Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details Textual) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011 Location	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Textual) [Abstract]
Number of locations in North America	1,900
Provision for doubtful accounts	$ 13,248,000	$ 10,597,000	$ 28,463,000
Allowance For Doubtful Accounts Receivable Current	16,916,000	15,599,000
Excess of FIFO Costs over Stated LIFO value	422,178,000	383,094,000
Reduction in cost of goods sold by the effect of LIFO liquidation	16,000,000	25,000,000	22,000,000
Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets	0	0	0
Fair value of fixed rate debt	509,000,000	529,000,000
Shipping and handling costs included in selling general and administrative expenses	190,000,000	180,000,000	150,000,000
Advertising cost	$ 45,100,000	$ 36,800,000	$ 44,500,000
Majority of awards previously granted vesting period	one to five years
Outstanding options to purchase common shares not included in dilutive share	850,000	4,500,000	5,400,000
Minimum exercise price of options	$ 37
Maximum exercise price of options	$ 54
Building And Building Improvements [Member]
Property Plant and Equipment (Textual) [Abstract]
Property Plant And Equipment Useful Life Minimum	10
Property Plant And Equipment Useful Life Maximum	40
Machinery And Equipment [Member]
Property Plant and Equipment (Textual) [Abstract]
Property Plant And Equipment Useful Life Minimum	5
Property Plant And Equipment Useful Life Maximum	15