares for the account of anyone other than
       a U.S. person, and
 
     - it has not offered or sold, will not offer, sell, resell or deliver,
       directly or indirectly, any such shares or distribute any prospectus
       relating to the U.S. offering to anyone other than a U.S. person.
 
     In addition, pursuant to such agreement, each international manager has
agreed that, as part of the distribution of the shares of common stock offered
in the international offering:
 
     - it is not purchasing any such shares for the account of a U.S. person,
       and
 
     - it has not offered or sold, and will not offer, sell, resell or deliver,
       directly or indirectly, any of such shares or distribute any prospectus
       relating to the international offering to any U.S. person.
 
     The foregoing limitations do not apply to stabilization transactions or to
certain other transactions specified in the underwriting agreements and the
agreement between U.S. underwriters and international managers, including:
                                       77
<PAGE>   80
 
     - certain purchases and sales between U.S. underwriters and the
       international managers,
 
     - certain offers, sales, resales, deliveries or distributions to or through
       investment advisors or other persons exercising investment discretion,
 
     - purchases, offers or sales by a U.S. underwriter who is also acting as an
       international manager or by an international manager who is also acting
       as a U.S. underwriter and
 
     - other transactions specifically approved by the U.S. representatives and
       the lead managers.
 
     As used herein, the term "U.S. person" means any resident or national of
the United States or Canada, any corporation, partnership or other entity
created or organized in or under the laws of the United States or Canada, or any
estate or trust the income of which is subject to United States or Canadian
federal income taxation regardless of the source.
 
     Pursuant to the agreement between the U.S. underwriters and the
international managers, sales may be made between the U.S. underwriters and the
international managers of such a number of shares of common stock as may be
mutually agreed. The price of any shares so sold shall be the public offering
price as then in effect for the shares of common stock being sold by the U.S.
underwriters and the international managers less an amount equal to the selling
concession allocable to such shares of common stock, unless otherwise determined
by mutual agreement. To the extent that there are sales between the U.S.
underwriters and the international managers pursuant to the agreement between
the U.S. underwriters and the international managers the number of shares of
common stock available for sale by the U.S. underwriters or by the international
managers may be more or less than the amount specified on the cover page of the
this prospectus.
 
     Until the distribution of the common stock is completed, rules of the SEC
may limit the ability of the underwriters and certain selling group members to
bid for and purchase shares of common stock. As an exception to these rules, the
representatives are permitted to engage in certain transactions that stabilize
the price of the common stock. Such transactions may consist of bids or
purchases for the purpose of pegging, fixing or maintaining the price of the
common stock.
 
     If the underwriters create a short position in the common stock in
connection with this offering (i.e., if they sell more shares of common stock
than are set forth on the cover page of this prospectus), the representatives
may reduce that short position by purchasing common stock in the open market.
The representatives also may elect to reduce any short position by exercising
all or part of the over-allotment options described herein.
 
     The representatives may also impose a penalty bid on certain underwriters
and selling group members. This means that, if the representatives purchase
shares of common stock in the open market to reduce the underwriters' short
position or to stabilize the price of the common stock, they may reclaim the
amount of the selling concession from the underwriters and selling group members
who sold those shares as part of this offering.
 
     In general, purchases of a security for the purpose of stabilization or to
reduce a syndicate short position could cause the price of the security to be
higher than it might otherwise be in the absence of such purchases. The
imposition of a penalty bid might have an effect on the price of a security to
the extent that it were to discourage resales of the security by purchasers in
this offering.
 
     Neither WESCO nor any of the underwriters makes any representation or
prediction as to the direction or magnitude of any effect that the transactions
described above may have on the price of the common stock. In addition, neither
WESCO nor any of the underwriters makes any representation that the
representatives will engage in such transactions or that such transactions, once
commenced, will not be discontinued without notice.
 
                                       78
<PAGE>   81
 
     Each international manager has represented and agreed that:
 
     - it has not offered or sold and, prior to the date six months after the
       date of issue of the shares of common stock, will not offer or sell any
       shares of common stock to persons in the United Kingdom except to persons
       whose ordinary activities involve them in acquiring, holding, managing or
       disposing of investments (as principal or agent) for the purposes of
       their businesses or otherwise in circumstances which have not resulted
       and will not result in an offer to the public in the United Kingdom
       within the meaning of the Public Offers of Securities Regulations 1995,
 
     - it has complied and will comply with all applicable provisions of the
       Financial Services Act 1986 with respect to anything done by it in
       relation to the shares of common stock in, from or otherwise involving
       the United Kingdom, and
 
     - it has only issued or passed on, and will only issue or pass on to any
       person in the United Kingdom any document received by it in connection
       with the issue of the shares of common stock if that person is of a kind
       described in Article 11(3) of the Financial Services Act 1986 (Investment
       Advertisements) (Exemptions) Order 1996 or is a person to whom such
       document may otherwise be issued or passed upon.
 
     The common stock has been approved for listing on the NYSE, subject to
notice of issuance, under the symbol WCC.
 
     WESCO has agreed, and existing stockholders, including directors and
executive officers of WESCO, who, after this offering, will own in the aggregate
36,209,324 shares of common stock, have agreed that they will not, for a period
of 180 days from the date of this prospectus, subject to certain limited
exceptions, directly or indirectly, offer, sell or otherwise dispose of any
shares of common stock or any securities convertible into or exchangeable or
exercisable for any such shares of common stock or enter into any derivative
transaction with similar effect as a sale of common stock, without the prior
written consent of Lehman Brothers Inc. The restrictions described in this
paragraph do not apply to:
 
     - the sale of common stock to the underwriters in this offering,
 
     - the issuance by WESCO of shares of common stock upon the exercise of an
       option or the conversion of a security outstanding as of the date of this
       prospectus,
 
     - transactions by any person other than WESCO relating to shares of common
       stock or other securities acquired in open market transactions after the
       completion of this offering, or
 
     - the issuance by WESCO of shares of common stock pursuant to employee
       benefit plans, qualified stock option plans or other employee
       compensation existing on the date of this prospectus.
 
     Any offer of the shares of common stock in Canada will be made only
pursuant to an exemption from the prospectus filing requirement and an exemption
from the dealer registration requirement (where such an exemption is not
available, offers shall be made only by a registered dealer) in the relevant
Canadian jurisdiction where such offer is made.
 
     Purchasers of the shares of common stock offered hereby may be required to
pay stamp taxes and other charges in accordance with the laws and practices of
the country of purchase, in addition to the offering price set forth on the
cover hereof.
 
     The U.S. underwriters and the international managers have informed WESCO
that they do not intend to sell to, and therefore will not confirm the sales of
shares of common stock offered hereby to any accounts over which they exercise
discretionary authority in excess of 5% of shares offered by them.
 
                                       79
<PAGE>   82
 
     Lehman Brothers Inc. has provided investment banking, financial advisory
and other services to us, for which services Lehman Brothers Inc. has received
customary fees.
 
   
     It is anticipated that more than 10% of the proceeds from the sale of the
common stock, not including underwriting compensation, will be received by the
underwriters or affiliates of the underwriters as holders of WESCO's senior
discount notes and senior subordinated notes and as lenders under WESCO's
revolving credit facility and Tranche B term loan. Lehman Brothers Inc., a
member of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. ("NASD"), is
acting as the underwriter of the offering of the common stock. Therefore, the
offering of the common stock is being conducted pursuant to Rule 2710(c)(8) of
the NASD Conduct Rules. In accordance with this provision, Lehman Brothers Inc.
has agreed to act as qualified independent underwriter and the price of the
common stock will be no higher than that recommended by Lehman Brothers Inc. as
qualified independent underwriter, in compliance with the requirements of Rule
2720(c)(3) of such Conduct Rules. In connection with the offering of the common
stock, Lehman Brothers Inc. in its role as qualified independent underwriter has
performed due diligence investigations and participated in the preparation of
the registration statement.
    
 
DIRECTED SHARE PROGRAM
 
     At the request of WESCO, the underwriters have reserved for sale, at the
offering price, up to 7.5% of the shares of the common stock that will be
offered by this prospectus for directors, officers and employees of WESCO. Some
purchasers of the reserved shares may be required to agree in writing not to
sell, transfer, assign, pledge or hypothecate such shares for 180 days from
their date of purchase. The number of shares of common stock available for sale
to the general public will be reduced to the extent such persons purchase such
reserved shares. Any reserved shares that are not so purchased will be offered
by the underwriters to the general public on the same basis as the other shares
offered hereby.
 
                                 LEGAL MATTERS
 
     The validity of the shares of common stock offered by this prospectus will
be passed upon for us by Kirkpatrick & Lockhart LLP, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania,
and for the underwriters by Simpson Thacher & Bartlett, New York, New York.
 
                                    EXPERTS
 
     The consolidated balance sheets of WESCO as of December 31, 1997 and 1998
and the consolidated statements of operations, stockholders' equity and
redeemable common stock and cash flows of WESCO for each of the three years in
the period ended December 31, 1998 included in this prospectus have been
included herein in reliance on the report of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP,
independent accountants, given on the authority of that firm as experts in
accounting and auditing.
 
     The balance sheet of Bruckner as of December 31, 1997 and the statements of
income and retained earnings and cash flows of Bruckner for the year then ended
included in this prospectus have been included herein in reliance on the report
of Anchin, Block & Anchin LLP, independent accountants, given on the authority
of that firm as experts in accounting and auditing.
 
                             AVAILABLE INFORMATION
 
     We file annual, quarterly and current reports and other information with
the SEC. You may access and read our SEC filings, including the complete
registration statement and all of the exhibits to it, through the SEC's Internet
site at www.sec.gov. This site contains reports, proxy and
 
                                       80
<PAGE>   83
 
information statements and other information regarding issuers that file
electronically with the SEC. You may also read and copy any document we file at
the SEC's public reference room located at 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington,
D.C. 20549. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the
public reference room. Our filings will also be available after the offering at
the offices of the New York Stock Exchange, 20 Broad Street, New York, NY 10005.
 
     We have filed with the SEC a registration statement under the Securities
Act with respect to the shares of common stock offered hereby. This prospectus,
which constitutes part of the registration statement, does not contain all of
the information set forth in the registration statement and the exhibits and
schedules thereto. Our descriptions in this prospectus of the provisions of
documents filed as exhibits to the registration statement or otherwise filed
with the SEC are only summaries of the documents' material terms. If you want a
complete description of the content of the documents, you should obtain the
documents yourself by following the procedures described above.
 
     WESCO was founded as a Delaware corporation in 1994. Our executive offices
are located at Commerce Court, Suite 700, Four Station Square, Pittsburgh,
Pennsylvania 15219, and its telephone number is (412) 454-2200.
 
                                       81
<PAGE>   84
 
                         INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                PAGE
                                                                ----
<S>                                                             <C>
WESCO International, Inc.
  Report of Independent Accountants.........................     F-2
  Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 1997 and
     1998...................................................     F-3
  Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended
     December 31, 1996, 1997 and 1998.......................     F-4
  Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity and
     Redeemable Common Stock for the years ended December
     31, 1995, 1996, 1997 and 1998..........................     F-5
  Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended
     December 31, 1996, 1997 and 1998.......................     F-6
  Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements................     F-7
Bruckner Supply Company, Inc.
  Independent Accountants' Report...........................    F-27
  Balance Sheet as of December 31, 1997.....................    F-28
  Statement of Income and Retained Earnings for the year
     ended December 31, 1997................................    F-29
  Statement of Cash Flows for the year ended December 31,
     1997...................................................    F-30
  Notes to the Financial Statements.........................    F-31
  Unaudited Condensed Balance Sheet as of June 30, 1998.....    F-34
  Unaudited Condensed Statement of Income for the six months
     ended June 30, 1998 and 1997...........................    F-35
  Unaudited Condensed Statement of Cash Flow for the six
     months ended June 30, 1998 and 1997....................    F-36
  Notes to the Condensed Financial Statements...............    F-37
</TABLE>
 
                                       F-1
<PAGE>   85
 
     When the stock split referred to in Note 22 of the consolidated financial
statements is effective, we will be in a position to render the following
report.
 
                                      /s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
 
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
 
To the Stockholders and Board of Directors
  of WESCO International, Inc.:
 
     In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and the
related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders' equity and
redeemable common stock and cash flows present fairly, in all material respects,
the financial position of WESCO International, Inc. and subsidiaries at December
31, 1997 and 1998, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for
each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1998 in conformity with
generally accepted accounting principles. These financial statements are the
responsibility of WESCO's management; our responsibility is to express an
opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our
audits of these statements in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards which require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable
assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the
accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and
evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our
audits provide a reasonable basis for the opinion expressed above.
 
600 Grant Street
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
February 12, 1999, except for Note 22,
   
  as to which the date is May   , 1999.
    
 
                                       F-2
<PAGE>   86
 
                   WESCO INTERNATIONAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                          CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   DECEMBER 31
                                                              ----------------------
                                                                1997         1998
                                                              --------    ----------
                                                              (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS,
                                                                EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
<S>                                                           <C>         <C>
                           ASSETS
CURRENT ASSETS:
    Cash and cash equivalents...............................  $  7,620    $    8,093
    Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful
     accounts of $10,814 and $8,082 in 1997 and 1998,
     respectively (Note 4)..................................   351,170       181,511
    Other accounts receivable...............................    17,261        22,265
    Inventories.............................................   299,406       343,764
    Income taxes receivable.................................     3,405         7,329
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets...............     3,699         2,892
    Deferred income taxes (Note 12).........................    14,277        16,217
                                                              --------    ----------
         Total current assets...............................   696,838       582,071
Property, buildings and equipment, net (Note 7).............    95,082       107,596
Goodwill and other intangibles, net of accumulated
  amortization of $5,108 and $10,163 in 1997 and 1998,
  respectively (Note 5).....................................    69,331       234,049
Other assets (Note 8).......................................     9,609        26,806
                                                              --------    ----------
         Total assets.......................................  $870,860    $  950,522
                                                              ========    ==========
            LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
    Accounts payable........................................  $311,796    $  378,590
    Accrued payroll and benefit costs.......................    27,694        19,614
    Current portion of long-term debt.......................       891        16,592
    Other current liabilities (Note 10).....................    20,154        51,671
                                                              --------    ----------
         Total current liabilities..........................   360,535       466,467
Long-term debt (Note 9).....................................   294,275       579,238
Other noncurrent liabilities................................     5,875         7,040
Deferred income taxes (Note 12).............................    16,662        18,832
                                                              --------    ----------
         Total liabilities..................................   677,347     1,071,577
Commitments and contingencies (Note 17)
Redeemable Class A common stock, $.01 par value; 5,161,887
  and 4,901,902 shares issued and outstanding in 1997 and
  1998, respectively (redemption value of redeemable common
  stock and vested options of $68,597 and $130,267 in 1997
  and 1998, respectively) (Note 11).........................     8,978        21,506
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (Notes 11 and 22):
    Class A common stock, $.01 par value; 210,000,000
     authorized, 53,943,584 and 25,209,817 shares issued and
     outstanding in 1997 and 1998, respectively.............       539           252
    Class B nonvoting convertible common stock, $.01 par
     value; 20,000,000 shares authorized, 4,653,131 issued
     and outstanding in 1998................................        --            46
    Additional capital......................................    92,789       326,783
    Retained earnings (deficit).............................    89,366      (468,220)
    Common stock to be issued under option..................     2,500            --
    Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)...........      (659)       (1,422)
                                                              --------    ----------
         Total stockholders' equity.........................   184,535      (142,561)
                                                              --------    ----------
         Total liabilities and stockholders' equity.........  $870,860    $  950,522
                                                              ========    ==========
</TABLE>
    
 
   The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial
                                  statements.
                                       F-3
<PAGE>   87
 
                   WESCO INTERNATIONAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                            YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
                                                    --------------------------------------
                                                       1996          1997          1998
                                                    ----------    ----------    ----------
                                                      (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
<S>                                                 <C>           <C>           <C>
Sales, net......................................    $2,274,622    $2,594,819    $3,025,439
Cost of goods sold..............................     1,869,565     2,130,900     2,487,780
                                                    ----------    ----------    ----------
  Gross profit..................................       405,057       463,919       537,659
Selling, general and administrative expenses....       326,003       372,532       415,028
Depreciation and amortization...................        10,846        11,331        14,805
Recapitalization costs (Note 3).................            --            --        51,800
                                                    ----------    ----------    ----------
  Income from operations........................        68,208        80,056        56,026
Interest expense, net...........................        17,382        20,109        45,121
Other expenses (Note 4).........................            --            --        10,122
                                                    ----------    ----------    ----------
  Income before income taxes....................        50,826        59,947           783
Provision for income taxes (Note 12)............        18,364        23,710         8,519
                                                    ----------    ----------    ----------
  Net income (loss).............................    $   32,462    $   36,237    $   (7,736)
                                                    ==========    ==========    ==========
Earnings per common share (Note 13):
  Basic.........................................    $     0.55    $     0.61    $    (0.17)
                                                    ==========    ==========    ==========
  Diluted.......................................    $     0.51    $     0.55    $    (0.17)
                                                    ==========    ==========    ==========
</TABLE>
 
   The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial
                                  statements.
                                       F-4
<PAGE>   88
 
                   WESCO INTERNATIONAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
                          AND REDEEMABLE COMMON STOCK
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                             COMMON
                                                                                             STOCK      ACCUMULATED
                                                                                             TO BE         OTHER       REDEEMABLE
                                                 COMMON STOCK                   RETAINED     ISSUED    COMPREHENSIVE    CLASS A
                               COMPREHENSIVE   -----------------   ADDITIONAL   EARNINGS     UNDER        INCOME         COMMON
                                  INCOME       CLASS A   CLASS B    CAPITAL     (DEFICIT)    OPTION       (LOSS)         STOCK
                               -------------   -------   -------   ----------   ---------   --------   -------------   ----------
                                                                         (IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                            <C>             <C>       <C>       <C>          <C>         <C>        <C>             <C>
BALANCE, DECEMBER 31, 1995...                   $ 539     $ --      $ 92,789    $  20,667   $ 2,500       $  (126)      $ 7,730
Exercise of common stock
  options....................                                                                                               343
Issuance of common stock.....                                                                                               857
Net income...................     $32,462                                          32,462
Translation adjustment.......         (85)                                                                    (85)
                                  -------
Comprehensive income.........     $32,377
                                  =======       -----     ----      --------    ---------   -------       -------       -------
BALANCE, DECEMBER 31, 1996...                     539       --        92,789       53,129     2,500          (211)        8,930
Exercise of common stock
  options....................                                                                                               171
Issuance of common stock.....                                                                                               201
Repurchase of common stock...                                                                                              (324)
Net income...................     $36,237                                          36,237
Translation adjustment.......        (448)                                                                   (448)
                                  -------
Comprehensive income.........     $35,789
                                  =======       -----     ----      --------    ---------   -------       -------       -------
BALANCE, DECEMBER 31, 1997...                     539       --        92,789       89,366     2,500          (659)        8,978
Recapitalization, net........                    (287)      46       231,326     (549,143)   (2,500)                      1,271
Issuance of common stock.....                                                                                            16,759
Repurchase of common stock...                                                        (707)                               (1,427)
Exercise of common stock
  options....................                                            888
Forfeiture and repurchase of
  common stock options.......                                          1,780                                             (4,075)
Net income (loss)............     $(7,736)                                         (7,736)
Translation adjustment.......        (763)                                                                   (763)
                                  -------
Comprehensive income.........     $(8,499)
                                  =======       -----     ----      --------    ---------   -------       -------       -------
BALANCE, DECEMBER 31, 1998...                   $ 252     $ 46      $326,783    $(468,220)  $    --       $(1,422)      $21,506
                                                =====     ====      ========    =========   =======       =======       =======
</TABLE>
 
   The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial
                                  statements.
                                       F-5
<PAGE>   89
 
                   WESCO INTERNATIONAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
                                                              ---------------------------------
                                                                1996        1997        1998
                                                              ---------   ---------   ---------
                                                                       (IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                           <C>         <C>         <C>
OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income (loss)...........................................  $  32,462   $  36,237   $  (7,736)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash
  provided (used) by operating activities:
  Recapitalization costs....................................         --          --      40,500
  Depreciation and amortization.............................     10,846      11,331      14,805
  Accretion of original issue and amortization of purchase
    discounts...............................................      4,592       4,856       6,300
  Amortization of debt issuance costs and interest rate
    caps....................................................        531         418       1,276
  Gain on sale of property, buildings and equipment.........        (81)       (855)     (1,404)
  Deferred income taxes.....................................        (78)      2,837       2,370
  Changes in assets and liabilities, excluding the effects
    of acquisitions:
    Sale of trade accounts receivable.......................         --          --     274,245
    Trade and other receivables.............................    (21,058)    (32,641)    (23,644)
    Inventories.............................................    (24,389)    (31,671)     (5,645)
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets...............      5,930      (1,120)     (2,151)
    Other assets............................................        700      (3,652)        191
    Accounts payable........................................     20,323       9,690      (8,445)
    Accrued payroll and benefit costs.......................     (1,942)      1,594      (8,380)
    Other current and noncurrent liabilities................    (12,700)     (9,001)     (5,428)
                                                              ---------   ---------   ---------
         Net cash provided (used) by operating activities...     15,136     (11,977)    276,854
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Capital expenditures........................................     (9,330)    (11,591)    (10,694)
Proceeds from the sale of property, buildings and
  equipment.................................................      2,338       3,996       2,039
Advances to affiliates......................................         --          --      (1,461)
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired (Note 19)................   (103,918)    (13,914)   (173,976)
                                                              ---------   ---------   ---------
         Net cash used by investing activities..............   (110,910)    (21,509)   (184,092)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt....................    546,396     430,843   1,064,288
Repayments of long-term debt................................   (459,730)   (389,613)   (797,555)
Debt issuance costs.........................................       (682)       (172)    (10,693)
Recapitalization costs......................................         --          --     (28,974)
Repurchase of common stock..................................         --        (324)   (657,956)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock......................      1,200         372     332,795
Proceeds from contributed capital...........................         --          --       5,806
                                                              ---------   ---------   ---------
         Net cash provided (used) by financing activities...     87,184      41,106     (92,289)
                                                              ---------   ---------   ---------
Net change in cash and cash equivalents.....................     (8,590)      7,620         473
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of period........      8,590          --       7,620
                                                              ---------   ---------   ---------
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of period..............  $      --   $   7,620   $   8,093
                                                              =========   =========   =========
</TABLE>
    
 
   The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial
                                  statements.
                                       F-6
<PAGE>   90
 
                   WESCO INTERNATIONAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                   NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
1. ORGANIZATION
 
     WESCO International, Inc. and its subsidiaries (collectively, "WESCO"),
headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a full-line distributor of
electrical supplies and equipment and is a provider of integrated supply
procurement services. WESCO currently operates branch locations in the United
States, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Guam, Singapore and the United Kingdom.
 
     Subsequent to the completion in June 1998 of a leveraged recapitalization
(see Note 3), WESCO was substantially owned by an investor group led by
affiliates of The Cypress Group L.L.C. ("Cypress") with WESCO's management
retaining the remaining interest.
 
     On February 28, 1994, Clayton & Dubilier Private Equity Fund IV Limited
Partnership, managed by Clayton, Dubilier & Rice ("CD&R"), formed WESCO
Distribution, Inc. for the purpose of acquiring substantially all of the assets
and certain liabilities of Westinghouse Electric Supply Company ("1994
Formation") from the former Westinghouse Electric Corporation ("Westinghouse").
 
2. ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
  Basis of Presentation
 
     The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of WESCO
International, Inc. and all of its subsidiaries. All significant intercompany
accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
 
     The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with
generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make certain
estimates and assumptions. These may affect the reported amounts of assets and
liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date
of the consolidated financial statements. They may also affect the reported
amounts of revenues and expenses during the reported period. Actual results
could differ from these estimates upon subsequent resolution of some matters.
 
  Revenue Recognition
 
     Revenues are recognized at the time products are shipped or services are
rendered.
 
  Cash Equivalents
 
     Cash equivalents are defined as highly liquid investments with original
maturities of 90 days or less when purchased.
 
  Asset Securitization
 
     WESCO accounts for the securitization of accounts receivable in accordance
with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 125 "Accounting
for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishments of
Liabilities." At the time the receivables are sold the balances are removed from
the balance sheet. SFAS No. 125 also requires retained interests in the
transferred assets to be measured by allocating the previous carrying amount
between the assets sold and retained interests, if any, based on their relative
fair values at the date of transfer.
 
                                       F-7
<PAGE>   91
 
  Inventories
 
     Inventories primarily consist of merchandise purchased for resale and are
stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined principally under the
average cost method.
 
  Property, Buildings and Equipment
 
     Property, buildings and equipment are recorded at cost. Depreciation
expense is determined using the straight-line method over the estimated useful
lives of the assets. Leasehold improvements are amortized over either their
respective lease terms or their estimated lives, whichever is shorter.
Expenditures for new facilities and improvements that extend the useful life of
an asset are capitalized. Ordinary repairs and maintenance are expensed as
incurred. When property is retired or otherwise disposed of, the cost and the
related accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts and any related
gains or losses are recorded.
 
  Intangible Assets
 
     Goodwill and other intangible assets arising from acquisitions are
amortized on a straight-line basis over periods not exceeding 35 years. The
carrying value of individual components of intangible assets are regularly
reviewed by evaluating the estimated future undiscounted cash flows to determine
recoverability of the assets. Any decrease in value is recognized on a current
basis.
 
  Income Taxes
 
     Income taxes are accounted for under the liability method. Deferred tax
assets and liabilities are determined based on differences between the financial
reporting and tax basis of assets and liabilities and are measured using the
enacted tax rates and laws that will be in effect when the differences are
expected to reverse. Valuation allowances, if any, are provided when a portion
or all of a deferred tax asset may not be realized.
 
  Earnings Per Share
 
     Basic earnings per share are computed by dividing net income by the
weighted-average common shares outstanding during the respective periods.
Diluted earnings per share are computed by dividing net income by the
weighted-average common shares and common share equivalents outstanding during
the period. The dilutive effect of common share equivalents is considered in the
diluted earnings per share computation using the treasury stock method.
 
  Foreign Currency Translation
 
     The local currency is the functional currency for substantially all of
WESCO's operations outside the United States. Assets and liabilities of these
operations are translated to U.S. dollars at the exchange rate in effect at each
period end. Income statement accounts are translated at the average exchange
rate prevailing during the period. Translation adjustments arising from the use
of differing exchange rates from period to period are included as a component of
stockholders' equity. Gains and losses from foreign currency transactions are
included in net income for the period.
 
  Financial Instruments
 
     Periodically, WESCO enters into interest rate cap, floor and collar
agreements to mitigate the exposure changes in interest rates have on
variable-rate borrowings. If the requirements for hedge accounting are met,
amounts paid or received under these agreements are recognized over the life of
the agreements as adjustments to interest expense. Otherwise, the instruments
are marked to market and the gains and losses from changes in the market value
of the contracts are recorded in the
 
                                       F-8
<PAGE>   92
 
current period. These financial instruments did not have a material impact on
WESCO's consolidated financial statements for the three years ended December 31,
1998.
 
  Environmental Expenditures
 
     WESCO has facilities and operations which distribute certain products that
must comply with environmental regulations and laws. Expenditures for current
operations are expensed or capitalized, as appropriate. Expenditures relating to
existing conditions caused by past operations, and which do not contribute to
future revenue, are expensed. Liabilities are recorded when remedial efforts are
probable and the costs can be reasonably estimated.
 
  Reclassifications
 
     Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified in order to conform with
the current presentations.
 
  Recent Accounting Pronouncements
 
     In April 1998, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
issued Statement of Position 98-5, "Reporting on the Costs of Start-Up
Activities." This statement, which is effective for fiscal years beginning after
December 15, 1998, requires costs incurred to open a new facility, introduce a
new product, commence a new operation or other similar activities to be expensed
as incurred. Management does not expect this statement will have a material
impact on the results of operations and financial position.
 
     In June 1998, The Financial Accounting Standards Board issued SFAS No. 133,
"Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities." This statement
is effective in fiscal years beginning after June 15, 1999, although early
adoption is permitted. This Statement requires the recognition of the fair value
of any derivative financial instrument on the balance sheet. Changes in fair
value of the derivative and, in certain instances, changes in the fair value of
an underlying hedged asset or liability, are recognized through either income or
as a component of other comprehensive income. Management does not expect this
Statement will have a material impact on the results of operation or financial
position of WESCO.
 
3. RECAPITALIZATION
 
     On June 5, 1998, WESCO repurchased and retired all of the common stock of
WESCO held by CD&R (48,163,584 shares), Westinghouse (11,560,000 shares), and
certain other management and nonmanagement stockholders (2,138,484 shares). All
shares were issued and repurchased at $10.75 per share for net consideration of
approximately $653.5 million ("Equity Consideration"). In addition, WESCO repaid
approximately $379.1 million of then outstanding indebtedness, and sold
29,604,351 shares of common stock to an investor group led by affiliates of
Cypress at $10.75 per share representing approximately 88.7% of WESCO for an
aggregate cash consideration of $318.1 million ("Cash Equity Contribution")
(collectively, "Recapitalization"). Existing management retained approximately
11.3% interest in WESCO after the Recapitalization. WESCO funded the Equity
Consideration and the repayment of indebtedness from proceeds of the Cash Equity
Contribution, issuance of approximately $351 million of Senior Subordinated and
Senior Discount Notes, a new $170 million credit facility and the sale of
approximately $250 million of accounts receivable. Given the 11.3% retained
ownership, the transaction was treated as a recapitalization for financial
reporting purposes and, accordingly, the historical bases of WESCO's assets and
liabilities were not affected.
 
     In connection with the Recapitalization, WESCO recorded a one-time charge
of $51.8 million related to investment banking fees of $13.8 million,
compensation charges of $11.3 million associated
 
                                       F-9
<PAGE>   93
 
with one-time bonuses paid to certain members of management, transaction fees of
$9.5 million paid to Cypress, compensation charges of $6.2 million associated
with the cash settlement of certain stock options, compensation charges of $4.1
million associated with the acceleration of vesting of one former executive's
stock options issued at a discount and other non-capitalized transaction fees
and expenses amounting to $6.9 million.
 
4. ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE SECURITIZATION
 
     WESCO and certain of its subsidiaries entered into an agreement with a
financial institution and a multi-seller asset-backed commercial paper issuer
("Receivables Facility") whereby it sells on a continuous basis an undivided
interest in all eligible accounts receivable while maintaining a subordinated
interest in a portion of the receivables. WESCO has agreed to continue servicing
the sold receivables for the financial institution at market rates; accordingly,
no servicing asset or liability has been recorded. Pursuant to the Receivables
Facility, WESCO formed WESCO Receivables Corporation, a wholly-owned, special
purpose, bankruptcy-remote subsidiary ("SPC"). SPC was formed to purchase, on a
revolving basis and not to exceed $300 million, trade accounts receivables
generated by certain subsidiaries of WESCO. WESCO may, under certain
circumstances, increase the size of the Receivables Facility when the amount of
eligible trade accounts receivables exceeds $300 million. The SPC will transfer
to a trust all the receivables and the commercial paper issuer will provide
financing to pay the purchase price of the receivables.
 
     As of December 31, 1998, securitized accounts receivable totaled $360.1
million, of which the subordinated retained interest was $84.1 million.
Accordingly, $276 million of accounts receivable balances were removed from the
consolidated balance sheet. Net proceeds from the transactions totaled $274.2
million. Proceeds from securitized receivables were used primarily to complete
the Recapitalization discussed in Note 3 and for general working capital needs.
During 1998, WESCO incurred costs associated with the Receivables Facility of
$10.1 million, primarily related to the discount and loss on the sale of such
receivables, partially offset by related servicing revenue. This amount is
recorded as other expenses in the consolidated statement of operations.
 
5. ACQUISITIONS
 
     On September 11, 1998, WESCO acquired substantially all the assets and
assumed substantially all liabilities and obligations relating to the operations
of Bruckner Supply Company, Inc. ("Bruckner"), a privately owned company
headquartered in Port Washington, New York. Bruckner is a provider of integrated
supply procurement and outsourcing activities for large industrial companies.
Net sales totaled approximately $222 million in 1997.
 
     The Bruckner purchase price at closing was $99.1 million, consisting of
$72.5 million in cash and a noninterest bearing convertible note discounted to a
value of $26.6 million for financial reporting purposes, resulting in goodwill
of $88.0 million.
 
     The Bruckner purchase agreement provided for certain post-closing
adjustments, which were paid in December 1998 and totaled $6.0 million. The
agreement also provides for additional contingent consideration, not to exceed
$130 million, of which $30 million was payable and recorded in other current
liabilities at December 31, 1998, to be paid based on a multiple of increases in
earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization of Bruckner with
respect to calendar years 1998 through 2004. Following an initial public
offering, up to 50% of the additional contingent consideration, if any, may be
converted at the election of the holder into Class A common stock at the then
market value.
 
     In January 1998 WESCO acquired the electrical distribution businesses of
Avon Electric Supplies, Inc. and its affiliates ("Avon"). Net sales totaled
approximately $85 million in 1997.
 
                                      F-10
<PAGE>   94
 
     The following unaudited pro forma information assumes that the Bruckner and
Avon acquisitions had occurred at the beginning of each period presented.
Adjustments to arrive at the pro forma information include, among others, those
related to acquisition financing, amortization of goodwill and the related tax
effects of such adjustments at an assumed rate of 39%.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
                                                             ----------------------------------
                                                                 1997                 1998
                                                             -------------        -------------
                                                                        (UNAUDITED)
                                                             (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
<S>                                                          <C>                  <C>
Sales, net.................................................   $2,901,725           $3,205,333
Net income (loss)..........................................       41,551               (3,102)
Basic earnings (loss) per share............................         0.61                (0.69)
Diluted earnings (loss) per share..........................         0.52                (0.69)
</TABLE>
 
     The pro forma financial information does not purport to present what
WESCO's results of operations would have been if the Bruckner and Avon
acquisitions had actually occurred at the beginning of each period presented, or
to project WESCO's results of operations for any future period.
 
     In addition to the Bruckner and Avon acquisitions, WESCO acquired four
other distributors in 1998, the largest of which were Brown Wholesale Electric
Company (acquired January 1998) and Reily Electric Supply, Inc. (acquired May
1998). In 1996 and 1997 combined, WESCO acquired nine distributors. A summary of
certain information with respect to all acquisitions follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                              YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
                                                          -------------------------------
                                                            1996       1997        1998
                                                          --------    -------    --------
                                                                  (IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                       <C>         <C>        <C>
Aggregate purchase price................................  $110,597    $16,164    $250,218
Recorded goodwill.......................................    59,766      5,913     162,743
</TABLE>
 
     All of the acquisitions were accounted for under the purchase method of
accounting for business combinations. The results of operations of these
companies are included in the consolidated financial statements prospectively
from the acquisition dates. Pro forma results of these acquisitions, excluding
Bruckner and Avon, assuming they had been made at the beginning of each year
presented, would not be materially different from the consolidated results
reported herein.
 
6. CONCENTRATIONS OF CREDIT RISK AND SIGNIFICANT SUPPLIERS
 
     WESCO distributes its products and services and extends credit to a large
number of customers in the industrial, construction, utility and manufactured
structures markets. In addition, one supplier accounted for approximately 18%,
18% and 15% of WESCO's purchases for each of the three years in the period ended
December 31, 1998, respectively.
 
                                      F-11
<PAGE>   95
 
7. PROPERTY, BUILDINGS AND EQUIPMENT
 
     The following table sets forth property, buildings and equipment:
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                  DECEMBER 31
                                                              -------------------
                                                               1997        1998
                                                              -------    --------
                                                                (IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                           <C>        <C>
Land........................................................  $17,875    $ 17,613
Buildings and leasehold improvements........................   61,629      59,619
Furniture, fixtures and equipment...........................   30,083      43,734
                                                              -------    --------
                                                              109,587     120,966
Accumulated depreciation and amortization...................  (20,721)    (26,907)
                                                               88,866      94,059
Construction in progress....................................    6,216      13,537
                                                              -------    --------
                                                              $95,082    $107,596
                                                              =======    ========
</TABLE>
    
 
8. OTHER ASSETS
 
     The following table sets forth the components of other assets:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   DECEMBER 31
                                                                ------------------
                                                                 1997       1998
                                                                -------    -------
                                                                  (IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                             <C>        <C>
Debt issuance costs.........................................    $ 1,270    $10,654
Software costs..............................................      6,846      7,866
Favorable lease commitments.................................      1,054      1,054
Other.......................................................      1,916      4,115
                                                                -------    -------
                                                                 11,086     23,689
Accumulated amortization....................................     (7,355)    (8,481)
                                                                -------    -------
                                                                  3,731     15,208
Investment in and advances to affiliate.....................         --     11,598
Restricted cash.............................................      5,878         --
                                                                -------    -------
                                                                $ 9,609    $26,806
                                                                =======    =======
</TABLE>
 
     Debt issuance costs are amortized on a straight-line basis, which does not
differ materially from the effective-interest rate method, over the term of the
related debt. Investment in and advances to affiliate represents WESCO's
investment in and amounts due from an unconsolidated equity-owned affiliate.
Restricted cash represented proceeds received from the sale of properties that
collateralized certain mortgage notes. Such mortgage notes were repaid in
connection with the Recapitalization.
 
                                      F-12
<PAGE>   96
 
9. LONG TERM DEBT
 
     The following table sets forth WESCO's outstanding indebtedness:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                  DECEMBER 31
                                                              --------------------
                                                                1997        1998
                                                              --------    --------
                                                                 (IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                           <C>         <C>
Term loans..................................................        --    $169,500
Revolving facility..........................................        --      42,450
Old revolving facility......................................  $226,145          --
Senior subordinated notes (1)...............................        --     289,194
Senior discount notes (2)...................................        --      52,071
Mortgage notes (3)..........................................    65,291          --
Other.......................................................     3,730      42,615
                                                              --------    --------
                                                               295,166     595,830
Less current portion........................................      (891)    (16,592)
                                                              --------    --------
                                                              $294,275    $579,238
                                                              ========    ========
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
 
(1) Net of original issue discount of $918 and purchase discount of $9,888
(2) Net of original issue discount of $33,266 and purchase discount of $1,664
(3) Net of original issue discount of $16,601
 
     In connection with the Recapitalization, the old revolving facility and the
mortgage notes were repaid. The old revolving facility was pursuant to credit
agreements with various banks that provided for an aggregate $360 million of
revolving credit facilities maturing in February 2000. This facility provided
variable-rate borrowings tied to market indexes plus a fixed margin. The
mortgage notes consisted of a zero coupon First Mortgage Note due February 2001
and an 8.0% First Mortgage Note due February 2001, each held by Westinghouse.
 
     The term loans and revolving facility borrowings were made pursuant to a
credit agreement ("Credit Agreement") entered into by and between WESCO
Distribution, Inc., ("WESCO Distribution") a wholly owned subsidiary of WESCO
and certain financial institutions. The Credit Agreement provides for three term
loan facilities in an aggregate principal amount of $270 million, consisting of
Tranche A Term Loan, Tranche B Term Loan and a Delayed Draw Term Loan Facility,
and a $100 million Revolving Credit Facility. Tranche A Term Loan provides for
aggregate borrowings of $80 million, Tranche B Term Loan provides for aggregate
borrowings of $90 million and the Delayed Draw Term Loan Facility provides for
up to $100 million aggregate principal. The term loan facilities mature in
various periods from 2004 through 2006. The Revolving Credit Facility provides
for up to $100 million of revolving credit denominated in U.S. dollars or
Canadian dollars. The maximum Canadian sublimit is approximately $46 million.
The Revolving Credit Facility matures in 2004.
 
     Borrowings under the Credit Agreement are guaranteed by WESCO and are
collateralized by substantially all the assets of WESCO and bear rates of
interest equal to various indices, at WESCO's option, such as LIBOR, prime rate
or the Federal Funds rate, plus a borrowing margin based on WESCO's financial
performance. At December 31, 1998, the interest rate on Tranche A Term Loan,
Tranche B Term Loan and the Revolving Credit Facility was 7.6%, 7.8% and 8.3%,
respectively. In addition, WESCO has a 0.5% commitment fee on the unused
commitments under the Revolving Credit Facility and the Delayed Draw Term Loan
Facility.
 
                                      F-13
<PAGE>   97
 
     At December 31, 1998, WESCO has four interest rate cap and two interest
rate collar agreements with aggregate notional amounts of $205 million that
expire at various times between August 1999 and February 2000. The aggregate
cost of these agreements of $0.2 million is being amortized to interest expense
on a straight-line basis over the period of the agreements. The agreements
effectively provide a ceiling for LIBOR at 7.0% and, with respect to $50 million
notional value of interest rate collars, a floor of 4.5%. The market value of
the interest rate caps and collars approximates the carrying value at December
31, 1998.
 
     The Senior Subordinated Notes in an aggregate principal amount of $300
million were issued by WESCO Distribution. The notes are unsecured obligations
and are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by WESCO. The Senior Subordinated
Notes bear interest at 9 1/8%, payable semiannually on June 1 and December 1
beginning December 1, 1998. The notes are due June 1, 2008. The Senior
Subordinated Notes are redeemable by WESCO Distribution at any time prior to
June 1, 2001, up to a maximum of 35% of the original aggregate principal amount
of the Senior Subordinated Notes, with proceeds of an equity offering at a
redemption price equal to 109.125% of the principal amount provided plus accrued
and unpaid interest.
 
     In addition, the Senior Subordinated Notes are redeemable at the option of
WESCO Distribution, in whole or in part, at any time after June 1, 2003 at the
following prices:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                          REDEMPTION PRICE
                                                          ----------------
<S>                                                       <C>
2003..................................................        104.563%
2004..................................................        103.042
2005..................................................        101.521
2006 and thereafter...................................        100.000
</TABLE>
 
     At any time prior to June 1, 2003, the Senior Subordinated Notes may be
redeemed, in whole but not in part, at the option of WESCO at any time within
180 days after a change of control, at a redemption price equal to the principal
amount thereof plus accrued and unpaid interest and the then applicable premium.
In addition, the noteholders have the right to require WESCO, upon a change of
control, to repurchase all or any part of the Senior Subordinated Notes at a
redemption price equal to 101% of the principal amount provided plus accrued and
unpaid interest.
 
     The Senior Discount Notes, issued by WESCO, have an aggregate principal
amount of $87 million. The notes were issued with an original issue discount of
$36.5 million that is being accreted over the period ending June 1, 2003.
Beginning June 1, 2003, interest accrues at 11 1/8% payable semiannually on June
1 and December 1. At any time prior to June 1, 2001, WESCO may redeem, in whole
but not in part, the Senior Discount Notes with the proceeds of an equity
offering at a redemption price equal to 111.125% of the accreted value at the
date of redemption.
 
     Approximately 35% of the then outstanding Senior Discount Notes ($30.9
million at December 31, 1998) must be redeemed on June 1, 2003. The remaining
notes are due June 1, 2008 and are redeemable at the option of WESCO, in whole
or in part, at any time after June 1, 2003 at the following prices:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                          REDEMPTION PRICE
                                                          ----------------
<S>                                                       <C>
2003..................................................        105.563%
2004..................................................        103.708
2005..................................................        101.854
2006 and thereafter...................................        100.000
</TABLE>
 
                                      F-14
<PAGE>   98
 
     At any time prior to June 1, 2003, the Senior Discount Notes may be
redeemed, in whole but not in part, at the option of WESCO at any time within
180 days after a change of control, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the
accreted value to the redemption date plus the then applicable premium. In
addition, the noteholders have the right to require WESCO, upon a change of
control, to repurchase all or any part of the Senior Discount Notes at a
redemption price equal to 101% of the accreted value prior to June 1, 2003 or
101% of the principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest if after June 1,
2003.
 
     At December 31, 1997 and 1998, other borrowings primarily consist of notes
issued to sellers in connection with acquisitions, of which $2 million and $37
million, respectively, are convertible into common stock at an initial public
equity offering price.
 
     The following table sets forth the aggregate principal repayment
requirements for all indebtedness for the next five years:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                            (IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                         <C>
1999....................................................       $16,871
2000....................................................        40,736
2001....................................................        13,071
2002....................................................        16,530
2003....................................................        51,412
</TABLE>
 
     The credit agreements contain various restrictive covenants that, among
other things, impose limitations on (i) dividend payments or certain other
restricted payments or investments; (ii) the incurrence of additional
indebtedness and guarantees or issuance of additional stock; (iii) creation of
liens; (iv) mergers, consolidation or sales of substantially all of WESCO's
assets (v) certain transactions among affiliates; (vi) payments by certain
subsidiaries to WESCO; and (vii) capital expenditures. In addition, the
agreements require WESCO to meet certain leverage, working capital and interest
coverage ratios.
 
     WESCO is permitted to pay dividends under certain limited circumstances. At
December 31, 1997 and 1998, no retained earnings were available for dividend
payments.
 
     Based on current market interest rates and discounted cash flow analyses,
the fair value of WESCO's long-term debt approximates its carrying value at
December 31, 1997 and 1998.
 
     WESCO had $3.3 million and $4.5 million of outstanding letters of credit at
December 31, 1997 and 1998, respectively. These letters of credit are used as
collateral for performance and bid bonds. The value of the letters of credit
approximates the contract value.
 
10. OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES
 
     The following table sets forth the components of other current liabilities:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                         DECEMBER 31
                                                      ------------------
                                                       1997       1998
                                                      -------    -------
                                                        (IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                   <C>        <C>
Accrued taxes other than income.....................  $10,696    $12,466
Accrued interest....................................    1,508      4,986
Deferred acquisition payable........................       --     30,000
Other...............................................    7,950      4,219
                                                      -------    -------
                                                      $20,154    $51,671
                                                      =======    =======
</TABLE>
 
                                      F-15
<PAGE>   99
 
11. CAPITAL STOCK
 
  Common Stock
 
   
     There are 210,000,000 shares of Class A and 20,000,000 shares of Class B
common stock authorized at a par value of $.01 per share. The Class B common
stock is identical to the Class A common stock, except for voting and conversion
rights. The holders of Class B common stock have no voting rights. With certain
exceptions, Class B common stock may be converted, at the option of the holder,
into the same number of shares of Class A common stock. No Class B common stock
was outstanding at December 31, 1997.
    
 
  Redeemable Class A Common Stock
 
     Certain employees and key management of WESCO who hold Class A common stock
and options may require WESCO to repurchase, under certain conditions, death,
disability or termination without cause during the term of employment, all of
the shares and the exercisable portion of the options held. This repurchase
right terminates upon the consummation of an initial equity public offering of
WESCO's Class A common stock. In connection with the redemption features
described above, WESCO has classified outside of permanent equity an amount
representing the initial fair value of the redeemable shares. These shares and
exercisable options have not been marked to market since the events of
redemption are considered remote.
 
     The following table sets forth capital stock share activity:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                               REDEEMABLE
                                                     CLASS A       CLASS B      CLASS A
                                                   -----------    ---------    ----------
<S>                                                <C>            <C>          <C>
December 31, 1995................................   53,943,584           --     4,618,451
Options exercised................................           --           --       198,139
Shares issued....................................           --           --       274,550
                                                   -----------    ---------    ----------
December 31, 1996................................   53,943,584                  5,091,140
Options exercised................................           --           --        99,069
Shares issued....................................           --           --        46,240
Shares repurchased...............................           --           --       (74,562)
                                                   -----------    ---------    ----------
December 31, 1997................................   53,943,584                  5,161,887
Recapitalization, net............................  (28,816,421)   4,653,131    (1,621,059)
Shares issued....................................           --           --     1,559,675
Shares repurchased...............................           --           --      (556,961)
Options exercised................................       82,654           --       358,360
                                                   -----------    ---------    ----------
December 31, 1998................................   25,209,817    4,653,131     4,901,902
                                                   ===========    =========    ==========
</TABLE>
 
                                      F-16
<PAGE>   100
 
12. INCOME TAXES
 
     The following table sets forth the components of the provision for income
taxes:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
                                                             ----------------------------
                                                              1996       1997       1998
                                                             -------    -------    ------
                                                                    (IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                          <C>        <C>        <C>
Current taxes
  Federal..................................................  $15,360    $16,689    $5,037
  State....................................................    2,872      3,067     1,229
  Foreign..................................................      210      1,117      (117)
                                                             -------    -------    ------
     Total current.........................................   18,442     20,873     6,149
Deferred taxes
  Federal..................................................   (1,588)     2,727     1,926
  State....................................................     (267)      (183)      431
  Foreign..................................................      523        293        13
  Charge in lieu of taxes..................................    1,254         --        --
                                                             -------    -------    ------
     Total deferred........................................      (78)     2,837     2,370
                                                             -------    -------    ------
                                                             $18,364    $23,710    $8,519
                                                             =======    =======    ======
</TABLE>
 
     At the time of the 1994 Formation, WESCO had approximately $45 million of
future tax deductions ($18 million of future tax benefits) that resulted in the
creation of certain deferred tax assets. At that time, WESCO recorded a
valuation allowance for the full amount of the deferred tax assets reflected on
the opening balance sheet since the realization of the future tax benefits was
not considered likely. However, at December 31, 1996, all of these deductions
had been recognized as a reduction in noncurrent intangible assets.
 
     The charge in lieu of taxes recognized in 1996 represents the amount of tax
expense that would have been recognized had the benefits described above been
recorded at the time of the 1994 Formation.
 
     The following table sets forth the components of income before income taxes
by jurisdiction:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
                                                             ----------------------------
                                                              1996       1997       1998
                                                             -------    -------    ------
                                                                    (IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                          <C>        <C>        <C>
United States..............................................  $49,072    $57,083    $1,743
Canada.....................................................    1,754      2,864      (960)
                                                             -------    -------    ------
                                                             $50,826    $59,947    $  783
                                                             =======    =======    ======
</TABLE>
 
                                      F-17
<PAGE>   101
 
     The following table sets forth the reconciliation between the federal
statutory income tax rate and the effective rate:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                              YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
                                                              -----------------------
                                                              1996    1997     1998
                                                              ----    ----    -------
<S>                                                           <C>     <C>     <C>
Federal statutory rate......................................  35.0%   35.0%      35.0%
State taxes, net of federal tax benefit.....................   4.2     3.3      137.8
Nondeductible expenses......................................   2.5     2.6      206.2
Recapitalization costs......................................    --      --      657.8
Foreign taxes...............................................  (0.1)    0.3      (51.1)
Net adjustment to valuation allowance.......................  (5.8)     --         --
Other(1)....................................................   0.3    (1.6)     102.3
                                                              ----    ----    -------
                                                              36.1%   39.6%   1,088.0%
                                                              ====    ====    =======
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
 
(1) Includes the impact of adjustments for certain tax liabilities and the
    effect of differences between the recorded provision and the final filed tax
    return for the prior year.
 
     In 1996, WESCO determined that it was more likely than not that it would
realize the benefits of certain deferred tax assets originating subsequent to
the 1994 Formation. As a result, WESCO recognized benefits of approximately $2.9
million associated with the realization of post formation deferred tax assets
through the reversal of the associated valuation allowance.
 
     The following table sets forth deferred tax assets and liabilities:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                  DECEMBER 31
                                                              --------------------
                                                                1997        1998
                                                              --------    --------
                                                                 (IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                           <C>         <C>
Accounts receivable.........................................  $  4,236    $  6,330
Inventory...................................................     4,819       5,325
Other.......................................................     5,222       4,562
                                                              --------    --------
     Deferred tax assets....................................    14,277      16,217
                                                              --------    --------
Intangibles.................................................    (3,766)     (4,792)
Property, buildings and equipment...........................    (4,079)     (4,173)
Other.......................................................    (8,817)     (9,867)
                                                              --------    --------
     Deferred tax liabilities...............................   (16,662)    (18,832)
                                                              --------    --------
                                                              $ (2,385)   $ (2,615)
                                                              ========    ========
</TABLE>
 
                                      F-18
<PAGE>   102
 
13. EARNINGS PER SHARE
 
     The following table sets forth the details of basic and diluted earnings
per share:
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                          YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
                                                 -----------------------------------------
                                                    1996           1997           1998
                                                 -----------    -----------    -----------
                                                 (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
<S>                                              <C>            <C>            <C>
Net income (loss)..............................  $    32,462    $    36,237    $    (7,736)
Interest on convertible debt...................           --            125             --
                                                 -----------    -----------    -----------
Net income (loss) used in diluted earnings per
  share........................................  $    32,462    $    36,362    $    (7,736)
Weighted average common shares outstanding used
  in computing basic earnings (loss) per
  share........................................   58,680,756     59,030,100     45,051,632
Common shares issuable upon exercise of
  dilutive stock options.......................    4,990,163      7,267,136             --
Assumed conversion of convertible debt.........           --        381,827             --
                                                 -----------    -----------    -----------
Weighted average common shares outstanding and
  common share equivalents used in computing
  diluted earnings (loss) per share............   63,670,919     66,679,063     45,051,632
                                                 ===========    ===========    ===========
Basic earnings (loss) per share................  $      0.55    $      0.61    $     (0.17)
Diluted earnings (loss) per share..............         0.51           0.55          (0.17)
</TABLE>
    
 
     Interest on convertible debt of $1.3 million and common share equivalents
outstanding in 1998 of 6,630,180 were anti-dilutive and, accordingly, were not
considered in the computation of diluted loss per share for the year ended
December 31, 1998.
 
14. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
 
     A majority of WESCO's employees are covered by defined contribution
retirement savings plans for their service rendered subsequent to the 1994
Formation. Westinghouse retained certain retiree pension and health benefits for
service rendered prior to the 1994 Formation. U.S. employee contributions of not
more than 6% of eligible compensation are matched 50% by WESCO. WESCO's
contributions for Canadian employees range from 1% to 6% of eligible
compensation based on years of service.
 
     In addition, employer contributions may be made at the discretion of the
Board of Directors and can be based on WESCO's current year performance.
Employees are credited for service with Westinghouse in determining the vesting
of WESCO's contributions. For the years ended December 31, 1996, 1997 and 1998,
WESCO contributed $9.3 million, $12.5 million and $14.1 million, respectively,
which was charged to expense.
 
15. STOCK INCENTIVE PLANS
 
    Stock Purchase Plan
 
     In connection with the Recapitalization, WESCO established a stock purchase
plan ("1998 Stock Purchase Plan") under which certain employees may be granted
an opportunity to purchase WESCO's Class A common stock. The maximum number of
shares available for purchase may not exceed 427,720. The purchase price per
share is determined by the Board of Directors of WESCO to represent fair market
value, as defined by the Stock Subscription Agreement. Should the purchase price
of the stock be less than the fair market value of the stock at the grant date,
such excess will be
 
                                      F-19
<PAGE>   103
 
recorded as compensation expense in the consolidated statements of operations.
During 1998, 291,890 shares were issued at a weighted-average share price of
$10.75.
 
     At the time of the 1994 Formation, WESCO established a stock purchase plan
("1994 Stock Purchase Plan") under which certain employees were granted an
opportunity to purchase WESCO's Class A common stock. Future purchases of shares
under the 1994 Stock Purchase Plan were terminated in conjunction with the
establishment of the 1998 Stock Purchase Plan. Shares purchased under the 1994
Stock Purchase Plan in the periods indicated were as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                              YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
                                                          -------------------------------
                                                            1996       1997        1998
                                                          --------    -------    --------
<S>                                                       <C>         <C>        <C>
Shares purchased........................................   150,858     46,240     132,478
Weighted-average share price............................  $   2.92    $  4.34    $  10.75
</TABLE>
 
    Other Stock Purchases
 
     In addition, certain key management employees of WESCO, nonemployee
directors and other investors may be granted an opportunity to purchase WESCO's
Class A common stock. The purchase price per share is determined by the Board of
Directors to represent the fair market value, as defined by the Stock
Subscription Agreement. At December 31, 1997 and 1998, 3,129,870 shares and
4,265,178 shares, respectively, had been purchased.
 
     Other stock purchases in the periods indicated were as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
                                                            ------------------------------
                                                              1996      1997       1998
                                                            --------    ----    ----------
<S>                                                         <C>         <C>     <C>
Shares purchased..........................................   123,692    --       1,135,308
Weighted-average share price..............................  $   3.38    --      $    10.75
</TABLE>
 
    Stock Option Plans
 
     WESCO has sponsored three stock options plans, the 1998 Stock Option Plan,
the Stock Option Plan for Branch Employees (collectively "Stock Option Plans")
and the 1994 Stock Option Plan. Participation is limited to executive and senior
officers, certain other key employees and branch employees. The Stock Option
Plans and the 1994 Stock Option Plan cover a maximum of 6,502,500 and 10,461,800
shares of WESCO's Class A common stock, respectively. The exercise price per
share is determined by the Board of Directors to represent the fair market
value, as defined by these plans, at the grant date.
 
     Options granted will vest and will become exercisable over periods ranging
from four to five years or earlier based on WESCO achieving certain financial
performance criteria, except in the event of a change in control. Each option
terminates on the tenth anniversary of its grant date unless terminated sooner
under certain conditions.
 
     The plans require WESCO to repurchase the exercisable portion of the
options held by an employee if the employee dies, is disabled or terminated
without cause during the term of employment. This repurchase right terminates
upon consummation of an initial public equity offering of WESCO's Class A common
stock. Since the triggering event requiring the repurchase is considered remote,
WESCO accounts for the plans as fixed plans and, accordingly, no compensation
expense has been recorded.
 
     In connection with the Recapitalization, future issuances of options under
the 1994 Stock Option Plan were terminated and all options granted under the
1994 Stock Option Plan became fully vested.
 
                                      F-20
<PAGE>   104
 
     The following table sets forth shares of common stock reserved for future
issuance at December 31, 1998:
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                             <C>
Stock Purchase Plan.........................................      135,830
Stock Option Plans..........................................    1,641,925
</TABLE>
 
     The following table sets forth a summary of stock option activity and
related information for the years indicated:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                    1996                          1997                            1998
                         --------------------------    ---------------------------    ----------------------------
                                        WEIGHTED                       WEIGHTED                        WEIGHTED
                                        AVERAGE                        AVERAGE                         AVERAGE
                          OPTIONS    EXERCISE PRICE     OPTIONS     EXERCISE PRICE      OPTIONS     EXERCISE PRICE
                         ---------   --------------    ----------   --------------    -----------   --------------
<S>                      <C>         <C>               <C>          <C>               <C>           <C>
Beginning of year......  5,547,066       $1.76          5,713,067       $1.85           6,926,983       $2.20
Granted (1)............    364,140        3.13          1,510,892        3.42           4,121,140        9.76
Exercised..............   (198,139)       1.73            (99,069)       1.73          (1,134,383)       2.68
Canceled...............         --          --           (197,907)       1.77            (386,450)       3.83
                         ---------                     ----------                     -----------
End of year............  5,713,067        1.85          6,926,983        2.20           9,527,290        5.34
                         =========                     ==========                     ===========
Exercisable at end of
  year.................  1,086,409       $1.75          1,956,414       $1.78           5,133,912       $2.05
</TABLE>
 
- -------------------------
 
(1) Options granted in 1998 include 635,800 options that were issued at a
    discount, resulting in approximately $4.1 million of compensation expense.
    Of these options, 358,360 were subsequently exercised. The remaining 277,440
    were forfeited and the associated costs were classified as additional
    capital.
 
     The Westinghouse option discussed in Note 16 is not included in the
information set forth above.
 
     The following table sets forth exercise prices for options outstanding as
of December 31, 1998:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXERCISE PRICE                    WEIGHTED AVERAGE
  PER OPTION      OPTIONS    REMAINING CONTRACTUAL LIFE
- --------------   ---------   --------------------------
<S>              <C>         <C>
    $ 1.73       3,649,955              5.6years
      1.98         718,512              7.0
      3.38       1,613,371              8.0
      4.34          60,112              8.9
     10.75       3,485,340              9.6
</TABLE>
 
     In connection with the implementation of SFAS No. 123, "Accounting for
Stock-Based Compensation," WESCO has elected to continue to account for
stock-based compensation arrangements under the provisions of Accounting
Principles Board (APB) Opinion No. 25.
 
                                      F-21
<PAGE>   105
 
     If compensation costs had been determined based on the fair value at the
grant dates according to SFAS No. 123, WESCO's net income and earnings per
share, would have been as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                               YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
                                                            -----------------------------
                                                             1996       1997       1998
                                                            -------    -------    -------
                                                             (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT SHARE
                                                                        DATA)
<S>                                                         <C>        <C>        <C>
Net income (loss)
  As reported.............................................  $32,462    $36,237    $(7,736)
  Pro forma...............................................   32,441     36,144     (8,629)
Basic earnings (loss) per share
  As reported.............................................  $  0.55    $  0.61    $ (0.17)
  Pro forma...............................................     0.55       0.61      (0.19)
Diluted earnings (loss) per share
  As reported.............................................  $  0.51    $  0.55    $ (0.17)
  Pro forma...............................................     0.51       0.54      (0.19)
</TABLE>
 
     The weighted-average fair value per option granted was $0.29, $0.58 and
$3.86, for the years ended December 31, 1996, 1997 and 1998, respectively.
 
     For purposes of presenting pro forma results, the fair value of each option
grant is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing
model and the following assumptions:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                               YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
                                                              ------------------------
                                                              1996      1997      1998
                                                              ----      ----      ----
<S>                                                           <C>       <C>       <C>
Risk-free interest rate.....................................  6.5%      6.5%      5.0%
Expected life (years).......................................    7         7         7
</TABLE>
 
16. RELATED PARTIES
 
     Prior to the Recapitalization, Westinghouse was considered a related party.
A summary of purchases from and sales to Westinghouse follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
                                                             ----------------------------
                                                              1996       1997       1998
                                                             -------    -------    ------
                                                                    (IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                          <C>        <C>        <C>
Purchases from Westinghouse................................  $19,115    $15,498    $2,765
Sales to Westinghouse......................................   21,192     21,666     7,271
</TABLE>
 
     The amount due from Westinghouse at December 31, 1997, net of amounts owed
was approximately $2.6 million.
 
     In connection with the 1994 Formation, WESCO granted Westinghouse an option
to purchase 5,780,000 shares of Class A common stock at $1.73 per share. The
fair value of this option, or $2.5 million, was included in the consolidated
balance sheets as common stock to be issued under option. This option was
exercised and the associated shares were repurchased in connection with the
Recapitalization.
 
     In connection with the Recapitalization, WESCO paid Cypress $9.5 million
related to transaction fees and WESCO received from CD&R $5.8 million as
contributed capital. Prior to the Recapitalization, WESCO paid CD&R an annual
financial advisory and management consulting fee of $0.4 million.
 
                                      F-22
<PAGE>   106
 
17. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
 
     Future minimum rental payments required under operating leases, primarily
for real property that have noncancelable lease terms in excess of one year as
of December 31, 1998, are as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                (IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                             <C>
1999........................................................       $17,827
2000........................................................        15,677
2001........................................................        13,399
2002........................................................         9,083
2003........................................................         5,034
Thereafter..................................................         9,787
</TABLE>
 
     Rental expense for the years ended December 31, 1996, 1997 and 1998, was
$22.0 million, $26.4 million and $29.1 million, respectively.
 
     WESCO has litigation arising from time to time in the normal course of
business. In management's opinion, any present litigation WESCO is aware of will
not materially affect WESCO's consolidated financial position, results of
operations or cash flows.
 
     Westinghouse agreed to indemnify WESCO for certain environmental
liabilities that existed at the time of the 1994 Formation. WESCO has made a
claim under this indemnity amounting to $1.5 million. The ultimate resolution of
this environmental compliance issue is not expected to materially impact WESCO's
consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
 
     At December 31, 1998, WESCO has guaranteed $8.9 million in loans to certain
stockholders.
 
18. SEGMENTS AND RELATED INFORMATION
 
     In 1998, WESCO adopted SFAS No. 131, "Disclosures about Segments of an
Enterprise and Related Information." SFAS No. 131 established standards for
disclosure of operating segments under the management approach. For purposes of
this standard, WESCO is engaged principally in one line of business -- the sale
of electrical products and maintenance repair and operating supplies -- which
represents more than 95% of the consolidated sales, income from operations and
assets, for the year ended December 31, 1998. The following table presents
information about WESCO by geographic area. There were no material amounts of
sales or transfers among geographic areas and no material amounts of United
States export sales:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
                             ----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                          SALES, NET                       LONG-LIVED ASSETS
                             ------------------------------------    ------------------------------
                                1996         1997         1998         1996       1997       1998
                             ----------   ----------   ----------    --------   --------   --------
                                                         (IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                          <C>          <C>          <C>           <C>        <C>        <C>
United States..............  $1,993,995   $2,292,121   $2,713,213    $151,835   $161,250   $344,481
Canada.....................     258,739      280,812      272,463      12,733     11,962     10,483
Other......................      21,888       21,886       39,763         147        810      1,889
                             ----------   ----------   ----------    --------   --------   --------
                             $2,274,622   $2,594,819   $3,025,439    $164,715   $174,022   $356,853
                             ==========   ==========   ==========    ========   ========   ========
</TABLE>
 
                                      F-23
<PAGE>   107
 
19. SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION
 
     The following table sets forth supplemental cash flow information:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                              YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
                                                          -------------------------------
                                                            1996       1997        1998
                                                          --------    -------    --------
                                                                  (IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                       <C>         <C>        <C>
Details of acquisitions
  Fair value of assets acquired.........................  $170,583    $21,498    $307,056
  Liabilities assumed...................................   (54,884)    (5,334)    (56,838)
  Restructuring reserve.................................    (5,102)        --          --
  Notes issued to seller................................    (2,950)    (2,250)    (46,242)
  Deferred acquisition payable..........................        --         --     (30,000)
                                                          --------    -------    --------
  Cash paid for acquisitions............................   107,647     13,914     173,976
  Less cash acquired....................................     3,729         --          --
                                                          --------    -------    --------
                                                          $103,918    $13,914    $173,976
                                                          ========    =======    ========
Cash paid for interest..................................  $ 11,600    $15,377    $ 35,093
Cash paid for income taxes..............................    13,756     27,523       9,470
</TABLE>
 
     Noncash investing and financing activities not reflected in the
consolidated statement of cash flows for the year ended December 31, 1998,
consisted of $5.8 million use of restricted cash to reduce long-term debt, $5.2
million of capital expenditures included in accounts payable, the conversion of
$1.6 million of notes payable to redeemable Class A common stock and the
immaterial effects of the sale for a note of an equity interest in an operating
division at book value.
 
20. OTHER FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
     In June 1998, WESCO Distribution issued $300 million of 9 1/8% Senior
Subordinated Notes. The Senior Subordinated Notes are fully and unconditionally
guaranteed by WESCO on a subordinated basis to all existing and future senior
indebtedness of WESCO. Summarized financial information for WESCO Distribution
is as follows:
 
BALANCE SHEET DATA
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 DECEMBER 31,
                                                                     1998
                                                                ---------------
                                                                (IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                             <C>
Current assets..............................................       $582,071
Noncurrent assets...........................................        368,451
Current liabilities.........................................        466,467
Long-term debt..............................................        527,167
Other noncurrent liabilities................................         25,872
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity..................        950,522
</TABLE>
 
                                      F-24
<PAGE>   108
 
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   YEAR ENDED
                                                                DECEMBER 31, 1998
                                                                -----------------
                                                                 (IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                             <C>
Sales, net..................................................       $3,025,439
Gross profit................................................          537,659
Income from operations......................................           56,026
Net income (loss)...........................................           (4,377)
</TABLE>
 
     Prior to the June 5, 1998 issuance of the Senior Discount Notes, WESCO
Distribution financial information was identical to that of WESCO's presented
herein.
 
21. SELECTED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)
 
     The following table sets forth selected quarterly financial data for the
years ended December 31, 1997 and 1998.
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                   FIRST       SECOND      THIRD      FOURTH
                                                  QUARTER    QUARTER(1)   QUARTER    QUARTER
                                                  --------   ----------   --------   --------
                                                       (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
<S>                                               <C>        <C>          <C>        <C>
1997
Sales, net......................................  $576,776    $659,377    $679,991   $678,675
Gross profit....................................   104,340     114,698     120,913    123,968
Income from operations..........................    14,890      20,744      23,443     20,979
Income before income taxes......................    10,092      15,833      18,207     15,815
Net income......................................     6,085       9,533      10,989      9,630
Basic earnings per share........................      0.10        0.16        0.19       0.16
Diluted earnings per share......................      0.09        0.14        0.17       0.14
1998
Sales, net......................................  $693,448    $748,307    $777,701   $805,983
Gross profit....................................   126,694     133,292     137,854    139,819
Income (loss) from operations...................    20,174     (23,423)     28,306     30,969
Income (loss) before income taxes...............    13,972     (36,271)     11,513     11,569
Net income (loss)...............................     8,523     (18,129)     26,438    (24,568)
Basic earnings (loss) per share.................      0.14       (0.35)       0.77      (0.71)
Diluted earnings (loss) per share...............      0.13       (0.35)       0.65      (0.71)
</TABLE>
    
 
- -------------------------
 
(1) Includes a one-time charge of $51.8 million related to the Recapitalization
    in 1998 (see Note 3).
 
22. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
 
     Initial Public Offering
 
   
     On March 3, 1999, WESCO filed a registration statement with the Securities
and Exchange Commission to register approximately $200 million of common stock,
including shares subject to an underwriters' over-allotment option ("Offering").
In connection with the Offering, certain employee rights to require WESCO to
repurchase outstanding redeemable common stock will terminate.
    
 
                                      F-25
<PAGE>   109
 
   
WESCO intends to use net proceeds from the Offering to retire all of the
outstanding 11 1/8% Senior Discount Notes due 2008, and the balance to repay all
or a portion of the existing Revolving Credit Facility and Term Loans under the
Credit Facilities. Pending application of the net proceeds from the Offering to
repay the senior discount notes, WESCO plans to borrow approximately $60.0
million in funds under the Delayed Draw Term Loan Facility to further reduce
outstanding indebtedness under the Credit Facilities. If such indebtedness is
repaid, WESCO would incur an extraordinary charge relating to the write-off of
existing unamortized debt issue costs and payment of a premium associated with
the retirement of the Senior Discount Notes. There can be no assurance as to the
timing or completion of the Offering or as to the amount of net proceeds to be
received by WESCO and applied to debt reduction as intended.
    
 
     Stock Split (unaudited)
 
   
     On April 11, 1999, the Board of Directors approved a 57.8 to one stock
split effected in the form of a stock dividend of WESCO's common stock. The
Board of Directors also reclassified the Class A common shares into common
shares, increased the authorized common shares to 210,000,000 and the authorized
Class B common shares to 20,000,000 and authorized 20,000,000 shares of $.01 par
preferred stock, all to be effective prior to the consummation of the Offering.
In this report, all per share amounts and number of shares have been restated to
reflect the stock split.
    
 
   
     Long Term Incentive Plan
    
 
   
     On April 26, 1999, the Board of Directors approved the Long Term Incentive
Plan ("LTIP"). The LTIP provides for stock participation in the form of options,
restricted stock awards and performance awards by certain key employees of
WESCO. The LTIP covers a maximum of 6,936,000 shares of WESCO's common stock.
The exercise price per share is determined by the Compensation Committee of the
Board of Directors to represent the fair market value at the date of grant. Each
award terminates on the tenth anniversary of its grant date unless terminated
sooner under certain conditions.
    
 
                                      F-26
<PAGE>   110
 
                        INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS' REPORT
 
To the stockholders and directors of
 
BRUCKNER SUPPLY COMPANY, INC.
 
We have audited the accompanying balance sheet of Bruckner Supply Company, Inc.
as of December 31, 1997, and the related statements of income and retained
earnings and cash flows for the year then ended. These financial statements are
the responsibility of the company's management. Our responsibility is to express
an opinion on these financial statements based on our audit.
 
We conducted our audit in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards.
Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable
assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
 
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in
all material respects, the financial position of Bruckner Supply Company, Inc.
at December 31, 1997, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for
the year then ended in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.
 
                                         /s/ ANCHIN, BLOCK  & ANCHIN LLP
 
New York, New York
February 23, 1998
 
                                      F-27
<PAGE>   111
 
                         BRUCKNER SUPPLY COMPANY, INC.
                                 BALANCE SHEET
                               DECEMBER 31, 1997
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                            <C>            <C>
                                         ASSETS
CURRENT ASSETS:
  Cash.....................................................    $   175,760
  Debt Securities-Notes 1 and 2............................      8,428,780
  Accounts receivable......................................     22,044,715
  Inventories -- Note 1....................................      2,195,277
  Prepaid expenses and other current assets................        126,624
                                                               -----------
     Total Current Assets..................................                   $32,971,156
Property and Equipment, Net-Notes 1 and 3..................                       357,705
Due From Affiliates -- Note 4..............................                         4,586
                                                                              -----------
     Total Assets..........................................                   $33,333,447
                                                                              ===========
                          LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
  Accounts payable.........................................    $18,539,018
  Bank overdraft...........................................      3,536,448
  Other current liabilities................................        618,476
                                                               -----------
     Total Current Liabilities.............................                   $22,693,942
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:
  Common stock, stated value:
     Authorized -- 200 shares
     Issued and outstanding -- 25 shares...................    $     7,500
  Additional paid-in capital...............................      2,022,843
  Retained earnings........................................      8,536,014
                                                               -----------
                                                                10,566,357
  Net unrealized holding gains on available-for-sale
     securities -- Notes 1 and 2...........................         73,148
                                                               -----------
     Total Stockholders' Equity............................                    10,639,505
                                                                              -----------
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY.................                   $33,333,447
                                                                              ===========
</TABLE>
 
            See the accompanying Notes to the Financial Statements.
                                      F-28
<PAGE>   112
 
                         BRUCKNER SUPPLY COMPANY, INC.
                   STATEMENT OF INCOME AND RETAINED EARNINGS
                      FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1997
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                             <C>         <C>
Net Sales -- Note 7.........................................                $222,406,503
Cost of Sales...............................................                 203,417,417
                                                                            ------------
Gross Profit................................................                  18,989,086
  % to Net Sales............................................                         8.5%
Operating Expenses..........................................                   8,852,762
                                                                            ------------
Operating Income............................................                  10,136,324
Investment and Other Income:
  Investment income, net -- Note 2..........................    $647,067
  Other income..............................................     170,863
                                                                --------
                                                                                 817,930
                                                                            ------------
Income before Income Taxes..................................                  10,954,254
Provision for Income Taxes -- Note 1........................                     215,000
                                                                            ------------
Net Income..................................................                  10,739,254
Retained Earnings:
  Balance, beginning of year................................                   9,220,700
  Distributions to stockholders.............................                 (11,423,940)
                                                                            ------------
  Balance, end of year......................................                $  8,536,014
                                                                            ============
Pro forma Information (unaudited):
  Income before Income Taxes................................                $ 10,954,254
  Provision for Income Taxes -- Note 1......................                   4,491,244
                                                                            ------------
  Net Income................................................                $  6,463,010
                                                                            ============
</TABLE>
 
            See the accompanying Notes to the Financial Statements.
                                      F-29
<PAGE>   113
 
                         BRUCKNER SUPPLY COMPANY, INC.
                            STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
                      FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1997
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                           <C>             <C>
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income..................................................                  $10,739,254
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by
  operating activities:
  Depreciation and amortization.............................  $    111,429
  Amortization of bond interest.............................         2,733
  Net realized gain on sale of debt and marketable equity
    securities..............................................       (96,088)
  Gain on sale of property and equipment....................          (750)
  Increase in:
    Accounts receivable.....................................   (10,718,009)
    Inventories.............................................    (1,540,402)
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets...............       (29,538)
  Increase in:
    Accounts payable and accrued expenses...................     7,009,628
                                                              ------------
         Total adjustments..................................                   (5,260,997)
                                                                              -----------
    Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities...............                    5,478,257
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
  Purchases of property and equipment.......................       (82,980)
  Proceeds from sale of property and equipment..............           750
  Purchases of debt and marketable equity securities........   (22,997,355)
  Proceeds from sales and maturities of debt and marketable
    equity securities.......................................    23,446,815
  Decrease in due from affiliate............................     1,992,732
                                                              ------------
    Net Cash Provided by Investing Activities...............                    2,359,962
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
  Distributions to stockholders.............................   (11,423,940)
  Increase in bank overdraft................................     3,536,448
                                                              ------------
    Net Cash Used in Financing Activities...................                   (7,887,492)
                                                                              -----------
NET DECREASE IN CASH........................................                      (49,273)
CASH:
  Beginning of year.........................................                      225,033
                                                                              -----------
  End of year...............................................                  $   175,760
                                                                              ===========
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION
  Income taxes -- paid......................................                  $   165,780
               -- refunded..................................                        9,134
SUPPLEMENTAL SCHEDULE OF NON-CASH INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
  Net unrealized holding losses on available-for-sale
    securities..............................................                  $   (41,824)
</TABLE>
 
            See the accompanying Notes to the Financial Statements.
                                      F-30
<PAGE>   114
 
                         BRUCKNER SUPPLY COMPANY, INC.
                       NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
NOTE 1 -- SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES:
 
DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS:
 
     Bruckner Supply Company, Inc. (the "Company") is an integrated supply
company whose customers are major corporations located throughout the United
States. The Company's revenues include total amounts billed to customers for
products sold and all other aspects of handling customers' purchasing
operations.
 
REVENUE RECOGNITION:
 
     The Company generally sells merchandise which is shipped directly by its
vendors to customers. Revenue is recognized upon shipment.
 
DEBT SECURITIES:
 
     Debt securities available for sale are measured at fair value, with net
unrealized gains and losses reported in equity. The Company uses the specific
identification method to determine the cost of securities sold.
 
USE OF ESTIMATES:
 
     The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and
disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial
statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the
reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
 
INVENTORIES:
 
     Inventories, which consist of finished goods, are valued at the lower of
cost, first-in, first-out method, or market.
 
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT:
 
     Property and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and
amortization. Depreciation is computed by straight-line and accelerated methods
over the estimated useful lives of the assets.
 
     Leasehold improvements are amortized by the straight-line method over the
estimated useful lives of the assets.
 
INCOME TAXES:
 
     The Company is taxed as an S corporation for Federal and New York States
tax purposes, whereby the company's income is reported by the stockholders.
Accordingly, no provision has been made for Federal income taxes. The Company
continues to be liable for certain states' corporate taxes. For unaudited pro
forma purposes, the Company has provided for income taxes using the Company's
statutory rate of 41%.
 
                                      F-31
<PAGE>   115
 
NOTE 2 -- DEBT SECURITIES:
 
     The following table is a summary of investments at December 31, 1997:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                              GROSS UNREALIZED
                                                              -----------------
                                            AMORTIZED COST     GAINS     LOSSES    FAIR VALUE
                                            --------------    -------    ------    ----------
<S>                                         <C>               <C>        <C>       <C>
Available-For-Sale Debt Securities........    $8,355,632      $73,148     --       $8,428,780
</TABLE>
 
     The following table summarizes the maturities of all debt securities at
fair value held at December 31, 1997:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                MORE THAN       MORE THAN
                                               WITHIN 1 YEAR   1 TO 5 YEARS   5 TO 10 YEARS     TOTAL
                                               -------------   ------------   -------------   ----------
<S>                                            <C>             <C>            <C>             <C>
Available-For-Sale Debt Securities...........   $2,656,195      $4,016,570     $1,756,015     $8,428,780
</TABLE>
 
     Proceeds from sales and maturities of securities classified as
available-for-sale were $23,446,815. Gains of $133,493 and losses of $37,405
were realized on these sales. The net unrealized holding gains on
available-for-sale securities decreased by $41,824 in 1997.
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                             <C>
Investment income for 1997 is comprised of:
  Interest income...........................................    $583,861
  Net realized gains on sales of securities.................      96,088
                                                                --------
                                                                 679,949
  Less: Investment expenses.................................      32,882
                                                                --------
                                                                $647,067
                                                                ========
</TABLE>
 
NOTE 3 -- PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT:
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                             <C>
Property and equipment consist of the following:
  Leasehold improvements....................................    $   91,139
  Machinery and equipment...................................       476,238
  Furniture and fixtures....................................       244,586
  Transportation and delivery equipment.....................       233,799
                                                                ----------
                                                                 1,045,762
  Less: Accumulated depreciation and amortization...........       688,057
                                                                ----------
                                                                $  357,705
                                                                ==========
</TABLE>
 
NOTE 4 -- DUE FROM AFFILIATES:
 
     The amounts due from affiliates are non-interest bearing and have no
specified repayment terms.
 
NOTE 5 -- RETIREMENT PLAN:
 
     The Company maintains a defined-contribution 401(k) savings plan covering
substantially all employees. Company contributions to the plan are at the
discretion of the Board of Directors. During 1997 no company contribution was
made to the plan.
 
                                      F-32
<PAGE>   116
 
NOTE 6 -- COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES:
 
LEASES:
 
     The Company leases office space from an affiliate under an operating lease,
which expires December 31, 2002, at an annual rent of $150,000. The lease
requires the Company to pay real estate taxes.
 
     In February, 1998, the Company entered into an operating lease for
additional office space, which expires February 6, 1999, at an annual rent of
$80,000.
 
     The Company also leases certain computer equipment under an operating
lease, which expires August 31, 1999, at an annual rate of $155,820.
 
     Rent expense was $305,909 for 1997.
 
     Future minimum rental commitments are as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEARS ENDING DECEMBER 31,
- --------------------------------------------------
<S>                                     <C>
1998................................... $  379,153
1999...................................    260,547
2000...................................    150,000
2001...................................    150,000
2002...................................    150,000
                                        ----------
Total.................................. $1,089,700
                                        ==========
</TABLE>
 
STOCKHOLDERS' AGREEMENT:
 
     Under the terms of a stockholders' agreement, upon their death, Bruckner
Supply Company, Inc. is required to purchase the shares owned by its
stockholders at a value determined annually by the stockholders, and may be paid
out over a period of ten years.
 
NOTE 7 -- MAJOR CUSTOMER:
 
     For the year ended December 31, 1997, one customer, through multiple
operating divisions located throughout the United States, accounted for
approximately 68% of net sales and approximately 37% of the December 31, 1997
accounts receivable balance.
 
NOTE 8 -- SUBSEQUENT EVENT (UNAUDITED):
 
     September 11, 1998, the Company sold to WESCO Distribution, Inc.,
substantially all of its assets and liabilities, other than cash, debt
securities, amounts due from affiliates, certain equipment and prepaid expenses
and bank overdraft.
 
                                      F-33
<PAGE>   117
 
                         BRUCKNER SUPPLY COMPANY, INC.
                       UNAUDITED CONDENSED BALANCE SHEET
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                JUNE 30
                                                                 1998
                                                              -----------
<S>                                                           <C>
                           ASSETS
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash........................................................  $   539,327
Debt securities.............................................      753,554
Accounts receivable.........................................   33,441,794
Inventories.................................................    3,335,230
Prepaid expenses and other current assets...................      826,587
                                                              -----------
     Total current assets...................................   38,896,492
Property and equipment, net.................................      358,994
Due from affiliates.........................................        4,911
                                                              -----------
     Total assets...........................................  $39,260,397
                                                              ===========
            LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accounts payable............................................  $23,400,522
Bank overdraft..............................................    3,476,490
Other current liabilities...................................      923,587
                                                              -----------
     Total current liabilities..............................   27,800,599
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Common stock................................................        7,500
Additional paid-in capital..................................    2,022,843
Retained earnings...........................................    9,417,697
Net unrealized holding gains on available-for-sale
  securities................................................       11,758
                                                              -----------
     Total stockholders' equity.............................   11,459,798
                                                              -----------
     Total liabilities and stockholders' equity.............  $39,260,397
                                                              ===========
</TABLE>
 
         See the accompanying Notes to Condensed Financial Statements.
                                      F-34
<PAGE>   118
 
                         BRUCKNER SUPPLY COMPANY, INC.
                    UNAUDITED CONDENSED STATEMENT OF INCOME
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   SIX MONTHS ENDED
                                                                       JUNE 30
                                                             ----------------------------
                                                                 1998            1997
                                                             ------------    ------------
<S>                                                          <C>             <C>
Net sales..................................................  $132,014,762    $113,140,125
Cost of sales..............................................   118,414,945     104,822,756
                                                             ------------    ------------
  Gross profit.............................................    13,599,817       8,317,369
Operating expenses.........................................     6,045,525       4,125,700
                                                             ------------    ------------
  Operating income.........................................     7,554,292       4,191,669
Investment and other income
  Investment income, net...................................       214,000         390,000
  Other income.............................................        18,456          10,101
                                                             ------------    ------------
                                                                  232,456         400,101
  Income before income taxes...............................     7,786,748       4,591,770
  Provision for income taxes...............................         6,766             197
                                                             ------------    ------------
  Net income...............................................  $  7,779,982    $  4,591,573
                                                             ============    ============
Pro forma Information:
  Income before income taxes...............................  $  7,786,748    $  4,591,770
  Provision for income taxes...............................     3,192,567       1,882,626
                                                             ------------    ------------
  Net income...............................................  $  4,594,181    $  2,709,144
                                                             ============    ============
</TABLE>
 
         See the accompanying Notes to Condensed Financial Statements.
                                      F-35
<PAGE>   119
 
                         BRUCKNER SUPPLY COMPANY, INC.
                   UNAUDITED CONDENSED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOW
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   SIX MONTHS ENDED
                                                                       JUNE 30
                                                             ----------------------------
                                                                 1998            1997
                                                             ------------    ------------
<S>                                                          <C>             <C>
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income.................................................  $  7,779,982    $  4,591,573
Adjustment to reconcile net income to cash from operating
  activities:
     Depreciation and amortization.........................        50,913          57,733
     Net realized gain on sale of debt securities..........       (81,665)        (86,165)
     Increase in:
       Accounts receivable.................................   (11,397,079)    (10,832,178)
       Inventories.........................................    (1,139,953)       (760,604)
       Prepaid and other current assets....................      (699,963)          2,749
     Increase in:
       Accounts payable and accrued expenses...............     5,166,615       6,575,233
                                                             ------------    ------------
          Net Cash Used in Operating Activities............      (321,150)       (451,659)
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Purchases of property and equipment........................       (56,289)        (82,980)
Purchases of debt securities...............................    (3,298,652)    (11,427,935)
Proceeds from sales and maturities of debt securities......    10,998,240      16,699,995
Increase in due from affiliate.............................          (325)             --
                                                             ------------    ------------
          Net Cash Provided By Financing Activities........     7,642,974       5,189,080
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Increase (decrease) in bank overdrafts.....................       (59,958)      4,579,429
Distributions to stockholders..............................    (6,898,299)     (9,430,000)
                                                             ------------    ------------
          Net Cash Used in Financing Activities............    (6,958,257)     (4,850,571)
                                                             ------------    ------------
          Net increase (decrease) in cash..................       363,567        (113,150)
CASH:
  Beginning of year........................................       175,760         225,033
  End of year..............................................  $    539,327    $    111,883
                                                             ============    ============
</TABLE>
 
         See the accompanying Notes to Condensed Financial Statements.
                                      F-36
<PAGE>   120
 
                         BRUCKNER SUPPLY COMPANY, INC.
                  NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                                  (UNAUDITED)
 
DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS
 
     Bruckner Supply Company, Inc. (the "Company") is an integrated supply
company whose customers are major corporations located throughout the United
States. The Company's revenues include total amounts billed to customers for
products sold and all other aspects of handling customers' purchasing
operations.
 
BASIS OF PRESENTATION
 
     The unaudited condensed financial statements have been prepared in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. The notes included
herein should be read in conjunction with the audited financial statements of
Bruckner (included as Exhibit 99.1 to WESCO International, Inc.'s Current Report
on Form 8-K/A dated September 11, 1998).
 
     The unaudited condensed balance sheet as of June 30, 1998, and the
unaudited condensed statement of income and the unaudited condensed statement of
cash flows for the six months ended June 30, 1998 and 1997, in the opinion of
management, have been prepared on the same basis as the audited financial
statements and include all adjustments necessary for the fair presentation of
the results of the interim periods. All adjustments reflected in the condensed
financial statements are of a normal recurring nature. Results for the interim
periods presented are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected
for the full year.
 
INCOME TAXES
 
     The Company is taxed as an S corporation for Federal and New York States
tax purposes, whereby the company's income is reported by the stockholders.
Accordingly, no provision has been made for Federal income taxes. The Company
continues to be liable for certain states' corporate taxes. For pro forma
purposes, the Company has provided for income taxes using the Company's
statutory rate of 41%.
 
SUBSEQUENT EVENT
 
     On September 11, 1998, the Company sold to WESCO Distribution, Inc.,
substantially all of its assets and liabilities, other than cash, debt
securities, amounts due from affiliates, certain equipment and prepaid expenses
and bank overdraft.
 
                                      F-37
<PAGE>   121
 
                                LEHMAN WATERMARK
 
                                9,725,000 SHARES
 
                                WESCO INTL. LOGO
 
                           WESCO INTERNATIONAL, INC.
 
                                  COMMON STOCK
 
                          ---------------------------
                                   PROSPECTUS
                                            , 1999
                          ---------------------------
 
                                LEHMAN BROTHERS
                            BEAR, STEARNS & CO. INC.
                          DONALDSON, LUFKIN & JENRETTE
                              GOLDMAN, SACHS & CO.
                             ROBERT W. BAIRD & CO.
                                   INCORPORATED
 
                           ING BARING FURMAN SELZ LLC
<PAGE>   122
 
THE INFORMATION IN THIS PROSPECTUS IS NOT COMPLETE AND MAY BE CHANGED. WE MAY
NOT SELL THESE SECURITIES UNTIL THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT FILED WITH THE
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION IS EFFECTIVE. THIS PROSPECTUS IS NOT AN OFFER
TO SELL THESE SECURITIES AND IT IS NOT SOLICITING AN OFFER TO BUY THESE
SECURITIES IN ANY STATE WHERE THE OFFER OR SALE IS NOT PERMITTED.
 
   
                    SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED MAY 3, 1999
    
PROSPECTUS
 
                                9,725,000 SHARES
                                WESCO INTL. LOGO
 
                           WESCO INTERNATIONAL, INC.
 
                                  COMMON STOCK
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
     This is our initial public offering of shares of our common stock. We are
offering 9,725,000 shares. 7,780,000 shares are initially being offered in the
United States and Canada and 1,945,000 shares are initially being offered
outside the United States and Canada. No public market currently exists for our
shares.
 
     The common stock has been approved for listing on the New York Stock
Exchange, subject to notice of issuance, under the symbol "WCC." Anticipated
Price Range $17.00 to $19.00 per share.
 
     INVESTING IN THE SHARES INVOLVES RISKS. RISK FACTORS BEGIN ON PAGE 8.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                              PER SHARE    TOTAL
                                                              ---------    ------
<S>                                                           <C>          <C>
Public Offering Price.......................................  $            $
Underwriting Discount.......................................  $            $
Proceeds to WESCO International, Inc........................  $            $
</TABLE>
 
We have granted the underwriters a 30-day option to purchase up to 1,458,750
additional shares of common stock on the same terms and conditions as set forth
above solely to cover over-allotments, if any.
 
Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities
commission has approved or disapproved of these securities or determined if this
prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a
criminal offense.
 
Lehman Brothers expects to deliver the shares on or about                , 1999.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
LEHMAN BROTHERS
              BEAR, STEARNS INTERNATIONAL LIMITED
 
                            DONALDSON, LUFKIN & JENRETTE
 
                                        GOLDMAN SACHS INTERNATIONAL
 
ROBERT W. BAIRD & CO.                                   BARING BROTHERS LIMITED,
        INCORPORATED                              AS AGENT FOR ING BANK NV
 
               , 1999
<PAGE>   123
 
                                LEHMAN WATERMARK
 
                                9,725,000 SHARES
 
                                WESCO INTL. LOGO
 
                           WESCO INTERNATIONAL, INC.
 
                                  COMMON STOCK
 
                          ---------------------------
                                   PROSPECTUS
                                            , 1999
                          ---------------------------
 
                                LEHMAN BROTHERS
                      BEAR, STEARNS INTERNATIONAL LIMITED
                          DONALDSON, LUFKIN & JENRETTE
                          GOLDMAN SACHS INTERNATIONAL
                             ROBERT W. BAIRD & CO.
                                   INCORPORATED
 
                            BARING BROTHERS LIMITED,
                            AS AGENT FOR ING BANK NV
<PAGE>   124
 
                                    PART II
 
                     INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS
 
ITEM 13.  OTHER EXPENSES OF ISSUANCE AND DISTRIBUTION.
 
     The following table sets forth estimated expenses expected to be incurred
in connection with the issuance and distribution of the securities being
registered.
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                           <C>
Securities and Exchange Commission Registration Fee.........  $   55,948
NYSE Listing Fee............................................     250,000
NASD Filing Fee.............................................      22,000
Printing and Engraving Expenses.............................     135,000
Accounting Fees and Expenses................................     300,000
Legal Fees and Expenses.....................................     400,000
Blue Sky Qualification Fees and Expenses....................       5,000
Transfer Agent Fees and Expenses............................       3,500
Miscellaneous...............................................      78,552
                                                              ----------
     Total..................................................  $1,250,000
                                                              ==========
</TABLE>
 
ITEM 14.  INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS.
 
     Under Section 145 of the DGCL, a corporation has the power to indemnify
directors and officers under certain prescribed circumstances and subject to
certain limitations against certain costs and expenses, including attorneys'
fees actually and reasonably incurred in connection with any action, suit or
proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative, to which
any of them is a party by reason of his being a director or officer of the
corporation if it is determined that he acted in accordance with the applicable
standard of conduct set forth in such statutory provision. Article VI of our
By-Laws provides that we will indemnify any person who was or is a party or is
threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action,
suit or proceeding by reason of the fact that he is or was a director, officer,
employee or agent of WESCO, or is or was serving at the our request as a
director, officer, employee or agent of another entity, against certain
liabilities, costs and expenses. Article VI further permits us to maintain
insurance on behalf of any person who is or was a director, officer, employee or
agent of WESCO, or is or was serving at our request as a director, officer,
employee or agent of another entity against any liability asserted against such
person and incurred by such person in any such capacity or arising out of his
status as such, whether or not we would have the power to indemnify such person
against such liability under the DGCL. We maintain directors' and officers'
liability insurance.
 
     Section 102(b)(7) of the Delaware General Corporation Law permits a
corporation, in its certificate of incorporation, to limit or eliminate, subject
to certain statutory limitations, the liability of directors to the corporation
or its stockholders for monetary damages for breaches of fiduciary duty, except
for liability (a) for any breach of the director's duty of loyalty to the
corporation or its stockholders, (b) for acts or omissions not in good faith or
which involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law, (c) under
Section 174 of the DGCL, or (d) for any transaction from which the director
derived an improper personal benefit. Article SIXTH of our Certificate of
Incorporation contains the following provision regarding limitation of liability
of our directors and officers:
 
"(e) No director of the Corporation shall be liable to the Corporation or its
stockholders for monetary damages for breach of his or her fiduciary duty as a
director, provided that nothing
 
                                      II-1
<PAGE>   125
 
contained in this Restated Certificate of Incorporation shall eliminate or limit
the liability of a director (a) for any breach of the director's duty of loyalty
to the Corporation or its stockholders, (b) for acts or omissions not in good
faith or which involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law, (c)
under Section 174 of the DGCL, or (d) for any transaction from which the
director derived an improper personal benefit."
 
     The Underwriting Agreement filed as an exhibit hereto contains provisions
pursuant to which each Underwriter severally agrees to indemnify us, any person
controlling WESCO within the meaning of Section 15 of the Securities Act of
1933, or Section 20 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 each director of
WESCO, and each officer of WESCO who signs this registration statement with
respect to information relating to such Underwriter furnished in writing by or
on behalf of such Underwriter expressly for use in this registration statement.
 
ITEM 15.  RECENT SALES OF UNREGISTERED SECURITIES.
 
     Within the past three years, WESCO sold shares of its capital stock in the
following transactions, each of which was intended to be exempt from the
registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933.
 
     On April 9, 1996, WESCO sold to one key member of management of WESCO
49,708 shares of common stock, for an aggregate purchase price of $98,298 and
granted to such person 65,892 options to purchase shares of its common stock
with an exercise price of $1.98 per share. For the foregoing transactions, WESCO
relied upon exemption from registration under Rule 701 under the Securities Act.
 
     On December 20, 1996, WESCO sold to two senior executives of WESCO and
three other key members of management of WESCO 224,842 shares of its common
stock, for an aggregate purchase price of $760,106, and granted to such persons
298,248 options to purchase shares of its common stock with an exercise price of
$3.38 per share. For the foregoing transactions, WESCO relied upon exemption
from registration under Rule 701 under the Securities Act.
 
     On January 1, 1997, WESCO granted key branch employees 1,459,450 options to
purchase shares of its common stock with an exercise price of $3.38 per share.
For the foregoing transactions, WESCO relied upon exemption from registration
under Rule 701 under the Securities Act.
 
     On November 26, 1997, WESCO sold to one senior executive of WESCO 46,240
shares of its common stock, for an aggregate purchase price of $200,776, and
granted to such senior executive 60,112 options to purchase shares of its common
stock with an exercise price of $4.34 per share. For the foregoing transactions,
WESCO relied upon exemption from registration under Rule 701 under the
Securities Act.
 
     On January 31, 1998, WESCO sold to each of two accredited investors in a
private placement 57,569 shares of its common stock, for an aggregate purchase
price of $499,932. For the foregoing transactions, WESCO relied upon exemption
from registration under Section 4(2) of the Securities Act.
 
     On March 26, 1998, WESCO sold to one senior executive officer of WESCO
111,670 shares of its common stock, for an aggregate purchase price of
$1,199,927, and granted to such senior executive 635,800 options to purchase
shares of its common stock with an exercise price of $4.34 per share. For the
foregoing transactions, WESCO relied upon the exemption from registration under
Rule 701 under the Securities Act.
 
     On April 24, 1998, WESCO sold to one key member of management of WESCO
17,340 shares of its common stock, for an aggregate purchase price of $186,324
and granted to such key member of management 22,542 options to purchase shares
of its common stock with an exercise price of $10.75
 
                                      II-2
<PAGE>   126
 
per share. For the foregoing transactions, WESCO relied upon the exemption from
registration Rule 701 under the Securities Act.
 
     On June 5, 1998, in connection with the recapitalization of WESCO, WESCO
sold to (i) Cypress Merchant Banking Partners L.P., 18,405,023 shares of its
common stock, for an aggregate purchase price of $197,768,020, (ii) Cypress
Offshore Partners L.P., 962,370 shares of its common stock, for an aggregate
purchase price of $10,340,982, (iii) The Travelers Insurance Company, 418,819
shares of its common stock, for an aggregate purchase price of $4,500,346, (iv)
The Travelers Life and Annuity Company, 46,529 shares of its common stock, for
an aggregate purchase price of $499,969, (v) The Travelers Indemnity Company,
409,455 shares of its common stock, for an aggregate purchase price of
$4,399,731, (vi) The Phoenix Insurance Company, 55,835 shares of its common
stock, for an aggregate purchase price of $599,963, (vii) Co-Investment
Partners, L.P., 4,653,189 shares of its common stock, for an aggregate purchase
price of $50,000,045 and (viii) Chase Equity Associates, L.P., 4,653,131 shares
of its Class B common stock, for an aggregate purchase price of $49,999,424. For
the foregoing transactions, WESCO relied upon exemption from registration under
Regulation D under the Securities Act.
 
     On August 5, 1998, WESCO sold to senior executives 803,998 shares of its
common stock, for an aggregate purchase price of $8,639,223. For the foregoing
transactions, WESCO relied upon exemption from registration under Regulation D
under the Securities Act.
 
     On August 5, 1998, WESCO sold to key members of management 291,890 shares
of its common stock, for an aggregate purchase price of $3,136,454. For the
foregoing transactions, WESCO relied upon the exemption from registration under
Rule 701 under the Securities Act.
 
     On August 6, 1998, as contemplated by the recapitalization, WESCO granted
to key members of management 3,462,798 options to purchase shares of its common
stock with an aggregate exercise price of $37,208,903. For the foregoing
transactions, WESCO relied upon the exemption from registration under Rule 701
under the Securities Act.
 
     On November 20, 1998, WESCO sold to senior executives 150,280 shares of its
common stock, for an aggregate purchase price of $1,614,808. For the foregoing
transactions, WESCO relied upon exemption from registration under Regulation D
under the Securities Act.
 
     On December 31, 1998, WESCO sold to three directors of WESCO 69,360 shares
of its common stock, for an aggregate purchase price of $745,296. For the
foregoing transactions, WESCO relied upon exemption from registration under
Regulation D under the Securities Act.
 
                                      II-3
<PAGE>   127
 
ITEM 16.  EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES.
 
     (a) The following exhibits are filed as part of this registration
         statement:
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                      PRIOR FILING OR
EXHIBIT NO.                DESCRIPTION OF EXHIBIT                 SEQUENTIAL PAGE NUMBER
- -----------                ----------------------                 ----------------------
<C>          <S>                                                 <C>
    1.1      Form of Underwriting Agreements                     Filed herewith
    2.1      Recapitalization Agreement dated as of March 27,    Incorporated by reference
             1998 among Thor Acquisitions L.L.C., WESCO          to WESCO's Exhibit 2.1 to
             International, Inc. (formerly known as CDW Holding  Registration Statement in
             Corporation, "WESCO") and certain securityholders   Form S-4 (No. 333-43225)
             of WESCO.                                           (the "Form S-4")
    2.2      Purchase Agreement dated May 29, 1998 among WESCO,  Incorporated by reference
             WESCO Distribution, Inc. ("WESCO Distribution"),    to Exhibit 2.2 to the
             Chase Securities Inc. and Lehman Brothers Inc.      Form S-4
    2.3      Asset Purchase Agreement among Bruckner Supply      Incorporated by reference
             Company, Inc. and WESCO Distribution dated          to Exhibit 2.01 to the
             September 11, 1998, previously filed. Omitted       Current Report on Form
             schedules and exhibits will be provided             8-K dated September 11,
             supplementally to the Commission upon request.      1998
    3.1      Certificate of Incorporation of WESCO               Incorporated by reference
                                                                 to Exhibit 3.1 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
    3.2      Form of Amended and Restated Certificate of         Filed herewith
             Incorporation of WESCO
    3.3      By-Laws of WESCO                                    Incorporated by reference
                                                                 to Exhibit 3.2 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
    3.4      Form of Restated By-Laws of WESCO                   Filed herewith
    4.1      Form of Common Stock Certificate                    Filed herewith
    4.2      Form of Class B Common Stock Certificate            Previously filed
    4.3      Indenture dated as of June 5, 1998 among WESCO,     Incorporated by reference
             WESCO Distribution and Bank One, N.A.               to Exhibit 4.1 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
    4.4      Form of 9 1/8% Senior Subordinated Note Due 2008,   Incorporated by reference
             Series A (included in Exhibit 4.3).                 to Exhibit 4.2 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
    4.5      Form of 9 1/8% Senior Subordinated Note Due 2008,   Incorporated by reference
             Series B (included in Exhibit 4.3).                 to Exhibit 4.3 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
    4.6      Exchange and Registration Rights Agreement dated    Incorporated by reference
             as of June 5, 1998 among the Company, WESCO and     to Exhibit 4.4 to the
             the Initial Purchasers                              Form S-4
    4.7      Indenture dated as of June 5, 1998 between WESCO    Incorporated by reference
             and Bank One, N.A.                                  to Exhibit 4.5 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
    4.8      Form of 11 1/8% Senior Discount Note Due 2008,      Incorporated by reference
             Series A (included in Exhibit 4.7)                  to Exhibit 4.6 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
    4.9      Form of 11 1/8% Senior Discount Note Due 2008,      Incorporated by reference
             Series B (included in Exhibit 4.7)                  to Exhibit 4.7 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
    4.10     Exchange and Registration Rights Agreement dated    Incorporated by reference
             as of June 5, 1998 among WESCO and the Initial      to Exhibit 4.8 to the
             Purchasers                                          Form S-4
</TABLE>
    
 
                                      II-4
<PAGE>   128
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                      PRIOR FILING OR
EXHIBIT NO.                DESCRIPTION OF EXHIBIT                 SEQUENTIAL PAGE NUMBER
- -----------                ----------------------                 ----------------------
<C>          <S>                                                 <C>
    5.1      Opinion of Kirkpatrick & Lockhart LLP as to the     Previously filed
             legality of the Common Stock
   10.1      CDW Holding Corporation Stock Purchase Plan         Incorporated by reference
                                                                 to Exhibit 10.1 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
   10.2      Form of Stock Subscription Agreement                Incorporated by reference
                                                                 to Exhibit 10.2 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
   10.3      CDW Holding Corporation Stock Option Plan           Incorporated by reference
                                                                 to Exhibit 10.3 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
   10.4      Form of Stock Option Agreement                      Incorporated by reference
                                                                 to Exhibit 10.4 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
   10.5      CDW Holding Corporation Stock Option Plan for       Incorporated by reference
             Branch Employees                                    to Exhibit 10.5 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
   10.6      Form of Branch Stock Option Agreement               Incorporated by reference
                                                                 to Exhibit 10.6 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
   10.7      Non-Competition Agreement, dated as of February     Incorporated by reference
             28, 1996, between Westinghouse, WESCO and WESCO     to Exhibit 10.8 to the
             Distribution                                        Form S-4
   10.8      Employment Agreement between WESCO Distribution     Incorporated by reference
             and Stanley C. Weiss                                to Exhibit 10.9 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
   10.9      Lease dated May 24, 1995 as amended by Amendment    Incorporated by reference
             One dated June, 1995 and by Amendment Two dated     to Exhibit 10.10 to the
             December 24, 1995 by and between WESCO              Form S-4
             Distribution as Tenant and Opal Investors, L.P.
             and Mural GEM Investors as Landlord
   10.10     Lease dated April 1, 1992 as renewed by Letter of   Incorporated by reference
             Notice of Intent to Renew dated December 13, 1996   to Exhibit 10.11 to the
             by and between the Company successor in interest    Form S-4
             to Westinghouse Electric Corporation as Tenant and
             Utah State Retirement Fund as Landlord
   10.11     Lease dated September 4, 1997 and between WESCO     Incorporated by reference
             Distribution as Tenant and The Buncher Company as   to Exhibit 10.12 to the
             Landlord                                            Form S-4
   10.12     Lease dated March, 1995 by and between WESCO        Incorporated by reference
             Distribution-Canada, Inc. ("WESCO Canada") as       to Exhibit 10.13 to the
             Tenant and Atlantic Construction, Inc. as Landlord  Form S-4
</TABLE>
    
 
                                      II-5
<PAGE>   129
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                      PRIOR FILING OR
EXHIBIT NO.                DESCRIPTION OF EXHIBIT                 SEQUENTIAL PAGE NUMBER
- -----------                ----------------------                 ----------------------
<C>          <S>                                                 <C>
   10.13     Credit Agreement dated as of June 5, 1998 among     Incorporated by reference
             WESCO, the Company, WESCO Canada, The Chase         to Exhibit 10.14 to the
             Manhattan Bank, The Chase Manhattan Bank of Canada  Form S-4
             and Lehman Commercial Paper, Inc.
   10.14     U.S. Receivables Sales Agreement dated June 5,      Incorporated by reference
             1998 among the Company, WESCO Receivables Corp.     to Exhibit 10.15 to the
             (the "SPC"), The Chase Manhattan Bank and other     Form S-4
             sellers named therein.
   10.15     Canadian Receivables Sales Agreement dated June 5,  Incorporated by reference
             1998 among WESCO Distribution, WESCO Canada, the    to Exhibit 10.16 to the
             SPC, The Chase Manhattan Bank of Canada and other   Form S-4
             sellers named therein.
   10.16     WESCO Receivables Master Trust Pooling Agreement    Incorporated by reference
             dated June 5, 1998 among the Company, WESCO         to Exhibit 10.17 to the
             Canada, the SPC, and The Chase Manhattan Bank       Form S-4
   10.17     WESCO Receivables Master Trust Pooling Agreement    Incorporated by reference
             Series 1998-1 Supplement dated June 5, 1998         to Exhibit 10.18 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
   10.18     Amended and Restated Registration and               Incorporated by reference
             Participation Agreement dated June 5, 1998 among    to Exhibit 10.19 to the
             WESCO and certain securityholders of WESCO named    Form S-4
             therein.
   10.19     Employment Agreement between WESCO Distribution     Incorporated by reference
             and Roy W. Haley                                    to Exhibit 10.20 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
   10.20     WESCO International, Inc. 1998 Stock Option Plan    Incorporated by reference
                                                                 to WESCO's Exhibit 10.1
                                                                 to Quarterly Report on
                                                                 Form 10-Q for the quarter
                                                                 ended September 30, 1998
   10.21     Form of Management Stock Option Agreement           Incorporated by reference
                                                                 to WESCO's Exhibit 10.1
                                                                 to Quarterly Report on
                                                                 Form 10-Q for the quarter
                                                                 ended September 30, 1998
   10.22     1999 Long-Term Incentive Plan                       Filed herewith
   21.1      Subsidiaries of WESCO                               Incorporated by reference
                                                                 to Exhibit 21.1 to
                                                                 WESCO's Annual Report on
                                                                 Form 10-K for the year
                                                                 ended December 31, 1998.
</TABLE>
    
 
                                      II-6
<PAGE>   130
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                      PRIOR FILING OR
EXHIBIT NO.                DESCRIPTION OF EXHIBIT                 SEQUENTIAL PAGE NUMBER
- -----------                ----------------------                 ----------------------
<C>          <S>                                                 <C>
   23.1      Consent of Kirkpatrick & Lockhart LLP (included in  Previously filed
             its opinion filed as Exhibit 5.1 hereto)
   23.2      Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Independent  Filed herewith
             Accountants
   23.3      Consent of Anchin, Block & Anchin LLP, Independent  Filed herewith
             Accountants
   23.4      Consent of Electrical Wholesaling Magazine          Previously filed
   24.1      Powers of Attorney (included on signature page)     Previously filed
   27.1      Financial Data Schedule                             Previously filed
</TABLE>
    
 
- -------------------------
 
   
** The registrant hereby agrees to furnish supplementally to the Commission,
   upon request, a copy of any omitted schedule to any of the agreements
   contained herein.
    
 
     (b) The following financial statement schedule is filed herewith,
accompanied by the report of the independent accountants on such schedule:
 
     For the years ended December 31, 1996, 1997 and 1998.
 
        Schedule II -- Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
 
     Financial statement schedules not listed above have been omitted because
they are inapplicable, are not required under applicable provisions of
Regulation S-X, or the information that would otherwise be included in such
schedules is contained in the registrant's financial statements or accompanying
notes.
 
ITEM 17.  UNDERTAKINGS.
 
     Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act
of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the
registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the registrant
has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission
such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Act and is,
therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against
such liabilities (other than the payment by the registrant of expenses incurred
or paid by a director, officer or controlling person of the registrant in the
successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such
director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being
registered, the registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter
has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate
jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public
policy as expressed in the Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of
such issue.
 
     The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes that:
 
          (1) For purposes of determining any liability under the Securities Act
     of 1933, the information omitted from the form of prospectus filed as part
     of this registration statement in reliance upon Rule 430A and contained in
     a form of prospectus filed by the registrant pursuant to Rule 424(b)(1) or
     (4) or 497(h) under the Securities Act shall be deemed to be part of this
     registration statement as of the time it was declared effective.
 
          (2) For the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities
     Act of 1933, each post-effective amendment that contains a form of
     prospectus shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to
     the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that
     time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.
 
                                      II-7
<PAGE>   131
 
                                   SIGNATURES
 
   
     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the registrant
has duly caused this amendment to the registration statement to be signed on its
behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Pittsburgh,
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, on May 3, 1999.
    
 
                                          WESCO INTERNATIONAL, INC.
 
                                          By:       /s/ ROY W. HALEY
                                            ------------------------------------
                                              Name: Roy W. Haley
                                              Title: Chairman of the Board,
                                                     President and Chief
                                                     Executive Officer
 
   
     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed on May 3, 1999 by the following persons
in the capacities indicated, with respect to WESCO International, Inc.:
    
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                     SIGNATURE                                                 TITLE
                     ---------                                                 -----
<C>                                                  <S>
 
                 /s/ ROY W. HALEY                    Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer (Principal
- ---------------------------------------------------  Executive Officer)
                   Roy W. Haley
 
              /s/ STEVEN A. BURLESON                 Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Corporate
- ---------------------------------------------------  Controller (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)
                Steven A. Burleson
 
                         *                           Director
- ---------------------------------------------------
                James L. Singleton
 
                         *                           Director
- ---------------------------------------------------
                  James A. Stern
 
                         *                           Director
- ---------------------------------------------------
                Anthony D. Tutrone
 
                         *                           Director
- ---------------------------------------------------
                Michael J. Cheshire
 
                         *                           Director
- ---------------------------------------------------
                Robert J. Tarr, Jr.
 
                         *                           Director
- ---------------------------------------------------
                  Kenneth L. Way
 
             * /s/ STEVEN A. BURLESON
- ---------------------------------------------------
                Steven A. Burleson
                as Attorney-in-Fact
</TABLE>
<PAGE>   132
 
     When the stock split referred to in Note 22 of the consolidated financial
statements is effective, we will be in a position to render the following
report.
 
                                      /s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
 
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
ON FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE
 
To the Stockholders and Board of Directors
  of WESCO International, Inc.:
 
   
Our audits of the consolidated financial statements referred to in our report
dated February 12, 1999, except for Note 22, as to which the date is May   ,
1999 appearing on page F-2 of this prospectus also included an audit of the
financial statement schedule listed in Item 16 of this Form S-1. In our opinion,
this financial statement schedule presents fairly, in all material respects, the
information set forth therein when read in conjunction with the related
consolidated financial statements.
    
 
600 Grant Street
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
February 12, 1999, except for Note 22,
   
  as to which the date is May   , 1999
    
<PAGE>   133
 
                SCHEDULE II -- VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                    COL. A                        COL. B        COL. C        COL. D        COL. E       COL. F
- ----------------------------------------------  -----------   -----------   -----------   ----------   -----------
                                                                      ADDITIONS
                                                              -------------------------
                                                BALANCE AT                  CHARGED TO                 BALANCE AT
                                                 BEGINNING    CHARGED TO       OTHER                     END OF
                                                 OF PERIOD      EXPENSE      ACCOUNTS     DEDUCTIONS     PERIOD
                                                -----------   -----------   -----------   ----------   -----------
<S>                                             <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>          <C>
 
Allowance for doubtful accounts:
  Year ended December 31, 1996................     8,589         3,017         2,961(a)     (4,492)      10,075
  Year ended December 31, 1997................    10,075         3,274           594        (3,129)      10,814
  Year ended December 31, 1998................    10,814         2,325         3,423(a)     (8,480)(c)    8,082
Allowance for deferred tax assets:
  Year ended December 31, 1996................     4,182            --        (1,254)(b)    (2,928)          --
  Year ended December 31, 1997................        --            --            --            --           --
  Year ended December 31, 1998................        --            --            --            --           --
</TABLE>
 
- ---------------------------
 
(a) Represents allowance for doubtful accounts acquired in connection with
    certain acquisitions.
 
(b) Represents reversal of valuation allowances as a result of realizing the
    benefits of the deferred tax assets acquired at the date of Formation.
 
(c) Includes $3,464 which represents a reduction in the allowance for doubtful
    accounts related to the sale of receivables at fair market value in
    connection with the Receivables Facility.
<PAGE>   134
 
                               INDEX TO EXHIBITS
 
     The registrant hereby agrees to furnish supplementally to the Commission,
upon request, a copy of any omitted schedule to any of the agreements contained
herein.
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                      PRIOR FILING OR
EXHIBIT NO.                DESCRIPTION OF EXHIBIT                 SEQUENTIAL PAGE NUMBER
- -----------                ----------------------                 ----------------------
<C>          <S>                                                 <C>
    1.1      Form of Underwriting Agreements                     Filed herewith
    2.1      Recapitalization Agreement dated as of March 27,    Incorporated by reference
             1998 among Thor Acquisitions L.L.C., WESCO          to WESCO's Exhibit 2.1 to
             International, Inc. (formerly known as CDW Holding  Registration Statement in
             Corporation, "WESCO") and certain securityholders   Form S-4 (No. 333-43225)
             of WESCO.                                           (the "Form S-4")
    2.2      Purchase Agreement dated May 29, 1998 among WESCO,  Incorporated by reference
             WESCO Distribution, Inc. ("WESCO Distribution"),    to Exhibit 2.2 to the
             Chase Securities Inc. and Lehman Brothers Inc.      Form S-4
    2.3      Asset Purchase Agreement among Bruckner Supply      Incorporated by reference
             Company, Inc. and WESCO Distribution dated          to Exhibit 2.01 to the
             September 11, 1998, previously filed. Omitted       Current Report on Form
             schedules and exhibits will be provided             8-K dated September 11,
             supplementally to the Commission upon request.      1998
    3.1      Certificate of Incorporation of WESCO               Incorporated by reference
                                                                 to Exhibit 3.1 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
    3.2      Form of Amended and Restated Certificate of         Filed herewith
             Incorporation of WESCO
    3.3      By-Laws of WESCO                                    Incorporated by reference
                                                                 to Exhibit 3.2 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
    3.4      Form of Restated By-Laws of WESCO                   Filed herewith
    4.1      Form of Common Stock Certificate                    Filed herewith
    4.2      Form of Class B Common Stock Certificate            Previously filed
    4.3      Indenture dated as of June 5, 1998 among WESCO,     Incorporated by reference
             WESCO Distribution and Bank One, N.A.               to Exhibit 4.1 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
    4.4      Form of 9 1/8% Senior Subordinated Note Due 2008,   Incorporated by reference
             Series A (included in Exhibit 4.3).                 to Exhibit 4.2 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
    4.5      Form of 9 1/8% Senior Subordinated Note Due 2008,   Incorporated by reference
             Series B (included in Exhibit 4.3).                 to Exhibit 4.3 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
    4.6      Exchange and Registration Rights Agreement dated    Incorporated by reference
             as of June 5, 1998 among the Company, WESCO and     to Exhibit 4.4 to the
             the Initial Purchasers                              Form S-4
    4.7      Indenture dated as of June 5, 1998 between WESCO    Incorporated by reference
             and Bank One, N.A.                                  to Exhibit 4.5 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
    4.8      Form of 11 1/8% Senior Discount Note Due 2008,      Incorporated by reference
             Series A (included in Exhibit 4.7)                  to Exhibit 4.6 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
    4.9      Form of 11 1/8% Senior Discount Note Due 2008,      Incorporated by reference
             Series B (included in Exhibit 4.7)                  to Exhibit 4.7 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
    4.10     Exchange and Registration Rights Agreement dated    Incorporated by reference
             as of June 5, 1998 among WESCO and the Initial      to Exhibit 4.8 to the
             Purchasers                                          Form S-4
</TABLE>
    
<PAGE>   135
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                      PRIOR FILING OR
EXHIBIT NO.                DESCRIPTION OF EXHIBIT                 SEQUENTIAL PAGE NUMBER
- -----------                ----------------------                 ----------------------
<C>          <S>                                                 <C>
    5.1      Opinion of Kirkpatrick & Lockhart LLP as to the     Previously filed
             legality of the Common Stock
   10.1      CDW Holding Corporation Stock Purchase Plan         Incorporated by reference
                                                                 to Exhibit 10.1 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
   10.2      Form of Stock Subscription Agreement                Incorporated by reference
                                                                 to Exhibit 10.2 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
   10.3      CDW Holding Corporation Stock Option Plan           Incorporated by reference
                                                                 to Exhibit 10.3 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
   10.4      Form of Stock Option Agreement                      Incorporated by reference
                                                                 to Exhibit 10.4 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
   10.5      CDW Holding Corporation Stock Option Plan for       Incorporated by reference
             Branch Employees                                    to Exhibit 10.5 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
   10.6      Form of Branch Stock Option Agreement               Incorporated by reference
                                                                 to Exhibit 10.6 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
   10.7      Non-Competition Agreement, dated as of February     Incorporated by reference
             28, 1996, between Westinghouse, WESCO and WESCO     to Exhibit 10.8 to the
             Distribution                                        Form S-4
   10.8      Employment Agreement between WESCO Distribution     Incorporated by reference
             and Stanley C. Weiss                                to Exhibit 10.9 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
   10.9      Lease dated May 24, 1995 as amended by Amendment    Incorporated by reference
             One dated June, 1995 and by Amendment Two dated     to Exhibit 10.10 to the
             December 24, 1995 by and between WESCO              Form S-4
             Distribution as Tenant and Opal Investors, L.P.
             and Mural GEM Investors as Landlord
   10.10     Lease dated April 1, 1992 as renewed by Letter of   Incorporated by reference
             Notice of Intent to Renew dated December 13, 1996   to Exhibit 10.11 to the
             by and between the Company successor in interest    Form S-4
             to Westinghouse Electric Corporation as Tenant and
             Utah State Retirement Fund as Landlord
   10.11     Lease dated September 4, 1997 and between WESCO     Incorporated by reference
             Distribution as Tenant and The Buncher Company as   to Exhibit 10.12 to the
             Landlord                                            Form S-4
   10.12     Lease dated March, 1995 by and between WESCO        Incorporated by reference
             Distribution-Canada, Inc. ("WESCO Canada") as       to Exhibit 10.13 to the
             Tenant and Atlantic Construction, Inc. as Landlord  Form S-4
   10.13     Credit Agreement dated as of June 5, 1998 among     Incorporated by reference
             WESCO, the Company, WESCO Canada, The Chase         to Exhibit 10.14 to the
             Manhattan Bank, The Chase Manhattan Bank of Canada  Form S-4
             and Lehman Commercial Paper, Inc.
</TABLE>
    
<PAGE>   136
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                      PRIOR FILING OR
EXHIBIT NO.                DESCRIPTION OF EXHIBIT                 SEQUENTIAL PAGE NUMBER
- -----------                ----------------------                 ----------------------
<C>          <S>                                                 <C>
   10.14     U.S. Receivables Sales Agreement dated June 5,      Incorporated by reference
             1998 among the Company, WESCO Receivables Corp.     to Exhibit 10.15 to the
             (the "SPC"), The Chase Manhattan Bank and other     Form S-4
             sellers named therein.
   10.15     Canadian Receivables Sales Agreement dated June 5,  Incorporated by reference
             1998 among WESCO Distribution, WESCO Canada, the    to Exhibit 10.16 to the
             SPC, The Chase Manhattan Bank of Canada and other   Form S-4
             sellers named therein.
   10.16     WESCO Receivables Master Trust Pooling Agreement    Incorporated by reference
             dated June 5, 1998 among the Company, WESCO         to Exhibit 10.17 to the
             Canada, the SPC, and The Chase Manhattan Bank       Form S-4
   10.17     WESCO Receivables Master Trust Pooling Agreement    Incorporated by reference
             Series 1998-1 Supplement dated June 5, 1998         to Exhibit 10.18 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
   10.18     Amended and Restated Registration and               Incorporated by reference
             Participation Agreement dated June 5, 1998 among    to Exhibit 10.19 to the
             WESCO and certain securityholders of WESCO named    Form S-4
             therein.
   10.19     Employment Agreement between WESCO Distribution     Incorporated by reference
             and Roy W. Haley                                    to Exhibit 10.20 to the
                                                                 Form S-4
   10.20     WESCO International, Inc. 1998 Stock Option Plan    Incorporated by reference
                                                                 to WESCO's Exhibit 10.1
                                                                 to Quarterly Report on
                                                                 Form 10-Q for the quarter
                                                                 ended September 30, 1998
   10.21     Form of Management Stock Option Agreement           Incorporated by reference
                                                                 to WESCO's Exhibit 10.1
                                                                 to Quarterly Report on
                                                                 Form 10-Q for the quarter
                                                                 ended September 30, 1998
   10.22     1999 Long-Term Incentive Plan                       Filed herewith
   21.1      Subsidiaries of WESCO                               Incorporated by reference
                                                                 to Exhibit 21.1 to
                                                                 WESCO's Annual Report on
                                                                 Form 10-K for the year
                                                                 ended December 31, 1998
   23.1      Consent of Kirkpatrick & Lockhart LLP (included in  Previously filed
             its opinion filed as Exhibit 5.1 hereto)
   23.2      Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Independent  Filed herewith
             Accountants
   23.3      Consent of Anchin, Block & Anchin LLP, Independent  Filed herewith
             Accountants
   23.4      Consent from Electrical Wholesaling Magazine        Previously filed
   24.1      Powers of Attorney (included on signature page)     Previously filed
   27.1      Financial Data Schedule                             Previously filed
</TABLE>
    
 
   
    

<PAGE>   1
                                                                     Exhibit 1.1



                               [NUMBER OF SHARES]

                            WESCO INTERNATIONAL, INC.

                     COMMON STOCK, PAR VALUE $0.01 PER SHARE

                           U.S. UNDERWRITING AGREEMENT

                                                                  _____ __, 1999

LEHMAN BROTHERS INC.
BEAR, STEARNS & CO. INC.
DONALDSON, LUFKIN & JENRETTE
  SECURITIES CORPORATION
GOLDMAN, SACHS & CO.
ROBERT W. BAIRD & CO. INCORPORATED
ING BARING FURMAN SELZ LLC
As Representatives of the several
  Underwriters named in Schedule 1,
c/o Lehman Brothers Inc.
Three World Financial Center
New York, New York 10285

Dear Sirs:

         WESCO International, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the "Company"),
proposes to sell _________ shares (the "Firm Stock") of the Company's common
stock, par value $0.01 per share (the "Common Stock"). In addition, the Company
proposes to grant to the U.S. Underwriters named in Schedule 1 hereto (the "U.S.
Underwriters") an option to purchase up to an additional _______ shares of the
Common Stock on the terms and for the purposes set forth in Section 2 (the
"Option Stock"). The Firm Stock and the Option Stock, if purchased, are
hereinafter collectively called the "Stock". This is to confirm the agreement
concerning the purchase of the Stock from the Company by the U.S. Underwriters
named in Schedule 1 hereto (the "U.S. Underwriters").

         It is understood by all parties that the Company is concurrently
entering into an agreement dated the date hereof (the "International
Underwriting Agreement") providing for the sale by the Company of __________
shares of Common Stock (including the over-allotment option thereunder) (the
"International Stock") through arrangements with certain underwriters outside
the United States (the "International Managers"), for whom Lehman Brothers
International (Europe) and Bear, Stearns International Limited, Donaldson,
Lufkin & Jenrette Securities International, Goldman, Sachs International, Robert
W. Baird & Co. Incorporated and Baring Brothers Limited, as agent for ING Bank
NV, are acting as lead managers. The U.S. Underwriters and the International
Managers simultaneously are entering into an agreement between the U.S. and
international underwriting syndicates (the "Agreement Between U.S. Underwriters
and International Managers") which provides for, among other things, the
transfer of shares of Common Stock

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between the two syndicates. Two forms of prospectus are to be used in connection
with the offering and sale of shares of Common Stock contemplated by the
foregoing, one relating to the Stock and the other relating to the International
Stock. The latter form of prospectus will be identical to the former except for
certain substitute pages as included in the registration statement and
amendments thereto referred to below. Except as used in Sections 2, 3, 4, 9 and
10 herein, and except as the context may otherwise require, references herein to
the Stock shall include all the shares of the Common Stock which may be sold
pursuant to either this Agreement or the International Underwriting Agreement,
and references herein to any prospectus whether in preliminary or final form,
and whether as amended or supplemented, shall include both the U.S. and the
international versions thereof.

         1. Representations, Warranties and Agreements of the Company. The
Company represents, warrants and agrees that:

                  (a) A registration statement on Form S-1, and one or more
         amendments thereto, with respect to the Stock has (i) been prepared by
         the Company in conformity with the requirements of the United States
         Securities Act of 1933 (the "Securities Act") and the rules and
         regulations (the "Rules and Regulations") of the United States
         Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission") thereunder, (ii)
         been filed with the Commission under the Securities Act and (iii)
         become effective under the Securities Act; and a second registration
         statement on Form S-1 with respect to the Stock (i) may also be
         prepared by the Company in conformity with the requirements of the
         Securities Act and the Rules and Regulations and (ii) if to be so
         prepared, will be filed with the Commission under the Securities Act
         pursuant to Rule 462(b) of the Rules and Regulations on the date
         hereof. Copies of the first such registration statement and the
         amendment to such registration statement, together with the form of any
         such second registration statement, have been delivered by the Company
         to you as the representatives (the "Representatives") of the U.S.
         Underwriters. As used in this Agreement, "Effective Time" means (i)
         with respect to the first such registration statement, the date and the
         time as of which such registration statement, or the most recent
         post-effective amendment thereto, if any, was declared effective by the
         Commission and (ii) with respect to any second registration statement,
         the date and time as of which such second registration statement is
         filed with the Commission, and "Effective Times" is the collective
         reference to both Effective Times; "Effective Date" means (i) with
         respect to the first such registration statement, the date of the
         Effective Time of such registration statement and (ii) with respect to
         any second registration statement, the date of the Effective Time of
         such second registration statement, and "Effective Dates" is the
         collective reference to both Effective Dates; "Preliminary Prospectus"
         means each prospectus included in any such registration statement, or
         amendments thereof, before it became effective under the Securities Act
         and any prospectus filed with the Commission by the Company with the
         consent of the Representatives pursuant to Rule 424(a) of the Rules and
         Regulations; "Primary Registration Statement" means the first
         registration statement referred to in this Section 1(a), as amended at
         its 


<PAGE>   3

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         Effective Time, "Rule 462(b) Registration Statement" means the second
         registration statement, if any, referred to in this Section 1(a), as
         filed with the Commission, and "Registration Statements means both the
         Primary Registration Statement and any Rule 462(b) Registration
         Statement, including in each case all information contained in the
         final prospectus filed with the Commission pursuant to Rule 424(b) of
         the Rules and Regulations in accordance with Section 5(a) hereof and
         deemed to be a part of the Registration Statements as of the Effective
         Time of the Primary Registration Statement pursuant to paragraph (b) of
         Rule 430A of the Rules and Regulations; and "Prospectus" means such
         final prospectus, as first filed with the Commission pursuant to
         paragraph (1) or (4) of Rule 424(b) of the Rules and Regulations.

                  (b) The Primary Registration Statement conforms (and the Rule
         462(b) Registration Statement, if any, the Prospectus and any further
         amendments or supplements to the Registration Statements or the
         Prospectus, when they become effective or are filed with the
         Commission, as the case may be, will conform) in all respects to the
         requirements of the Securities Act and the Rules and Regulations and do
         not and will not, as of the applicable effective date (as to the
         Registration Statements and any amendment thereto) and as of the
         applicable filing date (as to the Prospectus and any amendment or
         supplement thereto) contain any untrue statement of a material fact or
         omit to state any material fact required to be stated therein or
         necessary to make the statements therein not misleading; provided that
         no representation or warranty is made as to information contained in or
         omitted from the Registration Statements or the Prospectus in reliance
         upon and in conformity with written information furnished to the
         Company through the Representatives by or on behalf of any U.S.
         Underwriter specifically for inclusion therein.

                  (c) The Company and each "significant subsidiary" (within the
         meaning of Rule 1-02 of Regulation S-X)of the Company have been duly
         incorporated and are validly existing as corporations in good standing
         under the laws of their respective jurisdictions of incorporation, are
         duly qualified to do business and are in good standing as foreign
         corporations in each jurisdiction in which their respective ownership
         or lease of property or the conduct of their respective businesses
         requires such qualification, and have all power and authority necessary
         to own or hold their respective properties and to conduct the
         businesses in which they are engaged, except where the failure to so
         qualify, be in good standing or have such power or authority would not,
         singularly or in the aggregate, have a material adverse effect on the
         condition (financial or otherwise), results of operations, business or
         prospects of the Company and its subsidiaries taken as a whole (a
         "Material Adverse Effect").


                  (d) The Company will have a pro forma capitalization as set
         forth in the Prospectus under the heading "Capitalization". All of the
         issued shares of capital stock of the Company have been duly and
         validly authorized and issued, are fully paid and non-assessable and
         conform to the description thereof contained in the 


<PAGE>   4

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         Prospectus; and all of the outstanding shares of capital stock of each
         "significant subsidiary" (within the meaning of Rule 1-02 of Regulation
         S-X) of the Company have been duly and validly authorized and issued,
         are fully paid and non-assessable and are owned directly or indirectly
         by the Company, free and clear of any lien, charge, encumbrance,
         security interest, restriction upon voting or transfer or any other
         claim of any third party, other than those incurred in connection with
         the Credit Agreement as set forth in the Prospectus. WESCO
         Distribution, Inc. and WESCO Distribution-Canada, Inc. are the only
         "significant subsidiaries" (within the meaning of Rule 1-02 of
         Regulation S-X) of the Company on the date hereof.

                  (e) The unissued shares of the Stock to be issued and sold by
         the Company to the U.S. Underwriters hereunder and under the
         International Underwriting Agreement have been duly and validly
         authorized and, when issued and delivered against payment therefor as
         provided herein and in the International Underwriting Agreement, will
         be duly and validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable; and the
         Stock will conform to the description thereof contained in the
         Prospectus.

                  (f) The Company has full right, power and authority to execute
         and deliver this Agreement and the International Underwriting Agreement
         and to perform its obligations hereunder and thereunder; and all
         corporate action required to be taken for the due and proper
         authorization, execution and delivery of each of the Underwriting
         Agreement and the International Underwriting Agreement and the
         consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby has
         been duly and validly taken.

                  (g) Each of this Agreement and the International Underwriting
         Agreement has been duly authorized, executed and delivered by the
         Company.

                  (h) Each of this Agreement and the International Underwriting
         Agreement conforms in all material respects to the description thereof
         contained in the Prospectus.

                  (i) The execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement
         and the International Underwriting Agreement by the Company, and the
         consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby, will
         not conflict with or contravene, or constitute a default under, or
         result in the creation or imposition of any lien, charge or encumbrance
         upon any property or assets of the Company or any of its subsidiaries
         pursuant to, (i) the charter or by-laws of the Company, (ii) any
         agreement or other instrument binding upon the Company or any of its
         subsidiaries or their respective assets or (iii) any provision of
         applicable law or any judgment, order or decree of any governmental
         body, agency or court having jurisdiction over the Company or any of
         its subsidiaries or their respective assets, except, in the case of
         clause (ii) and (iii), for conflicts, contraventions, defaults, liens,
         charges or encumbrances which would not, singularly or in the
         aggregate, have a Material 

<PAGE>   5
                                                                               5


         Adverse Effect. No consent, approval, authorization or order of, or
         qualification with, any governmental body or agency is required for the
         execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement or the
         International Underwriting Agreement by the Company and the
         consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby,
         except for the registration of the Stock under the Securities Act and
         such consents, approvals, authorizations or qualifications (i) as may
         be required to be obtained or made under the Exchange Act and under
         applicable state or foreign securities laws in connection with the
         purchase and distribution of the Stock by the U.S. Underwriters and the
         International Managers and (ii) the failure to obtain would not,
         singularly or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect.

                  (j) There are no contracts, agreements or understandings
         between the Company and any person granting such person the right
         (other than rights which have been waived or satisfied) to require the
         Company to file a registration statement under the Securities Act with
         respect to any securities of the Company owned or to be owned by such
         person or to require the Company to include such securities in the
         securities registered pursuant to the Registration Statements or in any
         securities being registered pursuant to any other registration
         statement filed by the Company under the Securities Act.

                  (k) Except as described in the Prospectus, the Company has not
         sold or issued any shares of Common Stock during the six-month period
         preceding the date of the Prospectus, including any sales pursuant to
         Rule 144A under, or Regulations D or S of, the Securities Act, other
         than shares issued pursuant to employee benefit plans, qualified stock
         options plans or other employee compensation plans or pursuant to
         outstanding options, rights or warrants.

                  (l) The historical financial statements (including the related
         notes) filed as part of the Registration Statements or contained in the
         Prospectus have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted
         accounting principles consistently applied throughout the periods
         covered thereby and fairly present the financial position of the
         entities purported to be covered thereby at the respective dates
         indicated and the results of their operations and their cash flows for
         the respective periods indicated; and the financial information filed
         as part of the Registration Statements or contained in the Prospectus
         under the headings "Selected Historical Consolidated Financial Data",
         "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
         Results of Operations" and "Management--Executive Compensation" are
         derived from the accounting records of the Company and its subsidiaries
         and fairly present the information purported to be shown thereby. The
         pro forma financial information contained in the Prospectus has been
         prepared on a basis consistent with the historical financial statements
         contained in the Prospectus (except as specified therein), includes all
         material adjustments to the historical financial information required
         by Rule 11-02 of Regulation S-X under the Securities Act and the
         Exchange Act to reflect the transactions described in the Prospectus,
         gives effect to assumptions made on a reasonable basis and fairly
         presents the historical and proposed transactions contemplated by the
         Prospectus, this Agreement and the International Underwriting
         Agreement.

<PAGE>   6

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                  (m) PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, who have certified certain
         financial statements of the Company, whose report appears in the
         Prospectus and who have delivered the initial letter referred to in
         Section 7(e) hereof, are independent public accountants as required by
         the Securities Act and the Rules and Regulations and Anchin, Block &
         Anchin LLP, whose report appears in the Prospectus and who have
         delivered the initial letter referred to in Section 7(f) hereof, were
         independent accountants as required by the Securities Act and the Rules
         and Regulations during the periods covered by the financial statements
         on which they reported contained in the Prospectus.

                  (n) There are no legal or governmental proceedings pending or,
         to the knowledge of the Company, threatened to which the Company or any
         of its subsidiaries is a party or to which any property or assets of
         the Company or any of its subsidiaries is subject other than
         proceedings that could not singularly or in the aggregate, reasonably
         be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect or have a material
         adverse effect on the power or ability of the Company or any of its
         subsidiaries to perform its obligations under this Agreement or the
         International Underwriters Agreement or to consummate the transactions
         contemplated hereby or thereby or the Prospectus.

                  (o) No action has been taken by the Company or its
         subsidiaries and no statute, rule, regulation or order has been
         enacted, adopted or issued by any governmental agency or body which
         prevents the issuance of the Stock or suspends the sale of the Stock in
         any jurisdiction; no injunction, restraining order or order of any
         nature by any federal or state court of competent jurisdiction has been
         issued with respect to the Company or any of its subsidiaries which
         would prevent or suspend the issuance or sale of the Stock or the use
         of the Preliminary Prospectus or the Prospectus in any jurisdiction; no
         action, suit or proceeding is pending against or, to the knowledge of
         the Company, threatened against or affecting the Company or any of its
         subsidiaries before any court or arbitrator or any governmental agency,
         body or official, domestic or foreign, which could reasonably be
         expected to interfere with or adversely affect the issuance of the
         Stock or in any manner draw into question the validity or
         enforceability of either this Agreement or the International
         Underwriting Agreement or any action taken or to be taken pursuant
         thereto; and the Company has complied with any and all requests by any
         securities authority in any jurisdiction for additional information to
         be included in the Preliminary Prospectus and the Prospectus.

<PAGE>   7

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                  (p) Neither the Company nor any of its "significant
         subsidiaries" (within the meaning of Rule 1-02 of Regulation S-X) is
         (i) in violation of its charter or by-laws, (ii) in default in any
         respect, and no event has occurred which, with notice or lapse of time
         or both, would constitute such a default, in the due performance or
         observance of any term, covenant or condition contained in any
         indenture, mortgage, deed of trust, loan agreement or other agreement
         or instrument to which it is a party or by which it is bound or to
         which any of its property or assets is subject or (iii) in violation in
         any respect of any law, ordinance, governmental rule, regulation or
         court decree to which it or its property or assets may be subject,
         except, in the case of clauses (ii) or (iii), as would not have a
         Material Adverse Effect.

                  (q) Except as would not, singularly or in the aggregate, have
         a Material Adverse Effect, the Company and each of its subsidiaries
         possesses all licenses, certificates, authorizations and permits issued
         by, and has made all declarations and filings with, the appropriate
         federal, state or foreign regulatory agencies or bodies which are
         necessary or desirable for the ownership of its properties or the
         conduct of its business as described in the Prospectus, and none of the
         Company or any of its subsidiaries has received notification of any
         revocation or modification of any such license, certificate,
         authorization or permit or has any reason to believe that any such
         license, certificate, authorization or permit will not be renewed in
         the ordinary course.

                  (r) The Company and each of its subsidiaries has filed all
         federal, state, local and foreign income and franchise tax returns
         required to be filed though the date hereof and has paid all taxes due
         thereon, and no tax deficiency has been determined adversely to the
         Company or any of its subsidiaries which has had (nor does the Company
         or any of its subsidiaries have any knowledge of any tax deficiency
         which, if determined adversely to the Company or any of its
         subsidiaries, could reasonably be expected to have) a Material Adverse
         Effect.

                  (s) The Company is not and, after giving effect to the
         offering and sale of the Stock and the application of the proceeds
         thereof as described in the Prospectus, will not be an "investment
         company" or an entity "controlled by" an investment company within the
         meaning of the United States Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended
         (the "Investment Company Act"), and the rules and regulations of the
         Commission thereunder.

                  (t) The Company and each of its subsidiaries has insurance
         covering its properties, operations, personnel and business, which
         insurance is in amounts and insures against such losses and risks as
         are adequate to protect the Company and each of its subsidiaries and
         each of their respective businesses.

                  (u) The Company and each of its subsidiaries has good and
         marketable title in fee simple to, or has valid rights to lease or
         otherwise use, all items of real and personal property which are
         material to the business of the Company and its subsidiaries, in each
         case free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, claims and defects

<PAGE>   8

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         and imperfections of title except such as (i) do not materially
         interfere with the use made and proposed to be made of such property by
         the applicable Issuer and its subsidiaries or (ii) could not reasonably
         be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

                  (v) No labor disturbance by or dispute with the employees of
         the Company or any of its subsidiaries exists or, to the best knowledge
         of the Company, is contemplated or threatened, except as would not have
         a Material Adverse Effect.

                  (w) No "prohibited transaction" (as defined in Section 406 of
         the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended,
         including the regulations and published interpretations thereunder
         ("ERISA"), or Section 4975 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as
         amended from time to time (the "Code")) or "accumulated funding
         deficiency" (as defined in Section 302 of ERISA) or any of the events
         set forth in Section 4043(b) of ERISA (other than events with respect
         to which the 30-day notice requirement under Section 4043 of ERISA has
         been waived) has occurred with respect to any employee benefit plan of
         the Company or any of its subsidiaries which could reasonably be
         expected to have a Material Adverse Effect; each such employee benefit
         plan is in compliance in all respects with applicable law, including
         ERISA and the Code, except as would not have a Material Adverse Effect;
         the Company and each of its subsidiaries has not incurred and does not
         expect to incur liability under Title IV of ERISA with respect to the
         termination of, or withdrawal from, any pension plan for which the
         Company or any of its subsidiaries would have any liability, except as
         would not have a Material Adverse Effect; and each such pension plan
         that is intended to be qualified under Section 401(a) of the Code is so
         qualified in all respects and nothing has occurred, whether by action
         or by failure to act, which could reasonably be expected to cause the
         loss of such qualification, except as would not have a Material Adverse
         Effect.

                  (x) Except as described in the Prospectus, there are no costs
         or liabilities of the Company or any of its subsidiaries associated
         with or arising from the application of any and all applicable foreign,
         federal, state and local laws and regulations relating to the
         protection of human health and safety, the environment or hazardous or
         toxic substances or wastes, pollutants or contaminants ("Environmental
         Laws") (including, without limitation, any capital or operating
         expenditures required for clean-up, closure of properties or compliance
         with any Environmental Laws or any permits, licenses or other approvals
         required of the Company or any of its subsidiaries under applicable
         Environmental Laws to conduct its business, any related constraints on
         operating activities and any potential liabilities to third parties,
         including governmental authorities) which would, singularly or in the
         aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect.


<PAGE>   9

                                                                               9


                  (y) Since the date as of which information is given in the
         Prospectus through the date hereof, and except as may otherwise be
         disclosed in the Prospectus, the Company has not (i) issued or granted
         any securities, (ii) incurred any liability or obligation, direct or
         contingent, other than liabilities and obligations which were incurred
         in the ordinary course of business, (iii) entered into any transaction
         not in the ordinary course of business or (iv) declared or paid any
         dividend on its capital stock.

                  (z) The Company has not taken or will not take, directly or
         indirectly, any action prohibited by Regulation M under the Exchange
         Act in connection with the offering of the Stock.

                      (aa) No forward-looking statement (within the meaning of
                  Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the
                  Exchange Act) contained in the Preliminary Prospectus or the
                  Prospectus has been made or reaffirmed without a reasonable
                  basis or has been disclosed other than in good faith.

                      (bb) The Company and each of its subsidiaries has complied
                  with all provisions of Section 517.075, Florida Statutes
                  (Chapter 92-198, Laws of Florida) relating to doing business
                  with the Government of Cuba or with any person or affiliate
                  located in Cuba.

                      (cc) Since the date as of which information is given in
                  the Prospectus, except as otherwise stated therein, there has
                  been no material adverse change or any development involving a
                  prospective material adverse change in the condition,
                  financial or otherwise, or in the earnings, business affairs,
                  management or business prospects of the Company, whether or
                  not arising in the ordinary course of business.

                      (dd) There are no contracts or other documents which are
                  required to be described in the Prospectus or filed as
                  exhibits to either of the Registration Statements by the
                  Securities Act or by the Rules and Regulations which have not
                  been described in the Prospectus or filed as exhibits to
                  either of the Registration Statements or incorporated therein
                  by reference as permitted by the Rules and Regulations.

         2. Purchase of the Stock by the U.S. Underwriters. On the basis of the
representations, warranties and agreements contained in, and subject to the
terms and conditions of, this Agreement, the Company agrees to sell _______
shares of the Firm Stock, severally and not jointly, to the several U.S.
Underwriters and each of the U.S. Underwriters, severally and not jointly,
agrees to purchase the number of shares of the Firm Stock set opposite that U.S.
Underwriter's name in Schedule 1 hereto. The respective purchase obligations of
the U.S. Underwriters with respect to the Firm Stock shall be rounded among the
U.S. Underwriters to avoid fractional shares, as the Representatives may
determine.

<PAGE>   10

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         In addition, the Company grants to the U.S. Underwriters an option to
purchase up to _______ shares of Option Stock. Such option is granted solely for
the purpose of covering over-allotments in the sale of Firm Stock and is
exercisable as provided in Section 4 hereof. Shares of Option Stock shall be
purchased severally for the account of the U.S. Underwriters in proportion to
the number of shares of Firm Stock set opposite the name of such U.S.
Underwriters in Schedule 1 hereto. The respective purchase obligations of each
U.S. Underwriter with respect to the Option Stock shall be adjusted by the
Representatives so that no U.S. Underwriter shall be obligated to purchase
Option Stock other than in 100 share amounts.

         The price of both the Firm Stock and any Option Stock shall be $_____
per share.

         The Company shall not be obligated to deliver any of the Stock to be
delivered on the First Delivery Date or the Second Delivery Date (as hereinafter
defined), as the case may be, except upon payment for all the Stock to be
purchased on such Delivery Date as provided herein and in the International
Underwriting Agreement.

         3. Offering of Stock by the U.S. Underwriters.

         Upon authorization by the Representatives of the release of the Firm
Stock, the several U.S. Underwriters propose to offer the Firm Stock for sale
upon the terms and conditions set forth in the Prospectus; provided, however,
that no Stock registered pursuant to the Rule 462(b) Registration Statement, if
any, shall be offered prior to the Effective Time thereof.

         It is understood that _______ shares of the Firm Stock will initially
be reserved by the several U.S. Underwriters for offer and sale upon the terms
and conditions set forth in the Prospectus to employees and persons having
business relationships with the Company and its subsidiaries who have heretofore
delivered to the Representatives offers to purchase shares of Firm Stock in form
satisfactory to the Representatives, and that any allocation of such Firm Stock
among such persons will be made in accordance with timely directions received by
the Representatives from the Company; provided, that under no circumstances will
the Representatives or any U.S. Underwriter be liable to the Company or to any
such person for any action taken or omitted in good faith in connection with
such offering to employees and persons having business relationships with the
Company and its subsidiaries. It is further understood that any shares of such
Firm Stock which are not purchased by such persons will be offered by the U.S.
Underwriters to the public upon the terms and conditions set forth in the
Prospectus.

         Each U.S. Underwriter agrees that, except to the extent permitted by
the Agreement Between U.S. Underwriters and International Managers, it will not
offer or sell any of the Stock outside of the United States.

         4. Delivery of and Payment for the Stock. Delivery of and payment for
the Firm Stock shall be made at the offices of Simpson Thacher & Bartlett at 425
Lexington Avenue, New York, New York 10017, at 10:00 A.M., New York City time,
on the third full business day following the date of this Agreement or at such
other date or place as shall be determined by agreement between the
Representatives and the Company. This date and time are sometimes referred to as
the "First Delivery Date." On the First Delivery Date, the Company shall deliver
or 

<PAGE>   11

  
                                                                            11

cause to be delivered certificates representing the Firm Stock to the
Representatives for the account of each U.S. Underwriter against payment to or
upon the order of the Company of the purchase price by certified or official
bank check or checks payable in New York Clearing House (next-day) funds. Time
shall be of the essence, and delivery at the time and place specified pursuant
to this Agreement is a further condition of the obligation of each U.S.
Underwriter hereunder. Upon delivery, the Firm Stock shall be registered in such
names and in such denominations as the Representatives shall request in writing
not less than two full business days prior to the First Delivery Date. For the
purpose of expediting the checking and packaging of the certificates for the
Firm Stock, the Company shall make the certificates representing the Firm Stock
available for inspection by the Representatives in New York, New York, not later
than 2:00 P.M., New York City time, on the business day prior to the First
Delivery Date.

         At any time on or before the thirtieth day after the date of this
Agreement the option granted in Section 2 may be exercised by written notice
being given to the Company by the Representatives. Such notice shall set forth
the aggregate number of shares of Option Stock as to which the option is being
exercised, the names in which the shares of Option Stock are to be registered,
the denominations in which the shares of Option Stock are to be issued and the
date and time, as determined by the Representatives, when the shares of Option
Stock are to be delivered; provided, however, that this date and time shall not
be earlier than the First Delivery Date nor earlier than the second business day
after the date on which the option shall have been exercised nor later than the
fifth business day after the date on which the option shall have been exercised.
The date and time the shares of Option Stock are delivered are sometimes
referred to as the "Second Delivery Date" and the First Delivery Date and the
Second Delivery Date are sometimes each referred to as a "Delivery Date").

         Delivery of and payment for the Option Stock shall be made at the place
specified in the first sentence of the first paragraph of this Section 4 (or at
such other place as shall be determined by agreement between the Representatives
and the Company) at 10:00 A.M., New York City time, on the Second Delivery Date.
On the Second Delivery Date, the Company shall deliver or cause to be delivered
the certificates representing the Option Stock to the Representatives for the
account of each U.S. Underwriter against payment to or upon the order of the
Company of the purchase price by certified or official bank check or checks
payable in New York Clearing House (next-day) funds. Time shall be of the
essence, and delivery at the time and place specified pursuant to this Agreement
is a further condition of the obligation of each U.S. Underwriter hereunder.
Upon delivery, the Option Stock shall be registered in such names and in such
denominations as the Representatives shall request in the aforesaid written
notice. For the purpose of expediting the checking and packaging of the
certificates for the Option Stock, the Company shall make the certificates
representing the Option Stock available for inspection by the Representatives in
New York, New York, not later than 2:00 P.M., New York City time, on the
business day prior to the Second Delivery Date.

<PAGE>   12

                                                                              12


         5. Further Agreements of the Company. The Company agrees:

                  (a) To prepare the Rule 462(b) Registration Statement, if
         necessary, in a form approved by the Representatives and to file such
         Rule 462(b) Registration Statement with the Commission on the date
         hereof; to prepare the Prospectus in a form approved by the
         Representatives and to file such Prospectus pursuant to Rule 424(b)
         under the Securities Act not later than 10:00 A.M., New York City time,
         on the day following the execution and delivery of this Agreement; to
         make no further amendment or any supplement to the Registration
         Statements or to the Prospectus except as permitted herein; to advise
         the Representatives, promptly after it receives notice thereof, of the
         time when any amendment to either Registration Statement has been filed
         or becomes effective or any supplement to the Prospectus or any amended
         Prospectus has been filed and to furnish the Representatives with
         copies thereof; to advise the Representatives, promptly after it
         receives notice thereof, of the issuance by the Commission of any stop
         order or of any order preventing or suspending the use of any
         Preliminary Prospectus or the Prospectus, of the suspension of the
         qualification of the Stock for offering or sale in any jurisdiction, of
         the initiation or threatening of any proceeding for any such purpose,
         or of any request by the Commission for the amending or supplementing
         of the Registration Statements or the Prospectus or for additional
         information; and, in the event of the issuance of any stop order or of
         any order preventing or suspending the use of any Preliminary
         Prospectus or the Prospectus or suspending any such qualification, to
         use promptly its best efforts to obtain its withdrawal;

                  (b) To furnish promptly to each of the Representatives and to
         counsel for the U.S. Underwriters a signed copy of each of the
         Registration Statements as originally filed with the Commission, and
         each amendment thereto filed with the Commission, including all
         consents and exhibits filed therewith;

                  (c) To deliver promptly to the Representatives in New York
         City such number of the following documents as the Representatives
         shall reasonably request: (i) conformed copies of the Registration
         Statements as originally filed with the Commission and each amendment
         thereto (in each case excluding exhibits other than this Agreement and
         the computation of per share earnings) and (ii) each Preliminary
         Prospectus, the Prospectus (not later than 10:00 A.M., New York City
         time, of the day following the execution and delivery of this
         Agreement) and any amended or supplemented Prospectus (not later than
         10:00 A.M., New York City time, on the day following the date of such
         amendment or supplement); and, if the delivery of a prospectus is
         required at any time prior to the expiration of nine months after the
         Effective Time of the Primary Registration Statement in connection with
         the offering or sale of the Stock (or any other securities relating
         thereto) and if at such time any event shall have occurred as a result
         of which the Prospectus as then amended or supplemented would include
         any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state any material
         fact necessary in order to make the statements therein, in the light of
         the circumstances under which they were made when such Prospectus is
         delivered, not misleading, or, if for any other reason it shall be
         necessary during such same period 


<PAGE>   13

                                                                              13



         to amend or supplement the Prospectus in order to comply with the
         Securities Act, to notify the Representatives and, upon their request,
         to prepare and furnish without charge to each U.S. Underwriter and to
         any dealer in securities as many copies as the Representatives may from
         time to time reasonably request of an amended or supplemented
         Prospectus which will correct such statement or omission or effect such
         compliance, and in case any U.S. Underwriter is required to deliver a
         prospectus in connection with sales of any of the Stock at any time
         nine months or more after the Effective Time of the Primary
         Registration Statement, upon the request of the Representatives but at
         the expense of such U.S. Underwriter, to prepare and deliver to such
         U.S. Underwriter as many copies as the Representatives may from time to
         time reasonably request of an amended or supplemented Prospectus
         complying with Section 10(a)(3) of the Securities Act;

                  (d) To file promptly with the Commission any amendment to the
         Registration Statements or the Prospectus or any supplement to the
         Prospectus that may, in the judgment of the Company or the
         Representatives, be required by the Securities Act or requested by the
         Commission;

                  (e) Prior to filing with the Commission either of the
         Registration Statements or supplement to the Prospectus or any
         Prospectus pursuant to Rule 424 of the Rules and Regulations, to
         furnish a copy thereof to the Representatives and counsel for the U.S.
         Underwriters and not to file any such document to which the
         Representatives shall reasonably object after having been given
         reasonable notice of the proposed filing thereof;

                  (f) As soon as practicable after the Effective Date of the
         Primary Registration Statement (it being understood that the Company
         shall have until at least 410 days after the end of the Company's
         current fiscal quarter), to make generally available to the Company's
         security holders and to deliver to the Representatives an earnings
         statement of the Company and its subsidiaries (which need not be
         audited) complying with Section 11(a) of the Securities Act and the
         Rules and Regulations (including, at the option of the Company, Rule
         158);

                  (g) For a period of five years following the Effective Date of
         the Primary Registration Statement, to furnish to the Representatives
         copies of all materials furnished by the Company to its shareholders
         and all public reports and all reports and financial statements
         furnished by the Company to the principal national securities exchange
         or automatic quotation system upon which the Common Stock may be listed
         or quoted pursuant to requirements of or agreements with such exchange
         or system or to the Commission pursuant to the Exchange Act or any rule
         or regulation of the Commission thereunder;


<PAGE>   14

                                                                              14


                  (h) Promptly from time to time to take such action as the
         Representatives may reasonably request to qualify the Stock for
         offering and sale under the securities laws of such jurisdictions as
         the Representatives may request and to comply with such laws so as to
         permit the continuance of sales and dealings therein in such
         jurisdictions for as long as may be necessary to complete the
         distribution of the Stock; provided that in connection therewith the
         Company shall not be required to qualify as a foreign corporation or to
         file a general consent to service of process in any jurisdiction;

                  (i) For a period of 180 days from the date of the Prospectus,
         not to, directly or indirectly, (1) offer for sale, sell, pledge or
         otherwise dispose of (or enter into any transaction or device which is
         designed to, or could be expected to, result in the disposition or
         purchase by any person at any time in the future of) any shares of
         Common Stock (other than the Stock and shares issued pursuant to
         employee benefit plans, qualified stock option plans or other employee
         compensation plans existing on the date hereof or pursuant to currently
         outstanding options, warrants or rights), or sell or grant options,
         rights or warrants with respect to any shares of Common Stock (other
         than the grant of options pursuant to option plans existing on the date
         hereof), or (2) enter into any swap or other derivatives transaction
         that transfers to another, in whole or in part, any of the economic
         benefits or risks of ownership of such shares of Common Stock, whether
         any such transaction described in clause (1) or (2) above is to be
         settled by delivery of Common Stock or other securities, in cash or
         otherwise, in each case without the prior written consent of Lehman
         Brothers Inc.; and to cause each officer and director of the Company to
         furnish to Lehman Brothers Inc., prior to the First Delivery Date, a
         letter or letters, in form and substance satisfactory to counsel for
         the U.S. Underwriters, pursuant to which each such person shall agree
         not to, directly or indirectly, (1) offer for sale, sell, pledge or
         otherwise dispose of (or enter into any transaction or device which is
         designed to, or could be expected to, result in the disposition by any
         person at any time in the future of) any shares of Common Stock or
         securities convertible into or exchangeable for Common Stock or (2)
         enter into any swap or other derivatives transaction that transfers to
         another, in whole or in part, any of the economic benefits or risks of
         ownership of such shares of Common Stock, whether any such transaction
         described in clause (1) or (2) above is to be settled by delivery of
         Common Stock or other securities, in cash or otherwise, in each case
         for a period of 180 days from the date of the Prospectus, without the
         prior written consent of Lehman Brothers Inc.;

                  (j) Prior to filing with the Commission any reports on Form SR
         pursuant to Rule 463 of the Rules and Regulations, to furnish a copy
         thereof to the counsel for the U.S. Underwriters and receive and
         consider its comments thereon, and to deliver promptly to the
         Representatives a signed copy of each report on Form SR filed by it
         with the Commission;

                  (k) To apply the net proceeds from the sale of the Stock being
         sold by the Company as set forth in the Prospectus; and

<PAGE>   15

                                                                              15


                  (l) To take such steps as shall be necessary to ensure that
         neither the Company nor any subsidiary shall become an "investment
         company" within the meaning of such term under the Investment Company
         Act and the rules and regulations of the Commission thereunder.

         6. Expenses. The Company agrees to pay (a) the costs incident to the
authorization, issuance, sale and delivery of the Stock and any taxes payable in
that connection; (b) the costs incident to the preparation, printing and filing
under the Securities Act of the Registration Statements and any amendments and
exhibits thereto; (c) the costs of distributing the Registration Statements as
originally filed and each amendment thereto and any post-effective amendments
thereof (including, in each case, exhibits), any Preliminary Prospectus, the
Prospectus and any amendment or supplement to the Prospectus, all as provided in
this Agreement; (d) the costs of reproducing and distributing this Agreement,
the Agreement Between U.S. Underwriters and International Managers and the
Supplemental Agreement Among U.S. Underwriters; (e) the costs of distributing
the terms of agreement relating to the organization of the domestic underwriting
syndicate and selling group to the members thereof by mail, telex or other means
of communication; (f) the filing fees incident to securing any required review
by the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. of the terms of sale of
the Stock; (g) any applicable listing or other fees; (h) the fees and expenses
of qualifying the Stock under the securities laws of the several jurisdictions
as provided in Section 5(h) and of preparing, printing and distributing a Blue
Sky Memorandum (including related fees and expenses of counsel to the U.S.
Underwriters); (i) all costs and expenses of the U.S. Underwriters, including
the fees and disbursements of counsel for the U.S. Underwriters, incident to the
offer and sale of shares of the Stock by the U.S. Underwriters to employees and
persons having business relationships with the Company and its subsidiaries, as
described in Section 3; and (j) all other costs and expenses incident to the
performance of the obligations of the Company under this Agreement; provided
that, except as provided in this Section 6 and in Section 11, the U.S.
Underwriters shall pay their own costs and expenses, including the costs and
expenses of their counsel, any transfer taxes on the Stock which they may sell
and the expenses of advertising any offering of the Stock made by the U.S.
Underwriters.

         7. Conditions of U.S. Underwriters' Obligations. The respective
obligations of the U.S. Underwriters hereunder are subject to the accuracy, on
and as of the date hereof and on each Delivery Date, of the representations and
warranties of the Company contained herein, to the accuracy of the statements of
the Company and its officers made in any certificates delivered pursuant hereto,
to the performance by the Company of its obligations hereunder, and to each of
the following additional terms and conditions:

                  (a) The Rule 462(b) Registration Statement, if any, and the
         Prospectus shall have been timely filed with the Commission in
         accordance with Section 5(a); no stop order suspending the
         effectiveness of either of the Registration Statements or any part
         thereof shall have been issued and no proceeding for that purpose shall
         have been initiated or threatened by the Commission; and any request of
         the Commission for inclusion of additional information in either of the
         Registration Statements or the Prospectus or otherwise shall have been
         complied with.

<PAGE>   16

                                                                              16


                  (b) No U.S. Underwriter or International Manager shall have
         discovered and disclosed to the Company on or prior to such Delivery
         Date that either of the Registration Statements or the Prospectus or
         any amendment or supplement thereto contains any untrue statement of a
         fact which, in the opinion of Simpson Thacher & Bartlett, counsel for
         the U.S. Underwriters, is material or omits to state any fact which, in
         the opinion of such counsel, is material and is required to be stated
         therein or is necessary to made the statements therein not misleading.

                  (c) All corporate proceedings and other legal matters incident
         to the authorization, form and validity of this Agreement, the
         International Underwriting Agreement, the Stock, the Registration
         Statements and the Prospectus, and all other legal matters relating to
         this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby shall be
         reasonably satisfactory in all material respects to counsel for the
         U.S. Underwriters, and the Company shall have furnished to such counsel
         all documents and information that they may reasonably request to
         enable them to pass upon such matters.

                  (d) Kirkpatrick & Lockhart LLP shall have furnished to the
         Representatives its written opinion, as counsel to the Company,
         addressed to the U.S. Underwriters and dated such Delivery Date, in
         form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Representatives, to
         the effect that:

                      (i) The Company and each of its subsidiaries have been
                  duly incorporated and are validly existing as corporations in
                  good standing under the laws of their respective jurisdictions
                  of incorporation, are duly qualified to do business and are in
                  good standing as foreign corporations in each jurisdiction in
                  which their respective ownership or lease of property or the
                  conduct of their respective businesses requires such
                  qualification (other than those jurisdictions in which the
                  failure to so qualify would not have a material adverse effect
                  on the Company or the Company and its subsidiaries taken as a
                  whole), and have all power and authority necessary to own or
                  hold their respective properties and conduct the businesses in
                  which they are engaged;

                      (ii) The Company has an authorized capitalization as set
                  forth in the Prospectus, and all of the issued shares of
                  capital stock of the Company (including the shares of Stock
                  being delivered on such Delivery Date) have been duly and
                  validly authorized and issued, are fully paid and
                  non-assessable and conform to the description thereof
                  contained in the Prospectus; and all of the issued shares of
                  capital stock of each subsidiary of the Company have been duly
                  and validly authorized and issued and are fully paid,
                  non-assessable and (except for directors' qualifying shares
                  and except as set forth in the Prospectus) are owned directly
                  or indirectly by the Company, free and clear of all liens,
                  encumbrances, equities or claims;

<PAGE>   17

                                                                              17



                      (iii) There are no preemptive or other rights to subscribe
                  for or to purchase, nor any restriction upon the voting or
                  transfer of, any shares of the Stock pursuant to the Company's
                  charter or by-laws or any agreement or other instrument known
                  to such counsel;

                      (iv) The Company and each of its subsidiaries have good
                  and marketable title in fee simple to all real property owned
                  by them, in each case free and clear of all liens,
                  encumbrances and defects except such as are described in the
                  Prospectus or such as do not materially affect the value of
                  such property and do not materially interfere with the use
                  made and proposed to be made of such property by the Company
                  and its subsidiaries; and all real property and buildings held
                  under lease by the Company and its subsidiaries are held by
                  them under valid, subsisting and enforceable leases, with such
                  exceptions as are not material and do not interfere with the
                  use made and proposed to be made of such property and
                  buildings by the Company and its subsidiaries;

                      (v) To the best of such counsel's knowledge and other than
                  as set forth in the Prospectus, there are no legal or
                  governmental proceedings pending to which the Company or any
                  of its subsidiaries is a party or of which any property or
                  asset of the Company or any of its subsidiaries is the subject
                  which, if determined adversely to the Company or any of its
                  subsidiaries, are reasonably likely to have a material adverse
                  effect on the consolidated financial position, stockholders'
                  equity, results of operations, business or prospects of the
                  Company and its subsidiaries; and, to the best of such
                  counsel's knowledge, no such proceedings are threatened or
                  contemplated by governmental authorities or threatened by
                  others;

                      (vi) The Primary Registration Statement was declared
                  effective under the Securities Act as of the date and time
                  specified in such opinion, the Rule 462(b) Registration
                  Statement, if any, was filed with the Commission on the date
                  specified therein, the Prospectus was filed with the
                  Commission pursuant to the subparagraph of Rule 424(b) of the
                  Rules and Regulations specified in such opinion on the date
                  specified therein and no stop order suspending the
                  effectiveness of either of the Registration Statements has
                  been issued and, to the knowledge of such counsel, no
                  proceeding for that purpose is pending or threatened by the
                  Commission;

                      (vii) The Registration Statements, as of their respective
                  Effective Dates, and the Prospectus, as of its date, and any
                  further amendments or supplements thereto, as of their
                  respective dates, made by the Company prior to such Delivery
                  Date (other than the financial statements and other financial
                  data contained therein, as to which such counsel need express
                  no opinion) complied as to form in all material respects with
                  the requirements of the Securities Act and the Rules and
                  Regulations;



<PAGE>   18

                                                                              18


                      (viii) The statements contained in the Prospectus under
                  the caption "Certain United States Federal Income Tax
                  Consequences", insofar as they describe federal statutes,
                  rules and regulations, constitute a fair summary thereof;

                      (ix) To the best of such counsel's knowledge, there are no
                  contracts or other documents which are required to be
                  described in the Prospectus or filed as exhibits to the
                  Registration Statements by the Securities Act or by the Rules
                  and Regulations which have not been described or filed as
                  exhibits to the Registration Statements or incorporated
                  therein by reference as permitted by the Rules and
                  Regulations;

                      (x) This Agreement and the International Underwriting
                  Agreement has each been duly authorized, executed and
                  delivered by the Company;

                      (xi) The issue and sale of the shares of Stock being
                  delivered on such Delivery Date by the Company and the
                  compliance by the Company with all of the provisions of this
                  Agreement and the International Underwriting Agreement, and
                  the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby and
                  thereby will not conflict with or result in a breach or
                  violation of any of the terms or provisions of, or constitute
                  a default under, any indenture, mortgage, deed of trust, loan
                  agreement or other agreement or instrument known to such
                  counsel to which the Company or any of its subsidiaries is a
                  party or by which the Company or any of its subsidiaries is
                  bound or to which any of the properties or assets of the
                  Company or any of its subsidiaries is subject, nor will such
                  actions result in any violation of the provisions of the
                  charter or by-laws of the Company or any of its subsidiaries
                  or any statute or any order, rule or regulation known to such
                  counsel of any court or governmental agency or body having
                  jurisdiction over the Company or any of its subsidiaries or
                  any of their properties or assets; and, except for the
                  registration of the Stock under the Securities Act and such
                  consents, approvals, authorizations, registrations or
                  qualifications as may be required under the Exchange Act and
                  applicable state or foreign securities laws in connection with
                  the purchase and distribution of the Stock by the U.S.
                  Underwriters and the International Managers, no consent,
                  approval, authorization or order of, or filing or registration
                  with, any such court or governmental agency or body is
                  required for the execution, delivery and performance of this
                  Agreement or the International Underwriting Agreement by the
                  Company and the consummation of the transactions contemplated
                  hereby and thereby; and

<PAGE>   19

                                                                              19



                      (xii) To the best of such counsel's knowledge, there are
                  no contracts, agreements or understandings between the Company
                  and any person granting such person the right (other than
                  rights which have been waived or satisfied) to require the
                  Company to file a registration statement under the Securities
                  Act with respect to any securities of the Company owned or to
                  be owned by such person or to require the Company to include
                  such securities in the securities registered pursuant to the
                  Registration Statements or in any securities being registered
                  pursuant to any other registration statement filed by the
                  Company under the Securities Act.

         In rendering such opinion, such counsel may (i) state that its opinion
         is limited to matters governed by the Federal laws of the United States
         of America, the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the
         General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware; and (ii) in giving
         the opinion referred to in Section 7(d)(iv), state that no examination
         of record titles for the purpose of such opinion has been made, and
         that it is relying upon a general review of the titles of the Company
         and its subsidiaries, upon opinions of local counsel and abstracts,
         reports and policies of title companies rendered or issued at or
         subsequent to the time of acquisition of such property by the Company
         or its subsidiaries, upon opinions of counsel to the lessors of such
         property and, in respect of matters of fact, upon certificates of
         officers of the Company or its subsidiaries, provided that such counsel
         shall state that it believes that both the U.S. Underwriters and it are
         justified in relying upon such opinions, abstracts, reports, policies
         and certificates. Such counsel shall also have furnished to the
         Representatives a written statement, addressed to the U.S. Underwriters
         and dated such Delivery Date, in form and substance satisfactory to the
         Representatives, to the effect that (x) such counsel and has acted as
         counsel to the Company in connection with the preparation of the
         Registration Statements, and (y) based on the foregoing, no facts have
         come to the attention of such counsel which lead it to believe that the
         Registration Statements, as of their respective Effective Dates,
         contained any untrue statement of a material fact or omitted to state
         any material fact required to be stated therein or necessary in order
         to make the statements therein not misleading, or that the Prospectus
         contains any untrue statement of a material fact or omits to state any
         material fact required to be stated therein or necessary in order to
         make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances under which
         they were made, not misleading. The foregoing opinion and statement may
         be qualified by a statement to the effect that such counsel does not
         assume any responsibility for the accuracy, completeness or fairness of
         the statements contained in the Registration Statements or the
         Prospectus except for the statements made in the Prospectus under the
         captions "Description of Capital Stock" and "Certain United States
         Federal Income Tax Consequences", insofar as such statements relate to
         the Stock and concern legal matters.

<PAGE>   20

                                                                              20



                  (e) With respect to the letter of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
         delivered to the Representatives concurrently with the execution of
         this Agreement (as used in this paragraph, the "initial letter"), the
         Company shall have furnished to the Representatives a letter (as used
         in this paragraph, the "bring-down letter") of such accountants,
         addressed to the U.S. Underwriters and dated such Delivery Date (i)
         confirming that they are independent public accountants within the
         meaning of the Securities Act and are in compliance with the applicable
         requirements relating to the qualification of accountants under Rule
         2-01 of Regulation S-X of the Commission, (ii) stating, as of the date
         of the bring-down letter (or, with respect to matters involving changes
         or developments since the respective dates as of which specified
         financial information is given in the Prospectus, as of a date not more
         than five days prior to the date of the bring-down letter), the
         conclusions and findings of such firm with respect to the financial
         information and other matters covered by the initial letter and (iii)
         confirming in all material respects the conclusions and findings set
         forth in the initial letter.

                  (f) With respect to the letter of Anchin, Block & Anchin LLP
         delivered to the Representatives concurrently with the execution of
         this Agreement (as used in this paragraph, the "initial letter"), the
         Company shall have furnished to the Representatives a letter (as used
         in this paragraph, the "bring-down letter") of such accountants,
         addressed to the U.S. Underwriters and dated such Delivery Date (i)
         confirming that they are independent public accountants within the
         meaning of the Securities Act and are in compliance with the applicable
         requirements relating to the qualification of accountants under Rule
         2-01 of Regulation S-X of the Commission, (ii) stating, as of the date
         of the bring-down letter (or, with respect to matters involving changes
         or developments since the respective dates as of which specified
         financial information is given in the Prospectus, as of a date not more
         than five days prior to the date of the bring-down letter), the
         conclusions and findings of such firm with respect to the financial
         information and other matters covered by the initial letter and (iii)
         confirming in all material respects the conclusions and findings set
         forth in the initial letter.

                  (g) The Company shall have furnished to the Representatives a
         certificate, dated such Delivery Date, of its chief executive officer
         and its chief financial officer stating that:

                      (i) The representations, warranties and agreements of the
                  Company in Section 1 are true and correct as of such Delivery
                  Date; the Company has complied with all its agreements
                  contained herein; and the conditions set forth in Section 7(a)
                  have been fulfilled;

                      (ii) (A) Neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries
                  has sustained since the date of the latest audited financial
                  statements included in the Prospectus any loss or interference
                  with its business from fire, explosion, flood or other
                  calamity, whether or not covered by insurance, or from any
                  labor dispute or court or governmental action, order or
                  decree, otherwise than 


<PAGE>   21

                                                                              21



                  as set forth or contemplated in the Prospectus or (B) since
                  such date there has not been any change in the capital stock
                  or long-term debt of the Company or any of its subsidiaries or
                  any change, or any development involving a prospective change,
                  in or affecting the general affairs, management, financial
                  position, stockholders' equity or results of operations of the
                  Company and its subsidiaries, otherwise than as set forth or
                  contemplated in the Prospectus; and

                      (iii) They have carefully examined the Registration
                  Statements and the Prospectus and, in their opinion (A) the
                  Registration Statements, as of their respective Effective
                  Dates, and the Prospectus, as of each of the Effective Dates,
                  did not include any untrue statement of a material fact and
                  did not omit to state any material fact required to be stated
                  therein or necessary to make the statements therein not
                  misleading, and (B) since the Effective Date of the Primary
                  Registration Statement, no event has occurred which should
                  have been set forth in a supplement or amendment to either of
                  the Registration Statements or the Prospectus.

                  (h) (i) Neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries shall
         have sustained since the date of the latest audited financial
         statements included in the Prospectus any loss or interference with its
         business from fire, explosion, flood or other calamity, whether or not
         covered by insurance, or from any labor dispute or court or
         governmental action, order or decree, otherwise than as set forth or
         contemplated in the Prospectus or (ii) since such date there shall not
         have been any change in the capital stock or long-term debt of the
         Company or any of its subsidiaries or any change, or any development
         involving a prospective change, in or affecting the general affairs,
         management, financial position, stockholders' equity or results of
         operations of the Company and its subsidiaries, otherwise than as set
         forth or contemplated in the Prospectus, the effect of which, in any
         such case described in clause (i) or (ii), is, in the judgment of the
         Representatives, so material and adverse as to make it impracticable or
         inadvisable to proceed with the public offering or the delivery of the
         Stock being delivered on such Delivery Date on the terms and in the
         manner contemplated in the Prospectus.

                  (i) Subsequent to the execution and delivery of this Agreement
         (i) no downgrading shall have occurred in the rating accorded the
         Company's debt securities by any "nationally recognized statistical
         rating organization", as that term is defined by the Commission for
         purposes of Rule 436(g)(2) of the Rules and Regulations and (ii) no
         such organization shall have publicly announced that it has under
         surveillance or review, with possible negative implications, its rating
         of any of the Company's debt securities.

<PAGE>   22

                                                                              22



                  (j) Subsequent to the execution and delivery of this Agreement
         there shall not have occurred any of the following: (i) trading in
         securities generally on the New York Stock Exchange or the American
         Stock Exchange or in the over-the-counter market, or trading in any
         securities of the Company on any exchange or in the over-the-counter
         market, shall have been suspended or minimum prices shall have been
         established on any such exchange or such market by the Commission, by
         such exchange or by any other regulatory body or governmental authority
         having jurisdiction, (ii) a banking moratorium shall have been declared
         by Federal or state authorities, (iii) the United States shall have
         become engaged in hostilities, there shall have been an escalation in
         hostilities involving the United States or there shall have been a
         declaration of a national emergency or war by the United States or (iv)
         there shall have occurred such a material adverse change in general
         economic, political or financial conditions (or the effect of
         international conditions on the financial markets in the United States
         shall be such) as to make it, in the judgment of a majority in interest
         of the several U.S. Underwriters, impracticable or inadvisable to
         proceed with the public offering or delivery of the Stock being
         delivered on such Delivery Date on the terms and in the manner
         contemplated in the Prospectus.

                  (k) The New York Stock Exchange, Inc. shall have approved the
         Stock for listing, subject only to official notice of issuance and
         evidence of satisfactory distribution.

                  (l) The closing under the International Underwriting Agreement
         shall have occurred concurrently with the closing hereunder on the
         First Delivery Date.

         All opinions, letters, evidence and certificates mentioned above or
elsewhere in this Agreement shall be deemed to be in compliance with the
provisions hereof only if they are in form and substance reasonably satisfactory
to counsel for the U.S. Underwriters.

         8. Indemnification and Contribution.

                  (a) The Company and WESCO Distribution, Inc., its principal
         operating subsidiary (the "Principal Subsidiary"), jointly and
         severally, shall indemnify and hold harmless each U.S. Underwriter, its
         officers and employees and each person, if any, who controls any U.S.
         Underwriter within the meaning of the Securities Act, from and against
         any loss, claim, damage or liability, joint or several, or any action
         in respect thereof (including, but not limited to, any loss, claim,
         damage, liability or action relating to purchases and sales of Stock),
         to which that U.S. Underwriter, officer, employee or controlling person
         may become subject, under the Securities Act or otherwise, insofar as
         such loss, claim, damage, liability or action arises out of, or is
         based upon, (i) any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a
         material fact contained (A) in any Preliminary Prospectus, either of
         the Registration Statements or the Prospectus, or in any amendment or
         supplement thereto, or (B) in any blue sky application or other
         document prepared or executed by the Company (or based upon any written
         information furnished by the Company) specifically for the purpose of
         qualifying any or all of the Stock under the securities laws of any
         state or other jurisdiction (any such application, document or
         information being hereinafter called a "Blue Sky 

<PAGE>   23

                                                                              23


         Application"), (ii) the omission or alleged omission to state in any
         Preliminary Prospectus, either of the Registration Statements or the
         Prospectus, or in any amendment or supplement thereto, or in any Blue
         Sky Application any material fact required to be stated therein or
         necessary to make the statements therein not misleading or (iii) any
         act or failure to act, or any alleged act or failure to act, by any
         U.S. Underwriter in connection with, or relating in any manner to, the
         Stock or the offering contemplated hereby, and which is included as
         part of or referred to in any loss, claim, damage, liability or action
         arising out of or based upon matters covered by clause (i) or (ii)
         above (provided that the Company and the Principal Subsidiary shall not
         be liable in the case of any matter covered by this clause (iii) to the
         extent that it is determined in a final judgement by a court of
         competent jurisdiction that such loss, claim, damage, liability or
         action resulted directly from any such act or failure to act undertaken
         or omitted to be taken by such U.S. Underwriter through its gross
         negligence or wilful misconduct), and shall reimburse each U.S.
         Underwriter and each such officer, employee and controlling person
         promptly upon demand for any legal or other expenses reasonably
         incurred by that U.S. Underwriter, officer, employee or controlling
         person in connection with investigating or defending or preparing to
         defend against any such loss, claim, damage, liability or action as
         such expenses are incurred; provided, however, that the Company and the
         Principal Subsidiary shall not be liable in any such case to the extent
         that any such loss, claim, damage, liability or action arises out of,
         or is based upon, any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement or
         omission or alleged omission made in any Preliminary Prospectus, the
         Registration Statement or the Prospectus, or in any such amendment or
         supplement, or in any Blue Sky Application in reliance upon and in
         conformity with the written information furnished to the Company
         through the Representatives by or on behalf of any U.S. Underwriter
         specifically for inclusion therein and described in Section 8(e); and
         provided further that as to any Preliminary Prospectus this indemnity
         agreement shall not inure to the benefit of any U.S. Underwriter, its
         officers or employees or any person controlling that U.S. Underwriter
         on account of any loss, claim, damage, liability or action arising from
         the sale of Stock to any person by that U.S. Underwriter if that U.S.
         Underwriter failed to send or give a copy of the Prospectus, as the
         same may be amended or supplemented, to that person within the time
         required by the Securities Act, and the untrue statement or alleged
         untrue statement of any material fact or omission or alleged omission
         to state a material fact in such Preliminary Prospectus was corrected
         in the Prospectus, unless such failure resulted from non-compliance by
         the Company with Section 5(c). The foregoing indemnity agreement is in
         addition to any liability which the Company and the Principal
         Subsidiary may otherwise have to any U.S. Underwriter or to any
         officer, employee or controlling person of that U.S. Underwriter.

                  (b) Each U.S. Underwriter, severally and not jointly, shall
         indemnify and hold harmless the Company, its officers and employees,
         each of its directors and each person, if any, who controls the Company
         within the meaning of the Securities Act, from and against any loss,
         claim, damage or liability, joint or several, or any action in respect
         thereof, to which the Company or any such director, officer or
         controlling person may become subject, under the Securities Act or
         otherwise, insofar as such loss, claim, damage, liability or action
         arises out of, or is based upon, (i) any untrue statement or alleged
         untrue statement of a material fact contained (A) in any Preliminary
         Prospectus, either of the Registration Statements or the Prospectus, or
         in any amendment or supplement thereto, or (B) in any Blue Sky
         Application or (ii) the omission or alleged omission to state in any
         Preliminary Prospectus, either of the Registration Statements or the
         Prospectus, or in any 

<PAGE>   24

                                                                              24


         amendment or supplement thereto, or in any Blue Sky Application any
         material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the
         statements therein not misleading, but in each case only to the extent
         that the untrue statement or alleged untrue statement or omission or
         alleged omission was made in reliance upon and in conformity with the
         written information furnished to the Company through the
         Representatives by or on behalf of that U.S. Underwriter specifically
         for inclusion therein and described in Section 8(e), and shall
         reimburse the Company and any such director, officer or controlling
         person for any legal or other expenses reasonably incurred by the
         Company or any such director, officer or controlling person in
         connection with investigating or defending or preparing to defend
         against any such loss, claim, damage, liability or action as such
         expenses are incurred. The foregoing indemnity agreement is in addition
         to any liability which any U.S. Underwriter may otherwise have to the
         Company or any such director, officer or controlling person.

                  (c) Promptly after receipt by an indemnified party under this
         Section 8 of notice of any claim or the commencement of any action, the
         indemnified party shall, if a claim in respect thereof is to be made
         against the indemnifying party under this Section 8, notify the
         indemnifying party in writing of the claim or the commencement of that
         action; provided, however, that the failure to notify the indemnifying
         party shall not relieve it from any liability which it may have under
         this Section 8 except to the extent it has been materially prejudiced
         by such failure and, provided further, that the failure to notify the
         indemnifying party shall not relieve it from any liability which it may
         have to an indemnified party otherwise than under this Section 8. If
         any such claim or action shall be brought against an indemnified party,
         and it shall notify the indemnifying party thereof, the indemnifying
         party shall be entitled to participate therein and, to the extent that
         it wishes, jointly with any other similarly notified indemnifying
         party, to assume the defense thereof with counsel reasonably
         satisfactory to the indemnified party. After notice from the
         indemnifying party to the indemnified party of its election to assume
         the defense of such claim or action, the indemnifying party shall not
         be liable to the indemnified party under this Section 8 for any legal
         or other expenses subsequently incurred by the indemnified party in
         connection with the defense thereof other than reasonable costs of
         investigation; provided, however, that any indemnified party shall have
         the right to employ separate counsel in any such action and to
         participate in the defense thereof but the fees and expenses of such
         counsel shall be at the expense of such indemnified party unless (i)
         the employment thereof has been specifically authorized by the
         indemnifying party in writing, (ii) such indemnified party shall have
         been advised by such counsel that there may be one or more legal
         defenses available to it which are different from or additional to
         those available to the indemnifying party and in the reasonable
         judgment of such counsel it is advisable for such indemnified party to
         employ separate counsel or (iii) the indemnifying party has failed to
         assume the defense of such action and employ counsel reasonably
         satisfactory to the indemnified party, in which case, if such
         indemnified party notifies the indemnifying party in writing that it
         elects to employ separate counsel at the expense of the indemnifying
         party, the indemnifying party shall not have the right to assume the
         defense of such action on behalf of such indemnified party, it being
         understood, however, that the indemnifying party shall not, in
         connection with any one such action or separate but substantially
         similar or related actions in the same jurisdiction arising out of the
         same general allegations or circumstances, be liable for the reasonable
         fees and expenses of more than one separate firm of attorneys at any
         time for all such indemnified parties, which firm shall be designated
         in writing by the Representatives, if the indemnified parties under
         this Section 8 consist of any U.S. Underwriter 

<PAGE>   25

                                                                              25


         or any of their respective officers, employees or controlling persons,
         or by the Company, if the indemnified parties under this Section
         consist of the Company or any of the Company's directors, officers,
         employees or controlling persons. No indemnifying party shall (i)
         without the prior written consent of the indemnified parties (which
         consent shall not be unreasonably withheld), settle or compromise or
         consent to the entry of any judgment with respect to any pending or
         threatened claim, action, suit or proceeding in respect of which
         indemnification or contribution may be sought hereunder (whether or not
         the indemnified parties are actual or potential parties to such claim
         or action) unless such settlement, compromise or consent includes an
         unconditional release of each indemnified party from all liability
         arising out of such claim, action, suit or proceeding, or (ii) be
         liable for any settlement of any such action effected without its
         written consent (which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld), but
         if settled with its written consent or if there be a final judgment of
         the plaintiff in any such action, the indemnifying party agrees to
         indemnify and hold harmless any indemnified party from and against any
         loss of liability by reason of such settlement or judgment.

                  (d) If the indemnification provided for in this Section 8
         shall for any reason be unavailable to or insufficient to hold harmless
         an indemnified party under Section 8(a) or 8(b) in respect of any loss,
         claim, damage or liability, or any action in respect thereof, referred
         to therein, then each indemnifying party shall, in lieu of indemnifying
         such indemnified party, contribute to the amount paid or payable by
         such indemnified party as a result of such loss, claim, damage or
         liability, or action in respect thereof, (i) in such proportion as
         shall be appropriate to reflect the relative benefits received by the
         Company and the Principal Subsidiary on the one hand and the U.S.
         Underwriters on the other from the offering of the Stock or (ii) if the
         allocation provided by clause (i) above is not permitted by applicable
         law, in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect not only the
         relative benefits referred to in clause (i) above but also the relative
         fault of the Company and the Principal Subsidiary on the one hand and
         the U.S. Underwriters on the other with respect to the statements or
         omissions which resulted in such loss, claim, damage or liability, or
         action in respect thereof, as well as any other relevant equitable
         considerations. The relative benefits received by the Company and the
         Principal Subsidiary on the one hand and the U.S. Underwriters on the
         other with respect to such offering shall be deemed to be in the same
         proportion as the total net proceeds from the offering of the Stock
         purchased under this Agreement (before deducting expenses) received by
         the Company and the Principal Subsidiary, on the one hand, and the
         total underwriting discounts and commissions received by the U.S.
         Underwriters with respect to the shares of the Stock purchased under
         this Agreement, on the other hand, bear to the total gross proceeds
         from the offering of the shares of the Stock under this Agreement, in
         each case as set forth in the table on the cover page of the
         Prospectus. The relative fault shall be determined by reference to
         whether the untrue or alleged untrue statement of a material fact or
         omission or alleged omission to state a material fact relates to
         information supplied by the Company, the Principal Subsidiary or the
         U.S. Underwriters, the intent of the parties and their relative
         knowledge, access to information and opportunity to correct or prevent
         such statement or omission. For purposes of the preceding two
         sentences, the net proceeds deemed to be received by the Company shall
         be deemed to be also for the benefit of the Principal Subsidiary and
         information supplied by the Company shall also be deemed to have been
         supplied by the Principal Subsidiary. The Company, the Principal
         Subsidiary and the U.S. Underwriters agree that it would not be just
         and equitable if contributions pursuant to this Section 8(d) were to be
         determined by pro rata allocation (even if the U.S. Underwriters were
         treated as one entity for such 

<PAGE>   26

                                                                              26


         purpose) or by any other method of allocation which does not take into
         account the equitable considerations referred to herein. The amount
         paid or payable by an indemnified party as a result of the loss, claim,
         damage or liability, or action in respect thereof, referred to above in
         this Section 8(d) shall be deemed to include, for purposes of this
         Section 8(d), any legal or other expenses reasonably incurred by such
         indemnified party in connection with investigating or defending any
         such action or claim. Notwithstanding the provisions of this Section
         8(d), no U.S. Underwriter shall be required to contribute any amount in
         excess of the amount by which the total price at which the Stock
         underwritten by it and distributed to the public was offered to the
         public exceeds the amount of any damages which such U.S. Underwriter
         has otherwise paid or become liable to pay by reason of any untrue or
         alleged untrue statement or omission or alleged omission. No person
         guilty of fraudulent misrepresentation (within the meaning of Section
         11(f) of the Securities Act) shall be entitled to contribution from any
         person who was not guilty of such fraudulent misrepresentation. The
         U.S. Underwriters' obligations to contribute as provided in this
         Section 8(d) are several in proportion to their respective underwriting
         obligations and not joint.

                  (e) The U.S. Underwriters severally confirm that the
         statements with respect to the public offering of the Stock set forth
         on the cover page of, and under the caption "Underwriting" in, the
         Prospectus are correct and constitute the only information furnished in
         writing to the Company by or on behalf of the U.S. Underwriters
         specifically for inclusion in the Registration Statements and the
         Prospectus.

         9. Defaulting U.S. Underwriters.

         If, on either Delivery Date, any U.S. Underwriter defaults in the
performance of its obligations under this Agreement, the remaining
non-defaulting U.S. Underwriters shall be obligated to purchase the Stock which
the defaulting U.S. Underwriter agreed but failed to purchase on such Delivery
Date in the respective proportions which the number of shares of the Firm Stock
set opposite the name of each remaining non-defaulting U.S. Underwriter in
Schedule 1 hereto bears to the total number of shares of the Firm Stock set
opposite the names of all the remaining non-defaulting U.S. Underwriters in
Schedule 1 hereto; provided, however, that the remaining non-defaulting U.S.
Underwriters shall not be obligated to purchase any of the Stock on such
Delivery Date if the total number of shares of the Stock which the defaulting
U.S. Underwriter or U.S. Underwriters agreed but failed to purchase on such date
exceeds 9.09% of the total number of shares of the Stock to be purchased on such
Delivery Date, and any remaining non-defaulting U.S. Underwriter shall not be
obligated to purchase more than 110% of the number of shares of the Stock which
it agreed to purchase on such Delivery Date pursuant to the terms of Section 2.
If the foregoing maximums are exceeded, the remaining non-defaulting U.S.
Underwriters, or those other underwriters satisfactory to the Representatives
who so agree, shall have the right, but shall not be obligated, to purchase, in
such proportion as may be agreed upon among them, all the Stock to be purchased
on such Delivery Date. If the remaining U.S. Underwriters or other underwriters
satisfactory to the Representatives do not elect to purchase the shares which
the defaulting U.S. Underwriter or U.S. Underwriters agreed but failed to
purchase on such Delivery Date, this Agreement (or, with respect to the Second
Delivery Date, the obligation of the U.S. Underwriters to purchase, and of the
Company to sell, the Option Stock) shall terminate without liability on the 

<PAGE>   27

                                                                              27



part of any non-defaulting U.S. Underwriter or the Company, except that the
Company will continue to be liable for the payment of expenses to the extent set
forth in Sections 6 and 11. As used in this Agreement, the term "U.S.
Underwriter" includes, for all purposes of this Agreement unless the context
requires otherwise, any party not listed in Schedule 1 hereto who, pursuant to
this Section 9, purchases Firm Stock which a defaulting U.S. Underwriter agreed
but failed to purchase.

         Nothing contained herein shall relieve a defaulting U.S. Underwriter of
any liability it may have to the Company for damages caused by its default. If
other underwriters are obligated or agree to purchase the Stock of a defaulting
or withdrawing U.S. Underwriter, either the Representatives or the Company may
postpone the First Delivery Date for up to seven full business days in order to
effect any changes that in the opinion of counsel for the Company or counsel for
the U.S. Underwriters may be necessary in the Registration Statement, the
Prospectus or in any other document or arrangement.

         10. Termination.

         The obligations of the U.S. Underwriters hereunder may be terminated by
the Representatives by notice given to and received by the Company prior to
delivery of and payment for the Firm Stock if, prior to that time, any of the
events described in Sections 7(h), 7(i) or 7(j) shall have occurred or if the
U.S. Underwriters shall decline to purchase the Stock for any reason permitted
under this Agreement.

         11. Reimbursement of U.S. Underwriters' Expenses. If (a) the Company
shall fail to tender the Stock for delivery to the U.S. Underwriters for any
reason permitted under this Agreement, or (b) the U.S. Underwriters shall
decline to purchase the Stock for any reason permitted under this Agreement
(including the termination of this Agreement pursuant to Section 15(b)), the
Company shall reimburse the U.S. Underwriters for the reasonable fees and
expenses of their counsel and for such other out-of-pocket expenses as shall
have been incurred by them in connection with this Agreement and the proposed
purchase of the Stock, and upon demand the Company shall pay the full amount
thereof to the Representatives. If this Agreement is terminated pursuant to
Section 9 by reason of the default of one or more U.S. Underwriters, the Company
shall not be obligated to reimburse any defaulting U.S. Underwriter on account
of those expenses.

         12. Notices, etc. All statements, requests, notices and agreements
hereunder shall be in writing, and:

                  (a) if to the U.S. Underwriters, shall be delivered or sent by
         mail, telex or facsimile transmission to Lehman Brothers Inc., Three
         World Financial Center, New York, New York 10285, Attention: Syndicate
         Department (Fax: 212-528-8822);

                  (b) if to the Company, shall be delivered or sent by mail,
         telex or facsimile transmission to the address of the Company set forth
         in the Primary Registration Statement, Attention: [Steven A. Burleson]
         (Fax: (412) 454-2555);

<PAGE>   28

                                                                              28


provided, however, that any notice to an U.S. Underwriter pursuant to Section
8(c) shall be delivered or sent by mail, telex or facsimile transmission to such
U.S. Underwriter at its address set forth in its acceptance telex to the
Representatives, which address will be supplied to any other party hereto by the
Representatives upon request. Any such statements, requests, notices or
agreements shall take effect at the time of receipt thereof. The Company shall
be entitled to act and rely upon any request, consent, notice or agreement given
or made on behalf of the U.S. Underwriters by Lehman Brothers Inc. on behalf of
the Representatives.

         13. Persons Entitled to Benefit of Agreement. This Agreement shall
inure to the benefit of and be binding upon the U.S. Underwriters, the Company,
and their respective successors. This Agreement and the terms and provisions
hereof are for the sole benefit of only those persons, except that (A) the
representations, warranties, indemnities and agreements of the Company contained
in this Agreement shall also be deemed to be for the benefit of the officers and
employees of each U.S. Underwriter and the person or persons, if any, who
control each U.S. Underwriter within the meaning of Section 15 of the Securities
Act and for the benefit of each International Manager (and controlling persons
thereof) who offers or sells any shares of Common Stock in accordance with the
terms of the Agreement Between U.S. Underwriters and International Managers and
(B) the indemnity agreement of the U.S. Underwriters contained in Section 8(b)
of this Agreement shall be deemed to be for the benefit of directors, officers
and employees of the Company and any person controlling the Company within the
meaning of Section 15 of the Securities Act. Nothing in this Agreement is
intended or shall be construed to give any person, other than the persons
referred to in this Section 13, any legal or equitable right, remedy or claim
under or in respect of this Agreement or any provision contained herein.

         14. Survival. The respective indemnities, representations, warranties
and agreements of the Company, the Principal Subsidiary and the U.S.
Underwriters contained in this Agreement or made by or on behalf of them,
respectively, pursuant to this Agreement, shall survive the delivery of and
payment for the Stock and shall remain in full force and effect, regardless of
any investigation made by or on behalf of any of them or any person controlling
any of them.

         15. Definition of the Terms "Business Day" and "Subsidiary". For
purposes of this Agreement, (a) "business day" means any day on which the New
York Stock Exchange, Inc. is open for trading and (b) "subsidiary" has the
meaning set forth in Rule 405 of the Rules and Regulations.

         16. Governing Law. THIS AGREEMENT SHALL BE GOVERNED BY AND CONSTRUED IN
ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAWS OF NEW YORK.

         17. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in one or more
counterparts and, if executed in more than one counterpart, the executed
counterparts shall each be deemed to be an original but all such counterparts
shall together constitute one and the same instrument.

         18. Headings. The headings herein are inserted for convenience of
reference only and are not intended to be part of, or to affect the meaning or
interpretation of, this Agreement.

<PAGE>   29

                                                                              29


         If the foregoing correctly sets forth the agreement among the Company;
the Principal Subsidiary and the U.S. Underwriters, please indicate your
acceptance in the space provided for that purpose below.

                                       Very truly yours,

                                       WESCO INTERNATIONAL, INC.

                                       By
                                          ------------------------------
                                       [Vice President, Chief Financial
                                        Officer and Corporate Controller]



                                       WESCO DISTRIBUTION, INC.,

                                       By
                                          ------------------------------
                                       [Vice President, Chief Financial
                                        Officer and Corporate Controller]



Accepted:

LEHMAN BROTHERS INC.
BEAR, STEARNS & CO. INC.
DONALDSON, LUFKIN & JENRETTE
  SECURITIES CORPORATION
GOLDMAN, SACHS & CO.
ROBERT W. BAIRD & CO. INCORPORATED
ING BARING FURMAN SELZ LLC

For themselves and as Representatives
of the several U.S. Underwriters named
in Schedule 1 hereto

         By LEHMAN BROTHERS INC.

         By
            ------------------------------
            Authorized Representative


<PAGE>   30



                                   SCHEDULE 1


                                                                      Number of
U.S. Underwriters                                                       Shares 
- -----------------                                                       ------ 

Lehman Brothers Inc.....................................
Bear, Stearns & Co. Inc.................................
Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette Securities
  Corporation...........................................
Goldman, Sachs & Co.....................................
Robert W. Baird & Co. Incorporated......................
ING Baring Furman Selz LLC..............................

                                                                      ---------

     Total.......................................................
                                                                      =========



<PAGE>   1

                                                                     Exhibit 3.2

                                    FORM OF
                                    RESTATED
                          CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION
                            WESCO INTERNATIONAL, INC.


                  FIRST. The name of the corporation is WESCO International,
Inc. The name under which the corporation was originally incorporated is CDW
Holding Corporation. The Corporation's original Certificate of Incorporation was
filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on September 17,
1993.

                  SECOND. This Restated Certificate of Incorporation was duly
adopted in accordance with the applicable provisions of Sections 242 and 245 of
the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware.

                  THIRD. The original Certificate of Incorporation of the
Corporation is amended and restated to read in full as follows:


                                   ARTICLE I.

                  The name of the Corporation is WESCO International, Inc.


                                   ARTICLE II.

                  The address of the registered office of the Corporation in the
State of Delaware is 1209 Orange Street, Wilmington, New Castle County,
Delaware, and the name of its registered agent at such address is The
Corporation Trust Company.


                                  ARTICLE III.

                  The purpose of the Corporation is to engage in any lawful act
or activity for which corporations may be organized under the General
Corporation Law of the State of Delaware.


                                   ARTICLE IV.

                  A. Authorized Capitalization. The total number of all shares
of capital stock which the Corporation shall have the authority to issue is
250,000,000 shares consisting of: (1) 210,000,000 shares of Common Stock, par
value of $.01 per share; (2) 20,000,000 shares of Class B Common Stock, par
value of $.01 per share; and (3) 20,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock, par value
of $.01 per share. The number of authorized shares of Common Stock or Class B
Common Stock may be increased or decreased (but not below the number of shares
thereof then outstanding) if the increase or decrease is approved by the holders
of a majority of the voting power of all of the then outstanding shares of stock
entitled to vote in any general election of 


<PAGE>   2


directors, voting together as a single class but without the separate vote of
the holders of any other class of stock.

                  B. Preferred Stock. The Corporation's Board of Directors is
hereby expressly authorized to provide by resolution or resolutions from time to
time for the issue of the Preferred Stock in one or more series, the shares of
each of which series may have such voting powers, full or limited, or no voting
powers, and such designations, preferences and relative, participating, optional
or other special rights, and qualifications, limitations or restrictions
thereon, as shall be permitted under the General Corporation Law of the State of
Delaware and as shall be stated in the resolution or resolutions providing for
the issue of such stock adopted by the Board of Directors pursuant to the
authority expressly vested in the Board of Directors hereby.

                  C. Common Stock. As used herein, the term "Common Stock" shall
include the Common Stock and the Class B Common Stock. Except as otherwise
provided herein, all shares of Common Stock and Class B Common Stock will be
identical and will entitle the holders thereof to the same rights and
privileges.

                  (1) Voting Rights. Except as otherwise required by law or as
otherwise provided herein, on all matters submitted to the Corporation's
stockholders, (i) the holders of Common Stock will be entitled to one vote per
share and (ii) the holders of Class B Common Stock will have no right to vote.

                  (2) Dividends. When and as dividends are declared thereon,
whether payable in cash, property or securities of the Corporation, the holders
of Common Stock and the holders of Class B Common Stock will be entitled to
share equally, share for share, in such dividends, provided that if dividends
are declared which are payable in shares of Common Stock or Class B Common
Stock, dividends will be declared which are payable at the same rate on each
class of stock, and the dividends payable in shares of Common Stock will be
payable to holders of Common Stock, and the dividends payable in shares of Class
B Common Stock will be payable to holders of Class B Common Stock.

                  (3)(a) Conversion of Class B Common Stock. Each record holder
of Class B Common Stock is entitled to convert any or all of the shares of such
holder's Class B Common Stock into the same number of shares of Common Stock,
provided that no holder of Class B Common Stock is entitled to convert any share
or shares of Class B Common Stock to the extent that, as a result of such
conversion, such holder or its Affiliates would directly or indirectly own,
control or have power to vote a greater quantity of securities of any kind
issued by the Corporation than such holder and its Affiliates are permitted to
own, control or have power to vote under any law, regulation, order, rule or
other requirement of any governmental authority at any time applicable to such
holder and its Affiliates.

                  (3)(b) Certain Conversion Procedures. (i) Each conversion of
shares of Class B Common Stock into shares of Common Stock will be effected by
the surrender of the certificate or certificates representing the shares to be
converted at the principal office of the Corporation or the transfer agent
designated by the Corporation, if any, at any time during normal business hours,
together with a written notice by the holder of such shares stating the number
of shares of Class B 


                                      -2-
<PAGE>   3


Common Stock that such holder desires to convert into Common Stock and that upon
such conversion such holder, together with its Affiliates, will not directly or
indirectly own, control or have the power to vote a greater quantity of
securities of any kind issued by the Corporation than such holder and its
Affiliates are permitted to own, control or have the power to vote under any
applicable law, regulation, order, rule or other governmental requirement (and
such statement will obligate the Corporation to issue such Common Stock). Such
conversion will be deemed to have been effected as of the close of business on
the date on which such certificate or certificates have been surrendered and
such notice has been received, and at such time the rights of any such holder
with respect to the converted Class B Common Stock will cease and the person or
persons in whose name or names the certificate or certificates for shares of
Common Stock are to be issued upon such conversion will be deemed to have become
the holder or holders of record of the shares of Common Stock represented
thereby.

                  (ii) Promptly after such surrender and the receipt of the
written notice referred to in subparagraph (i) above, the Corporation will issue
and deliver in accordance with the surrendering holder's instructions the
certificate or certificates for the Common Stock issuable upon such conversion
and a certificate representing any Class B Common Stock which was represented by
the certificate or certificates delivered to the Corporation in connection with
such conversion but which was not converted. The Corporation shall be entitled
to rely upon any written notice delivered pursuant to subparagraph (i) above and
such notice shall, in the absence of fraud, be binding and conclusive upon the
Corporation.

                  (4)(a) Transfers. The Corporation will not close its books
against the transfer of Class B Common Stock in any manner that would interfere
with the timely conversion of Class B Common Stock.

                  (4)(b) Subdivisions and Combinations of Shares. If the
Corporation in any manner subdivides or combines the outstanding shares of one
class of Common Stock, the outstanding shares of the other class of Common Stock
will be proportionately subdivided or combined.

                  (4)(c) Issuance Costs. The issuance of certificates for Common
Stock upon conversion of Class B Common will be made without charge to the
holder or holders of such shares for any issuance tax (except stock transfer
taxes) in respect thereof or other cost incurred by the Corporation in
connection with such conversion and the related issuance of Common Stock.

                  (5) Definitions. "Affiliate" shall mean, with respect to any
Person, any other Person directly or indirectly controlling, controlled by, or
under common control with such Person, provided that, for purposes of this
definition, "control" (including, with correlative meanings, the terms
"controlled by" and "under common control with"), as used with respect to any
Person, shall mean the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to
direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of such Person,
whether through the ownership of voting securities or by contract or otherwise.
Notwithstanding any other provision herein, the Board of Directors shall in its
good faith determine whether any party shall be deemed an 



                                      -3-
<PAGE>   4


"Affiliate" of any Person for purposes of this Certificate of Incorporation and
such determination shall be binding and conclusive upon the Corporation.

                  "Person" shall mean and include an individual, a partnership,
a joint venture, a corporation, a trust, an unincorporated organization and a
government or any department or agency thereof.

                  D. Reclassification. Upon the effective date of this Restated
Certificate of Incorporation (the "Effective Time"), each issued share of the
capital stock of the Corporation theretofore designated as "Class A Common
Stock," par value $.01 per share, shall, without any action on the part of the
holder thereof, be reclassified so that the designation thereof shall be changed
from "Class A Common Stock" to "Common Stock," par value $.01 per share, and
that each existing share of Class A Common Stock shall become one share of
Common Stock. Each holder of a certificate or certificates which immediately
prior to the Effective Time represented outstanding shares of Class A Common
Stock ("Old Certificates") shall be entitled to receive upon surrender of such
Old Certificates to the Corporation or its stock transfer agent for
cancellation, a certificate or certificates ("New Certificates") representing
the number of shares of Common Stock into which and for which shares of Class A
Common Stock formerly represented by such Old Certificates so surrendered are
combined and reclassified. From and after the Effective Time, Old Certificates
shall represent only the right to receive New Certificates pursuant to the
provisions hereof.


                                   ARTICLE V.

                  The period of existence of the Corporation shall be perpetual.


                                   ARTICLE VI.

                  The number of members of the Board of Directors will be fixed
from time to time by resolution adopted by the affirmative vote of a majority of
the entire Board of Directors but (subject to vacancies) in no event may there
be less than three directors.

                  The Directors shall be divided into three classes, each
consisting of one-third of such directors, as nearly as may be. In 1999, the
stockholders shall designate that one class of directors shall be elected for a
one-year term, one class for a two-year term and one class for a three-year
term. Commencing with the stockholders' meeting in 2000, and at each succeeding
annual stockholders' meeting, successors to the class of directors whose term
expires at such annual stockholders' meeting shall be elected for a three-year
term. If the number of such directors is changed, an increase or decrease in
such directors shall be apportioned among the classes so as to maintain the
number of directors comprising each class as nearly equal as possible, and any
additional directors of any class shall hold office for a term which shall
coincide with the remaining term of such class. A director shall hold office
until the annual stockholders' meeting for the year in which his term expires
and until his successor shall be elected and shall qualify, subject, however, to
prior death, resignation, retirement, disqualification, or removal from office.


                                      -4-
<PAGE>   5


                  Except as otherwise required by law, any vacancy on the board
of directors that results from an increase in the number of directors shall be
filled only by a majority of the board of directors then in office, provided
that a quorum is present, and any other vacancy occurring in the board of
directors shall be filled by a majority of the directors then in office, even if
less than a quorum, or by a sole remaining director. Any director elected to
fill a vacancy not resulting from an increase in the number of directors shall
have the same remaining term as that of his or her predecessor. A director may
be removed only for cause by the stockholders.

                  Notwithstanding the foregoing, whenever the holders of any one
or more classes or series of stock issued by the Corporation shall have the
right, voting separately by class or series, to elect directors at an annual or
special meeting of stockholders, the election, term of office, filling of
vacancies and other features of such directorships shall be governed by the
terms of this Restated Certificate of Incorporation applicable thereto and such
directors so elected shall not be divided into classes pursuant to this Article
VI, in each case unless expressly provided by such terms.


                                  ARTICLE VII.

                  In furtherance and not in limitation of the powers conferred
by statute, the Board of Directors is expressly authorized to adopt, amend or
repeal the By-laws of the Corporation.


                                  ARTICLE VIII.

                  Meetings of stockholders may be held within or without the
State of Delaware as the By-laws may provide. The books of the Corporation may
be kept (subject to any provision contained in the statutes) outside the State
of Delaware at such place or places as may be designated from time to time by
the Board of Directors or in the By-laws of the Corporation. Elections of
directors need not be by written ballot unless the By-laws of the Corporation
shall so provide.


                                   ARTICLE IX.

                  The Corporation reserves the right to amend, alter, change or
repeal any provision contained in this Restated Certificate of Incorporation, in
the manner now or hereafter prescribed by statute, and all rights conferred upon
stockholders herein are granted subject to this reservation.


                                   ARTICLE X.

                  (a) The personal liability of the directors of the Corporation
is hereby eliminated to the fullest extent permitted by Section 102(b)(7) of the
General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware, as the same may be amended and
supplemented. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, no director
shall be personally liable to the Corporation or any of its



                                      -5-
<PAGE>   6


stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director,
except for liability (i) for any breach of the director's duty of loyalty to the
Corporation or its stockholders, (ii) for acts or omissions not in good faith or
which involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law, (iii)
pursuant to Section 174 of the Delaware General Corporation Law, or (iv) for any
transaction from which the director derived an improper personal benefit.

                  (b) The Corporation shall indemnify and hold harmless, to the
fullest extent permitted by applicable law as it presently exists or may
hereafter be amended, any person who was or is made or is threatened to be made
a party or is otherwise involved in any action, suit or proceeding, whether
civil, criminal, administrative or investigative (a "proceeding") by reason of
the fact that he, or a person for whom he is the legal representative, is or was
a director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation or is or was serving
at the request of the Corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of
another corporation or of a partnership, joint venture, trust, enterprise or
non-profit entity, including service with respect to employee benefit plans,
against all liability and loss suffered and expenses reasonably incurred by such
person. The Corporation shall be required to indemnify a person in connection
with a proceeding initiated by such person only if the proceeding was authorized
by the Board of Directors of the Corporation. The rights to indemnification and
advancement of expenses conferred by this Article shall be presumed to have been
relied upon by directors and officers of the Corporation in serving or
continuing to serve the Corporation and shall be enforceable as contract rights.
Said rights shall not be exclusive of any other rights to which those seeking
indemnification may otherwise be entitled. The Corporation may enter into
contracts to provide such persons with specific rights to indemnification, which
contracts may confer rights and protections to the maximum extent permitted by
the Delaware General Corporation Law. The Corporation may create trust funds,
grant security interests, obtain letters of credit, or use other means to ensure
payment of such amounts as may be necessary to perform the obligations provided
for in this Article or in any such contract.

                  (c) Any repeal or modification of this Article X by the
stockholders of the Corporation shall not adversely affect any right or
protection of a director of the Corporation existing at the time of such repeal
or modification with respect to acts or omissions occurring prior to such repeal
or modification.


                                   ARTICLE XI.

                  The stockholders of the Corporation shall have no authority to
call a special meeting of the stockholders, subject to the rights of the holders
of any class or series of capital stock having a preference over the Common
Stock and Class B Common Stock as to dividends or upon liquidation.

                                  ARTICLE XII.

                  No action required to be taken or which may be taken at any
annual or special meeting of stockholders of the Corporation may be taken
without a meeting; and the power of the 



                                      -6-
<PAGE>   7


stockholders to consent in writing, without a meeting, to the taking of any
action is specifically denied.

                  FOURTH: The foregoing amendment and restatement of the
Certificate of Incorporation has been approved by the Board of Directors of the
Corporation.

                  FIFTH: The foregoing amendment and restatement of the
Certificate of Incorporation has been duly adopted in accordance with the
provisions of Sections 242 and 245 of the General Corporation Law of the State
of Delaware.

                  IN WITNESS WHEREOF, WESCO International, Inc. has caused this
Restated Certificate of Incorporation to be signed and attested this _____ day
of May, 1999.

Attest:                                           WESCO INTERNATIONAL, INC.


By:____________________________                   By:___________________________
Title:_________________________                   Title:________________________



                                      -7-

<PAGE>   1

                                                                     Exhibit 3.4




                                     FORM OF




                            WESCO International, Inc.




                                     BY-LAWS




                     As amended and restated on May __, 1999


<PAGE>   2


                               TABLE OF CONTENTS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SECTION                                                                                                        PAGE
<S>                                                                                                            <C>
ARTICLE I  STOCKHOLDERS...........................................................................................1

   Section 1.01.  Annual Meetings.................................................................................1
   Section 1.02.  Special Meetings................................................................................1
   Section 1.03.  Notice of Meetings; Waiver......................................................................1
   Section 1.04.  Quorum..........................................................................................1
   Section 1.05.  Voting..........................................................................................2
   Section 1.06.  Voting by Ballot................................................................................2
   Section 1.07.  Adjournment.....................................................................................2
   Section 1.08.  Proxies.........................................................................................2
   Section 1.09.  Organization; Procedure.........................................................................3
   Section 1.10.  Consent of Stockholders in Lieu of Meeting......................................................3

ARTICLE II  BOARD OF DIRECTORS....................................................................................3

   Section 2.01.  General Powers..................................................................................3
   Section 2.02.  Number and Term of Office; Vacancies and Newly Created Directorships............................3
   Section 2.03.  Election of Directors...........................................................................4
   Section 2.04.  Annual and Regular Meetings.....................................................................4
   Section 2.05.  Special Meetings; Notice........................................................................4
   Section 2.06.  Quorum; Voting..................................................................................5
   Section 2.07.  Adjournment.....................................................................................5
   Section 2.08.  Action Without a Meeting........................................................................5
   Section 2.09.  Regulations; Manner of Acting...................................................................5
   Section 2.10.  Action by Telephonic Communications.............................................................5
   Section 2.11.  Resignations....................................................................................5
   Section 2.12.  Removal of Directors............................................................................5
   Section 2.13.  Compensation....................................................................................6
   Section 2.14.  Reliance on Accounts and Reports, etc...........................................................6
   Section 2.15.  Nomination of Directors.........................................................................6

ARTICLE III  EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE AND OTHER COMMITTEES.............................................................6

   Section 3.01.  How Constituted.................................................................................6
   Section 3.02.  Powers..........................................................................................7
   Section 3.03.  Proceedings.....................................................................................7
   Section 3.04.  Quorum and Manner of Acting.....................................................................7
   Section 3.05.  Action by Telephonic Communications.............................................................7
   Section 3.06.  Absent or Disqualified Members..................................................................7
</TABLE>


                                      -i-
<PAGE>   3


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SECTION                                                                                                        PAGE
<S>                                                                                                            <C>
   Section 3.07.  Resignations....................................................................................7
   Section 3.08.  Removal.........................................................................................8
   Section 3.09.  Vacancies.......................................................................................8

ARTICLE IV  OFFICERS..............................................................................................8

   Section 4.01.  Number..........................................................................................8
   Section 4.02.  Election........................................................................................8
   Section 4.03.  Salaries........................................................................................8
   Section 4.04.  Removal and Resignation; Vacancies..............................................................8
   Section 4.05.  Authority and Duties of Officers................................................................8
   Section 4.06.  The Chairman....................................................................................8
   Section 4.07.  The President...................................................................................9
   Section 4.08.  The Vice Presidents.............................................................................9
   Section 4.09.  The Secretary...................................................................................9
   Section 4.10.  The Treasurer..................................................................................10
   Section 4.11.  Additional Officers............................................................................11

ARTICLE V  CAPITAL STOCK.........................................................................................11

   Section 5.01.  Certificates of Stock..........................................................................11
   Section 5.02.  Signatures; Facsimile..........................................................................11
   Section 5.03.  Lost, Stolen or Destroyed Certificates.........................................................11
   Section 5.04.  Transfer of Stock..............................................................................11
   Section 5.05.  Record Date....................................................................................12
   Section 5.06.  Registered Stockholders........................................................................12
   Section 5.07.  Transfer Agent and Registrar...................................................................12

ARTICLE VI  INDEMNIFICATION......................................................................................13

   Section 6.01.  Nature of Indemnity............................................................................13
   Section 6.02.  Successful Defense.............................................................................13
   Section 6.03.  Determination That Indemnification Is Proper...................................................13
   Section 6.04.  Advance Payment of Expenses....................................................................14
   Section 6.05.  Procedure for Indemnification of Directors and Officers........................................14
   Section 6.06.  Survival; Preservation of Other Rights.........................................................15
   Section 6.07.  Insurance......................................................................................15
   Section 6.08.  Severability...................................................................................15

ARTICLE VII  OFFICES.............................................................................................15

   Section 7.01.  Registered Office..............................................................................15
   Section 7.02.  Other Offices..................................................................................16

ARTICLE VIII  GENERAL PROVISIONS.................................................................................16
</TABLE>


                                      -ii-
<PAGE>   4


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SECTION                                                                                                        PAGE
<S>                                                                                                            <C>
   Section 8.01.  Dividends......................................................................................16
   Section 8.02.  Reserves.......................................................................................16
   Section 8.03.  Execution of Instruments.......................................................................16
   Section 8.04.  Corporate Indebtedness.........................................................................16
   Section 8.05.  Deposits.......................................................................................17
   Section 8.06.  Checks.........................................................................................17
   Section 8.07.  Sale, Transfer, etc. of Securities.............................................................17
   Section 8.08.  Voting as Stockholder..........................................................................17
   Section 8.09.  Fiscal Year....................................................................................17
   Section 8.10.  Seal...........................................................................................17
   Section 8.11.  Books and Records; Inspection..................................................................17

ARTICLE IX  AMENDMENT OF BY-LAWS.................................................................................18

   Section 9.01.  Amendment......................................................................................18

ARTICLE X  CONSTRUCTION..........................................................................................18

   Section 10.01. Construction...................................................................................18
</TABLE>

                                     -iii-

<PAGE>   5


                            WESCO International, Inc.

                                     BY-LAWS

                     As amended and restated on May __, 1999


                                    ARTICLE I

                                  STOCKHOLDERS

                  Section 1.01. Annual Meetings. The annual meeting of the
stockholders of the Corporation for the election of Directors and for the
transaction of such other business as properly may come before such meeting
shall be held at such place, either within or without the State of Delaware, as
may be fixed from time to time by resolution of the Board of Directors and set
forth in the notice or waiver of notice of the meeting.

                  Section 1.02. Special Meetings. Special meetings of the
stockholders may be called at any time by the Chairman or by the Board of
Directors. Such special meetings of the stockholders shall be held at such
places, within or without the State of Delaware, as shall be specified in the
respective notices or waivers of notice thereof.

                  Section 1.03. Notice of Meetings; Waiver. The Secretary or any
Assistant Secretary shall cause written notice of the place, date and hour of
each meeting of the stockholders, and, in the case of a special meeting, the
purpose or purposes for which such meeting is called, to be given personally or
by mail, not less than ten nor more than sixty days prior to the meeting, to
each stockholder of record entitled to vote at such meeting. If such notice is
mailed, it shall be deemed to have been given to a stockholder when deposited in
the United States mail, postage prepaid, directed to the stockholder at his
address as it appears on the record of stockholders of the Corporation, or, if
he shall have filed with the Secretary of the Corporation a written request that
notices to him be mailed to some other address, then directed to him at such
other address. Such further notice shall be given as may be required by law.

                  No notice of any meeting of stockholders need be given to any
stockholder who submits a signed waiver of notice, whether before or after the
meeting. Neither the business to be transacted at, nor the purpose of, any
regular or special meeting of the stockholders need be specified in a written
waiver of notice. The attendance of any stockholder at a meeting of stockholders
shall constitute a waiver of notice of such meeting, except when the stockholder
attends a meeting for the express purpose of objecting, at the beginning of the
meeting, to the transaction of any business on the ground that the meeting is
not lawfully called or convened.

                  Section 1.04. Quorum. Except as otherwise required by law or
by the Certificate of Incorporation, the presence in person or by proxy of the
holders of record of a majority of the shares entitled to vote at a meeting of
stockholders shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at such
meeting.


<PAGE>   6


                  Section 1.05. Voting. If, pursuant to Section 5.05 of these
By-Laws, a record date has been fixed, every holder of record of shares entitled
to vote at a meeting of stockholders shall be entitled to one vote for each
share outstanding in his name on the books of the Corporation at the close of
business on such record date. If no record date has been fixed, then every
holder of record of shares entitled to vote at a meeting of stockholders shall
be entitled to one vote for each share of stock standing in his name on the
books of the Corporation at the close of business on the day next preceding the
day on which notice of the meeting is given, or, if notice is waived, at the
close of business on the day next preceding the day on which the meeting is
held. Except as otherwise required by law or by the Certificate of
Incorporation, the vote of a majority of the shares represented in person or by
proxy at any meeting at which a quorum is present shall be sufficient for the
transaction of any business at such meeting.

                  Section 1.06. Voting by Ballot. No vote of the stockholders
need be taken by written ballot or conducted by Inspectors of Elections unless
otherwise required by law. Any vote which need not be taken by ballot may be
conducted in any manner approved by the meeting.

                  Section 1.07. Adjournment. If a quorum is not present at any
meeting of the stockholders, the stockholders present in person or by proxy
shall have the power to adjourn any such meeting from time to time until a
quorum is present. Notice of any adjourned meeting of the stockholders of the
Corporation need not be given if the place, date and hour thereof are announced
at the meeting at which the adjournment is taken, provided, however, that if the
adjournment is for more than thirty days, or if after the adjournment a new
record date for the adjourned meeting is fixed pursuant to Section 5.05 of these
By-Laws, a notice of the adjourned meeting, conforming to the requirements of
Section 1.03 hereof, shall be given to each stockholder of record entitled to
vote at such meeting. At any adjourned meeting at which a quorum is present, any
business may be transacted that might have been transacted on the original date
of the meeting.

                  Section 1.08. Proxies. Any stockholder entitled to vote at any
meeting of the stockholders or to express consent to or dissent from corporate
action without a meeting may authorize another person or persons to vote at any
such meeting and express such consent or dissent for him by proxy. A stockholder
may authorize a valid proxy by executing a written instrument signed by such
stockholder, or by causing his or her signature to be affixed to such writing by
any reasonable means including, but not limited to, by facsimile signature, or
by transmitting or authorizing an electronic transmission to the person
designated as the holder of the proxy, a proxy solicitation firm or a like
authorized agent. No such proxy shall be voted or acted upon after the
expiration of three years from the date of such proxy, unless such proxy
provides for a longer period. Every proxy shall be revocable at the pleasure of
the stockholder executing it, except in those cases where applicable law
provides that a proxy shall be irrevocable. A stockholder may revoke any proxy
which is not irrevocable by attending the meeting and voting in person or by
filing an instrument in writing revoking the proxy or by filing another duly
executed proxy bearing a later date with the Secretary. Proxies by electronic
transmission must either set forth or be submitted with information from which
it can be determined that the electronic transmission was authorized by the
stockholder. Any copy, facsimile telecommunication or other reliable
reproduction of a writing or transmission created pursuant to this section may
be substituted or used in lieu of the original writing or transmission for any
and all purposes for 



                                      -2-
<PAGE>   7


which the original writing or transmission could be used, provided that such
copy, facsimile telecommunication or other reproduction shall be a complete
reproduction of the entire original writing or transmission.

                  Section 1.09. Organization; Procedure. At every meeting of
stockholders the presiding officer shall be the Chairman or, in the event of his
absence or disability, a presiding officer chosen by a majority of the Board of
Directors. The Secretary, or in the event of his absence or disability, the
Assistant Secretary, if any, or if there be no Assistant Secretary, in the
absence of the Secretary, an appointee of the presiding officer, shall act as
Secretary of the meeting. The order of business and all other matters of
procedure at every meeting of stockholders may be determined by such presiding
officer.

                  Section 1.10. Consent of Stockholders in Lieu of Meeting. No
action required to be taken or which may be taken at any annual or special
meeting of stockholders of the Corporation may be taken without a meeting; and
the power of stockholders to consent in writing, without a meeting, to the
taking of any action is specifically denied.


                                   ARTICLE II

                               BOARD OF DIRECTORS

                  Section 2.01. General Powers. Except as may otherwise be
provided by law, by the Certificate of Incorporation or by these By-Laws, the
property, affairs and business of the Corporation shall be managed by or under
the direction of the Board of Directors and the Board of Directors may exercise
all the powers of the Corporation.

                  Section 2.02. Number and Term of Office; Vacancies and Newly
Created Directorships. The number of members of the Board of Directors will be
fixed from time to time by resolution adopted by the affirmative vote of a
majority of the entire Board of Directors, but (subject to vacancies) in no
event may there be less than three Directors.

                  The Directors shall be divided into three classes, each
consisting of one-third of such Directors, as nearly as may be. In 1999, the
stockholders shall designate that one class of such Directors shall be elected
for a one-year term, one class for a two-year term and one class for a
three-year term. Commencing with the stockholders' meeting in 2000, and at each
succeeding annual stockholders' meeting, successors to the class of Directors
whose term expires at such annual stockholders' meeting shall be elected for a
three-year term. If the number of such Directors is changed, by a majority vote
of the Board of Directors then in office, an increase or decrease in such
Directors shall be apportioned among the classes so as to maintain the number of
Directors comprising each class as nearly equal as possible, and any additional
Directors of any class shall hold office for a term which shall coincide with
the remaining term of such class. A director shall hold office until the annual
stockholders' meeting for the year in which his term expires and until his
successor shall be elected and shall qualify, subject, however, to prior death,
resignation, retirement, disqualification, or removal from office.


                                      -3-
<PAGE>   8


                  Except as otherwise required by law, any vacancy on the Board
of Directors that results from an increase in the number of Directors shall be
filled only by a majority vote of the Board of Directors then in office,
provided that a quorum is present, and any other vacancy occurring in the Board
of Directors shall be filled by a majority of the Directors then in office, even
if less than a quorum, or by a sole remaining director. Any director elected to
fill a vacancy not resulting from an increase in the number of Directors shall
have the same remaining term as that of his or her predecessor. A director may
be removed only for cause by the stockholders.

                  Notwithstanding the foregoing, whenever the holders of any one
or more classes or series of stock issued by the Corporation shall have the
right, voting separately by class or series, to elect Directors at an annual or
special meeting of stockholders, the election, term of office, filling of
vacancies and other features of such directorships shall be governed by the
terms of this Restated Certificate of Incorporation applicable thereto and such
Directors so elected shall not be divided into classes pursuant to this Article
VI, in each case unless expressly provided by such terms.

                  Section 2.03. Election of Directors. Except as otherwise
provided in these By-Laws, the Directors shall be elected at each annual meeting
of the stockholders. If the annual meeting for the election of Directors is not
held on the date designated therefor, the Directors shall cause the meeting to
be held as soon thereafter as convenient. At each meeting of the stockholders
for the election of Directors, provided a quorum is present, the Directors shall
be elected by a plurality of the votes validly cast in such election.

                  Section 2.04. Annual and Regular Meetings. The annual meeting
of the Board of Directors for the purpose of electing officers and for the
transactions of such other business as may come before the meeting shall be held
as soon as possible following adjournment of the annual meeting of the
stockholders at the place of such annual meeting of the stockholders. Notice of
such annual meeting of the Board of Directors need not be given. The Board of
Directors from time to time may by resolution provide for the holding of regular
meetings and fix the place (which may be within or without the state of
Delaware) and the date and hour of such meetings. Notice of regular meetings
need not be given, provided, however, that if the Board of Directors shall fix
or change the time or place of any regular meeting, notice of such action shall
be sent by regular mail or facsimile, to each Director who shall not have been
present at the meeting at which such action was taken, addressed to him at his
usual place of business, or shall be delivered to him personally. Notice of such
action need not be given to any Director who attends the first regular meeting
after such action is taken without protesting the lack of notice to him, prior
to or at the commencement of such meeting, or to any Director who submits a
signed waiver of notice, whether before or after such meeting.

                  Section 2.05. Special Meetings; Notice. Special meetings of
the Board of Directors shall be held whenever called by the Chairman or, in the
event of his absence or disability, by a majority of the Board of Directors, at
such place (within or without the State of Delaware), date and hour as may be
specified in the respective notices or waivers of notice of such meetings.
Special meetings of the Board of Directors may be called on 48 hours' notice, if
notice is given to each Director personally or by telephone, regular mail, or on
five days' notice, if notice is mailed by overnight delivery service to each
Director, addressed to him at his usual place 



                                      -4-
<PAGE>   9


of business. Notice of any special meeting need not be given to any Director who
attends such meeting without protesting the lack of notice to him, prior to or
at the commencement of such meeting, or to any Director who submits a signed
waiver of notice, whether before or after such meeting, and any business may be
transacted thereat.

                  Section 2.06. Quorum; Voting. At all meetings of the Board of
Directors, the presence of a majority of the total authorized number of
Directors shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. Except as
otherwise required by law, the vote of a majority of the Directors present at
any meeting at which a quorum is present shall be the act of the Board of
Directors.

                  Section 2.07. Adjournment. A majority of the Directors
present, whether or not a quorum is present, may adjourn any meeting of the
Board of Directors to another time or place. No notice need be given of any
adjourned meeting unless the time and place of the adjourned meeting are not
announced at the time of adjournment, in which case notice conforming to the
requirements of Section 2.05 shall be given to each Director.

                  Section 2.08. Action Without a Meeting. Any action required or
permitted to be taken at any meeting of the Board of Directors may be taken
without a meeting if all members of the Board of Directors consent thereto in
writing, and such writing or writings are filed with the minutes of proceedings
of the Board of Directors.

                  Section 2.09. Regulations; Manner of Acting. To the extent
consistent with applicable law, the Certificate of Incorporation and these
By-Laws, the Board of Directors may adopt such rules and regulations for the
conduct of meetings of the Board of Directors and for the management of the
property, affairs and business of the Corporation as the Board of Directors may
deem appropriate. The Directors shall act only as a Board, and the individual
Directors shall have no power as such.

                  Section 2.10. Action by Telephonic Communications. Members of
the Board of Directors may participate in a meeting of the Board of Directors by
means of conference telephone or similar communications equipment by means of
which all persons participating in the meeting can hear each other, and
participation in a meeting pursuant to this provision shall constitute presence
in person at such meeting.

                  Section 2.11. Resignations. Any Director may resign at any
time by delivering a written notice of resignation, signed by such Director, to
the President or the Secretary. Unless otherwise specified therein, such
resignation shall take effect upon delivery.

                  Section 2.12. Removal of Directors. Any Director may be
removed at any time, either for or without cause, upon the affirmative vote of
the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of stock of the Corporation
entitled to vote for the election of such Director, cast at a special meeting of
stockholders called for the purpose. Any vacancy in the Board of Directors
caused by any such removal may be filled at such meeting by the stockholders
entitled to vote for the election of the Director so removed. If such
stockholders do not fill such vacancy at such meeting, such vacancy may be
filled in the manner provided in these By-Laws.


                                      -5-
<PAGE>   10


                  Section 2.13. Compensation. The amount, if any, which each
Director shall be entitled to receive as compensation for his services as such
shall be determined from time to time by resolution of the Board of Directors.

                  Section 2.14. Reliance on Accounts and Reports, etc. A
Director, or a member of any Committee designated by the Board of Directors
shall, in the performance of his duties, be fully protected in relying in good
faith upon the records of the Corporation and upon information, opinions,
reports or statements presented to the Corporation by any of the Corporation's
officers or employees, or Committees designated by the Board of Directors, or by
any other person as to the matters the member reasonably believes are within
such other person's professional or expert competence and who has been selected
with reasonable care by or on behalf of the Corporation.

                  Section 2.15. Nomination of Directors. In addition to the
right of the Board of Directors of the Corporation to make nominations for the
election of Directors, nominations for the election of Directors may be made by
any stockholder entitled to vote for the election of Directors. Advance written
notice of such proposed nomination shall be received by the Secretary of the
Corporation by certified mail no later than (i) 90 days prior to the anniversary
of the previous year's annual meeting of stockholders, or (ii) with respect to
an election to be held at a special meeting of stockholders or at an annual
meeting that is held more than 70 days prior to the anniversary of the previous
year's annual meeting, the close of business on the tenth day following the date
on which notice of such meeting is first given to the stockholders. Each such
notice shall set forth (i) the name, age, business address and, if known,
residence address of each nominee proposed in such notice, (ii) the principal
occupation of employment of each such nominee, and (iii) the number of shares of
stock of the Corporation which are beneficially owned by each such nominee. In
addition, the stockholder making such nomination shall promptly provide any
other information reasonably requested by the Corporation.


                                   ARTICLE III

                    EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE AND OTHER COMMITTEES

                  Section 3.01. How Constituted. The Board of Directors may, by
resolution adopted by a majority of the whole Board, designate one or more
Committees, including an Executive Committee, each such Committee to consist of
such number of Directors as from time to time may be fixed by the Board of
Directors. The Board of Directors may designate one or more Directors as
alternate members of any such Committee, who may replace any absent or
disqualified member or members at any meeting of such Committee. Thereafter,
members (and alternate members, if any) of each such Committee may be designated
at the annual meeting of the Board of Directors. Any such Committee may be
abolished or re-designated from time to time by the Board of Directors. Each
member (and each alternate member) of any such Committee (whether designated at
an annual meeting of the Board of Directors or to fill a vacancy or otherwise)
shall hold office until his successor shall have been designated or until he
shall cease to be a Director, or until his earlier death, resignation or
removal.


                                      -6-
<PAGE>   11


                  Section 3.02. Powers. During the intervals between the
meetings of the Board of Directors, the Executive Committee, except as otherwise
provided in this section, shall have and may exercise all the powers and
authority of the Board of Directors in the management of the property, affairs
and business of the Corporation. Each such other Committee, except as otherwise
provided in this Section, shall have and may exercise such powers of the Board
of Directors as may be provided by resolution or resolutions of the Board of
Directors, subject to applicable provisions of the General Corporation Law of
the State of Delaware. The Executive Committee shall have, and any such other
Committee may be granted by the Board of Directors, power to authorize the seal
of the Corporation to be affixed to any or all papers which may require it.

                  Section 3.03. Proceedings. Each such Committee may fix its own
rules of procedure and may meet at such place (within or without the State of
Delaware), at such time and upon such notice, if any, as it shall determine from
time to time. Each such Committee shall keep minutes of its proceedings and
shall report such proceedings to the Board of Directors at the meeting of the
Board of Directors next following any such proceedings.

                  Section 3.04. Quorum and Manner of Acting. Except as may be
otherwise provided in the resolution creating such Committee, at all meetings of
any Committee the presence of members (or alternate members) constituting a
majority of the total authorized membership of such Committee shall constitute a
quorum for the transaction of business. The act of the majority of the members
present at any meeting at which a quorum is present shall be the act of such
Committee. Any action required or permitted to be taken at any meeting of any
such Committee may be taken without a meeting, if all members of such Committee
shall consent to such action in writing and such writing or writings are filed
with the minutes of the proceedings of the Committee. The members of any such
Committee shall act only as a Committee, and the individual members of such
Committee shall have no power as such.

                  Section 3.05. Action by Telephonic Communications. Members of
any Committee designated by the Board of Directors may participate in a meeting
of such Committee by means of conference telephone or similar communications
equipment by means of which all persons participating in the meeting can hear
each other, and participation in a meeting pursuant to this provision shall
constitute presence in person at such meeting.

                  Section 3.06. Absent or Disqualified Members. In the absence
or disqualification of a member of any Committee, the member or members thereof
present at any meeting and not disqualified from voting, whether or not he or
they constitute a quorum, may unanimously appoint another member of the Board of
Directors to act at the meeting in the place of any such absent or disqualified
member.

                  Section 3.07. Resignations. Any member (and any alternate
member) of any Committee may resign at any time by delivering a written notice
of resignation, signed by such member, to the Chairman or the President. Unless
otherwise specified therein, such resignation shall take effect upon delivery.


                                      -7-
<PAGE>   12


                  Section 3.08. Removal. Any member (and any alternate member)
of any Committee may be removed at any time, either for or without cause, by
resolution adopted by a majority of the whole Board of Directors.

                  Section 3.09. Vacancies. If any vacancy shall occur in any
Committee, by reason of disqualification, death, resignation, removal or
otherwise, the remaining members (and any alternate members) shall continue to
act, and any such vacancy may be filled by the Board of Directors.


                                   ARTICLE IV

                                    OFFICERS

                  Section 4.01. Number. The officers of the Corporation shall be
chosen by the Board of Directors and shall be a Chairman of the Board of
Directors, a President, one or more Vice Presidents, a Secretary, a Treasurer
and such other officers as may be elected in accordance with Section 4.11
hereof. Any number of offices may be held by the same person. Except for the
Chairman of the Board who shall be a member of the Board of Directors, no
officer need be a Director of the Corporation.

                  Section 4.02. Election. Unless otherwise determined by the
Board of Directors, the officers of the Corporation shall be elected by the
Board of Directors at the annual meeting of the Board of Directors, and shall be
elected to hold office until the next succeeding annual meeting of the Board of
Directors. Each officer shall hold office until his successor has been elected
and qualified, or until his earlier death, resignation or removal.

                  Section 4.03. Salaries. The salaries of all officers and
agents of the Corporation shall be fixed by the Board of Directors.

                  Section 4.04. Removal and Resignation; Vacancies. Any officer
may be removed for or without cause at any time by the Board of Directors. Any
officer may resign at any time by delivering a written notice of resignation,
signed by such officer, to the Board of Directors or the President. Unless
otherwise specified therein, such resignation shall take effect upon delivery.
Any vacancy occurring in any office of the Corporation by death, resignation,
removal or otherwise, shall be filled by the Board of Directors.

                  Section 4.05. Authority and Duties of Officers. The officers
of the Corporation shall have such authority and shall exercise such powers and
perform such duties as may be specified in these By-Laws, except that in any
event each officer shall exercise such powers and perform such duties as may be
required by law.

                  Section 4.06. The Chairman. The Chairman, or, in the event of
his absence or disability, a presiding officer chosen by a majority of the Board
of Directors, shall preside at all meetings of the stockholders and of the Board
of Directors and shall perform such other duties as may from time to time be
assigned to him by the Board of Directors.


                                      -8-
<PAGE>   13


                  Section 4.07. The President. The President shall be the Chief
Executive Officer of the Corporation and shall have general control and
supervision of the policies and operations of the Corporation subject, however,
to the control of the Board of Directors. He shall manage and administer the
Corporation's business and affairs and shall also perform all duties and
exercise all powers usually pertaining to the office of a chief executive
officer of a corporation. He shall have the authority to sign, in the name and
on behalf of the Corporation, checks, orders, contracts, leases, notes, drafts
and other documents and instruments in connection with the business of the
Corporation, and together with the Secretary or an Assistant Secretary,
conveyances of real estate and other documents and instruments to which the seal
of the Corporation is affixed. He shall have the authority to cause the
employment or appointment of such employees and agents of the Corporation as the
conduct of the business of the Corporation may require, to fix their
compensation, and to remove or suspend any employee or agent elected or
appointed by the President or the Board of Directors. The President shall
perform such other duties and have such other powers as the Board of Directors
or the Chairman may from time to time prescribe.

                  Section 4.08. The Vice Presidents. Each Vice President shall
perform such duties and exercise such powers as may be assigned to him from time
to time by the Board of Directors or the officer who is the Chief Executive
Officer. In the absence of the President, the duties of the President shall be
performed and his powers may be exercised by such Vice President as shall be
designated by the President, or failing such designation, such duties shall be
performed and such powers may be exercised by each Vice President in the order
of their earliest election to that office; subject in any case to review and
superseding action by the President.

                  In the case of a Vice President who is designated as the Chief
Financial Officer, he shall perform such duties and exercise such powers as may
be assigned to him from time to time by the Board of Directors or the officer
who is Chief Executive Officer, including without limitation, the power and duty
to render to the Board of Directors or the Chief Executive Officer, whenever
requested, a statement of the financial condition of the Corporation, and to
render a full financial report at the annual meeting of the stockholders, if
called upon to do so, and to require from all officers or agents of the
Corporation reports or statements giving such information as he may desire with
respect to any and all financial transactions of the Corporation.

                  Section 4.09. The Secretary. The Secretary shall have the
following powers and duties:

                  (a)      He shall keep or cause to be kept a record of all the
proceedings of the meetings of the stockholders and of the Board of Directors in
books provided for that purpose.

                  (b)      He shall cause all notices to be duly given in
accordance with the provisions of these By-Laws and as required by law.

                  (c)      Whenever any Committee shall be appointed pursuant to
a resolution of the Board of Directors, he shall furnish a copy of such
resolution to the members of such Committee.

                  (d)      He shall be the custodian of the records and of the
seal of the Corporation and cause such seal (or a facsimile thereof) to be
affixed to all certificates representing shares of 



                                      -9-
<PAGE>   14


the Corporation prior to the issuance thereof and to all instruments the
execution of which on behalf of the Corporation under its seal shall have been
duly authorized in accordance with these By-Laws, and when so affixed he may
attest the same.

                  (e)      He shall properly maintain and file all books,
reports, statements, certificates and all other documents and records required
by law, the Certificate of Incorporation or these By-Laws.

                  (f)      He shall have charge of the stock books and ledgers
of the Corporation and shall cause the stock and transfer books to be kept in
such manner as to show at any time the number of shares of stock of the
Corporation of each class issued and outstanding, the names (alphabetically
arranged) and the addresses of the holders of record of such shares, the number
of shares held by each holder and the date as of which each became such holder
of record.

                  (g)      He shall sign (unless the Treasurer, an Assistant
Treasurer or Assistant Secretary shall have signed) certificates representing
shares of the Corporation the issuance of which shall have been authorized by
the Board of Directors.

                  (h)      He shall perform, in general, all duties incident to
the office of secretary and such other duties as may be specified in these
By-Laws or as may be assigned to him from time to time by the Board of
Directors, or the President.

                  Section 4.10. The Treasurer. The Treasurer shall have the
following powers and duties:

                  (a)      He shall have charge and supervision over and be
responsible for the moneys, securities, receipts and disbursements of the
Corporation, and shall keep or cause to be kept full and accurate records of all
receipts of the Corporation.

                  (b)      He shall cause the moneys and other valuable effects
of the Corporation to be deposited in the name and to the credit of the
Corporation in such banks or trust companies or with such bankers or other
depositaries as shall be selected in accordance with Section 8.05 of these
By-Laws.

                  (c)      He shall cause the moneys of the Corporation to be
disbursed by checks or drafts (signed as provided in Section 8.06 of these
By-Laws) upon the authorized depositaries of the Corporation and cause to be
taken and preserved proper vouchers for all moneys disbursed.

                  (d)      He may sign (unless an Assistant Treasurer or the
Secretary or an Assistant Secretary shall have signed) certificates representing
stock of the Corporation the issuance of which shall have been authorized by the
Board of Directors.

                  (e)      He shall perform, in general, all duties incident to
the office of treasurer and such other duties as may be specified in these
By-Laws or as may be assigned to him from time to time by the Board of Directors
or the President.


                                      -10-
<PAGE>   15


                  Section 4.11. Additional Officers. The Board of Directors may
appoint such other officers and agents as it may deem appropriate, and such
other officers and agents shall hold their offices for such terms and shall
exercise such powers and perform such duties as may be determined from time to
time by the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors from time to time may
delegate to any officer or agent the power to appoint subordinate officers or
agents and to prescribe their respective rights, terms of office, authorities
and duties. Any such officer or agent may remove any such subordinate officer or
agent appointed by him, for or without cause.


                                    ARTICLE V

                                  CAPITAL STOCK

                  Section 5.01. Certificates of Stock. The shares of the
Corporation shall be represented by certificates, provided that the Board of
Directors may provide by resolution or resolutions that some or all of any or
all classes or series of the stock of the Corporation shall be uncertificated
shares. Any such resolution shall not apply to shares represented by a
certificate until each certificate is surrendered to the Corporation.
Notwithstanding the adoption of such a resolution by the Board of Directors,
every holder of stock in the Corporation represented by certificates and upon
request every holder of uncertificated shares shall be entitled to have a
certificate signed by, or in the name of the corporation, by the President or a
Vice President, and by the Treasurer or an Assistant Treasurer, or the Secretary
or an Assistant Secretary, representing the number of shares registered in
certificate form. Such certificate shall be in such form as the Board of
Directors may determine, to the extent consistent with applicable law, the
Certificate of Incorporation and these By-Laws.

                  Section 5.02. Signatures; Facsimile. All of such signatures on
the certificate may be a facsimile, engraved or printed, to the extent permitted
by law. In case any officer, transfer agent or registrar who has signed, or
whose facsimile signature has been placed upon a certificate shall have ceased
to be such officer, transfer agent or registrar before such certificate is
issued, it may be issued by the Corporation with the same effect as if he were
such officer, transfer agent or registrar at the date of issue.

                  Section 5.03. Lost, Stolen or Destroyed Certificates. The
Board of Directors may direct that a new certificate be issued in place of any
certificate therefore issued by the Corporation alleged to have been lost,
stolen or destroyed, upon delivery to the Board of Directors of an affidavit of
the owner or owners of such certificate, setting forth such allegation. The
Board of Directors may require the owner of such lost, stolen or destroyed
certificate, or his legal representative, to give the Corporation a bond
sufficient to indemnify it against any claim that may be made against it on
account of the alleged loss, theft or destruction of any such certificate or the
issuance of any such new certificate.

                  Section 5.04. Transfer of Stock. Upon surrender to the
Corporation or the transfer agent of the Corporation of a certificate for
shares, duly endorsed or accompanied by appropriate evidence of succession,
assignment or authority to transfer, the Corporation shall issue a new
certificate to the person entitled thereto, cancel the old certificate and
record the 



                                      -11-
<PAGE>   16


transaction upon its books. Within a reasonable time after the transfer of
uncertificated stock, the Corporation shall send to the registered owner thereof
a written notice containing the information required to be set forth or stated
on certificates pursuant to Sections 151, 156, 202(a) or 218(a) of the General
Corporation Law of the State of Delaware. Subject to the provisions of the
Certificate of Incorporation and these By-Laws, the Board of Directors may
prescribe such additional rules and regulations as it may deem appropriate
relating to the issue, transfer and registration of shares of the Corporation.

                  Section 5.05. Record Date. In order to determine the
stockholders entitled to notice of or to vote at any meeting of stockholders or
any adjournment thereof, the Board of Directors may fix, in advance, a record
date, which record date shall not precede the date on which the resolution
fixing the record date is adopted by the Board of Directors, and which shall not
be more than sixty nor less than ten days before the date of such meeting. A
determination of stockholders of record entitled to notice of or to vote at a
meeting of stockholders shall apply to any adjournment of the meeting, provided,
however, that the Board of Directors may fix a new record date for the adjourned
meeting.

                  In order that the Corporation may determine the stockholders
entitled to receive payment of any dividend or other distribution or allotment
of any rights of the stockholders entitled to exercise any rights in respect of
any change, conversion or exchange of stock, or for the purpose of any other
lawful action, the Board of Directors may fix a record date, which record date
shall not precede the date upon which the resolution fixing the record date is
adopted, and which record date shall be not more than sixty days prior to such
action. If no record date is fixed, the record date for determining stockholders
for any such purpose shall be at the close of business on the day on which the
Board of Directors adopts the resolution relating thereto.

                  Section 5.06. Registered Stockholders. Prior to due surrender
of a certificate for registration of transfer, the Corporation may treat the
registered owner as the person exclusively entitled to receive dividends and
other distributions, to vote, to receive notice and otherwise to exercise all
the rights and powers of the owner of the shares represented by such
certificate, and the Corporation shall not be bound to recognize any equitable
or legal claim to or interest in such shares on the part of any other person,
whether or not the Corporation shall have notice of such claim or interests.
Whenever any transfer of shares shall be made for collateral security, and not
absolutely, it shall be so expressed in the entry of the transfer if, when the
certificates are presented to the Corporation for transfer or uncertificated
shares are requested to be transferred, both the transferor and transferee
request the Corporation to do so.

                  Section 5.07. Transfer Agent and Registrar. The Board of
Directors may appoint one or more transfer agents and one or more registrars,
and may require all certificates representing shares to bear the signature of
any such transfer agents or registrars.


                                      -12-
<PAGE>   17


                                   ARTICLE VI

                                 INDEMNIFICATION

                  Section 6.01. Nature of Indemnity. The Corporation shall
indemnify any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party
to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, whether
civil, criminal, administrative or investigative, by reason of the fact that he
is or was or has agreed to become a director or officer of the Corporation, or
is or was serving or has agreed to serve at the request of the Corporation as a
director or officer, of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust
or other enterprise, or by reason of any action alleged to have been taken or
omitted in such capacity, and may indemnify any person who was or is a party or
is threatened to be made a party to such an action, suit or proceeding by reason
of the fact that he is or was or has agreed to become an employee or agent of
the Corporation, or is or was serving or has agreed to serve at the request of
the Corporation as an employee or agent of another corporation, partnership,
joint venture, trust or other enterprise, against expenses (including attorneys'
fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably
incurred by him or on his behalf in connection with such action, suit or
proceeding and any appeal therefrom, if he acted in good faith and in a manner
he reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the
Corporation, and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding had no
reasonable cause to believe his conduct was unlawful; except that in the case of
an action or suit by or in the right of the Corporation to procure a judgment in
its favor (1) such indemnification shall be limited to expenses (including
attorneys' fees) actually and reasonably incurred by such person in the defense
or settlement of such action or suit, and (2) no indemnification shall be made
in respect of any claim, issue or matter as to which such person shall have been
adjudged to be liable to the Corporation unless and only to the extent that the
Delaware Court of Chancery or the court in which such action or suit was brought
shall determine upon application that, despite the adjudication of liability but
in view of all the circumstances of the case, such person is fairly and
reasonably entitled to indemnity for such expenses which the Delaware Court of
Chancery or such other court shall deem proper.

                  The termination of any action, suit or proceeding by judgment,
order, settlement, conviction, or upon a plea of nolo contendere or its
equivalent, shall not, of itself, create a presumption that the person did not
act in good faith and in a manner which he reasonably believed to be in or not
opposed to the best interests of the Corporation, and, with respect to any
criminal action or proceeding, had reasonable cause to believe that his conduct
was unlawful.

                  Section 6.02. Successful Defense. To the extent that a
director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation has been successful on
the merits or otherwise in defense of any action, suit or proceeding referred to
in Section 6.01 hereof or in defense of any claim, issue or matter therein, he
shall be indemnified against expenses (including attorneys' fees) actually and
reasonably incurred by him in connection therewith.

                  Section 6.03. Determination That Indemnification Is Proper.
Any indemnification of a director or officer of the Corporation under Section
6.01 hereof (unless ordered by a court) shall be made by the Corporation unless
a determination is made that indemnification of the director or officer is not
proper in the circumstances because he has not met the applicable



                                      -13-
<PAGE>   18


standard of conduct set forth in Section 6.01 hereof. Any indemnification of an
employee or agent of the Corporation under Section 6.01 hereof (unless ordered
by a court) may be made by the Corporation upon a determination that
indemnification of the employee or agent is proper in the circumstances because
he has met the applicable standard of conduct set forth in Section 6.01 hereof.
Any such determination shall be made (1) by the Board of Directors by a majority
vote of a quorum consisting of Directors who were not parties to such action,
suit or proceeding, or (2) if such a quorum is not obtainable, or, even if
obtainable, a quorum of disinterested Directors so directs, by independent legal
counsel in a written opinion, or (3) by the stockholders.

                  Section 6.04. Advance Payment of Expenses. Expenses (including
attorneys' fees) incurred by a director or officer in defending any civil,
criminal, administrative or investigative action, suit or proceeding shall be
paid by the Corporation in advance of the final disposition of such action, suit
or proceeding upon receipt of an undertaking by or on behalf of the director or
officer to repay such amount if it shall ultimately be determined that he is not
entitled to be indemnified by the Corporation as authorized in this Article.
Such expenses (including attorneys' fees) incurred by other employees and agents
may be so paid upon such terms and conditions, if any, as the Board of Directors
deems appropriate. The Board of Directors may authorize the Corporation's
counsel to represent such director, officer, employee or agent in any action,
suit or proceeding, whether or not the Corporation is a party to such action,
suit or proceeding.

                  Section 6.05. Procedure for Indemnification of Directors and
Officers. Any indemnification of a director or officer of the Corporation under
Sections 6.01 and 6.02, or advance of costs, charges and expenses to a director
or officer under Section 6.04 of this Article, shall be made promptly, and in
any event within 30 days, upon the written request of the director or officer.
If a determination by the Corporation that the director or officer is entitled
to indemnification pursuant to this Article is required, and the Corporation
fails to respond within sixty days to a written request for indemnity, the
Corporation shall be deemed to have approved such request. If the Corporation
denies a written request for indemnity or advancement of expenses, in whole or
in part, or if payment in full pursuant to such request is not made within 30
days, the right to indemnification or advances as granted by this Article shall
be enforceable by the director or officer in any court of competent
jurisdiction. Such person's costs and expenses incurred in connection with
successfully establishing his right to indemnification, in whole or in part, in
any such action shall also be indemnified by the Corporation. It shall be a
defense to any such action (other than an action brought to enforce a claim for
the advance of costs, charges and expenses under Section 6.04 of this Article
where the required undertaking, if any, has been received by the Corporation)
that the claimant has not met the standard of conduct set forth in Section 6.01
of this Article, but the burden of proving such defense shall be on the
Corporation. Neither the failure of the Corporation (including its Board of
Directors, its independent legal counsel, and its stockholders) to have made a
determination prior to the commencement of such action that indemnification of
the claimant is proper in the circumstances because he has met the applicable
standard of conduct set forth in Section 6.01 of this Article, nor the fact that
there has been an actual determination by the Corporation (including its Board
of Directors, its independent legal counsel, and its stockholders) that the
claimant has not met such applicable standard of conduct, shall be a defense to
the action or create a presumption that the claimant has not met the applicable
standard of conduct.


                                      -14-
<PAGE>   19


                  Section 6.06. Survival; Preservation of Other Rights. The
foregoing indemnification provisions shall be deemed to be a contract between
the Corporation and each director, officer, employee and agent who serves in any
such capacity at any time while these provisions as well as the relevant
provisions of the Delaware General Corporation Law are in effect and any repeal
or modification thereof shall not affect any right or obligation then existing
with respect to any state of facts then or previously existing or any action,
suit or proceeding previously or thereafter brought or threatened based in whole
or in part upon any such state of facts. Such a "contract right" may not be
modified retroactively without the consent of such director, officer, employee
or agent.

                  The indemnification provided by this Article VI shall not be
deemed exclusive of any other rights to which those indemnified may be entitled
under any by-law, agreement, vote of stockholders or disinterested Directors or
otherwise, both as to action in his official capacity and as to action in
another capacity while holding such office, and shall continue as to a person
who has ceased to be a director, officer, employee or agent and shall inure to
the benefit of the heirs, executors and administrators of such a person.

                  Section 6.07. Insurance. The Corporation shall purchase and
maintain insurance on behalf of any person who is or was or has agreed to become
a director or officer of the Corporation, or is or was serving at the request of
the Corporation as a director or officer of another corporation, partnership,
joint venture, trust or other enterprise against any liability asserted against
him and incurred by him or on his behalf in any such capacity, or arising out of
his status as such, whether or not the Corporation would have the power to
indemnify him against such liability under the provisions of this Article,
provided that such insurance is available on acceptable terms, which
determination shall be made by a vote of a majority of the entire Board of
Directors.

                  Section 6.08. Severability. If this Article or any portion
hereof shall be invalidated on any ground by any court of competent
jurisdiction, then the Corporation shall nevertheless indemnify each director or
officer and may indemnify each employee or agent of the Corporation as to costs,
charges and expenses (including attorneys' fees), judgments, fines and amounts
paid in settlement with respect to any action, suit or proceeding, whether
civil, criminal, administrative or investigative, including an action by or in
the right of the Corporation, to the fullest extent permitted by any applicable
portion of this Article that shall not have been invalidated and to the fullest
extent permitted by applicable law.


                                   ARTICLE VII

                                     OFFICES

                  Section 7.01. Registered Office. The registered office of the
Corporation in the State of Delaware shall be located at Corporation Trust
Center, 1209 Orange Street in the City of Wilmington, County of New Castle.


                                      -15-
<PAGE>   20


                  Section 7.02. Other Offices. The Corporation may maintain
offices or places of business at such other locations within or without the
State of Delaware as the Board of Directors may from time to time determine or
as the business of the Corporation may require.


                                  ARTICLE VIII

                               GENERAL PROVISIONS

                  Section 8.01. Dividends. Subject to any applicable provisions
of law and the Certificate of Incorporation, dividends upon the shares of the
Corporation may be declared by the Board of Directors at any regular or special
meeting of the Board of Directors and any such dividend may be paid in cash,
property, or shares of the Corporation's Capital Stock.

                  A member of the Board of Directors, or a member of any
Committee designated by the Board of Directors shall be fully protected in
relying in good faith upon the records of the Corporation and upon such
information, opinions, reports or statements presented to the Corporation by any
of its officers or employees, or Committees of the Board of Directors, or by any
other person as to matters the Director reasonably believes are within such
other person's professional or expert competence and who has been selected with
reasonable care by or on behalf of the Corporation, as to the value and amount
of the assets, liabilities and/or net profits of the Corporation, or any other
facts pertinent to the existence and amount of surplus or other funds from which
dividends might properly be declared and paid.

                  Section 8.02. Reserves. There may be set aside out of any
funds of the Corporation available for dividends such sum or sums as the Board
of Directors from time to time, in its absolute discretion, thinks proper as a
reserve or reserves to meet contingencies, or for equalizing dividends, or for
repairing or maintaining any property of the Corporation or for such other
purpose as the Board of Directors shall think conducive to the interest of the
Corporation, and the Board of Directors may similarly modify or abolish any such
reserve.

                  Section 8.03. Execution of Instruments. The President, any
Vice President, the Secretary or the Treasurer may enter into any contract or
execute and deliver any instrument in the name and on behalf of the Corporation.
The Board of Directors or the President may authorize any other officer or agent
to enter into any contract or execute and deliver any instrument in the name and
on behalf of the Corporation. Any such authorization may be general or limited
to specific contracts or instruments.

                  Section 8.04. Corporate Indebtedness. No loan shall be
contracted on behalf of the Corporation, and no evidence of indebtedness shall
be issued in its name, unless authorized by the Board of Directors or the
President. Such authorization may be general or confined to specific instances.
Loans so authorized may be effected at any time for the Corporation from any
bank, trust company or other institution, or from any firm, corporation or
individual. All bonds, debentures, notes and other obligations or evidences of
indebtedness of the Corporation issued for such loans shall be made, executed
and delivered as the Board of Directors or the President shall authorize. When
so authorized by the Board of Directors or the President, any part of or all the

                                      -16-
<PAGE>   21


properties, including contract rights, assets, business or good will of the
Corporation, whether then owned or thereafter acquired, may be mortgaged,
pledged, hypothecated or conveyed or assigned in trust as security for the
payment of such bonds, debentures, notes and other obligations or evidences of
indebtedness of the Corporation, and of the interest thereon, by instruments
executed and delivered in the name of the Corporation.

                  Section 8.05. Deposits. Any funds of the Corporation may be
deposited from time to time in such banks, trust companies or other depositaries
as may be determined by the Board of Directors or the President, or by such
officers or agents as may be authorized by the Board of Directors or the
President to make such determination.

                  Section 8.06. Checks. All checks or demands for money and
notes of the Corporation shall be signed by such officer or officers or such
agent or agents of the Corporation, and in such manner, as the Board of
Directors or the President from time to time may determine.

                  Section 8.07. Sale, Transfer, etc. of Securities. To the
extent authorized by the Board of Directors or by the President, any Vice
President, the Secretary or the Treasurer or any other officers designated by
the Board of Directors or the President may sell, transfer, endorse, and assign
any shares of stock, bonds or other securities owned by or held in the name of
the Corporation, and may make, execute and deliver in the name of the
Corporation, under its corporate seal, any instruments that may be appropriate
to effect any such sale, transfer, endorsement or assignment.

                  Section 8.08. Voting as Stockholder. Unless otherwise
determined by resolution of the Board of Directors, the President or any Vice
President shall have full power and authority on behalf of the Corporation to
attend any meeting of stockholders of any corporation in which the Corporation
may hold stock, and to act, vote (or execute proxies to vote) and exercise in
person or by proxy all other rights, powers and privileges incident to the
ownership of such stock. Such officers acting on behalf of the Corporation shall
have full power and authority to execute any instrument expressing consent to or
dissent from any action of any such corporation without a meeting. The Board of
Directors may by resolution from time to time confer such power and authority
upon any other person or persons.

                  Section 8.09. Fiscal Year. The fiscal year of the Corporation
shall commence on the first day of January of each year (except for the
Corporation's first fiscal year which shall commence on the date of
incorporation) and shall terminate in each case on the last day of December.

                  Section 8.10. Seal. The seal of the Corporation shall be
circular in form and shall contain the name of the Corporation, the year of its
incorporation and the words "Corporate Seal" and "Delaware." The form of such
seal shall be subject to alteration by the Board of Directors. The seal may be
used by causing it or a facsimile thereof to be impressed, affixed or
reproduced, or may be used in any other lawful manner.

                  Section 8.11. Books and Records; Inspection. Except to the
extent otherwise required by law, the books and records of the Corporation shall
be kept at such place or places 



                                      -17-
<PAGE>   22


within or without the State of Delaware as may be determined from time to time
by the Board of Directors.


                                   ARTICLE IX

                              AMENDMENT OF BY-LAWS

                  Section 9.01. Amendment. These By-Laws may be amended, altered
or repealed

                  (a) by resolution adopted by a majority of the Board of
         Directors at any special or regular meeting of the Board if, in the
         case of such special meeting only, notice of such amendment, alteration
         or repeal is contained in the notice or waiver of notice of such
         meeting; or

                  (b) at any regular or special meeting of the stockholders if,
         in the case of such special meeting only, notice of such amendment,
         alteration or repeal is contained in the notice or waiver of notice of
         such meeting.


                                    ARTICLE X

                                  CONSTRUCTION

                  Section 10.01. Construction. In the event of any conflict
between the provisions of these By-Laws as in effect from time to time and the
provisions of the certificate of incorporation of the Corporation as in effect
from time to time, the provisions of such certificate of incorporation shall be
controlling.



                                      -18-

<PAGE>   1
                                                                     Exhibit 4.1


Number                     [WESCO LOGO]                Shares   
- ------                                                 ------


INCORPORATED UNDER THE LAWS                    THIS CERTIFICATE IS TRANSFERABLE
OF THE STATE OF DELAWARE                          IN




                           WESCO INTERNATIONAL, INC.

                                                       CUSIP


- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------

This certifies that



is the owner of

- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  FULLY PAID AND NONASSESSABLE SHARES OF THE COMMON STOCK, $0.01 PAR VALUE, OF


Wesco International, Inc. (the "Corporation") transferable on the books of the 
Corporation by the holder hereof in person or by its duly authorized attorney, 
upon surrender of this Certificate properly endorsed. This Certificate and the 
shares represented hereby are issued and shall be held subject to all of the 
provisions of the charter of the Corporation and the bylaws of the Corporation 
and any amendments thereto. This Certificate is not valid unless countersigned 
and registered by the Transfer Agent and Registrar.

In witness whereof, the Corporation causes this Certificate to be executed on
its behalf by its duly authorized officers.

                              CERTIFICATE OF STOCK


Dated:



COUNTERSIGNED AND REGISTERED:
CHASEMELLON SHAREHOLDER SERVICES

                                                   /s/ Roy W. Haley 
                    TRANSFER AGENT                 PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE
                     AND REGISTRAR                 OFFICER

                                        [SEAL]
BY:



                                                   /s/ Jeffrey B. Kramp, Esq.
                    AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE           SECRETARY AND GENERAL COUNSEL




<PAGE>   2


                           WESCO INTERNATIONAL, INC.

THE CORPORATION IS AUTHORIZED TO ISSUE MORE THAN ONE CLASS OR SERIES OF STOCK. 
A COPY OF THE DESIGNATIONS, PREFERENCES, POWERS, QUALIFICATIONS AND RIGHTS OF 
EACH CLASS OR SERIES WILL BE FURNISHED BY THE CORPORATION UPON WRITTEN REQUEST 
AND WITHOUT CHARGE.


     The following abbreviations, when used in the inscription on the face of
this certificate, shall be construed as though they were written out in full
according to applicable laws or regulations:

<TABLE>
<S>                                                              <C>
     TEN COM -- as tenants in common                              UNIF GIFT MIN ACT -- ___________Custodian______________
     TEN ENT -- as tenants by the entireties                                            (Cust)                 (Minor)
     JT TEN  -- as joint tenants with right of                                         Under Uniform Gifts to Minors
                survivorship and not as tenants                                        Act_______________________________
                in common                                                                          (State)
                                                                  UNIF TRF MIN ACT -- _________Custodian (until age______)
                                                                                       (Cust)    
                                                                                      ____________under Uniform Transfers
                                                                                       (Minor)
                                                                                      to Minors Act______________________
                                                                                                       (State)
</TABLE>

     Additional abbreviations may also be used though not in the above list.



For value received, ___________________ hereby sell, assign and transfer unto


PLEASE INSERT SOCIAL SECURITY OR OTHER
  IDENTIFYING NUMBER OF ASSIGNEE

- --------------------------------------



- --------------------------------------

_____________________________________________________________________________
(PLEASE PRINT OR TYPEWRITE NAME AND ADDRESS, INCLUDING ZIP CODE, OF ASSIGNEE)
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________ shares of the Common Stock 
represented by the within Certificate, and do hereby irrevocably constitute and 
appoint___________________________________________________________Attorney to 
transfer the said stock of Common Stock on the books of the within named 
Corporation with full power of substitution in the premises.

Dated______________________________






NOTICE: ____________________________________________________________________
        THE SIGNATURE TO THIS ASSIGNMENT MUST CORRESPOND WITH THE NAME AS
WRITTEN UPON THE FACE OF THIS CERTIFICATE IN EVERY PARTICULAR, WITHOUT
ALTERATION OR ENLARGEMENT OR ANY CHANGE WHATEVER.


Signature(s) Guaranteed:



By______________________________________________________________
THE SIGNATURE(S) SHOULD BE GUARANTEED BY AN ELIGIBLE GUARANTOR INSTITUTION 
(BANKS, STOCKBROKERS, SAVINGS AND LOAN ASSOCIATIONS AND CREDIT UNIONS WITH 
MEMBERSHIP IN AN APPROVED SIGNATURE GUARANTEE MEDALLION PROGRAM) PURSUANT TO 
S.E.C. RULE 17Ad-15.

<PAGE>   1

                                                                   Exhibit 10.22



                            WESCO INTERNATIONAL, INC.

                          1999 LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLAN


                                    ARTICLE I

                        PURPOSE AND ADOPTION OF THE PLAN

         1.01 PURPOSE. The purpose of the WESCO International, Inc. 1999
Long-Term Incentive Plan (as the same may be amended from time to time, the
"Plan") is to assist WESCO International, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the
"Company") and its Subsidiaries (as defined below) in attracting and retaining
highly competent key employees and to act as an incentive in motivating selected
key employees of the Company and its Subsidiaries (as defined below) to achieve
long-term corporate objectives.

         1.02 ADOPTION AND TERM. The Plan has been approved by the Board of
Directors of the Company (the "Board") and the stockholders of the Company to be
effective as of the effective date of Company's Registration Statement on Form
S-1, as filed with the Securities Exchange Commission in connection with the
initial public offering of the Company's Common Stock (the "Effective Date").
The Plan shall remain in effect until terminated by action of the Board;
provided, however, that no Incentive Stock Option (as defined below) may be
granted hereunder after the tenth anniversary of the Effective Date and the
provisions of Articles VII and VIII with respect to performance-based awards to
"covered employees" under Section 162(m) of the Code (as defined below) shall
expire as of the fifth anniversary of the Effective Date.


                                   ARTICLE II
                                        
                                  DEFINITIONS
                                        
         For the purposes of this Plan, capitalized terms shall have the
following meanings:

         2.01 ACCELERATED OWNERSHIP OPTIONS shall have the meaning given to such
term in Section 6.03.

         2.02 ACQUIRING CORPORATION shall have the meaning given to such term in
Section 9.08(b).

         2.03 AWARD means any grant to a Participant of one or a combination of
Non-Qualified Stock Options or Incentive Stock Options described in Article VI,
Restricted Shares described in Article VII and Performance Awards described in
Article VIII.

         2.04 AWARD AGREEMENT means a written agreement between the Company and
a Participant or a written notice from the Company to a Participant specifically
setting forth the terms and conditions of an Award granted under the Plan.

<PAGE>   2


         2.05 AWARD PERIOD means, with respect to an Award, the period of time
set forth in the Award Agreement during which specified target performance goals
must be achieved or other conditions set forth in the Award Agreement must be
satisfied.

         2.06 BENEFICIARY means an individual, trust or estate who or which, by
a written designation of the Participant filed with the Company or by operation
of law, succeeds to the rights and obligations of the Participant under the Plan
and an Award Agreement upon the Participant's death.

         2.07 BOARD shall have the meaning given to such term in Section 1.02.

         2.08 CHANGE IN CONTROL means the first to occur of the following events
after the Effective Date: (a) the acquisition by any person, entity or "group"
(as defined in Section 13(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as
amended), other than the Company, its Subsidiaries, any employee benefit plan of
the Company or its Subsidiaries, or Cypress Merchant Banking Partners L.P. or
any successor investment vehicle, of 30% or more of the combined voting power of
the Company's then outstanding voting securities; (b) the merger or
consolidation of the Company, as a result of which persons who were stockholders
of the Company immediately prior to such merger or consolidation, do not,
immediately thereafter, own, directly or indirectly, more than 70% of the
combined voting power entitled to vote generally in the election of directors of
the merged or consolidated company; (c) the liquidation or dissolution of the
Company; (d) the sale, transfer or other disposition of all or substantially all
of the assets of the Company to one or more persons or entities that are not,
immediately prior to such sale, transfer or other disposition, affiliates of the
Company; and (e) during any period of not more than two years, individuals who
constitute the Board as of the beginning of the period and any new director
(other than a director designated by a person who has entered into an agreement
with the Company to effect a transaction described in clause (a) or (b) of this
sentence) whose election by the Board or nomination for election by the
Company's stockholders was approved by a vote of at least two-thirds (2/3) of
the directors then still in office who were directors at such time or whose
election or nomination for election was previously so approved, cease for any
reason to constitute a majority of the Board.

         2.09 CODE means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.
References to a section of the Code include that section and any comparable
section or sections of any future legislation that amends, supplements or
supersedes said section.

         2.10 COMMITTEE means the Compensation Committee of the Board.

         2.11 COMPANY shall have the meaning given to such term in Section 1.01.

         2.12 COMMON STOCK means Common Stock of the Company.

         2.13 COMPANY VOTING SECURITIES means the combined voting power of all
outstanding securities of the Company entitled to vote generally in the election
of directors of the Company.

         2.14 DATE OF GRANT means the date as of which the Committee grants an
Award. If the Committee contemplates an immediate grant to a Participant, the
Date of Grant shall be the date of the Committee's action. If the Committee
contemplates a date on which the grant is to be made other than the date of the
Committee's action, the Date of Grant shall be the date so



                                       2
<PAGE>   3


contemplated and set forth in or determinable from the records of action of the
Committee; provided, however, that the Date of Grant shall not precede the date
of the Committee's action.

         2.15 EFFECTIVE DATE shall have the meaning given to such term in
Section 1.02.

         2.16 EXCHANGE ACT means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as
amended.

         2.17 EXERCISE PRICE shall have the meaning given to such term in
Section 6.01(b).

         2.18 EXTRAORDINARY TERMINATION shall have the meaning given to such
term in Section 6.02(e).

         2.19 FAIR MARKET VALUE means, as of any applicable date, the closing
price per share of the Common Stock as quoted in the NYSE-Composite Transactions
listing in The Wall Street Journal (or such other reliable publication as the
Committee, in its discretion, may determine to rely upon) for the date as of
which Fair Market Value is to be determined. If there are no sales on such date,
then Fair Market Value shall be the closing price per share of the Common Stock
as so quoted on the nearest date before the date as of which Fair Market Value
is to be determined on which there are sales. If the Common Stock is not listed
on the New York Stock Exchange on the date as of which Fair Market Value is to
be determined, the Committee shall in good faith determine the Fair Market Value
of the Common Stock on such date. Fair Market Value shall be determined without
regard to any restriction other than a restriction which, by its terms, will
never lapse. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the case of Options granted in
connection with the assumption by the Company of stock options of acquired
companies, as described in Section 9.08(c), the Committee may determine that the
term "Fair Market Value" shall have the same meaning as is given to such term
under the provisions of such assumed stock option.

         2.20 INCENTIVE STOCK OPTION means a stock option within the meaning of
Section 422 of the Code.

         2.21 MERGER means any merger, reorganization, consolidation, share
exchange, transfer of assets or other transaction having similar effect
involving the Company.

         2.22 NON-QUALIFIED STOCK OPTION means a stock option which is not an
Incentive Stock Option.

         2.23 OPTIONS means all Non-Qualified Stock Options and Incentive Stock
Options granted at any time under the Plan.

         2.24 ORIGINAL OPTION shall have the meaning given to such term in
Section 6.03.

         2.25 PARTICIPANT means a person designated to receive an Award under
the Plan in accordance with Section 5.01.

         2.26 PERFORMANCE AWARDS means Awards granted in accordance with Article
VIII.

         2.27 PERMANENT DISABILITY means a physical or mental disability or
infirmity that prevents the performance of a Participant's employment-related
duties lasting (or likely to last, based on competent medical evidence presented
to the Board) for a period of six months or longer. The Board's reasoned and
good faith judgment of Permanent Disability shall be final and shall be based



                                       3
<PAGE>   4


on such competent medical evidence as shall be presented to it by such
Participant or by any physician or group of physicians or other competent
medical expert employed by the Participant or the Company to advise the Board.

         2.28 PLAN shall have the meaning given to such term in Section 1.01.

         2.29 PRIOR PLANS shall have the meaning given to such term in Section
4.01.

         2.30 RESTRICTED SHARES means Common Stock subject to restrictions
imposed in connection with Awards granted under Article VII.

         2.31 RETIREMENT means a Participant's retirement at or after age 65.

         2.32 SUBSIDIARY means a subsidiary of the Company within the meaning of
Section 424(f) of the Code.


                                   ARTICLE III

                                 ADMINISTRATION

         3.01 COMMITTEE. The Plan shall be administered by the Committee. The
Committee shall have exclusive and final authority in each determination,
interpretation or other action affecting the Plan and its Participants. The
Committee shall have the sole discretionary authority to interpret the Plan, to
establish and modify administrative rules for the Plan, to impose such
conditions and restrictions on Awards as it determines appropriate, and to take
such steps in connection with the Plan and Awards granted hereunder as it may
deem necessary or advisable. The Committee may, subject to compliance with
applicable legal requirements, with respect to Participants who are not subject
to Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act or Section 162(m) of the Code, delegate
such of its powers and authority under the Plan as it deems appropriate to
designated officers or employees of the Company. In addition, the Board may
exercise any of the authority conferred upon the Committee hereunder. In the
event of any such delegation of authority or exercise of authority by the Board,
references in the Plan to the Committee shall be deemed to refer to the delegate
of the Committee or the Board, as the case may be.


                                   ARTICLE IV

                                     SHARES

         4.01 NUMBER OF SHARES ISSUABLE. The total number of shares of Common
Stock authorized to be issued under the Plan shall be the sum of (a) 6,936,000
shares, (b) the number of shares of Common Stock covered by any unexercised
portions of stock options granted under the Company's 1994 Stock Option Plan,
1998 Stock Option Plan or Stock Option Plan for Branch Employees (the "Prior
Plans") that are canceled or terminated after the Effective Date and (c) the
number of shares of Common Stock surrendered by Participants after the Effective
Date to pay all or a portion of the exercise price and/or withholding taxes with
respect to the exercise of stock options granted under any of the Prior Plans.
The number of shares available for issuance under the Plan shall be subject to
adjustment in accordance with Section 9.08. The shares to be offered



                                       4
<PAGE>   5


under the Plan shall be authorized and unissued shares of Common Stock, or
issued shares of Common Stock which will have been reacquired by the Company.

         4.02 SHARES SUBJECT TO TERMINATED AWARDS. Shares of Common Stock
covered by any unexercised portions of terminated Options (including canceled
Options) granted under Article VI, shares of Common Stock forfeited as provided
in Section 7.02(a) and shares of Common Stock subject to any Award that are
otherwise surrendered by a Participant or terminated may be subject to new
Awards under the Plan. If any shares of Common Stock are withheld from those
otherwise issuable or are tendered to the Company, by attestation or otherwise,
in connection with the exercise of an Option, only the net number of shares of
Common Stock issued as a result of such exercise shall be deemed delivered for
purposes of determining the maximum number of shares available for delivery
under the Plan.


                                    ARTICLE V

                                  PARTICIPATION

         5.01 ELIGIBLE PARTICIPANTS. Participants in the Plan shall be such key
employees of the Company and its Subsidiaries as the Committee, in its sole
discretion, may designate from time to time. The Committee's designation of a
Participant in any year shall not require the Committee to designate such person
to receive Awards in any other year. The designation of a Participant to receive
an Award under one portion of the Plan does not require the Committee to include
such Participant under other portions of the Plan. The Committee shall consider
such factors as it deems pertinent in selecting Participants and in determining
the types and amounts of their respective Awards. Subject to adjustment in
accordance with Section 9.08, during any calendar year no Participant shall be
granted Awards in respect of more than 1,000,000 shares of Common Stock (whether
through grants of Options or other Awards of Common Stock or rights with respect
thereto); provided, however, that if it is the Committee's intention as of the
Date of Grant of an Award, as evidenced by the applicable Award Agreement, that
such Award shall be earned by the Participant over a period of more than one
calendar year, then for purposes of applying the foregoing per calendar year
share limitation, the shares of Common Stock subject to such Award shall be
allocated to the first calendar year in which such shares may be earned
(determined without regard to possible vesting as a result of a Change in
Control or pursuant to any provision of this Plan authorizing the Committee to
accelerate the vesting of an Award).


                                   ARTICLE VI

                                  STOCK OPTIONS

6.01 OPTION AWARDS.

         (a) GRANT OF OPTIONS. The Committee may grant, to such Participants as
the Committee may select, Options entitling the Participants to purchase shares
of Common Stock from the Company in such numbers, at such prices, and on such
terms and subject to such conditions, not inconsistent with the terms of the
Plan, as may be established by the Committee. The terms of any Option granted
under the Plan shall be set forth in an Award Agreement.


                                       5
<PAGE>   6


         (b) EXERCISE PRICE OF OPTIONS. The exercise price of each share of
Common Stock which may be purchased upon exercise of any Option granted under
the Plan (the "Exercise Price") shall be determined by the Committee; provided,
however, that, except in the case of any substituted Options described in
Section 9.08(c), the Exercise Price shall in all cases be equal to or greater
than the Fair Market Value on the Date of Grant.

         (c) DESIGNATION OF OPTIONS. Except as otherwise expressly provided in
the Plan, the Committee may designate, at the time of the grant of an Option,
such Option as an Incentive Stock Option or a Non-Qualified Stock Option;
provided, however, that an Option may be designated as an Incentive Stock Option
only if the applicable Participant is an employee of the Company or a Subsidiary
on the Date of Grant.

         (d) SPECIAL INCENTIVE STOCK OPTION RULES. No Participant may be granted
Incentive Stock Options under the Plan (or any other plans of the Company and
its Subsidiaries) that would result in Incentive Stock Options to purchase
shares of Common Stock with an aggregate Fair Market Value (measured on the Date
of Grant) of more than $100,000 first becoming exercisable by such Participant
in any one calendar year. Notwithstanding any other provision of the Plan to the
contrary, no Incentive Stock Option shall be granted to any person who, at the
time the Option is granted, owns stock (including stock owned by application of
the constructive ownership rules in Section 424(d) of the Code) possessing more
than 10% of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock of the
Company or any Subsidiary, unless at the time the Incentive Stock Option is
granted the Exercise Price is at least 110% of the Fair Market Value on the Date
of Grant of the Common Stock subject to the Incentive Stock Option and the
Incentive Stock Option by its terms is not exercisable for more than five (5)
years from the Date of Grant.

         (e) RIGHTS AS A STOCKHOLDER. A Participant or a transferee of an Option
pursuant to Section 9.04 shall have no rights as a stockholder with respect to
the shares of Common Stock covered by an Option until that Participant or
transferee shall have become the holder of record of any such shares, and no
adjustment shall be made with respect to any such shares of Common Stock for
dividends in cash or other property or distributions of other rights on the
Common Stock for which the record date is prior to the date on which that
Participant or transferee shall have become the holder of record of any shares
covered by such Option; provided, however, that Participants are entitled to the
adjustments set forth in Section 9.08.

         6.02 TERMS OF STOCK OPTIONS

         (a) CONDITIONS ON EXERCISE. An Award Agreement with respect to Options
may contain such waiting periods, exercise dates and restrictions on exercise
(including, but not limited to, periodic installments) as may be determined by
the Committee at the time of grant.

         (b) DURATION OF OPTIONS. Options shall terminate after the first to
occur of the following events:

                  (i) Expiration of the Option as provided in the related Award
         Agreement; or

                  (ii) Termination of the Award as provided in Section 6.02(e)
         following the Participant's Termination of Employment; or

                  (iii) Ten years from the Date of Grant.


                                       6
<PAGE>   7


         (c) ACCELERATION OF EXERCISE TIME. The Committee, in its sole
discretion, shall have the right (but shall not in any case be obligated),
exercisable at any time after the Date of Grant, to permit the exercise of any
Option prior to the time such Option would otherwise become exercisable under
the terms of the related Award Agreement.

         (d) EXTENSION OF EXERCISE TIME. In addition to the extensions permitted
under Section 6.02(e) in the event of Termination of Employment, the Committee,
in its sole discretion, shall have the right (but shall not in any case be
obligated), exercisable on or at any time after the Date of Grant, to permit the
exercise of any Option after its expiration date described in Section 6.02(e),
subject, however, to the limitations described in Sections 6.02(b)(i) and (iii).

         (e) EXERCISE OF OPTIONS UPON TERMINATION OF EMPLOYMENT.

                  (i) EXTRAORDINARY TERMINATION. Unless otherwise provided in
         the Award Agreement or otherwise determined by the committee at the
         Date of Grant, in the event that a Participant's employment with the
         Company and the Subsidiaries terminates by reason of the Participant's
         death, permanent Disability or Retirement (each an "Extraordinary
         Termination"), then any Options held by the Participant and then
         exercisable shall remain exercisable solely until the first to occur of
         (i) the first anniversary of the Participant's termination of
         employment or (ii) the expiration of the term of the Option unless the
         exercise period is extended by the Committee in accordance with Section
         6.02(d). Any Options held by the Participant that are not exercisable
         at the date of the Extraordinary Termination shall terminate and be
         cancelled immediately upon such Extraordinary Termination, and any
         Options described in the preceding sentence that are not exercised
         within the period described in such sentence shall terminate and be
         cancelled upon the expiration of such period.

                  (ii) OTHER TERMINATION OF EMPLOYMENT. Unless otherwise
         provided in the Award Agreement or otherwise determined by the
         Committee at or after the Date of Grant, in the event that a
         Participant's employment with the Company and the Subsidiaries
         terminates for any reason other than an Extraordinary Termination, any
         Options held by such Participant that are exercisable as of the date of
         such termination shall remain exercisable for a period of 60 days (or,
         if shorter, during the remaining term of the Options), unless the
         exercise period is extended by the Committee in accordance with Section
         6.02(d). Any Options held by the Participant that are not exercisable
         at the date of the Participant's termination of employment shall
         terminate and be cancelled immediately upon such termination, and any
         Options described in the preceding sentence that are not exercised
         within the period described in such sentence shall terminate and be
         cancelled upon the expiration of such period.

         6.03 ACCELERATED OWNERSHIP OPTIONS. With respect to any Option or any
stock option granted under the terms of one of the Prior Plans or otherwise (an
"Original Option"), the Committee shall have the authority to specify, at or
after the time of grant of such Original Option, that, subject to the
availability of shares of Common Stock under the Plan, a Participant shall be
granted a new option (referred to as an "Accelerated Ownership Option") in the
event (i) such Participant exercises all or a part of such Original Option by
surrendering previously acquired shares of Common Stock in full or partial
payment of the exercise price under such Original Option, and/or (ii) a
Participant's withholding tax obligation with respect to the exercise of an
Original Option is satisfied in whole or in part by the delivery of previously
acquired shares of Common Stock by the Participant to the Company or the
withholding of shares of Common 



                                       7
<PAGE>   8


Stock from the shares otherwise issuable to the Participant upon the exercise of
the Original Option. Each such Accelerated Ownership Option shall cover a number
of shares of Common Stock equal to the number of shares of Common Stock
surrendered in payment of the exercise price under such Original Option and/or
surrendered or withheld to pay withholding taxes with respect to such Original
Option. Each such Accelerated Ownership Option shall have an Exercise Price per
share of Common Stock equal to the Fair Market Value of the Common Stock on the
date of exercise of the Original Option in respect of which the Accelerated
Ownership Option was granted and shall expire on the stated expiration date of
the Original Option. An Accelerated Ownership Option shall be exercisable at any
time and from time to time from and after the Date of Grant of such Accelerated
Ownership Option, subject to such restrictions on exercisability as may be
imposed in the discretion of the Committee. Any Accelerated Ownership Option may
provide for the grant, when exercised, of subsequent Accelerated Ownership
Options to the extent and upon such terms and conditions, consistent with this
Section 6.03, as the Committee in its sole discretion shall specify at or after
the time of grant of such Accelerated Ownership Option. An Accelerated Ownership
Option shall contain such other terms and conditions, which may include a
restriction on the transferability of the shares of Common Stock received upon
exercise of the Accelerated Ownership Option, as the Committee in its sole
discretion shall deem desirable and which may be set forth in rules or
guidelines adopted by the Committee or in the Award Agreements evidencing the
Accelerated Ownership Options.

         6.04 OPTION EXERCISE PROCEDURES. Each Option granted under the Plan
shall be exercised by written notice to the Company which must be received by
the officer or employee of the Company designated in the Award Agreement at or
before the close of business on the expiration date of the Award. The Exercise
Price of shares purchased upon exercise of an Option granted under the Plan
shall be paid in full in cash by the Participant pursuant to the Award
Agreement; provided, however, that in lieu of such cash a Participant may (if
authorized by the Committee) pay the Exercise Price in whole or in part by
delivering (actually or by attestation) to the Company shares of the Common
Stock having a Fair Market Value on the date of exercise of the Option equal to
the Exercise Price for the shares being purchased; except that (i) any portion
of the Exercise Price representing a fraction of a share shall in any event be
paid in cash and (ii) no shares of the Common Stock which have been held for
less than six months may be delivered in payment of the Exercise Price of an
Option. Payment may also be made, in the discretion of the Committee, by the
delivery (including, without limitation, by fax) to the Company or its
designated agent of an executed irrevocable option exercise form together with
irrevocable instructions to a broker-dealer to sell or margin a sufficient
portion of the shares and deliver the sale or margin loan proceeds directly to
the Company to pay for the Exercise Price. The date of exercise of an Option
shall be determined under procedures established by the Committee, and as of the
date of exercise the person exercising the Option shall, as between the Company
and such person, be considered for all purposes to be the owner of the shares of
Common Stock with respect to which the Option has been exercised. Any part of
the Exercise Price paid in cash upon the exercise of any Option shall be added
to the general funds of the Company and may be used for any proper corporate
purpose. Unless the Committee shall otherwise determine, any shares of Common
Stock transferred to the Company as payment of all or part of the Exercise Price
upon the exercise of any Option shall be held as treasury shares.

         6.05 CHANGE IN CONTROL. Unless otherwise provided by the Committee in
the applicable Award Agreement, in the event of a Change in Control, all Options
outstanding on the date of such Change in Control shall become immediately and
fully exercisable. The provisions of this Section 6.05 shall not be applicable
to any Options granted to a Participant if any Change in



                                       8
<PAGE>   9


Control results from such Participant's beneficial ownership (within the meaning
of Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act) of Common Stock or Company Voting
Securities.


                                   ARTICLE VII

                                RESTRICTED SHARES

         7.01 RESTRICTED SHARE AWARDS. The Committee may grant to any
Participant an Award of such number of shares of Common Stock on such terms,
conditions and restrictions, whether based on performance standards, periods of
service, retention by the Participant of ownership of specified shares of Common
Stock or other criteria, as the Committee shall establish. With respect to
performance-based Awards of Restricted Shares intended to qualify for
deductibility under the "performance-based" compensation exception contained in
Section 162(m) of the Code, performance targets will include specified levels of
one or more of the following (in absolute terms or relative to one or more other
companies or indices): operating income, return on investment, return on
stockholders' equity, stock price appreciation, earnings before interest, taxes,
depreciation and amortization, earnings per share and/or growth in earnings per
share. The terms of any Restricted Share Award granted under this Plan shall be
set forth in an Award Agreement which shall contain provisions determined by the
Committee and not inconsistent with this Plan.

                  (a) ISSUANCE OF RESTRICTED SHARES. As soon as practicable
         after the Date of Grant of a Restricted Share Award by the Committee,
         the Company shall cause to be transferred on the books of the Company
         or its agent, shares of Common Stock, registered on behalf of the
         Participant, evidencing the Restricted Shares covered by the Award,
         subject to forfeiture to the Company as of the Date of Grant if an
         Award Agreement with respect to the Restricted Shares covered by the
         Award is not duly executed by the Participant and timely returned to
         the Company. All shares of Common Stock covered by Awards under this
         Article VII shall be subject to the restrictions, terms and conditions
         contained in the Plan and the applicable Award Agreements entered into
         by the appropriate Participants. Until the lapse or release of all
         restrictions applicable to an Award of Restricted Shares the share
         certificates representing such Restricted Shares may be held in custody
         by the Company, its designee, or, if the certificates bear a
         restrictive legend, by the Participant. Upon the lapse or release of
         all restrictions with respect to an Award as described in Section
         7.01(d), one or more share certificates, registered in the name of the
         Participant, for an appropriate number of shares as provided in Section
         7.01(d), free of any restrictions set forth in the Plan and the related
         Award Agreement shall be delivered to the Participant.

                  (b) STOCKHOLDER RIGHTS. Beginning on the Date of Grant of a
         Restricted Share Award and subject to execution of the related Award
         Agreement as provided in Section 7.01(a), and except as otherwise
         provided in such Award Agreement, the Participant shall become a
         stockholder of the Company with respect to all shares subject to the
         Award Agreement and shall have all of the rights of a stockholder,
         including, but not limited to, the right to vote such shares and the
         right to receive dividends; provided, however, that any shares of
         Common Stock distributed as a dividend or otherwise with respect to any
         Restricted Shares as to which the restrictions have not yet lapsed,
         shall be subject to the same restrictions as such Restricted Shares and
         held or restricted as provided in Section 7.01(a).


                                       9
<PAGE>   10


                  (c) RESTRICTION ON TRANSFERABILITY. None of the Restricted
         Shares may be assigned or transferred (other than by will or the laws
         of descent and distribution or to an inter vivos trust with respect to
         which the Participant is treated as the owner under Sections 671
         through 677 of the Code), pledged or sold prior to the lapse of the
         restrictions applicable thereto.

                  (d) DELIVERY OF SHARES UPON VESTING. Upon expiration or
         earlier termination of the forfeiture period without a forfeiture and
         the satisfaction of or release from any other conditions prescribed by
         the Committee, or at such earlier time as provided under the provisions
         of Section 7.03, the restrictions applicable to the Restricted Shares
         shall lapse. As promptly as administratively feasible thereafter,
         subject to the requirements of Section 9.05, the Company shall deliver
         to the Participant or, in case of the Participant's death, to the
         Participant's Beneficiary, one or more share certificates for the
         appropriate number of shares of Common Stock, free of all such
         restrictions, except for any restrictions that may be imposed by law.

         7.02 TERMS OF RESTRICTED SHARES.

                  (a) FORFEITURE OF RESTRICTED SHARES. Subject to Sections
         7.02(b) and 7.03, Restricted Shares shall be forfeited and returned to
         the Company and all rights of the Participant with respect to such
         Restricted Shares shall terminate unless the Participant continues in
         the service of the Company or a Subsidiary until the expiration of the
         forfeiture period for such Restricted Shares and satisfies any and all
         other conditions set forth in the Award Agreement. The Committee shall
         determine the forfeiture period (which may, but need not, lapse in
         installments) and any other terms and conditions applicable with
         respect to any Restricted Share Award.

                  (b) WAIVER OF FORFEITURE PERIOD. Notwithstanding anything
         contained in this Article VII to the contrary, the Committee may, in
         its sole discretion, waive the forfeiture period and any other
         conditions set forth in any Award Agreement under appropriate
         circumstances (including the death, disability or Retirement of the
         Participant or a material change in circumstances arising after the
         date of an Award) and subject to such terms and conditions (including
         forfeiture of a proportionate number of the Restricted Shares) as the
         Committee shall deem appropriate.

         7.03 CHANGE IN CONTROL. Unless otherwise provided by the Committee in
the applicable Award Agreement, in the event of a Change in Control, all
restrictions applicable to the Restricted Share Award shall terminate fully and
the Participant shall immediately have the right to the delivery of share
certificates for such shares in accordance with Section 7.01(d).


                                  ARTICLE VIII

                               PERFORMANCE AWARDS

         8.01     PERFORMANCE AWARDS.

                  (a) AWARD PERIODS AND DETERMINATIONS OF AWARDS. The Committee
         may grant Performance Awards to Participants. A Performance Award shall
         consist of the right to receive a payment (measured by the Fair Market
         Value of a specified number of shares of



                                       10
<PAGE>   11


         Common Stock, increases in such Fair Market Value during the Award
         Period and/or a fixed cash amount) contingent upon the extent to which
         certain predetermined performance targets have been met during an Award
         Period. Performance Awards may be made in conjunction with, or in
         addition to, Restricted Share Awards made under Article VII. The Award
         Period shall be two or more fiscal or calendar years or other annual
         periods as determined by the Committee. The Committee, in its
         discretion and under such terms as it deems appropriate, may permit
         newly eligible Participants, such as those who are promoted or newly
         hired, to receive Performance Awards after an Award Period has
         commenced.

                  (b) PERFORMANCE TARGETS. The performance targets may include
         such goals related to the performance of the Company and/or the
         performance of a Participant as may be established by the Committee in
         its discretion. In the case of Performance Awards intended to qualify
         for deductibility under the "performance-based" compensation exception
         contained in Section 162(m) of the Code, the targets will include
         specified levels of one or more of the following (in absolute terms or
         relative to one or more other companies or indices): operating income,
         return on investment, return on stockholders' equity, stock price
         appreciation, earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and
         amortization, earnings per share and/or growth in earnings per share.
         The performance targets established by the Committee may vary for
         different Award Periods and need not be the same for each Participant
         receiving a Performance Award in an Award Period. Except to the extent
         inconsistent with the performance-based compensation exception under
         Section 162(m) of the Code, in the case of Performance Awards granted
         to Participants to whom such section is applicable, the Committee, in
         its discretion, but only under extraordinary circumstances as
         determined by the Committee, may change any prior determination of
         performance targets for any Award Period at any time prior to the final
         determination of the value of a related Performance Award when events
         or transactions occur to cause such performance targets to be an
         inappropriate measure of achievement.

                  (c) EARNING PERFORMANCE AWARDS. The Committee, on or as soon
         as practicable after the Date of Grant, shall prescribe a formula to
         determine the percentage of the applicable Performance Award to be
         earned based upon the degree of attainment of performance targets.

                  (d) PAYMENT OF EARNED PERFORMANCE AWARDS. Payments of earned
         Performance Awards shall be made in cash or shares of Common Stock or a
         combination of cash and shares of Common Stock, in the discretion of
         the Committee. The Committee, in its sole discretion, may provide such
         terms and conditions with respect to the payment of earned Performance
         Awards as it may deem desirable.

         8.02 TERMS OF PERFORMANCE AWARDS.

                  (a) TERMINATION OF EMPLOYMENT. Unless otherwise provided below
         or in Section 8.03, in the case of a Participant's Termination of
         Employment prior to the end of an Award Period, the Participant will
         not have earned any Performance Awards for that Award Period.

                  (b) RETIREMENT. If a Participant's Termination of Employment
         is because of Retirement prior to the end of an Award Period, the
         Participant will not be paid any Performance Award, unless the
         Committee, in its sole and exclusive discretion, determines



                                       11
<PAGE>   12


         that an Award should be paid. In such a case, the Participant shall be
         entitled to receive a pro-rata portion of his or her Award as
         determined under subsection (d).

                  (c) DEATH OR DISABILITY. If a Participant's Termination of
         Employment is due to death or to disability (as determined in the sole
         and exclusive discretion of the Committee) prior to the end of an Award
         Period, the Participant or the Participant's personal representative
         shall be entitled to receive a pro-rata share of his or her Award as
         determined under subsection (d).

                  (d) PRO-RATA PAYMENT. The amount of any payment to be made to
         a Participant whose employment is terminated by Retirement, death or
         disability (under the circumstances described in subsections (b) and
         (c)) will be the amount determined by multiplying (i) the amount of the
         Performance Award that would have been earned through the end of the
         Award Period had such employment not been terminated by (ii) a
         fraction, the numerator of which is the number of whole months such
         Participant was employed during the Award Period, and the denominator
         of which is the total number of months of the Award Period. Any such
         payment made to a Participant whose employment is terminated prior to
         the end of an Award Period shall be made at the end of such Award
         Period, unless otherwise determined by the Committee in its sole
         discretion. Any partial payment previously made or credited to a
         deferred account for the benefit of a Participant in accordance with
         Section 8.01(d) of the Plan shall be subtracted from the amount
         otherwise determined as payable as provided in this Section 8.02(d).

                  (e) OTHER EVENTS. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in
         this Article VIII, the Committee may, in its sole and exclusive
         discretion, determine to pay all or any portion of a Performance Award
         to a Participant who has terminated employment prior to the end of an
         Award Period under certain circumstances (including the death,
         disability or Retirement of the Participant or a material change in
         circumstances arising after the Date of Grant), subject to such terms
         and conditions as the Committee shall deem appropriate.

         8.03 CHANGE IN CONTROL. Unless otherwise provided by the Committee in
the applicable Award Agreement, in the event of a Change in Control, all
Performance Awards for all Award Periods shall immediately become fully payable
to all Participants and shall be paid to Participants within thirty (30) days
after such Change in Control.


                                   ARTICLE IX

              TERMS APPLICABLE TO ALL AWARDS GRANTED UNDER THE PLAN

         9.01 PLAN PROVISIONS CONTROL AWARD TERMS. The terms of the Plan shall
govern all Awards granted under the Plan, and in no event shall the Committee
have the power to grant any Award under the Plan the terms of which are contrary
to any of the provisions of the Plan. In the event any provision of any Award
granted under the Plan shall conflict with any term in the Plan as constituted
on the Date of Grant of such Award, the term in the Plan as constituted on the
Date of Grant of such Award shall control.

         9.02 AWARD AGREEMENT. No person shall have any rights under any Award
granted under the Plan unless and until the Company and the Participant to whom
such Award shall have been granted shall have executed and delivered an Award
Agreement or the Participant shall have 



                                       12
<PAGE>   13


received and acknowledged notice of the Award authorized by the Committee
expressly granting the Award to such person and containing provisions setting
forth the terms of the Award.

         9.03 MODIFICATION OF AWARD AFTER GRANT. No Award granted under the Plan
to a Participant may be modified (unless such modification does not materially
decrease the value of that Award) after its Date of Grant except by express
written agreement between the Company and such Participant, provided that any
such change (a) may not be inconsistent with the terms of the Plan, and (b)
shall be approved by the Committee.

         9.04 LIMITATION ON TRANSFER. Except as provided in Section 7.01(c) in
the case of Restricted Shares, a Participant's rights and interest under the
Plan may not be assigned or transferred other than by will or the laws of
descent and distribution and, during the lifetime of a Participant, only the
Participant personally (or the Participant's personal representative) may
exercise rights under the Plan. The Participant's Beneficiary may exercise the
Participant's rights to the extent they are exercisable under the Plan following
the death of the Participant. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee may
grant Non-Qualified Stock Options that are transferable, without payment of
consideration, to immediate family members of the Participant, to trusts or
partnerships for such family members, or to such other parties as the Committee
may approve (as evidenced by the applicable Award Agreement or an amendment
thereto), and the Committee may also amend outstanding Non-Qualified Stock
Options to provide for such transferability.

         9.05 WITHHOLDING TAXES. The Company shall be entitled, if the Committee
deems it necessary or desirable, to withhold (or secure payment from the
Participant in lieu of withholding) the amount of any withholding or other tax
required by law to be withheld or paid by the Company with respect to any amount
payable and/or shares issuable under such Participant's Award or with respect to
any income recognized upon a disqualifying disposition of shares received
pursuant to the exercise of an Incentive Stock Option, and the Company may defer
payment of cash or issuance of shares upon exercise or vesting of an Award
unless indemnified to its satisfaction against any liability for any such tax.
The amount of such withholding or tax payment shall be determined by the
Committee and shall be payable by the Participant at such time as the Committee
determines. With the approval of the Committee, the Participant may elect to
meet his or her withholding requirement (i) by having withheld from such Award
at the appropriate time that number of shares of Common Stock, rounded up to the
next whole share, the Fair Market Value of which is equal to the amount of
withholding taxes due, (ii) by direct payment to the Company in cash of the
minimum amount of any taxes required to be withheld with respect to such Award
or (iii) by a combination of withholding such shares and paying cash.

         9.06 SURRENDER OF AWARDS. Any Award granted under the Plan may be
surrendered to the Company for cancellation on such terms as the Committee and
the Participant approve.

         9.07 CANCELLATION AND RESCISSION OF AWARDS.

         (a) DETRIMENTAL ACTIVITIES. Unless the Award Agreement specifies
otherwise, the Committee may cancel, rescind, suspend, withhold or otherwise
limit or restrict any unexpired, unpaid, or deferred Awards at any time if the
Participant is not in compliance with all applicable provisions of the Award
Agreement and the Plan, or if the Participant engages in any "Detrimental
Activity." For purposes of this Section 9.07, "Detrimental Activity" shall
include: (i) the rendering of services for any organization or engaging directly
or indirectly in any business which is or becomes competitive with the Company,
or which organization or business, or the rendering



                                       13
<PAGE>   14


of services to such organization or business, is or becomes otherwise
prejudicial to or in conflict with the interests of the Company; (ii) the
disclosure to anyone outside the Company, or the use in other than the Company's
business, without prior written authorization from the Company, of any
confidential information or material relating to the business of the Company,
acquired by the Participant either during or after employment with the Company;
(iii) any attempt directly or indirectly to induce any employee of the Company
to be employed or perform services elsewhere or any attempt directly or
indirectly to solicit the trade or business of any current or prospective
customer, supplier or partner of the Company; or (iv) any other conduct or act
determined to be injurious, detrimental or prejudicial to any interest of the
Company.

         (b) Upon exercise, payment or delivery pursuant to an Award, the
Participant shall certify in a manner acceptable to the Company that he or she
is in compliance with the terms and conditions of the Plan. In the event a
Participant fails to comply with the provisions of paragraphs (a)(i)-(iv) of
this Section 9.07, if applicable, prior to, or during the six months after, any
exercise, payment or delivery pursuant to an Award, such exercise, payment or
delivery may be rescinded within two years thereafter. In the event of any such
rescission, the Participant shall pay to the Company the amount of any gain
realized or payment received as a result of the rescinded exercise, payment or
delivery, in such manner and on such terms and conditions as may be required,
and the Company shall be entitled to set-off against the amount of any such gain
any amount owed to the Participant by the Company.

         9.08 ADJUSTMENTS TO REFLECT CAPITAL CHANGES.

                  (a) RECAPITALIZATION. The number and kind of shares subject to
         outstanding Awards, the Exercise Price for such shares, the number and
         kind of shares available for Awards subsequently granted under the Plan
         and the maximum number of shares in respect of which Awards can be made
         to any Participant in any calendar year shall be appropriately adjusted
         to reflect any stock dividend, stock split, or share combination or any
         recapitalization, merger, consolidation, exchange of shares,
         liquidation or dissolution of the Company or other change in
         capitalization with a similar substantive effect upon the Plan or the
         Awards granted under the Plan. The Committee shall have the power and
         sole discretion to determine the amount of the adjustment to be made in
         each case.

                  (b) CERTAIN MERGERS. After any Merger in which the Company is
         not the surviving corporation or pursuant to which a majority of the
         shares which are of the same class as the shares that are subject to
         outstanding Options are exchanged for, or converted into, or otherwise
         become shares of another corporation, the surviving, continuing,
         successor or purchasing corporation, as the case may be (the "Acquiring
         Corporation"), will either assume the Company's rights and obligations
         under outstanding Award Agreements or substitute awards in respect of
         the Acquiring Corporation's stock for outstanding Awards, provided,
         however, that if the Acquiring Corporation does not assume or
         substitute for such outstanding Awards, the Board shall provide prior
         to the Merger that any unexercisable and/or unvested portion of the
         outstanding Awards shall be immediately exercisable and vested as of a
         date prior to such Merger, as the Board so determines. The exercise
         and/or vesting of any Award that was permissible solely by reason of
         this Section 9.08 shall be conditioned upon the consummation of the
         Merger. Any Awards which are neither assumed by the Acquiring
         Corporation nor exercised as of the date of the Merger shall terminate
         effective as of the effective date of the Merger. Comparable rights
         shall accrue to each Participant in the event of successive Mergers of
         the character described above.


                                       14
<PAGE>   15


                  (c) OPTIONS TO PURCHASE SHARES OR STOCK OF ACQUIRED COMPANIES.
         After any Merger in which the Company or a Subsidiary shall be a
         surviving corporation, the Committee may grant Options or other Awards
         under the provisions of the Plan, pursuant to Section 424 of the Code
         or as is otherwise permitted under the Code, in full or partial
         replacement of or substitution for old stock options granted under a
         plan of another party to the merger whose shares of stock subject to
         the old options may no longer be issued following the Merger. The
         manner of application of the foregoing provisions to such options and
         any appropriate adjustments in the terms of such stock options shall be
         determined by the Committee in its sole discretion. Any such
         adjustments may provide for the elimination of any fractional shares
         which might otherwise become subject to any Options. The foregoing
         shall not be deemed to preclude the Company from assuming or
         substituting for stock options of acquired companies other than
         pursuant to this Plan.

         9.09 LEGAL COMPLIANCE. Shares of Common Stock shall not be issued
hereunder unless the issuance and delivery of such shares shall comply with
applicable laws and shall be further subject to the approval of counsel for the
Company with respect to such compliance.

         9.10 NO RIGHT TO EMPLOYMENT. No Participant or other person shall have
any claim of right to be granted an Award under the Plan. Neither the Plan nor
any action taken hereunder shall be construed as giving any Participant any
right to be retained in the service of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries.

         9.11 AWARDS NOT INCLUDABLE FOR BENEFIT PURPOSES. Payments received by a
Participant pursuant to the provisions of the Plan shall not be included in the
determination of benefits under any pension, group insurance or other benefit
plan applicable to the Participant which is maintained by the Company or any of
its Subsidiaries, except as may be provided under the terms of such plans or
determined by the Board.

         9.12 GOVERNING LAW. All determinations made and actions taken pursuant
to the Plan shall be governed by the laws of the State of Delaware, other than
the conflict of laws provisions thereof, and construed in accordance therewith.

         9.13 NO STRICT CONSTRUCTION. No rule of strict construction shall be
implied against the Company, the Committee or any other person in the
interpretation of any of the terms of the Plan, any Award granted under the Plan
or any rule or procedure established by the Committee.

         9.14 CAPTIONS. The captions (i.e., all Section headings) used in the
Plan are for convenience only, do not constitute a part of the Plan, and shall
not be deemed to limit, characterize or affect in any way any provisions of the
Plan, and all provisions of the Plan shall be construed as if no captions had
been used in the Plan.

         9.15 SEVERABILITY. Whenever possible, each provision in the Plan and
every Award at any time granted under the Plan shall be interpreted in such
manner as to be effective and valid under applicable law, but if any provision
of the Plan or any Award at any time granted under the Plan shall be held to be
prohibited by or invalid under applicable law, then (a) such provision shall be
deemed amended to accomplish the objectives of the provision as originally
written to the fullest extent permitted by law and (b) all other provisions of
the Plan, such Award and every other Award at any time granted under the Plan
shall remain in full force and effect.


                                       15
<PAGE>   16


         9.16 AMENDMENT AND TERMINATION.

                  (a) AMENDMENT. The Board shall have complete power and
         authority to amend the Plan at any time; provided, that no termination
         or amendment of the Plan may, without the consent of the Participant to
         whom any Award shall theretofore have been granted under the Plan,
         materially adversely affect the right of such individual under such
         Award; and provided further, that no such alteration or amendment of
         the Plan shall, without approval by the stockholders of the Company (a)
         increase the total number of shares of Common Stock which may be issued
         or delivered under the Plan or (b) increase the total number of shares
         which may be covered by Awards to any one Participant.

                  (b) TERMINATION. The Board shall have the right and the power
         to terminate the Plan at any time. No Award shall be granted under the
         Plan after the termination of the Plan, but the termination of the Plan
         shall not have any other effect and any Award outstanding at the time
         of the termination of the Plan may be exercised after termination of
         the Plan at any time prior to the expiration date of such Award to the
         same extent such Award would have been exercisable had the Plan not
         been terminated.


                   *        *        *        *        *        *



                                       16

<PAGE>   1
                                                                    Exhibit 23.2


                       CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS

We hereby consent to the use in this Registration Statement on Form S-1 of
our reports dated February 12, 1999, except for Note 22, as to which the
date is May __, 1999, relating to the consolidated financial statements and
financial statement schedule of WESCO International, Inc. and subsidiaries
which appear in such Registration Statement. We also consent to the
references to us under the headings "Experts" and "Selected Historical
Consolidated Financial Data in such Registration Statement."


                                                 /s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP


600 Grant Street
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
April 30, 1999

<PAGE>   1
 
                                                                    Exhibit 23.3
 
                       CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
 
   
We consent to the inclusion in this amendment no. 3 to the registration
statement on Form S-1
    
(to register Common Stock) of our report dated February 23, 1998, on our audits
of the financial statements of Bruckner Supply Company, Inc. We also consent to
the references to our firm under the caption "Experts".
 
                                          /s/ Anchin, Block & Anchin LLP
 
New York, New York
   
April 30, 1999
    


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