Lincoln Electric reported a 7.5% decrease in net sales to $702.0 million in Q1 2020, with organic sales declining by 9.5%. EPS decreased by 18.8% to $0.91, while adjusted EPS decreased by 14.5% to $1.00. The company implemented cost reduction initiatives to mitigate the impact of lower demand and expects $40 to $45 million in realized cost savings in 2020.
Operated as an “essential business” in substantially all locations, serving customers while prioritizing employee safety.
Net sales decreased by 7.5%, with organic sales declining by 9.5%.
Operating income margin decreased by 90 basis points to 11.5%; adjusted operating income margin decreased by 40 basis points to 12.6%.
Returned $140 million to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases.
Global demand trends weakened significantly in April, declining in the low 40% range versus the prior year. The company expanded its cost reduction initiatives and expect these new measures, combined with earlier actions, to now generate $40 to $45 million in realized cost savings in 2020. While demand is expected to trough in the second quarter, the company's strong investment-grade balance sheet profile, liquidity, and cash flow generation give management confidence in their ability to successfully navigate this challenging period and generate long-term value for shareholders.
Visualization of income flow from segment revenue to net income