ALSO...

DHL International Ltd. said it is considering an initial public offer that analysts estimate could value the overnight delivery service company at as much as $4 billion. Brussels-based DHL International, a member of Redwood City, Calif.-based DHL Worldwide Express Inc., is aiming for the sale of 23% of the company as early as 2001. The company is seeking funds to accelerate an expansion in Europe. The closely held company also said it bought back a 20% stake from Japan Airlines Co., which is seeking ways to cut debt.

* United Parcel Service Inc., as part of an expressed effort to expand in Europe, agreed to buy Finon Sofecome, a unit of France’s Qualis that manages transportation and storage of parts and components. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Finon Sofecome has 45 locations in France and about 1,000 employees; its revenue for 1998 was about $70 million.

* Home Depot Inc. agreed to buy closely held Apex Supply Co. as part of its strategy to expand the products and services offered to professional contractors. Home Depot will pay an undisclosed amount of cash for Apex, which sells plumbing, heating, air-conditioning and other products through 21 stores in the South.