Lincoln Electric sales rise 25% in Q2

For the first six months, sales rise nearly 20%

Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. today reported 2010 second quarter net income of $32.5 million, or $0.76 per diluted share, on sales of $515.6 million. Operating income for the second quarter increased sequentially to $51.1 million, or 9.9% of sales, from $34.7 million, or 7.4% of sales, in the first quarter of 2010. Adjusted operating income in the quarter was $49.8 million or 9.7% of sales.

Sales were $515.6 million in the second quarter 2010 versus $413.3 million in the comparable 2009 period, an increase of 24.8%.

"Our second quarter results were excellent and demonstrated a steady and significant improvement in operating results," said John M. Stropki, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "The improving economic environment and important new product introductions delivered a significant increase in sales. Our cost improvement initiatives resulting from the rationalization actions taken throughout 2009, early 2010 and our ongoing strategic capital investments drove increases in margins.

"While demand levels have significantly improved in most markets and geographic regions on a year-over-year basis, volume trends are stabilizing. Although recent economic forecasts are more guarded, we remain cautiously optimistic as we continue to pursue market share gains. We believe that our strong financial position will continue to provide the required flexibility to execute our long-term strategic objectives to the benefit of our shareholders."

Sales for the first half of 2010 were $986.5 million versus $825.0 million in the comparable 2009 period, an increase of 19.6%.

Lincoln Electric designs, develops and manufactures arc welding products, robotic arc-welding systems, plasma and oxyfuel cutting equipment and has a leading global position in the brazing and soldering alloys market. Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, Lincoln has 37 manufacturing locations, including operations and joint ventures in 18 countries and a worldwide network of distributors and sales offices covering more than 160 countries