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Lincoln Electric

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FY2013 Annual Report · Lincoln Electric
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2013 Annual Report

TOGETHER WITH OUR CUSTOMERS, 

Lincoln  Electric  puts  the  “we”  in  welding.  We  are  the  world 

leader  in  the  design,  development  and  manufacture  of  arc 

welding  products,  robotic  arc  welding  systems  and  plasma  

and oxyfuel cutting equipment, with a leading global position 

in  the  brazing  and  soldering  alloys  market.  Recognized  as 

The  Welding  Experts®,  we  use  our  expertise  to  develop 

new  technologies  and  applications 

in  partnership  with 

customers  to  make  them  more  productive  and  successful. 

We distinguish ourselves through an unwavering commitment 

to our employees, a relentless drive to maximize shareholder 

value  and  an  enduring  passion  to  make  a  positive  impact  on  

our world. 

Table of Contents

Financial Highlights 

Shareholder Letter 

Success Stories: 

A Low-Temperature Solution  

Defect-Free Pipe Welding 

Automation Solves a Challenge 

Improving Brazing Processes 

Corporate Social Responsibility 

Corporate Information 

1

2

4

6

8

10

12

16

Net Sales
dollars in millions

2,853

2,853

2,695

2,070

1,729

Cash Provided by  
Operations
dollars in millions

339

327

250

194

157

09      10       11      12       13

09      10       11      12       13

30% of Lincoln’s sales 

in 2013 came 
from new products 
launched within the 
past five years.

  2013

  2012

  2011

$  2,853

$  2,853

$  2,695

294

313  (2)

3.54

3.77 

0.66

674

2.5

257

266  (3)

3.06

3.16 

0.88

693

2.6

217

213  (4)

2.56

2.51 

0.62

748

2.6

$  2,152

$  2,090

$  1,977

1,531

339

18.9%

1,358

327

18.7%

1,193

194

16.9%

Financial Highlights

Year Ended December 31
(dollars in millions, except per share data)

Net Sales

Net Income
Net Income excluding special items (1)

Diluted Earnings per Share
Diluted Earnings per Share excluding special items (1)   

Cash Dividends Paid per Share of Common Stock

Working Capital

Current Ratio

Total Assets

Total Equity

Cash Provided by Operations

Return on Invested Capital (5)

(1)  Net Income excluding special items and Diluted Earnings per Share excluding special items are non-GAAP financial measures that management believes are important to investors to evaluate and compare the Company’s financial  
performance from period to period.  Management uses this information in assessing and evaluating the Company’s underlying operating performance. Non-GAAP financial measures should be read in conjunction with the GAAP 
financial measures, as non-GAAP measures are a supplement to, and not a replacement for, GAAP financial measures. 

(2)  In 2013, special items include net rationalization and asset impairment charges of $8.5 ($7.6 after-tax or $0.09 per diluted share), a charge of $12.2 ($12.2 after-tax or $0.15 per diluted share) related to the devaluation of the Venezuelan 
currency and a loss of $0.7 ($0.7 after-tax or $0.01 per diluted share) related to a loss on the sale of land. Associated with the impairment of long-lived assets and loss on the sale of land is an offsetting special item of $1.1 representing 
portions attributable to non-controlling interests. 

(3)  In 2012, special items include net rationalization charges of $7.5 ($6.2 after-tax or $0.07 per diluted share), asset impairment charges of $1.8 ($1.3 after-tax or $0.02 per diluted share) and a charge of $1.4 ($0.9 after-tax or $0.01 per 

diluted share) related to a change in Venezuelan labor laws.

(4)  In 2011, special items include net rationalization charges of $0.3 ($0.2 after tax) and a gain related to a favorable adjustment for tax audit settlements of $4.8 after-tax ($0.06 per diluted share).
(5) Return on invested capital is defined as rolling 12 months of earnings excluding tax-effected interest divided by invested capital.

Total Equity
dollars in millions

Diluted Earnings  
per share*

Return on Invested Capital
in percent

1,531

1,358

1,150

1,193

1,086

3.77

3.16

2.51

1.52

0.86

18.7 18.9

16.9

10.7

4.3

09      10       11      12       13

09      10       11      12       13

09      10       11      12       13

*  Diluted earnings per share exclude the effects of special items and have been retroactively adjusted in prior years to give effect to the two-for-one stock split on May 31, 2011. 2013 excludes net rationalization and asset impairment 
charges, charges related to the devaluation of the Venezuelan currency and a loss on the sale of land partially offset by portions attributable to non-controlling interests. 2012 excludes net rationalization charges, asset impairment 
charges and a charge related to a change in Venezuelan labor laws. 2011 excludes net rationalization charges and a gain related to a favorable adjustment for tax audit settlements. 2010 excludes net rationalization gains, asset 
impairment charges, noncontrolling interest charges associated with a gain on disposal of assets, a net charge due to a change in functional currency for the Company’s Venezuelan operation to the U.S. dollar and the devaluation 
of the Venezuelan currency and income due to a change in applicable tax regulations in the Asia Pacific Welding segment. 2009 excludes rationalization and asset impairment charges, the gain on the sale of a property, a loss 
associated with the acquisition of a business in China and related disposal of an investment in Taiwan, a pension settlement gain and a charge in noncontrolling interests associated with the pension settlement gain for a majority-
owned consolidated subsidiary.

1

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
To Our Shareholders,  
Employees and Global Partners: 

I am pleased to report that 2013 was another record-setting year for Lincoln Electric  as we continued 
to create value for our stakeholders.  While the global environment remained challenging, we were able 
to execute on our operational initiatives and focus on attractive sectors, high-growth applications 
and strong customer partnerships to yield record results.  This balanced approach has been a winning 
formula and positions us well to further capitalize on our many long-term growth opportunities. 

2013 Financial Highlights
While 2013 sales remained steady at $2.9 billion, we achieved 

SAP during the year and we intend to expand upon this effort 

in 2014. We continued to drive improvement with an increased 

a record operating profit margin of 14.3%, up 160 basis points 

emphasis on sustainability and by pursuing our environmental, 

compared with 2012. On an adjusted basis excluding special 

health and safety goals, as noted in this annual report. A highlight 

items, operating profit was a record $428.4 million, or 15.0% of 

of this effort is our Canadian operation, which became the first 

sales. We also achieved record net income of $293.8 million, an 

welding facility in the world to achieve ISO 50001 certification, 

increase of 14.1% from 2012. Net income on an adjusted basis 

recognizing it as a global leader in process capabilities, employee 

was $313.2 million, an increase of 17.8% year-over-year. As a 

engagement and environmental stewardship. 

result, diluted earnings per share increased 15.7% to $3.54, and 

increased 19.3% on an adjusted basis to $3.77.

We are also enhancing our ability to serve our global customers 

through our “Us to Us” program, which is focused on enhancing 

We also generated record cash flow from operations, up 3.5% 

our capabilities to deliver our products worldwide. Our 

to $338.9 million. Higher earnings and greater efficiency in 

procurement teams are collaborating globally to identify and 

operating working capital (17.6% of net sales) drove solid cash 

develop efficiencies in our supply base. And, we are facilitating 

flow and allowed us to further invest in our future, strengthen 

these teams with tools such as SAP and our new GlobalLinc 

our balance sheet, achieve a fully funded U.S. pension program 

internal communications network, which allows our employees to 

and accelerate returns to our shareholders. During the year, we 

accelerate process excellence in our Company on a global scale. 

returned a record $217 million to our shareholders, representing 

nearly two-thirds of our cash flow from operations, through 

$168 million in share repurchases and a 17.6% increase in  

our dividend.   

Investing in Innovation
Our innovation pipeline has never been more robust, as we 

continue to invest in and develop proprietary technologies. We 

have accelerated our R&D program into attractive areas including 

Employees Drive Long-Term Success
Our success is driven by the strength of our global employees 

alloy-based consumables, automation systems and laser 

technologies. In 2013, we invested $42 million in our R&D efforts, 

and the improvements they have achieved in our businesses 

which contributed to the approximately 30% of sales during the 

around the world, reflecting our ability to work as a team. We 

year that came from new products launched within the last  

are focused on providing value-added solutions to serve our 

five years. 

customers and driving excellence in processes. That focus is 

fundamental to our 2020 Vision and Strategy for the Company, 

which targets compounded annual growth of 10% in sales and 

an average return on invested capital of 15% through 2020. 

Among our key accomplishments in 2013, we expanded our 

automation portfolio to meet the growing demand for automated 

arc welding processes as customers seek to improve their 

productivity and quality while addressing the challenge of a 

We can point to many examples of progress and successful 

shortage in skilled welders. Today, we offer the broadest portfolio 

initiatives in 2013. As part of our multi-year deployment of a 

of automation solutions and technical expertise for arc welding 

standardized ERP system, we completed seven installations of 

and cutting globally, and we expect to continue to build on 

2

Our success is driven 
by the strength of our 
global employees and 
the improvements they 
have achieved in our 
businesses around the 
world, reflecting our ability 
to work as a team.

Christopher L. Mapes, Chairman,  
President and Chief Executive Officer

this position in the years ahead as we partner with our global 

We believe this is the right formula to provide increasing value 

customers to assist them in developing engineered solutions.

for all of our stakeholders in 2014 and beyond, and we will 

We are also driving further productivity for customers through 

our established base of Power Wave® welding equipment, 

where we have introduced software modules that monitor weld 

quality while instructing the operator on the sequence of welds 

necessary to ensure proper production processes. 

Additionally, we are leveraging open innovation with industry 

and academic partners to accelerate innovation. One example 

be steadfast in our pursuit of stronger year-over-year results 

through our commitment to continuous improvement and 

innovation. The hard work of our more than 10,000-person 

team worldwide has made Lincoln Electric the global leader it 

is today. We are thankful to our team, to our customers, and to 

our shareholders and partners for their ongoing support.

is our participation with America Makes and other partners,  

Sincerely,

where we are engaged in an incubator project that uses our 

proprietary hotwire laser technology for additive manufacturing 

applications with new alloys. 

Christopher L. Mapes 

Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer

Excited About the Future
We are confident that our R&D investments and disciplined 

acquisition strategy will position us well to capitalize on 

the growing opportunities in our end markets. An ongoing 

economic recovery combined with global investments in energy, 

infrastructure development and automation of advanced 

manufacturing will present substantial growth opportunities for 

us throughout the world. We believe we have a strong portfolio 

of solutions, industry-leading technologies, the global footprint 

and technical expertise to serve these growing needs, along 

with the financial flexibility to invest in new areas to build upon 

our solid base.

We are excited about our future. By putting customers first 

and addressing their challenges with innovative solutions, we 

are driving measurable value, which we have highlighted in 

this year’s annual report. We will continue to execute this value 

proposition globally as we pursue our 2020 Vision and Strategy. 

3

RELIABILITY

220%

increase in productivity 
compared with traditional 
method

4

WELDING   |  SucceSS Story

Lincoln Wire Provides a Cool Solution 
for Natural Gas Storage

Collecting natural gas from 
remote locations, and then 
transporting and storing it, poses 
many engineering and logistic 
challenges requiring specialized 
solutions and expertise. 

Natural gas offers abundant reserves, low 

consumables made of specialty alloys. By 

prices and relatively clean emissions, and 

working with the construction company 

its demand as a preferred energy source 

building the LNG tanks at Darwin to 

continues to grow. To meet this demand, 

understand their priorities and issues, 

more than 280 liquefied natural gas (LNG) 

Lincoln Electric Research & Development 

projects are under consideration today. 

and Application Engineering specialists 

Operating off the northwest coast of 

Australia, the Ichthys project is one of 

helped design and demonstrate a more 

efficient solution.

the largest LNG projects currently under 

Following a series of rigorous welding 

construction. At the site, subsea wells 

and mechanical tests to ensure fit-for-use 

collect natural gas which is transported 

and low-temperature durability, Lincoln 

550 miles through a subsea pipeline to 

Electric’s new Metrode® brand Supercore™ 

the city of Darwin, at the tip of Australia’s 

625 specialty alloy wire replaced the 

Northern Territory. There, the gas is chilled 

traditional stick electrode consumable. 

to -196°C and held in large, specially 

This conversion allowed the customer 

engineered, multiwall and airtight tanks 

to achieve a 220% improvement in 

made of thick 9% nickel inner liner 

productivity, significantly reduce man-

material that withstands low temperatures 

hours and diminish waste while delivering 

without becoming brittle. 

high-quality, reliable welds that exceed 

Until recently, achieving the stringent 

weld metal requirements for tanks at 

these temperatures was a time-intensive 

process involving manual stick electrode 

the weld requirements necessary for these 

extreme low-temperature conditions. 

62% 

280+ 

Efficiency 

Reduction in man-hours following 
conversion to the Metrode® 
Supercore™ 625 wire

LNG projects currently under 
consideration globally to meet 
growing demand

Specialty alloy wire runs longer 
without requiring a stick reload 
every 120mm

5

PARTNERS

5,500

welds across 40 miles of pipe

6

WELDING   |  SucceSS Story

Technology and Training Are Keys  
to Success for Pipeline Project

When a leading global 
engineering, procurement, 
construction and installation 
company faced many 
challenging conditions during 
the construction of a 40-mile 
subsea gas pipeline, Lincoln 
Electric was the right partner  
to ensure that the welded units 
of the pipeline were of the 
highest quality.

From the training of welders to the 

project in less than four months. They 

fabrication and installation of the pipe, 

welded 5,500 joints along 40 miles of  

Lincoln Electric’s welding technology  

pipe with zero defects.  

and expertise helped ensure the  

welding operation was energy-efficient 

and productive.

Keys to the success of the project 

were Lincoln Electric’s Power Wave® 

inverter power source, utilizing custom-

Durable, defect-free products and 

designed proprietary welding waveforms, 

expert training were mission-critical to 

and Lincoln’s specifically designed 

the project as a result of the corrosive 

high-performance solid wire welding 

environment and severe operating 

consumables.  In addition, Lincoln’s 

conditions of the underwater setting. 

PowerConnect™ technology, which 

There simply was no room for error. 

compensates for varying input power 

To prepare for work at the offshore 

welding stations that would be used 

for the project, a team of 30 skilled 

welders underwent extensive scenario 

while maintaining consistent output levels, 

helped achieve energy cost savings of 

approximately 10% when compared with 

conventional solutions.

training with the engineering company’s 

Finally, Production Monitoring™ 2 software 

proprietary training system. Drawing 

technology allowed operators to track 

from the expertise they gained from 

the usage of welding equipment, store 

their training utilizing Lincoln Electric’s 

welding data and analyze production 

high-performance solutions, upgraded 

performance based on their customized 

technology and optimized processes and 

parameters, leading to fewer weld defects 

protocols, the 30 welders worked across 

and maximizing productivity.

two shifts to successfully complete the 

0 defects

Severe environment required a 
defect-free pipeline

Custom

Lincoln’s customized 1mm  
high-strength welding wire helped 
achieve perfect quality while 
meeting stringent requirements

10%

Energy savings vs.  
conventional solutions

7

CUSTOM

8

48 hrs

ladders now ship within 48 
hours of being ordered

WELDING   |  SucceSS Story

Lincoln Team Steps Up  
to Ladder Maker’s Challenge

Just-in-time (JIT) 
manufacturing reduces 
inventory and warehouse 
space requirements, improves 
operational efficiencies and 
increases levels of customer 
service and responsiveness.  

This requires agile manufacturing 

welding system which can accommodate 

processes to react in tight cycle times 

multiple welding procedures, various 

and flex to customers’ changing 

types of tooling and the rotation and 

requirements without sacrificing quality. 

reorientation of parts in the arc welding 

For JIT, automation is often the right fit. 

process. This improved speed and 

When a leading industrial metal ladder 

manufacturer sought to improve 

cycle times and order fill rates, JIT 

efficiency for the customer, as two 

product lines could now be manufactured 

in one production cell.

manufacturing was the answer. The 

Additionally, the process benefits from 

solution had to accommodate small 

flexible tooling that adjusts to multiple 

batch sizes, quick turns and product 

part sizes and weld positions, as well as 

specifications ranging from 2- to 18-step 

a sensor system that triggers the correct 

tread configurations, while ensuring 

production sequence by identifying the 

consistently high quality standards. 

assembled parts loaded and positioned 

Partnering with the right experts would 

in the tooling. Both finished quality and 

be critical to ensuring success.   

welding cycle times improved because 

Lincoln Electric’s arc welding automation 

engineering team, working closely with 

the customer and a tooling specialist, 

determined that a flexible automated 

manufacturing process would address 

the customer’s needs and allow 

production of high-quality rolling 

ladders on demand. The customized 

solution leverages Lincoln Electric’s 

pre-engineered System 55 robotic arc 

of the error-free tooling concept. The 

operator is now able to manufacture 

a variety of ladders in a given shift, 

optimizing operational efficiency, safety, 

quality and speed. Today, the customer 

produces on demand, ships within 48 

hours and has been recognized by its 

own customers for exceeding quality and 

service standards.

On demand

Quality

0 inventory

Error-free tooling and an automated 
system deliver high-quality ladders 
made to order

New solution uses four welds 
per tread vs. an industry 
standard of two

Just-in-time manufacturing 
eliminated the need for finished 
goods inventory

9

IMPROVE

10

35%

reduction in appliance 
failures

WELDING   |  SucceSS Story

Getting It Done –  
Even in the Extremes

Ensuring that projects are 
completed on schedule, safely 
and reliably – regardless 
of weather – is critical for 
many industries including 
construction, farming, 
military, logistics, mining and 
emergency services. 

These industries often rely on heavy-

alloys. Operators are now able to 

duty commercial HVAC systems to 

maintain a consistent and repeatable 

reduce expensive down-time and 

flame through the use of standardized 

operating costs in the field by keeping 

brazing equipment across each station 

workers safe and comfortable with 

– including new regulators, torches and 

thermal management, humidity control 

tips. This also allows for more effective 

and ventilation to remove pollutants. 

training on how to properly operate 

One leading HVAC provider turned to 

the equipment, apply heat and use the 

Lincoln Electric’s Harris® team to help 

brazing alloys in the process. 

improve the brazing of materials in its 

manufacturing process.  Specifically, 

the company was focused on quality 

concerns associated with discoloration, 

enhancing the productivity of new 

operators and reducing appliance 

failures caused by leaks. 

Quality levels improved within one 

month following the Harris® brazing 

training and standardization of the 

equipment, generating an immediate 

$270,000 in annual savings. 

Additionally, leak rates were reduced 

significantly, resulting in a 35% reduction 

The Harris team’s evaluation of the 

in appliance failures.  Looking ahead 

customer’s brazing processes identified 

to 2014, the Harris® team is working to 

that more consistent heat input would 

identify other process improvements to 

eliminate discoloration associated with 

achieve the ultimate goal of reducing 

“hot flames,” improve cycle times that 

appliance failures by 60%.  

had been extended by “soft flames,” 

and reduce leak rates that had resulted 

from an inconsistent penetration of 

20% 

1 month 

60% 

Cost savings from reduced  
appliance quality failures

Harris® brazing training was the key 
to improved appliance performance 
within one month

Targeted reduction in  
appliance failures in 2014

11

LEADERSHIP

As the global leader in the arc welding and cutting industry, we continue to foster a culture of 
continuous improvement, operational efficiency, individual achievement and integrity, while 
we also work to improve our communities, support the manufacturing industries we serve and 
develop the next generation of welders. 

Living the Lincoln Legacy 
Lincoln Electric’s founders, John C. and James F. Lincoln, believed providing innovative 

products that deliver real value for customers – and rewarding employees for their 

achievements – would create a business that would generate long-term value for all 

of its stakeholders. For 119 years, their philosophy has passed the test through wars, 

recessions, technological shifts and globalization. Today, our founding principles 

remain as strong as ever, aligning well with the “people, planet and profit” pillars that 

define modern sustainability efforts.  

environmental, Health & Safety Improvements
Our commitment to maintaining the health and safety of our employees, customers 

and neighbors, while preserving the integrity of the environment, extends across our 

global network of 45 facilities. We strive to not only comply with but often exceed 

local environmental, health and safety (EH&S) regulatory requirements. To do this, we 

set rigorous annual goals that focus on continual improvement in conserving natural 

resources, preventing emissions and other pollutants, conserving energy, minimizing 

waste and protecting the safety and wellness of our employees and communities. 

This effort includes our ongoing global investment in ISO 14001 environmental 

management systems, which allow us to identify, implement and measure 

Excellence

2013 Chairman’s Award for 
EH&S Excellence: Lincoln Canada 
received our premier North 
American award for exceptional 
EH&S performance, which included 
earning ISO 50001 certification, 
a global best-in-class energy 
management system, recording no 
DART4 incidents and achieving  
a 22% reduction in energy  
use in 2013

Sustainability Metrics 

2013 vs. 2012 Percent change

Greenhouse gas emissions1: 

Waste minimization2: 

Energy use3: 

Workplace safety4: 

4% improvement 

28% improvement

1% increase 

18% improvement

1  Absolute metric tons of CO2 emissions from both direct (fuels) and indirect (energy) sources across our global manufacturing footprint. Improvement reflects   
  Scope 1 and 2 emissions as defined by 2006 IPCC guidelines.  
2  Percent of all waste (manufacturing and non-manufacturing waste material) recycled across our global manufacturing footprint. This metric excludes metals    
  that are fully recycled or reused. 
3  Absolute energy use (electricity, natural gas, coal, fuel oil and liquefied petroleum gas) in gigajoules (GJ) across our global manufacturing footprint.  
4  Reflects a “Days Away, Restrictions or Transfers” (DART) rate that measures injury cases resulting in either missed work, restrictions in performing assigned tasks,  
  or a job transfer during recovery. DART is calculated as number of incidents per 200,000 hours worked and reflects incidences across our global footprint. 

12

WELDING   |  cSr

Cleaner air

Safer

Our 2013 reduction in greenhouse 
gas emissions is equivalent to taking 
more than 2,300 cars off the road

We reduced our DART4 rate 18% 
and seven of our facilities achieved  
no DART incidents in 2013

VOCs 

We reduced Volatile Organic 
Compounds (VOCs) in our 
equipment manufacturing process, 
which eliminates hazardous 
emissions and reduces energy use 
by 84% in that process

improvements in resource efficiency, waste reduction and the 

Additionally, a variety of employee development, wellness  

resulting cost savings. In 2013, 57% of our applicable facilities 

and engagement programs flourish throughout our  

were ISO 14001 certified, and we will continue to expand this 

global organization:

program in 2014.  

•	 The Junior Board program gives tomorrow’s leaders 

For the longer term, we are developing additional goals across 

an opportunity to impact the business through various 

our targeted metrics to highlight the results we expect to 

executive-sponsored team projects. 

achieve by more efficiently using natural resources, further 

•	 Locally sponsored events and fundraisers help bring 

reducing the environmental impact of our operations and 

positive change to communities across our global footprint.   

maintaining our focus on the safety of our employees worldwide.

•	 A growing number of Wellness Committee activities 

engaging employees and encouraging  

Achievement  
Based on the philosophy of our founders, Lincoln Electric’s 

management system encourages and rewards employee 

engagement and achievement. We are continuing that legacy 

with numerous Company- and employee-driven initiatives and 

partnerships. In 2013, for example, we expanded our new global 

intranet site, “GlobalLinc,” which provides forums for employees 

to collaborate, report news, share best practices, access 

promote healthy lifestyles through education, wellness fairs, 

classes and charitable events. 

•	 Employee-based groups such as “WELD” and “BBS” 

focus on safety and wellness initiatives, influencing safety 

practices, and generating awareness through newsletters 

and volunteerism in their local communities. 

Integrity and Good Governance Are Part  

of our culture
Lincoln Electric maintains a proud tradition of good 

information and ask questions on key topics across regions. 

governance, ethical actions and integrity. Our Board is 

We also are committed to cultivating a diverse work force 

that not only reflects our values of respect, fairness and 

nondiscrimination, but makes us a better supplier and partner 

to the customers we serve globally. Goals and objectives to 

committed to following the highest corporate governance 

standards. We maintain a transparent workplace, welcoming 

questions and concerns, with an open-door policy that extends 

all the way to the Chairman.

support diversity are reviewed by our Board of Directors, and 

Our employee base understands that everyone associated with 

our Diversity Councils engage employees in inclusion and 

Lincoln is expected to lead by example and diligently follow 

community outreach programs.

our “Code of Corporate Conduct and Ethics,” which has been 

translated into 12 languages. In 2013, 33,000 courses were 

completed by our employees, covering awareness, training 

and monitoring of ethical behaviors. We also offer toll-free 

telephone hotline access across 24 countries available 24/7  

and worldwide online access to report compliance concerns.

13

COMMUNITY

Sustainable Solutions

The Gem-Pak™ bulk packaging system 
for aluminum wire is fully 
recyclable and increases 
productivity by improving 
feedability and reducing 
tangling. 

Our inverter-based 
welding equipment is up to 
30% more energy efficient 
than transformer-based 
alternatives. 

Lasers combined with our Power Wave® 
technology can more than double the 
amount of material deposited per hour 
and reduce the energy 
used in processing 
parts by more than 
30% compared with 
other laser welding and 
cladding techniques.

The Harris® ecoSMART® 
boric acid-free flux 
reduces toxicity in 
customers’ brazing 
operations.

Helping customers with their Sustainability Goals
Lincoln Electric is committed to helping customers address their environmental 

and productivity goals, and our high-performance solutions play a key role 

in environmentally friendly products such as wind turbines, solar panels and 

reduced-weight vehicles. With an emphasis on efficiency, productivity and 

ease-of-use, our R&D teams work to reduce the energy intensity of our systems, 

increase recycled content, decrease weight and bulk, and improve welding 

fumes and exhaust management.

Each year, we introduce many new products that help customers achieve 

their sustainability goals. In 2013, we invested $42 million in research and 

development globally, and approximately 30% of our sales revenue came from 

new products launched from 2009-2013.

championing education and the Future of Welding 
As the global leader in our industry, Lincoln Electric is uniquely positioned to 

advance the future of welding through a variety of programs and initiatives.

•	

Lincoln sponsors welding competitions for SkillsUSA® and was the exclusive 

welding sponsor of the 2013 WorldSkills International® global competition in 

Leipzig, Germany.

•	

The Lincoln Electric Welding School provides free training programs to 

qualified instructors to help them develop the next generation of welders.

•	 We work with skilled trade unions to “train the trainers” in welding, and 

provide training programs, curriculum and welding solutions to community 

colleges and skill centers.

•	

The James F. Lincoln Arc Welding Foundation, created in 1936 to 

encourage and stimulate scientific interest, study and education in the 

development of the arc welding industry, publishes and distributes low-cost 

training materials and books to educators and students. It also supports 

professional, college and school shop award programs.

14

WELDING   |  cSr

Lincoln electric partnered with extollo International, 
a nonprofit organization, by donating welding 
equipment and educational curriculum to help 
rebuild Haiti. 

Volunteers from Lincoln Mexico performed craft activities using recycled materials 

as part of the Mexico Teleton Foundation’s “Summer Telethon 2013” to raise money 

for children’s rehabilitation centers.

•	

As part of the U.S. Army’s “Training With Industry” 

program, enlisted soldiers serve with us for one year to 

learn welding technologies and business practices.  

•	 Working with the United Nations Industrial Development 

Organization (UNIDO), a welding training facility in 

Liberia was equipped with Lincoln products and we 

provided complimentary training to welding instructors 

to help develop local skilled welders.

We also realize that the long-term success of advanced 

manufacturing relies on skills in STEM subjects (science, 

technology, engineering and mathematics). Welding is a 

profession that incorporates a wide range of disciplines 

including engineering, chemistry, metallurgy, sciences, 

physics and business. To foster that understanding, in  

2013, we sponsored 40 college interns who worked in  

STEM-related functions at our headquarters. Additionally, 

our management team helps non-profit organizations such 

as MAGNET, WIRE-Net and the National Association of 

Manufacturers (NAM) develop programs focused on STEM 

education and vocational training. For younger students, we 

have developed training materials for the National FFA that 

emphasize STEM topics. We also supported the Boy Scouts of 

America® in the development and roll-out of its welding merit 

badge program and we will continue to develop curriculum to 

support its expansion. 

The Boy Scouts of America awarded Lincoln Electric with its prominent North Star Award for our 

efforts in supporting the organization’s welding merit badge program, which launched in 2012.

revitalizing our communities
Every year, Lincoln Electric supports numerous non-profit 

organizations and philanthropic events across our international 

footprint and through the Lincoln Electric Foundation. Since 1952, 

the Foundation has invested in improving the vibrancy of local 

communities through grants for local schools, scholarships, youth 

programs, arts and cultural initiatives, and health and human 

services programs.  Additionally, Lincoln Electric donates welding 

and cutting equipment, as well as our technical expertise, to help 

organizations achieve their mission of revitalizing communities and 

enhancing skills through the use of metal fabrication and welding. 

In 2013, our combined community outreach efforts represented 

approximately $3 million in giving. 

15

Board of Directors

front row:

ROBERT J. KnOLL
Former Partner,  
Deloitte & Touche LLP

KATHRYn JO LInCOLn
Chair of the Lincoln Institute  
of Land Policy

STEPHEn G. HAnKS
Former President and  
Chief Executive Officer, Washington 
Group International, Inc. 

G. RuSSELL LInCOLn
President of N.A.S.T. Inc. 

HAROLD L. ADAMS
Lead Director 
Chairman Emeritus and  
Former Chairman, President  
and Chief Executive Officer of  
RTKL Associates Inc.

back row:

CuRTIS E. ESPELAnD 
Senior Vice President and  
Chief Financial Officer,  
Eastman Chemical Company

Company Officers and Executive Management

GEORGE H. WALLS, JR. 
Former Chief Deputy Auditor,  
State of North Carolina

CHRISTOPHER L. MAPES
Chairman, President and  
Chief Executive Officer  
of the Company

PHILLIP J. MASOn
Former President of Ecolab, Inc. 
EMEA sector

DAvID H. GunnInG
Former Vice Chairman of  
Cleveland-Cliffs Inc

WILLIAM E. MACDOnALD, III
Former Vice Chairman of  
National City Corporation

HELLEnE S. RunTAGH
Former President and Chief  
Executive Officer of Berwind Group  

GEOFFREY P. ALLMAn 
Senior Vice President,  
Corporate Controller

AnTHOnY K. BATTLE 
Senior Vice President,  
Internal Audit

GEORGE D. BLAnKEnSHIP* 
Executive Vice President  
President, Lincoln Electric  
North America

GABRIEL BRunO*  
Executive Vice President,  
Chief Information Officer

JOSEPH G. DORIA
Vice President 
President, Lincoln Electric Canada

GRETCHEn A. FARRELL* 
Executive Vice President,  
Chief Human Resources Officer

THOMAS A. FLOHn* 
Senior Vice President 
President, Asia Pacific Region

MATHIAS HALLMAnn*
Senior Vice President  
President, Lincoln Electric Europe

STEvEn B. HEDLunD*
Senior Vice President, Strategy and 
Business Development

MICHELE R. KuHRT 
Senior Vice President, Tax

DOuGLAS S. LAnCE 
Senior Vice President, North 
American Operations

CHRISTOPHER L. MAPES*
Chairman, President and  
Chief Executive Officer 

WILLIAM T. MATTHEWS
Senior Vice President, 
Technology and  
Research and Development

MICHAEL S. MInTun
Senior Vice President, North 
America Sales and Marketing

DAvID J. nAnGLE*  
Senior Vice President  
President, Harris Products 
Group

vInCEnT K. PETRELLA* 
Executive Vice President,  
Chief Financial Officer and 
Treasurer

FREDERICK G. STuEBER* 
Executive Vice President,  
General Counsel and Secretary

16

*Member, Management Committee

A Note of Gratitude

We thank John Stropki, 
former Chairman and Chief 
Executive Officer, who retired 
in 2013, for all he has done 
during his 44-year career with 
the Company. We wish the 
best for him and his family. 

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF
THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2013

Commission file number 0-1402

LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Ohio

(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)

22801 St. Clair Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio

(Address of principal executive offices)

34-1860551
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

44117

(Zip Code)

(216) 481-8100

(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Common Shares, without par value

The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC

(Title of each class)

(Name of each exchange on which registered)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes 

    No 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes 

    No 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange 
Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been 
subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes 

    No 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data 
File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months 
(or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes 

    No 

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§ 229.405 of this chapter) is not contained 
herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by 
reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting 
company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer" and "smaller reporting company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange 
Act.

 Large accelerated filer

 Accelerated filer

 Non-accelerated filer
 (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

 Smaller reporting company

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes 

    No 

The aggregate market value of the common shares held by non-affiliates as of June 30, 2013 was $4,591,044,854 (affiliates, for this purpose, 
have been deemed to be Directors and Executive Officers of the Company and certain significant shareholders).

The number of shares outstanding of the registrant's common shares as of December 31, 2013 was 81,010,084.

Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K incorporates by reference certain information from the registrant's definitive proxy statement to 
be filed on or about March 21, 2014 with respect to the registrant's 2014 Annual Meeting of Shareholders.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

 
 
 
 
PART I

ITEM 1. BUSINESS

General

As used in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, the term "Company," except as otherwise indicated by the context, means 
Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. and its wholly-owned and majority-owned subsidiaries for which it has a controlling interest.  
The Lincoln Electric Company began operations in 1895 and was incorporated under the laws of the State of Ohio in 1906.  
During 1998, The Lincoln Electric Company reorganized into a holding company structure, and Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. 
became the publicly-held parent of Lincoln Electric subsidiaries worldwide, including The Lincoln Electric Company.

The Company is one of only a few worldwide broad-line manufacturers of welding, cutting and brazing products.  Welding 
products include arc welding power sources, wire feeding systems, robotic welding packages, fume extraction equipment, 
consumable electrodes and fluxes.  The Company's product offering also includes computer numeric controlled ("CNC") 
plasma and oxy-fuel cutting systems and regulators and torches used in oxy-fuel welding, cutting and brazing.  In addition, the 
Company has a leading global position in the brazing and soldering alloys market.

The arc welding power sources and wire feeding systems manufactured by the Company range in technology from basic units 
used for light manufacturing and maintenance to highly sophisticated robotic applications for high volume production welding 
and fabrication.  Three primary types of arc welding electrodes are produced: (1) coated manual or stick electrodes; (2) solid 
electrodes produced in coil, reel or drum forms for continuous feeding in mechanized welding; and (3) cored electrodes 
produced in coil form for continuous feeding in mechanized welding.

The Company has, through wholly-owned subsidiaries or joint ventures, manufacturing facilities located in the United States, 
Brazil, Canada, China, Colombia, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Mexico, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Russia, 
Turkey, the United Kingdom and Venezuela, of which 39 are ISO 9001 certified.

The Company has aligned its business units into five operating segments to enhance the utilization of the Company's 
worldwide resources and global end user and sourcing initiatives.  The operating segments consist of North America Welding, 
Europe Welding, Asia Pacific Welding, South America Welding and The Harris Products Group.  The North America Welding 
segment includes welding operations in the United States, Canada and Mexico.  The Europe Welding segment includes welding 
operations in Europe, Russia, Africa and the Middle East.  The other two welding segments include welding operations in Asia 
Pacific and South America, respectively.  The fifth segment, The Harris Products Group, includes the Company's global cutting, 
soldering and brazing businesses as well as the retail business in the United States.  See Note 5 to the Company's consolidated 
financial statements for segment and geographic area information, which is incorporated herein by reference.

Customers

The Company's products are sold in both domestic and international markets.  In North America, products are sold principally 
through industrial distributors, retailers and also directly to users of welding products.  Outside of North America, the Company 
has an international sales organization comprised of Company employees and agents who sell products from the Company's 
various manufacturing sites to distributors and product users.

The Company's major end-user markets include:

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

general metal fabrication,
power generation and process industry,
structural steel construction (buildings and bridges),
heavy equipment fabrication (farming, mining and rail),
shipbuilding,
automotive,
pipe mills and pipelines, and
offshore oil and gas exploration and extraction.

1

The Company is not dependent on a single customer or a few customers and no individual customer currently accounts for 
more than ten percent of total Net sales.  However, the loss of a large customer could have an adverse effect on the Company's 
business.  The Company's operating results are sensitive to changes in general economic conditions.  The arc welding and 
cutting industry is generally a mature industry in developed markets such as North America and Western Europe, and is cyclical 
in nature.  Overall demand for arc welding and cutting products is largely determined by economic cycles and the level of 
capital spending in manufacturing and other industrial sectors.  The Company experiences some variability in reported period-
to-period results as demand for the Company's products are mildly seasonal with generally higher demand in the second and 
third quarters.  See "Item 1A. Risk Factors" for further discussion regarding risks associated with customers, general economic 
conditions and demand.

Competition

Conditions in the arc welding and cutting industry are highly competitive.  The Company believes it is the world's largest 
manufacturer of consumables and equipment with relatively few major broad-line competitors worldwide, but numerous 
smaller competitors in specific geographic markets.  The Company continues to pursue strategies to heighten its 
competitiveness in domestic and international markets, which includes positioning low cost manufacturing facilities in most 
geographical markets. Competition in the arc welding and cutting industry is based on brand preference, product quality, price, 
performance, warranty, delivery, service and technical support.  The Company believes its performance against these factors 
has contributed to the Company's position as the leader in the industry.

Most of the Company's products may be classified as standard commercial articles and are manufactured for stock.  The 
Company believes it has a competitive advantage in the marketplace because of its highly trained technical sales force and the 
support of its welding research and development staff to assist customers in optimizing their welding applications.  This allows 
the Company to introduce its products to new users and to establish and maintain close relationships with its customers.  This 
close relationship between the technical sales force and the direct customers, together with its supportive relationship with its 
distributors, who are particularly interested in handling the broad range of the Company's products, is an important element of 
the Company's market success and a valuable asset of the Company.

Raw Materials

The principal raw materials essential to the Company's business are steel, electronic components, engines, brass, copper, silver, 
aluminum alloys and various chemicals, all of which are normally available for purchase in the open market.

Patents and Trademarks

The Company holds many valuable patents, primarily in arc welding, and has increased the application process as research and 
development has progressed in both the United States and major international jurisdictions.  The Company believes its 
trademarks are an important asset and aggressively pursues brand management.

Environmental Regulations

The Company's facilities are subject to environmental regulations.  To date, compliance with these environmental regulations 
has not had a material adverse effect on the Company's earnings.  The Company is ISO 14001 certified at most significant 
manufacturing facilities in North America and Europe and is progressing towards certification at its remaining facilities 
worldwide.  In addition, the Company is ISO 9001 certified at nearly all facilities worldwide.

International Operations

The Company conducts a significant amount of its business and has a number of operating facilities in countries outside the 
United States.  As a result, the Company is subject to business risks inherent to non-U.S. activities, including political 
uncertainty, import and export limitations, exchange controls and currency fluctuations.

Research and Development

Research activities, which the Company believes provide a competitive advantage, relate to the development of new products 
and the improvement of existing products.  Research activities are Company-sponsored.  Refer to Note 1 to the Company's 
consolidated financial statements with respect to total costs of research and development, which is incorporated herein by 
reference.

Employees

The number of persons employed by the Company worldwide at December 31, 2013 was approximately 10,000.  See "Part I, 
Item 1C" for information regarding the Company's executive officers, which is incorporated herein by reference.

2

Website Access

The Company's website, www.lincolnelectric.com, is used as a channel for routine distribution of important information, 
including news releases and financial information.  The Company posts its filings as soon as reasonably practicable after they 
are electronically filed with, or furnished to, the SEC, including annual, quarterly, and current reports on Forms 10-K, 10-Q, 
and 8-K; proxy statements; and any amendments to those reports or statements.  The Company also posts its Code of Corporate 
Conduct and Ethics on its website.  All such postings and filings are available on the Company's website free of charge.  In 
addition, this website allows investors and other interested persons to sign up to automatically receive e-mail alerts when news 
releases and financial information is posted on the website.  The SEC also maintains a website, www.sec.gov, that contains 
reports, proxy and information statements and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC.  The 
content on any website referred to in this Annual Report on Form 10-K is not incorporated by reference into this Annual Report 
unless expressly noted.

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS

From time to time, information we provide, statements by our employees or information included in our filings with the SEC 
may contain forward-looking statements that are not historical facts.  Those statements are "forward-looking" within the 
meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.  Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by 
the use of words such as "may," "will," "expect," "intend," "estimate," "anticipate," "believe," "forecast," "guidance" or words 
of similar meaning.  Actual results may differ materially from such statements due to a variety of factors that could adversely 
affect the Company's operating results.  Forward-looking statements, and our future performance, operating results, financial 
position and liquidity, are subject to a variety of factors that could materially affect results, including those risks described 
below.  Any forward-looking statements made in this report or otherwise speak only as of the date of the statement, and, except 
as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update those statements.  Comparisons of results for current and any prior 
periods are not intended to express any future trends or indications of future performance, unless expressed as such, and should 
only be viewed as historical data.

In the ordinary course of our business, we face various strategic, operating, compliance and financial risks.  These risks could 
have a material impact on our business, financial condition, operating results and cash flows.

Our Enterprise Risk Management ("ERM") process seeks to identify and address significant risks.  Our ERM process is a 
company-wide initiative that is designed with the intent of prioritizing risks and assigning appropriate consideration for such 
risks.  We use the integrated risk framework of the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations to assess, manage and monitor 
risks.

Management has identified and prioritized critical risks based on the severity and likelihood of each risk and assigned an 
executive to address each major identified risk area and lead action plans to monitor and mitigate risks, where possible.  Our 
Board of Directors provides oversight of the ERM process and systematically reviews identified critical risks.  The Audit 
Committee also reviews major financial risk exposures and the steps management has taken to monitor and control them.

Our goal is to pro-actively manage risks in a structured approach and in conjunction with the strategic planning process, with 
the intent to preserve and enhance shareholder value.  However, these and other risks and uncertainties could cause our results 
to vary materially from recent results or from our anticipated future results.  The risk factors and uncertainties described below, 
together with information incorporated by reference or otherwise included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, 
should be carefully considered.  Additional risks and uncertainties of which we are currently unaware or that we currently 
believe to be immaterial may also adversely affect our business.

General economic and market conditions may adversely affect the Company's financial condition, results of operations 
and access to capital markets.

The Company's operating results are sensitive to changes in general economic conditions.  Further recessionary economic 
cycles, higher interest rates, inflation, higher labor costs, trade barriers in the world markets, financial turmoil related to 
sovereign debt and changes in tax laws or other economic factors affecting the countries and industries in which we do business 
could adversely affect demand for the Company's products, thereby impacting our results of operations, collection of accounts 
receivable and our expected cash flow generation from current and acquired businesses, which may adversely impact our 
financial condition and access to capital markets.

3

Economic and supply disruptions associated with events beyond our control, such as war, acts of terror, political unrest, 
public health concerns, labor disputes or natural disasters could adversely affect our supply chain and distribution 
channels or result in loss of sales and customers.

Our facilities and operations, and the facilities and operations of our suppliers and customers, could be disrupted by events 
beyond our control, such as war, political unrest, public health concerns, labor disputes or natural disasters.  Any such 
disruption could cause delays in the production and distribution of our products and the loss of sales and customers.  Insurance 
proceeds may not adequately compensate the Company for the losses.

Availability of and volatility in energy costs or raw material prices may adversely affect our performance.

In the normal course of business, we are exposed to market risks related to the availability of and price fluctuations in the 
purchase of energy and commodities used in the manufacture of our products (primarily steel, brass, copper, silver, aluminum 
alloys, electronic components, electricity and natural gas).  The availability and prices for energy costs and raw materials, 
including steel, nonferrous metals and chemicals, are subject to volatility and are influenced by worldwide economic 
conditions, speculative action, world supply and demand balances, inventory levels, availability of substitute materials, 
currency exchange rates, our competitors' production costs, anticipated or perceived shortages and other factors.  

Increases in the cost of raw materials and components may adversely affect our profitability if we are unable to pass along to 
our customers these cost increases in the form of price increases or otherwise reduce our cost of goods sold.  Although most of 
the raw materials and components used in our products are commercially available from a number of sources and in adequate 
supply, any disruption in the availability of such raw materials and components, our inability to timely or otherwise obtain 
substitutes for such items, or any deterioration in our relationships with or the financial viability of our suppliers could 
adversely affect our business.

We are a co-defendant in litigation alleging asbestos induced illness.  Liabilities relating to such litigation could reduce 
our profitability and impair our financial condition.

At December 31, 2013, we were a co-defendant in cases alleging asbestos induced illness involving claims by approximately 
14,601 plaintiffs.  In each instance, we are one of a large number of defendants.  The asbestos claimants allege that exposure to 
asbestos contained in welding consumables caused the plaintiffs to develop adverse pulmonary diseases, including 
mesothelioma and other lung cancers.

Since January 1, 1995, we have been a co-defendant in asbestos cases that have been resolved as follows: 41,832 of those 
claims were dismissed, 22 were tried to defense verdicts, seven were tried to plaintiff verdicts (one of which is being appealed), 
one was resolved by agreement for an immaterial amount and 633 were decided in favor of the Company following summary 
judgment motions.

The long-term impact of the asbestos loss contingency, in the aggregate, on operating results, operating cash flows and access 
to capital markets is difficult to assess, particularly since claims are in many different stages of development and we benefit 
significantly from cost-sharing with co-defendants and insurance carriers.  While we intend to contest these lawsuits 
vigorously, and believe we have applicable insurance relating to these claims, there are several risks and uncertainties that may 
affect our liability for personal injury claims relating to exposure to asbestos, including the future impact of changing cost 
sharing arrangements or a change in our overall trial experience.  

Asbestos use in welding consumables in the U.S. ceased in 1981.

We may incur material losses and costs as a result of product liability claims that may be brought against us.

Our business exposes us to potential product liability risks that are inherent in the design, manufacture, sale and application of 
our products and the products of third-party suppliers that we utilize or resell.  Our products are used in a variety of 
applications, including infrastructure projects such as oil and gas pipelines and platforms, buildings, bridges and power 
generation facilities, the manufacture of transportation and heavy equipment and machinery and various other construction 
projects.  We face risk of exposure to product liability claims in the event that accidents or failures on these projects result, or 
are alleged to result, in bodily injury or property damage.  Further, our products are designed for use in specific applications, 
and if a product is used inappropriately, personal injury or property damage may result.

4

The occurrence of defects in or failures of our products, or the misuse of our products in specific applications, could cause 
termination of customer contracts, increased costs and losses to us, our customers and other end users.  We cannot be assured 
that we will not experience any material product liability losses in the future or that we will not incur significant costs to defend 
those claims.  Further, we cannot be assured that our product liability insurance coverage will be adequate for any liabilities 
that we may ultimately incur or that product liability insurance will continue to be available on terms acceptable to us.

The cyclical nature and maturity of the arc welding and cutting industry in developed markets may adversely affect our 
performance.

The arc welding and cutting industry is generally a mature industry in developed markets such as North America and Western 
Europe and is cyclical in nature.  Overall demand for arc welding and cutting products is largely determined by the level of 
capital spending in manufacturing and other industrial sectors, and the welding industry has historically experienced 
contraction during periods of slowing industrial activity.  If economic, business and industry conditions deteriorate, capital 
spending in those sectors may be substantially decreased, which could reduce demand for our products, our revenues and our 
results of operations.

We may not be able to complete our acquisition strategy or successfully integrate acquired businesses.

Part of our business strategy is to pursue targeted business acquisition opportunities, including foreign investment 
opportunities.  For example, we have completed and continue to pursue acquisitions in emerging markets including, but not 
limited to, Brazil, Russia, India and China in order to strategically position resources to increase our presence in growing 
markets.  We cannot be certain that we will be successful in pursuing potential acquisition candidates or that the consequences 
of any acquisition would be beneficial to us.  Future acquisitions may expose us to unexpected liabilities and involve the 
expenditure of significant funds and management time.  Further, we may not be able to successfully integrate any acquired 
business with our existing businesses or recognize the expected benefits from any completed acquisition.

Depending on the nature, size and timing of future acquisitions, we may be required to raise additional financing, which may 
not be available to us on acceptable terms.  Our current operational cash flow is sufficient to fund our current acquisition plans, 
but a significant acquisition could require access to the capital markets.

If we cannot continue to develop, manufacture and market products that meet customer demands, our revenues and 
gross margins may suffer.

Our continued success depends, in part, on our ability to continue to meet our customers' needs for welding and cutting 
products through the introduction of innovative new products and the enhancement of existing product design and performance 
characteristics.  We must remain committed to product research and development and customer service in order to remain 
competitive.  We cannot be assured that new products or product improvements, once developed, will meet with customer 
acceptance and contribute positively to our operating results, or that we will be able to continue our product development 
efforts at a pace to sustain future growth.  Further, we may lose customers to our competitors if they demonstrate product 
design, development or manufacturing capabilities superior to ours.

The competitive pressures we face could harm our revenue, gross margins and prospects.

We operate in a highly competitive global environment and compete in each of our businesses with other broad-line 
manufacturers and numerous smaller competitors specializing in particular products.  We compete primarily on the basis of 
brand, product quality, price, performance, warranty, delivery, service and technical support.  We have previously initiated, and 
may in the future initiate significant rationalization activities to align our business to market conditions.  Such rationalization 
activities could fail to deliver the desired competitive cost structure and could result in disruptions in customer service.  If our 
products, services, support and cost structure do not enable us to compete successfully based on any of the criteria listed above, 
our operations, results and prospects could suffer.

Further, in the past decade, the arc welding industry in the United States and other developed countries has been subject to 
increased levels of foreign competition as low cost imports have become more readily available.  Our competitive position 
could also be harmed if new or emerging competitors become more active in the arc welding business.  For example, while 
steel manufacturers traditionally have not been significant competitors in the domestic arc welding industry, some foreign 
integrated steel producers manufacture selected consumable arc welding products.  Our sales and results of operations, as well 
as our plans to expand in some foreign countries, could be adversely affected by this practice.

5

The loss of any of our largest customers could adversely affect our revenue, gross margins and profit.

We have a large and varied customer base due, in part, to our extensive distribution channels in the industries and regions that 
we serve.  Although no individual customer currently accounts for more than ten percent of total net sales, there are customers 
to which we sell a large amount of product.  The loss of any of these customers could have an adverse effect on our revenue, 
gross margins and profit.

We conduct our sales and distribution operations on a worldwide basis and maintain manufacturing facilities in a 
number of foreign countries, which subjects us to risks associated with doing business outside the United States.

Our long-term strategy is to continue to increase our market share in growing international markets, particularly Asia (with 
emphasis in China and India), Latin America, Eastern Europe, Russia and other developing markets.

The share of sales and profits we derive from our international operations and exports from the United States is significant and 
growing.  This trend increases our exposure to the performance of many developing economies in addition to the developed 
economies outside of the United States.  For example, during 2013, approximately 8% of our net sales were generated from 
China and approximately 17% of our property, plant and equipment were located there.  If the Chinese economy were to 
experience a significant slowdown, it could adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

There are a number of risks in doing business internationally, which may impede our ability to achieve our strategic objectives 
relating to our foreign operations.  Many developing countries have a significant degree of political and economic uncertainty 
and social turmoil that may impede our ability to implement and achieve our international growth objectives.  Conducting 
business internationally subjects us to corporate governance and management challenges in consideration of the numerous U.S. 
and foreign laws and regulations, including regulations relating to import-export control, technology transfer restrictions, 
repatriation of earnings and funds, exchange controls, labor regulations, nationalization, anti-boycott provisions and anti-
bribery laws (such as the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development 
Convention).  Failure by the Company or its sales representatives, agents or distributors to comply with these laws and 
regulations could result in administrative, civil or criminal liabilities, all or any of which could negatively impact our business 
and reputation.  Our foreign operations also subject us to the risks of international terrorism and hostilities.

In particular, the economic and political environment in Venezuela exposes us to various risks.  Currency exchange restrictions 
limit our ability to convert bolivars to U.S. dollars, which impacts our ability to repatriate earnings and to purchase goods and 
services necessary to operate our Venezuelan business.  The restrictions could cause a slowdown, temporary shutdown or 
complete shutdown of operations at our Venezuelan subsidiary, which could negatively affect our earnings and cash flows.

Our operations depend on maintaining a skilled workforce, and any interruption in our workforce could negatively 
impact our results of operations and financial condition.

Our success depends in part on the efforts and abilities of our management team and key employees.  Their skills, experience 
and industry knowledge significantly benefit our operations and performance.  Our future success will also depend on our 
ability to identify, attract, and retain highly qualified managerial, technical (including research and development), sales and 
marketing, and customer service personnel.  Competition for these individuals is intense, and we may not succeed in 
identifying, attracting, or retaining qualified personnel.  With our strategy to expand internationally into developing markets, 
we may incur additional risks as some developing economies lack a sufficiently trained labor pool.

Any interruption of our workforce, including interruptions due to unionization efforts, changes in labor relations or shortages of 
appropriately skilled individuals could impact our results of operations and financial condition.

Our revenues and results of operations may suffer if we cannot continue to enforce the intellectual property rights on 
which our business depends or if third parties assert that we violate their intellectual property rights.

We rely upon patent, trademark, copyright and trade secret laws in the United States and similar laws in foreign countries, as 
well as agreements with our employees, customers, suppliers and other third parties, to establish and maintain our intellectual 
property rights.  However, any of our intellectual property rights could be challenged, invalidated or circumvented, or our 
intellectual property rights may not be sufficient to provide a competitive advantage.  Further, the laws and their application in 
certain foreign countries do not protect our proprietary rights to the same extent as U.S. laws.  Accordingly, in certain countries, 
we may be unable to protect our proprietary rights against unauthorized third-party copying or use, which could impact our 
competitive position.

6

Further, third parties may claim that we or our customers are infringing upon their intellectual property rights.  Even if we 
believe that those claims are without merit, defending those claims and contesting the validity of patents can be time-
consuming and costly.  Claims of intellectual property infringement also might require us to redesign affected products, enter 
into costly settlement or license agreements or pay costly damage awards, or face a temporary or permanent injunction 
prohibiting us from manufacturing, marketing or selling certain of our products.

Our defined benefit pension plans are subject to financial market trends, such as changes in discount rates and actual 
investment return on pension assets, which could adversely affect our results of operations and cash flows.

The performance of the financial markets and interest rates impact our funding obligations under our defined benefit pension 
plans.  Significant changes in discount rates, decreases in the fair value of plan assets and investment losses on plan assets may 
increase our benefit obligations and adversely impact our results of operations, shareholders' equity and cash flows through our 
annual measurement of plan assets and liabilities.  For a discussion regarding how the financial statements have been affected 
by significant changes in 2013, refer to the pension related disclosure under "Part II, Item 7 – Critical Accounting Policies" and 
Note 11 to the Company's consolidated financial statements.

We are subject to changes in the U.S. regulatory environment, which could adversely affect our results of operations, 
cash flows and financial condition.

Our businesses, results of operations or financial condition could be adversely affected if laws, regulations or standards relating 
to us, our products or the markets in which we operate are newly implemented or changed.  New or revised laws, regulations or 
standards could increase our cost of doing business or restrict our ability to operate our business or execute our strategies.

A significant fluctuation between the U.S. dollar and other currencies could adversely impact our operating income.

Although our financial results are reported in U.S. dollars, a significant portion of our sales and operating costs are realized in 
other currencies.  Our profitability is affected by movements of the U.S. dollar against other foreign currencies in which we 
generate revenues and incur expenses.  Significant long-term fluctuations in relative currency values, in particular an increase 
in the value of the U.S. dollar against foreign currencies, could have an adverse effect on our profitability and financial 
condition.

Changes in tax rates or exposure to additional income tax liabilities could affect profitability.

Our business is subject to income taxes in the United States and various foreign jurisdictions.  Domestic and international tax 
liabilities are subject to the allocation of income among various tax jurisdictions.  Our effective tax rate could be adversely 
affected by changes in the mix among earnings in countries with differing statutory tax rates, changes in the valuation 
allowances of deferred tax assets or changes in tax laws.

The amount of income taxes paid is subject to ongoing audits by United States federal, state and local tax authorities and by 
foreign tax authorities.  If these audits result in assessments different from amounts reserved, future financial results may 
include unfavorable adjustments which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.

We are subject to risks relating to our information technology systems.

The conduct and management of our business relies extensively on information technology systems.  If these systems are 
damaged, cease to function properly or are subject to a significant cyber security breach, we may suffer an interruption in our 
ability to manage and operate the business and our results of operations and financial condition could be adversely affected.

Our global operations are subject to increasingly complex environmental regulatory requirements.

We are subject to increasingly complex environmental regulations affecting international manufacturers, including those related 
to air and water emissions, waste management and climate change.

There is a growing political and scientific belief that emissions of greenhouse gases ("GHG") alter the composition of the 
global atmosphere in ways that are affecting the global climate. Various stakeholders, including legislators and regulators, 
shareholders and non-governmental organizations, as well as companies in many business sectors, are considering ways to 
reduce GHG emissions. These concerns may lead to international, national, regional or local legislative or regulatory responses 
in the future. Such regulation could result in new or additional regulatory or product standard requirements for the Company's 
global businesses. We are unable, at this time, to predict the significance of these requirements as the impact of any future GHG 
legislative, regulatory or product standards is dependent on the timing and design of the mandates or standards.  Furthermore, 
the potential physical impacts of theorized climate change on the Company's customers, and therefore on the Company's 
operations, are speculative and highly uncertain, and would be particular to the circumstances developing in various 
geographical regions. These may include changes in weather patterns (including drought and rainfall levels), water availability, 
storm patterns and intensities, and temperature levels. These potential physical effects may adversely impact the cost, 
production, sales and financial performance of the Company's operations which we are unable, at this time, to predict.

7

It is our policy to apply strict standards for environmental protection to all of our operations inside and outside the United 
States, even when we are not subject to local government regulations. We may incur substantial costs, including cleanup costs, 
fines and civil or criminal sanctions, liabilities resulting from third-party property damage or personal injury claims, or our 
products could be enjoined from entering certain jurisdictions, if we were to violate or become liable under environmental laws 
or if our products become non-compliant with environmental laws.

We also face increasing complexity in our products design and procurement operations as we adjust to new and future 
requirements relating to the design, production and labeling of our products that are sold worldwide in multiple jurisdictions. 
The ultimate costs under environmental laws and the timing of these costs are difficult to predict, and liability under some 
environmental laws relating to contaminated locations can be imposed retroactively and on a joint and several basis.

ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

None.

8

 
ITEM 1C. EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT

Name
Christopher L. Mapes

Position

Age
52 Chairman of the Board effective December 21, 2013. President and Chief Executive Officer
effective December 31, 2012; Chief Operating Officer from September 1, 2011 to December
31, 2012; Director since February 2010.  Prior to his service with the Company, Mr. Mapes
was an Executive Vice President of A.O. Smith Corporation (a global manufacturer with a
water heating and water treatment technologies business) a position he held from 2004
through August 2011, and the President of its former Electrical Products unit, a position he
held from September 2004 through August 2011.

Vincent K. Petrella
Frederick G. Stueber

53 Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer since October 7, 2005.
60 Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary since 1996.

George D. Blankenship

51 Senior Vice President; President, Lincoln Electric North America since July 30, 2009; Senior 
Vice President, Global Engineering from October 7, 2005 to July 30, 2009;  Senior Vice 
President; President, Lincoln Cleveland of The Lincoln Electric Company from January 8, 
2008 to July 30, 2009; Senior Vice President, U.S. Operations of The Lincoln Electric 
Company from October 7, 2005 to January 8, 2008.

Gabriel Bruno

46 Vice President, Chief Information Officer since May 1, 2012; Vice President, Corporate 

Controller from 2005 to May 1, 2012.

Gretchen A. Farrell

51 Senior Vice President, Human Resources and Compliance since July 30, 2009; Vice 

President, Human Resources from May 5, 2005 to July 30, 2009.

Thomas A. Flohn

53 Vice President, Regional President, Lincoln Electric Asia Pacific Region since November 4, 
2013. Vice President; President, Lincoln Electric Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA) 
from July 1, 2010 to November 4, 2013; Vice President; President, Lincoln Asia Pacific from 
January 1, 2005 to June 30, 2010.

Mathias Hallmann

51 Vice President; President, Lincoln Electric Europe since November 4, 2013.  Prior to his 

service with the Company, Mr. Hallmann was Chief Executive Officer of  Bohler Welding 
Holding GmbH (a leading manufacturer and provider of auxiliary materials and consumables 
for industrial welding and soldering applications) from December 2008 to March 2012, and 
its Chief Operating Officer from April 2008 to November 2008.

Steven B. Hedlund

47 Vice President, Strategy and Business Development since September 15, 2008. Prior to his 

service with the Company, Mr. Hedlund was the Vice President, Growth and Innovations with 
Master Lock, LLC (a security products company) from June 1, 2005 to July 1, 2008.

David J. Nangle

57 Vice President, Group President of Brazing, Cutting and Retail Subsidiaries since January 12,

2006.

The Company has been advised that there is no arrangement or understanding among any one of the officers listed and any 
other persons pursuant to which he or she was elected as an officer.  The executive officers are elected by the Board of 
Directors normally for a term of one year and/or until the election of their successors.

9

ITEM 2. PROPERTIES

The Company's corporate headquarters and principal United States manufacturing facilities are located in the Cleveland, Ohio 
area.  Total Cleveland area property consists of 233 acres, of which present manufacturing facilities comprise an area of 
approximately 2,940,000 square feet.

The Company has 48 manufacturing facilities, including operations and joint ventures in 19 countries, the significant locations 
(grouped by operating segment) of which are as follows:

North America Welding:

United States

Canada
Mexico

Europe Welding:

France
Germany
Italy
Netherlands
Poland
Portugal
Russia
Turkey
United Kingdom
Asia Pacific Welding:

China
India
Indonesia

Cleveland and Fort Loramie, Ohio; San Diego and Anaheim, California; Reno, Nevada;
Baltimore, Maryland; Ladson, South Carolina; Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Toronto; Mississauga; Hamilton.
Mexico City; Torreon.

Grand-Quevilly.
Essen.
Genoa; Corsalone.
Nijmegen.
Bielawa; Dzierzoniow.
Lisbon.
Mtsensk.
Istanbul.
Sheffield and Chertsey, England.

Shanghai; Jinzhou; Nanjing; Zhengzhou; Luan County.
Chennai.
Cikarang.

South America Welding:

Brazil
Colombia
Venezuela

The Harris Products Group:

Sao Paulo.
Bogota.
Maracay.

United States
Brazil
Mexico
Poland

Mason, Ohio; Gainesville, Georgia; Santa Fe Springs, California.
Guarulhos.
Tijuana.
Dzierzoniow.

All properties relating to the Company's Cleveland, Ohio headquarters and manufacturing facilities are owned by the Company.  
Most of the Company's foreign subsidiaries own manufacturing facilities in the country where they are located.  The Company 
believes that its existing properties are in good condition and are suitable for the conduct of its business.  

In addition, the Company maintains operating leases for many of its distribution centers and sales offices throughout the world.  
See Note 16 to the Company's consolidated financial statements for information regarding the Company's lease commitments.

10

 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

The Company is subject, from time to time, to a variety of civil and administrative proceedings arising out of its normal 
operations, including, without limitation, product liability claims, regulatory claims and health, safety and environmental 
claims.  Among such proceedings are the cases described below.

At December 31, 2013, the Company was a co-defendant in cases alleging asbestos induced illness involving claims by 
approximately 14,601 plaintiffs, which is a net decrease of 455 claims from those previously reported.  In each instance, the 
Company is one of a large number of defendants.  The asbestos claimants seek compensatory and punitive damages, in most 
cases for unspecified sums.  Since January 1, 1995, the Company has been a co-defendant in other similar cases that have been 
resolved as follows: 41,832 of those claims were dismissed, 22 were tried to defense verdicts, seven were tried to plaintiff 
verdicts (one of which is being appealed), one was resolved by agreement for an immaterial amount and 633 were decided in 
favor of the Company following summary judgment motions.

In July 2012, the Company received a Notice of Reassessment from the Canada Revenue Agency (the “CRA”) for 2004 to 
2011, which would disallow the deductibility of inter-company dividends.  These adjustments would increase Canadian federal 
and provincial tax due.  The Company disagrees with the position taken by the CRA and believes it is without merit.  The 
Company will vigorously contest the assessment through the Tax Court of Canada.  A trial date has not yet been scheduled.  

In connection with the litigation process, the Company is required to deposit no less than one-half of the tax and interest 
assessed by the CRA.  The Company has elected to deposit the entire amount of the dispute in order to suspend the continuing 
accrual of a 5% interest charge.  Any Canadian tax ultimately due will be creditable in the parent company's U.S. federal tax 
return.  The Company expects to be able to utilize the full amount of foreign tax credits generated in the statutorily allowed 
carry-back and carry-forward periods.  Accordingly, should the Company not prevail in this dispute, the income statement 
charge will approximate the deficiency interest, net of tax.  

The Company believes it will prevail on the merits of the tax position.  In accordance with prescribed recognition and 
measurement thresholds, no income tax accrual has been made for any uncertain tax positions related to the CRA reassessment.  
An unfavorable resolution of this matter could have a material effect on the Company's financial statements in the period in 
which a judgment is reached.

ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

Not applicable.

11

 
PART II

ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER 
PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

The Company's common shares are traded on The NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol "LECO."  The number of 
record holders of common shares at December 31, 2013 was 1,719.

The total amount of dividends paid in 2013 was $49.3 million.  During 2013, dividends were paid on April 15, July 15 and 
October 15.  The dividend that the Company would normally have paid in January 2013 was paid on December 28, 2012.

Quarterly high and low stock prices and dividends declared per share for the last two years were:

First quarter

Second quarter
Third quarter
Fourth quarter

2013

2012

Stock Price

High

Low

Dividends
Declared

Stock Price

High

Low

Dividends
Declared

$

57.63

$

49.06

$

60.58
69.35
74.57

49.94
56.75
65.45

0.20

0.20
0.20
0.23

$

47.87

$

38.96

$

50.36
46.11
49.00

41.42
37.83
37.63

0.17

0.17
0.17
0.20

Issuer purchases of equity securities for the fourth quarter 2013 were:

Period

October 1-31, 2013

November 1-30, 2013
December 1-31, 2013

Total

Total Number of
Shares Repurchased

Average Price
Paid Per Share

162,100

$

270,847
334,584 (1)
767,531

67.84

71.26
71.56

70.67

Total Number of
Shares Repurchased
as Part of Publicly
Announced Plans or
Programs

162,100

270,847
315,525

748,472

Maximum Number of 
Shares that May Yet be 
Purchased Under the 
Plans or Programs (2)
16,257,131

15,986,284
15,670,759

(1)  The above share repurchases include the surrender of 19,059 shares of the Company's common shares in connection with 

the vesting of restricted shares granted pursuant to the Company's 2006 Equity and Performance Incentive Plan.

(2)  On July 26, 2013, the Company announced a new share repurchase program, which increased the total number the 

Company’s common shares authorized to be repurchased to 45 million shares of the Company's common stock. Total 
shares purchased through the share repurchase program were 29,329,241 shares at a cost of $594.9 million for a weighted 
average cost of $20.28 per share through December 31, 2013.

12

The following line graph compares the yearly percentage change in the cumulative total shareholder return on the Company's 
common stock against the cumulative total return of the S&P Composite 500 Stock Index ("S&P 500") and the S&P 400 
MidCap Index ("S&P 400") for the five-year calendar period commencing January 1, 2009 and ending December 31, 2013.  
This graph assumes that $100 was invested on December 31, 2008 in each of the Company's common shares, the S&P 500 and 
the S&P 400.  A peer-group index for the welding industry, in general, was not readily available because the industry is 
comprised of a large number of privately held competitors and competitors that are smaller parts of large publicly traded 
companies.  

Five Year Performance Caparison
The Company's Common Shares, S&P 500 and S&P 400 Composite Indices

$350

$300

$250

$200

$150

$100

$50

$0

The Company
S&P 500
S&P 400

2008
100
100
100

2009
107
126
137

2010
133
145
173

2011
162
148
170

2012
205
171
200

2013
303
226
267

13

ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

Net sales
Net income

Basic earnings per share
Diluted earnings per share

Cash dividends declared per share
Total assets
Long-term debt

2013 (1)

2012 (2)

Year Ended December 31,
2011 (3)

2010 (4)

2009 (5)

$

2,852,671
293,780

$

2,853,367
257,411

$

2,694,609
217,186

$

2,070,172
130,244

$

1,729,285
48,576

3.58
3.54

0.830
2,151,867
3,791

3.10
3.06

0.710
2,089,863
1,599

2.60
2.56

0.635
1,976,776
1,960

1.54
1.53

0.575
1,783,788
84,627

0.57
0.57

0.545
1,705,292
87,850

(1)  Results for 2013 include rationalization and asset impairment net charges of $8,463 ($7,573 after-tax) which include $3,658 

($2,965 after-tax) in rationalization charges and impairment charges net of gains on disposals of $4,805 ($4,608 after-tax).   Results 
also include a charge of $12,198 ($12,198 after-tax) related to the devaluation of the Venezuelan currency and a loss of $705 ($705 
after-tax) related to a loss on the sale of land.  Associated with the impairment of long-lived assets and loss on the sale of land is an 
offsetting special item of $1,068 representing portions attributable to non-controlling interests.

(2)  Results for 2012 include rationalization and asset impairment net charges of $9,354 ($7,442 after-tax) which include $7,512 

($6,153 after-tax) in rationalization charges and asset disposal and impairment charges of $1,842 ($1,289 after-tax).  Results also 
include a charge of $1,381 ($906 after-tax) related to the change in Venezuelan labor law, which provides for increased employee 
severance obligations.

(3)  Results for 2011 include rationalization and asset impairment net charges of $282 ($237 after-tax) resulting from rationalization 

activities primarily initiated in 2009 and a gain of $4,844 related to a favorable adjustment for tax audit settlements.

(4)  Results for 2010 include rationalization and asset impairment net gains of $384 ($894 after-tax) which include net gains of $3,684 
($3,725 after-tax) related to the sale of property and asset disposals, impairment charges of $883 ($801 after-tax) and $2,417 
($2,030 after-tax) in rationalization charges. Results also include a net charge of $3,123 ($3,560 after-tax) related to the change in 
functional currency and devaluation of the Venezuelan currency, income of $5,092 was recognized due to an adjustment in tax 
liabilities for a change in applicable tax regulations, a gain of $108 after-tax in non-controlling interests related to the impairment of 
assets for a majority-owned consolidated subsidiary and a charge of $1,890 after-tax in non-controlling interests related to gains on 
the disposal of assets in a majority-owned consolidated subsidiary.

(5)  Results for 2009 include rationalization and asset impairment net charges of $29,897 ($23,789 after-tax). The net charges include 

rationalization charges of $26,957 ($21,529 after-tax) and impairment charges of $2,940 ($2,260 after-tax) for certain indefinite-
lived intangible assets. Results also include a loss of $7,943 ($7,943 after-tax) associated with the acquisition of a business in China 
and the related disposal of an interest in Taiwan, a pension settlement gain of $2,144 ($2,144 after-tax), a charge of $601 after-tax 
in non-controlling interests associated with the pension settlement gain for a majority-owned consolidated subsidiary and a gain on 
the sale of a property by the Company's joint venture in Turkey of $5,667 ($5,667 after-tax).

14

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF 
OPERATIONS

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

This Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations should be read together with 
"Selected Financial Data," the Company's consolidated financial statements and other financial information included elsewhere 
in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains forward-looking statements that involve risks 
and uncertainties.  Actual results may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements.  See "Item 1A. 
Risk Factors" for more information regarding forward-looking statements.

General

The Company is the world's largest designer and manufacturer of arc welding and cutting products, manufacturing a broad line 
of arc welding equipment, consumable welding products and other welding and cutting products.

The Company is one of only a few worldwide broad-line manufacturers of welding, cutting and brazing products. Welding 
products include arc welding power sources, wire feeding systems, robotic welding packages, fume extraction equipment, 
consumable electrodes and fluxes. The Company's product offering also includes CNC plasma and oxy-fuel cutting systems, 
regulators and torches used in oxy-fuel welding, cutting and brazing. In addition, the Company has a leading global position in 
the brazing and soldering alloys market.

The Company invests in the research and development of arc welding products in order to continue its market leading product 
offering. The Company continues to invest in technologies that improve the quality and productivity of welding products. In 
addition, the Company continues to actively increase its patent application process in order to secure its technology advantage 
in the United States and other major international jurisdictions. The Company believes its significant investment in research 
and development and its highly trained technical sales force coupled with its extensive distributor network provide a 
competitive advantage in the marketplace.

The Company's products are sold in both domestic and international markets.  In North America, products are sold principally 
through industrial distributors, retailers and also directly to users of welding products. Outside of North America, the Company 
has an international sales organization comprised of Company employees and agents who sell products from the Company's 
various manufacturing sites to distributors and product users.

The Company's major end-user markets include:

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

general metal fabrication,
power generation and process industry,
structural steel construction (buildings and bridges),
heavy equipment fabrication (farming, mining and rail),
shipbuilding,
automotive,
pipe mills and pipelines, and
offshore oil and gas exploration and extraction.

The Company has, through wholly-owned subsidiaries or joint ventures, manufacturing facilities located in the United States, 
Brazil, Canada, China, Colombia, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Mexico, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Russia, 
Turkey, the United Kingdom and Venezuela.

The Company has aligned its business units into five operating segments to enhance the utilization of the Company's 
worldwide resources and global end user and sourcing initiatives. The operating segments consist of North America Welding, 
Europe Welding, Asia Pacific Welding, South America Welding and The Harris Products Group.  The North America Welding 
segment includes welding operations in the United States, Canada and Mexico.  The Europe Welding segment includes welding 
operations in Europe, Russia, Africa and the Middle East. The other two welding segments include welding operations in Asia 
Pacific and South America, respectively. The fifth segment, The Harris Products Group, includes the Company's global cutting, 
soldering and brazing businesses as well as the retail business in the United States.  See Note 5 to the Company's consolidated 
financial statements for segment and geographic area information, which is incorporated herein by reference.

The principal raw materials essential to the Company's business are steel, electronic components, engines, brass, copper, silver, 
aluminum alloys and various chemicals, all of which are normally available for purchase in the open market.

15

The Company's facilities are subject to environmental regulations. To date, compliance with these environmental regulations 
has not had a material adverse effect on the Company's earnings. The Company is ISO 9001 certified at nearly all facilities 
worldwide. In addition, the Company is ISO 14001 certified at most significant manufacturing facilities in North America and 
Europe and is progressing towards certification at its remaining facilities worldwide.

Key Indicators

Key economic measures relevant to the Company include industrial production trends, steel consumption, purchasing manager 
indices, capacity utilization within durable goods manufacturers and consumer confidence indicators.  Key industries which 
provide a relative indication of demand drivers to the Company include steel, farm machinery and equipment, construction and 
transportation, fabricated metals, electrical equipment, ship and boat building, defense, truck manufacturing, energy and 
railroad equipment.  Although these measures provide key information on trends relevant to the Company, the Company does 
not have available a more direct correlation of leading indicators which can provide a forward-looking view of demand levels 
in the markets which ultimately use the Company's welding products.

Key operating measures utilized by the operating units to manage the Company include orders, sales, inventory and fill-rates, 
all of which provide key indicators of business trends. These measures are reported on various cycles including daily, weekly 
and monthly depending on the needs established by operating management.

Key financial measures utilized by the Company's executive management and operating units in order to evaluate the results of 
its business and in understanding key variables impacting the current and future results of the Company include: sales; gross 
profit; selling, general and administrative expenses; operating income; earnings before interest and taxes; earnings before 
interest, taxes and bonus; net income; adjusted operating income; adjusted net income; adjusted diluted earnings per share; 
operating cash flows; and capital expenditures, including applicable ratios such as return on invested capital and average 
operating working capital to sales.  These measures are reviewed at monthly, quarterly and annual intervals and compared with 
historical periods, as well as objectives established by the Board of Directors of the Company.

Results of Operations

The following table shows the Company's results of operations:

Net sales

Cost of goods sold

Gross profit

Selling, general & administrative 
   expenses

Rationalization and asset impairment 
   charges

Operating income

Interest income

Equity earnings in affiliates

Other income

Interest expense

Income before income taxes

Income taxes

Net income including non-controlling 
   interests

Non-controlling interests in 
   subsidiaries' loss

Net income

Year Ended December 31,

2013

2012

2011

Amount

% of Sales

Amount

% of Sales

Amount

% of Sales

$ 2,852,671

100.0% $ 2,853,367

100.0% $ 2,694,609

100.0%

1,910,017

942,654

67.0%

33.0%

1,986,711

866,656

69.6%

30.4%

1,957,872

736,737

72.7%

27.3%

527,206

18.5%

495,221

17.4%

439,775

16.3%

8,463

406,985

3,320

4,806

4,194

0.3%

14.3%

0.1%

0.2%

0.1%

(2,864)

(0.1%)

416,441

124,754

14.6%

4.4%

9,354

362,081

3,988

5,007

2,685
(4,191)
369,570

112,354

0.3%

12.7%

0.1%

0.2%

0.1%

(0.1%)

13.0%

3.9%

282

—

296,680

11.0%

3,121

5,385

2,849
(6,704)
301,331

84,318

0.1%

0.2%

0.1%

(0.2%)

11.2%

3.1%

291,687

10.2%

257,216

9.0%

217,013

8.1%

(2,093)

(0.1%)

$

293,780

10.3% $

(195)
257,411

—

9.0% $

(173)
217,186

—

8.1%

16

 
 
 
2013 Compared with 2012 

Net Sales:  Net sales for 2013 remained flat with 2012.  The sales change reflects volume decreases of 2.7%, price increases of 
0.1%, increases from acquisitions of 3.2% and unfavorable impacts from foreign exchange of 0.6%.  Sales volumes decreased 
as a result of soft demand in both domestic and international markets.  Product pricing increased from prior year levels 
reflecting the highly inflationary environment in Venezuela offset by pricing declines in The Harris Products Group segment 
due to significant decreases in the costs of silver and copper.  Net sales for 2013 include $109,139 in sales from the Company's 
Venezuelan operations.    

Gross Profit:  Gross profit increased 8.8% to $942,654 during 2013 compared with $866,656 in 2012.  As a percentage of Net 
sales, Gross profit increased to 33.0% in 2013 compared with 30.4% in 2012.  The increase was the result of geographic mix 
and pricing stability in the wake of lower year over year input costs.  The current period includes incremental costs of $4,117 
due to the devaluation of the Venezuelan currency and charges of $2,521 for inventory write-downs, partially offset by a gain of 
$1,672 from insurance proceeds associated with a fire at a manufacturing operation.  In the prior year period, the Company 
recorded charges of $2,334 related to the initial accounting for recent acquisitions and charges of $1,039 due to a change in 
Venezuelan labor law, which provides for increased employee severance obligations.  Foreign currency exchange rates had a 
$5,622 unfavorable translation impact in 2013.

Selling, General & Administrative ("SG&A") Expenses:  SG&A expenses increased 6.5% to $527,206 during 2013 compared 
with $495,221 in 2012.  The increase was primarily due to incremental SG&A expenses from acquisitions of $18,620, general 
and administrative spending primarily related to additional employee compensation costs of $17,160 and higher foreign 
exchange transaction losses of $3,280, which include a charge of $8,081 due to the devaluation of the Venezuelan currency, 
partially offset by foreign currency translation of $3,264, lower bonus expense of $3,112 and lower U.S. retirement costs of 
$1,415.

Rationalization and Asset Impairment Charges:  In 2013, the Company recorded $8,463 in charges primarily related to asset 
impairments and rationalization actions.  See "Rationalization and Asset Impairments" for additional information.

Equity Earnings in Affiliates:  Equity earnings in affiliates were $4,806 in 2013 compared with earnings of $5,007 in 2012.  
The decrease was due to decreased earnings in Chile of $161 and Turkey of $40.

Interest Expense:  Interest expense decreased to $2,864 in 2013 from $4,191 in 2012, primarily as a result of lower levels of 
debt in the current period.

Income Taxes:  The Company recorded $124,754 of tax expense on pre-tax income of $416,441, resulting in an effective tax 
rate of 30.0% for 2013.  The effective income tax rate is lower than the Company's statutory rate primarily due to income 
earned in lower tax rate jurisdictions and the utilization of foreign tax loss carry-forwards for which valuation allowances had 
been previously provided.

The effective income tax rate of 30.4% for 2012 was lower than the Company's statutory rate primarily due to income earned in 
lower tax rate jurisdictions and the utilization of foreign tax loss carry-forwards for which valuation allowances had been 
previously provided.

Net Income:  Net income for 2013 was $293,780 compared with $257,411 in the prior year.  Diluted earnings per share for 
2013 were $3.54 compared with diluted earnings of $3.06 per share in 2012.  Net income for 2013 included $25,614, or $0.31 
per diluted share, from the Company's Venezuelan operations.  Foreign currency exchange rate movements had an unfavorable 
translation effect of $1,572 and $2,879 on Net income for 2013 and 2012, respectively.

17

Segment Results

Net Sales:  The table below summarizes the impacts of volume, acquisitions, price and foreign currency exchange rates on Net 
sales for the twelve months ended December 31, 2013:

Net Sales
2012

Volume

Acquisitions

Price

Foreign
Exchange

Net Sales
2013

Change in Net Sales due to:

Operating Segments

North America Welding

$

1,580,818

$ (22,962)

$

91,442

$

7,785

$

(4,314)

$ 1,652,769

Europe Welding
Asia Pacific Welding

South America Welding
The Harris Products Group
Consolidated
% Change

North America Welding
Europe Welding
Asia Pacific Welding

South America Welding
The Harris Products Group

Consolidated

452,227
324,482

161,483
334,357
2,853,367

(18,518)
(48,964)

13,269
1,276
$ (75,899)

$

—
—

—
—
91,442

(5,696)
(4,947)

29,730
(24,748)
2,124

$

1,535
(4,289)

(8,587)
(2,708)
$ (18,363)

429,548
266,282

195,895
308,177
$ 2,852,671

$

(1.5%)
(4.1%)
(15.1%)

8.2%
0.4%

(2.7%)

5.8%
—
—

—
—

3.2%

0.5%
(1.3%)
(1.5%)

18.4%
(7.4%)

0.1%

(0.3%)
0.3%
(1.3%)

(5.3%)
(0.8%)

(0.6%)

4.6%
(5.0%)
(17.9%)

21.3%
(7.8%)

—

Net sales volumes for 2013 decreased for all operating segments except for the South America Welding and The Harris 
Products Group segments, as a result of soft demand in both domestic and international markets.  Net sales volumes in the 
South America Welding segment increased as a result of improved demand in the South American markets.  Net sales volumes 
in The Harris Products Group segment increased as a result of improved sales volumes on equipment.  Product pricing in the 
North America Welding segment increased slightly due to the realization of price increases and improved pricing management.  
Product pricing in the Europe Welding segment decreased due to declining raw material costs.  Product pricing decreased for 
the Asia Pacific Welding segment due to lower raw material costs and competitive pricing conditions.  Product pricing in the 
South America Welding segment reflects a highly inflationary environment, particularly in Venezuela.   Product pricing 
decreased for The Harris Products Group segment because of significant decreases in the costs of silver and copper as 
compared to the prior year period.  The increase in Net sales from acquisitions was due to the acquisitions of Robolution GmbH 
("Robolution") in November 2013, Burlington Automation Corporation ("Burlington") in November 2013, Tennessee Rand, 
Inc. ("Tenn Rand") in December 2012, Kaliburn, Burny and Cleveland Motion Control businesses (collectively, "Kaliburn") in 
November 2012, Wayne Trail Technologies, Inc. ("Wayne Trail") in May 2012 and Weartech International, Inc. ("Weartech") in 
March 2012 (see the "Acquisitions" section below for additional information regarding the acquisitions).  With respect to 
changes in Net sales due to foreign exchange, all segments, except for the Europe Welding segment, decreased due to a stronger 
U.S. dollar.   

18

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Earnings Before Interest and Income Taxes (“EBIT”), as Adjusted:  Segment performance is measured and resources are 
allocated based on a number of factors, the primary profit measure being EBIT, as adjusted.  The following table presents 
EBIT, as adjusted for 2013 by segment compared with 2012:

Twelve Months Ended

December 31,

2013

2012

$ Change

% Change

North America Welding:

Net sales

Inter-segment sales

Total Sales

EBIT, as adjusted

As a percent of total sales

Europe Welding:

Net sales
Inter-segment sales

Total Sales

EBIT, as adjusted

As a percent of total sales

Asia Pacific Welding:

Net sales

Inter-segment sales

Total Sales

EBIT, as adjusted

As a percent of total sales

South America Welding:

Net sales

Inter-segment sales

Total Sales

EBIT, as adjusted

As a percent of total sales

The Harris Products Group:

Net sales

Inter-segment sales

Total Sales

EBIT, as adjusted

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

1,652,769

127,254
1,780,023

318,507

17.9%

429,548
19,911

449,459

36,247

8.1%

266,282

14,906

281,188

1,815

0.6%

195,895

233

196,128

57,306

29.2%

308,177

9,605

317,782

27,826

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

1,580,818

131,062
1,711,880

293,070

17.1%

452,227
16,048

468,275

37,299

8.0%

324,482

14,829

339,311

7,247

2.1%

161,483

38

161,521

18,301

11.3%

334,357

8,549

342,906

29,477

71,951
(3,808)
68,143

25,437

(22,679)
3,863
(18,816)

(1,052)

(58,200)
77
(58,123)

(5,432)

34,412

195

34,607

39,005

(26,180)
1,056
(25,124)

(1,651)

As a percent of total sales

8.8%

8.6%

4.6%

(2.9%)
4.0%

8.7%

0.8%

(5.0%)
24.1%

(4.0%)

(2.8%)

0.1%

(17.9%)

0.5%

(17.1%)

(75.0%)
(1.5%)

21.3%

513.2%

21.4%

213.1%
17.9%

(7.8%)

12.4%

(7.3%)

(5.6%)

0.2%

EBIT, as adjusted as a percent of total sales increased for all segments, except for the Asia Pacific Welding segment, in 2013 as 
compared with 2012.  The North America Welding segment increase is primarily due to improved pricing management and 
lower material costs.  The increase at the Europe Welding segment is primarily due to cost control on volume decreases of 
4.1%.  The Asia Pacific Welding segment decrease is due to lower profitability in China and Australia due to weaker demand.  
The South America Welding segment increase is a result of improved pricing management and manufacturing costs in Brazil 
and Colombia, and pricing increases as a result of the highly inflationary economy in Venezuela.  The Harris Products Group 
segment growth is primarily a result of improved product mix on equipment sales volume. 

19

In 2013, EBIT, as adjusted, for the North America Welding, Europe Welding and Asia Pacific Welding segments excluded 
special item charges of $1,052, $2,045 and $922, respectively, primarily related to employee severance and other costs 
associated with the consolidation of manufacturing operations.  The Asia Pacific Welding segment EBIT, as adjusted, also 
excluded charges of $4,444 related to impairment of long-lived assets and a charge of $705 related to a loss on the sale of land.  
The South America Welding segment EBIT, as adjusted, excluded special item charges of $12,198, related to the devaluation of 
the Venezuelan currency.

In 2012, EBIT, as adjusted, for the North America Welding, Europe Welding and Asia Pacific Welding segments excluded 
special item charges of $827, $3,534 and $4,993, respectively, primarily related to employee severance and other costs 
associated with the consolidation of manufacturing operations.  The South America Welding segment EBIT, as adjusted, 
excluded a special item charge of $1,381, related to a change in Venezuelan labor law, which provides for increased employee 
severance obligations. 

2012 Compared with 2011 

Net Sales:  Net sales for 2012 increased 5.9% from 2011.  The sales increase reflects volume increases of 1.3%, price increases 
of 1.7%, increases from acquisitions of 4.9% and unfavorable impacts from foreign exchange of 2.0%.  Sales volumes 
increased because of growth in the domestic markets offset by lower demand in the international markets.  Product pricing 
increased from prior year levels due to the realization of price increases implemented in response to increases in raw material 
costs. 

Gross Profit:  Gross profit increased 17.6% to $866,656 during 2012 compared with $736,737 in 2011.  As a percentage of Net 
sales, Gross profit increased to 30.4% in 2012 compared with 27.3% in 2011.  The increase was the result of pricing increases 
and operating leverage partially offset by lower margins from the acquisitions of Kaliburn, Wayne Trail, Weartech, Techalloy 
Company, Inc. and certain assets of its parent company, Central Wire Industries Ltd. (collectively, "Techalloy") and OOO 
Severstal-metiz: welding consumables ("Severstal").  In 2012, the Company recorded charges of $2,334 related to the initial 
accounting for recent acquisitions and charges of $1,039 due to a change in Venezuelan labor law, which provides for increased 
employee severance obligations.  Foreign currency exchange rates had a $13,166 unfavorable translation impact in 2012.

Selling, General & Administrative ("SG&A") Expenses:  SG&A expenses increased 12.6% to $495,221 during 2012 compared 
with $439,775 in 2011.  The increase was primarily due to higher bonus expense of $20,439, incremental SG&A expenses from 
acquisitions of $15,403, higher general and administrative spending primarily related to additional employee compensation 
costs of $12,692, higher U.S. retirement costs of $3,986 and higher legal expenses of $2,142 partially offset by foreign 
currency translation of $8,821.

Rationalization and Asset Impairment Charges:  In 2012, the Company recorded $9,354 in charges primarily related to 
rationalization actions initiated in 2012.  See "Rationalization and Asset Impairments" for additional information.

Equity Earnings in Affiliates:  Equity earnings in affiliates were $5,007 in 2012 compared with earnings of $5,385 in 2011.  
The decrease was due to a decrease in earnings of $542 in Chile being partially offset by an increase in earnings of $164 in 
Turkey.

Interest Expense:  Interest expense decreased to $4,191 in 2012 from $6,704 in 2011, primarily as a result of lower levels of 
debt in the current period.

Income Taxes:  The Company recorded $112,354 of tax expense on pre-tax income of $369,570, resulting in an effective tax 
rate of 30.4% for 2012.  The effective income tax rate is lower than the Company's statutory rate primarily due to income 
earned in lower tax rate jurisdictions and the utilization of foreign tax loss carry-forwards for which valuation allowances had 
been previously provided.

The effective income tax rate of 28.0% for 2011 was lower than the Company's statutory rate primarily due to income earned in 
lower tax rate jurisdictions, the utilization of foreign tax loss carry-forwards for which valuation allowances had been 
previously provided and a tax benefit of $4,844 for tax audit settlements. 

Net Income:  Net income for 2012 was $257,411 compared with $217,186 in the prior year.  Diluted earnings per share for 
2012 were $3.06 compared with diluted earnings of $2.56 per share in 2011.  Foreign currency exchange rate movements had 
an unfavorable translation effect of $2,879 and a favorable translation effect of $2,948 on Net income for 2012 and 2011, 
respectively.

20

Segment Results

Net Sales:  The table below summarizes the impacts of volume, acquisitions, price and foreign currency exchange rates on Net 
sales for the twelve months ended December 31, 2012:

Net Sales
2011

Volume

Acquisitions

Price

Foreign
Exchange

Net Sales
2012

Change in Net Sales due to:

Operating Segments

North America Welding

$ 1,309,499

$ 112,898

$

124,830

$

37,124

$

(3,533)

$1,580,818

Europe Welding
Asia Pacific Welding

South America Welding
The Harris Products Group
Consolidated
% Change

North America Welding
Europe Welding
Asia Pacific Welding

South America Welding
The Harris Products Group

Consolidated

508,692
376,276

156,684
343,458
$ 2,694,609

$

(36,199)
(54,289)

(1,284)
13,683
34,809

8,322
—

—
—
133,152

$

4,874
1,646

15,584
(13,427)
45,801

$

(33,462)
849

(9,501)
(9,357)
$ (55,004)

452,227
324,482

161,483
334,357
$2,853,367

8.6%
(7.1%)
(14.4%)

(0.8%)
4.0%

1.3%

9.5%
1.6%
—

—
—

4.9%

2.8%
1.0%
0.4%

9.9%
(3.9%)

1.7%

(0.3%)
(6.6%)
0.2%

(6.1%)
(2.7%)

(2.0%)

20.7%
(11.1%)
(13.8%)

3.1%
(2.6%)

5.9%

Net sales volumes for 2012 increased for the North America Welding and The Harris Products Group segments because of 
growth within the domestic markets.  Volume decreases for the Europe Welding, Asia Pacific Welding and South America 
Welding segments are the result of softening demand in these international markets.  Product pricing increased for all operating 
segments from prior year levels, except for The Harris Products Group segment, due to the realization of price increases 
implemented in response to increases in raw material costs.  Product pricing in the South America Welding segment reflects a 
higher inflationary environment, particularly in Venezuela.  Product pricing decreased for The Harris Products Group segment 
because of significant decreases in the costs of silver and copper as compared to the prior year period.  The increase in Net 
sales from acquisitions was due to the acquisitions of Kaliburn in November 2012, Wayne Trail in May 2012, Weartech in 
March 2012, Techalloy in July 2011, Applied Robotics, Inc. (d/b/a Torchmate) ("Torchmate") in July 2011 and SSCO 
Manufacturing, Inc. (d/b/a Arc Products) ("Arc Products") in January 2011 in the North America Welding segment and the 
acquisition of Severstal in March 2011 in the Europe Welding segment (see the "Acquisitions" section below for additional 
information regarding the acquisitions).  With respect to changes in Net sales due to foreign exchange, all segments, except for 
the Asia Pacific Welding segment, decreased due to a stronger U.S. dollar.

21

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Earnings Before Interest and Income Taxes (“EBIT”), as Adjusted:  Segment performance is measured and resources are 
allocated based on a number of factors, the primary profit measure being EBIT, as adjusted.  The following table presents 
EBIT, as adjusted for 2012 by segment compared with 2011:

Twelve Months Ended

December 31,

2012

2011

$ Change

% Change

North America Welding:

Net sales
Inter-segment sales

Total Sales

EBIT, as adjusted

As a percent of total sales

Europe Welding:

Net sales

Inter-segment sales

Total Sales

EBIT, as adjusted

As a percent of total sales

Asia Pacific Welding:

Net sales

Inter-segment sales

Total Sales

EBIT, as adjusted

As a percent of total sales

South America Welding:

Net sales

Inter-segment sales

Total Sales

EBIT, as adjusted

As a percent of total sales

The Harris Products Group:

Net sales

Inter-segment sales

Total Sales

EBIT, as adjusted

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

1,580,818
131,062

1,711,880

293,070

17.1%

452,227

16,048

468,275

37,299

8.0%

324,482

14,829

339,311

7,247

2.1%

161,483

38

161,521

18,301

11.3%

334,357

8,549

342,906

29,477

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

1,309,499
136,314

1,445,813

227,924

15.8%

508,692

17,422

526,114

36,171

6.9%

376,276

15,614

391,890

2,629

0.7%

156,684

494

157,178

12,895

8.2%

343,458

8,496

351,954

25,151

271,319
(5,252)
266,067

65,146

(56,465)
(1,374)
(57,839)

1,128

(51,794)
(785)
(52,579)

4,618

4,799
(456)
4,343

5,406

(9,101)
53
(9,048)

4,326

As a percent of total sales

8.6%

7.1%

20.7%
(3.9%)

18.4%

28.6%
1.3%

(11.1%)

(7.9%)

(11.0%)

3.1%

1.1%

(13.8%)

(5.0%)

(13.4%)

175.7%
1.4%

3.1%

(92.3%)

2.8%

41.9%
3.1%

(2.6%)

0.6%

(2.6%)

17.2%

1.5%

EBIT, as adjusted as a percent of total sales increased for all segments in 2012 as compared with 2011.  The North America 
Welding segment growth was primarily due to improved leverage on an 8.6% increase in volumes and price increases of 2.8%.  
The increase at the Europe Welding segment was primarily due to improved product mix. The Asia Pacific Welding segment 
increase was due to improved profitability resulting from prior rationalization actions in Australia and improved product mix.  
The South America Welding segment increase was a result of product pricing increases of 9.9% exceeding inflationary cost.  
The Harris Products Group segment growth was primarily a result of improved product mix on equipment sales volume. 

22

In 2012, EBIT, as adjusted, for the North America Welding, Europe Welding and Asia Pacific Welding segments excluded 
special item charges of $827, $3,534 and $4,993, respectively, primarily related to employee severance and other costs 
associated with the consolidation of manufacturing operations.  The South America Welding segment EBIT, as adjusted, 
excluded a special item charge of $1,381, related to a change in Venezuelan labor law, which provides for increased employee 
severance obligations. 

In 2011, EBIT, as adjusted, for the Europe Welding and Asia Pacific Welding segments excluded special item net charges of 
$188 and $93, respectively, primarily related to employee severance and other cost associated with the consolidation of 
manufacturing operations.  The Europe Welding segment special items also include a loss of $204 on the sale of assets at a 
rationalized operation.  The Asia Pacific Welding segment special items also include a gain of $203 on the sale of assets at a 
rationalized operation. 

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

The Company reviews Adjusted operating income, Adjusted net income and Adjusted diluted earnings per share, all non-GAAP 
financial measures, in assessing and evaluating the Company's underlying operating performance.  These non-GAAP financial 
measures exclude the impact of special items on the Company's reported financial results.  Non-GAAP financial measures 
should be read in conjunction with the generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") financial measures, as non-GAAP 
measures are a supplement to, and not a replacement for, GAAP financial measures.

The following table presents a reconciliation of Operating income as reported to Adjusted operating income:

Operating income as reported
Special items (pre-tax):

Rationalization and asset impairment charges

Loss on the sale of land

Venezuela currency devaluation

Venezuela statutory severance obligation

Adjusted operating income

Year Ended December 31,

2013

2012

2011

$

406,985

$

362,081

$

296,680

8,463

705

12,198

—
428,351

$

9,354

—

—

282

—

—

1,381
372,816

$

—
296,962

$

Special items included in Operating income during 2013 include net rationalization and asset impairment charges of $8,463 
primarily related to employee severance and other costs associated with the consolidation of manufacturing operations and 
impairment of long-lived assets and a loss on the sale of land of $705.  Special items for 2013 also include charges of $12,198 
related to the devaluation of the Venezuelan currency.

Special items included in Operating income during 2012 include net rationalization and asset impairment charges of $9,354 
primarily related to employee severance and other costs associated with the consolidation of manufacturing operations initiated 
in 2012, partially offset by gains on the disposal of assets at rationalized operations and a charge of $1,381 related to the change 
in Venezuelan labor law, which provides for increased employee severance obligations.

Special items included in Operating income during 2011 include net rationalization and asset impairment charges of $282 
primarily related to employee severance and other costs associated with the consolidation of manufacturing operations resulting 
from actions initiated in 2009.

23

 
 
 
 
 
The following table presents reconciliations of Net income and Diluted earnings per share as reported to Adjusted net income 
and Adjusted diluted earnings per share:

Net income as reported
Special items (after-tax):

Rationalization and asset impairment charges
Loss on the sale of land
Venezuela currency devaluation

Venezuela statutory severance obligation
Adjustment for tax audit settlements

Non-controlling interests associated with special items

Adjusted net income
Diluted earnings per share as reported

Special items per share
Adjusted diluted earnings per share

Year Ended December 31,

2013

2012

2011

$

293,780

$

257,411

$

217,186

7,573
705

12,198
—

—
(1,068)
313,188

3.54
0.23

3.77

$

$

$

7,442
—

—
906

—
—
265,759

3.06
0.10

3.16

$

$

$

237
—

—
—
(4,844)
—
212,579

2.56
(0.05)
2.51

$

$

$

Net income for 2013 includes net rationalization and asset impairment charges of $7,573 primarily related to employee 
severance and other costs associated with the consolidation of manufacturing operations and impairment of long-lived assets 
and a loss on the sale of land of $705.  Associated with the impairment of long-lived assets and loss on the sale of land is an 
offsetting special item of $1,068 attributable to non-controlling interests.  Special items for 2013 also include charges of 
$12,198 related to the devaluation of the Venezuelan currency.  Adjusted net income for 2013 includes $37,812, or $0.46 per 
diluted share, from the Company's Venezuelan operations. 

Net income for 2012 includes net rationalization and asset impairment charges of $7,442 primarily related to employee 
severance and other costs associated with the consolidation of manufacturing operations initiated in 2012 partially offset by 
gains on the disposal of assets at rationalized operations and a charge of $906 related to the change in Venezuelan labor law, 
which provides for increased employee severance obligations.

Net income for 2011 includes net rationalization and asset impairment charges of $237 primarily related to employee severance 
and other costs associated with the consolidation of manufacturing operations resulting from actions initiated in 2009.  Special 
items for 2011 also include a gain of $4,844 related to a favorable adjustment for tax audit settlements.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

The Company's cash flow from operations can be cyclical.  Operational cash flow is a key driver of liquidity, providing cash 
and access to capital markets.  In assessing liquidity, the Company reviews working capital measurements to define areas for 
improvement.  Management anticipates the Company will be able to satisfy cash requirements for its ongoing businesses for 
the foreseeable future primarily with cash generated by operations, existing cash balances and, if necessary, borrowings under 
its existing credit facilities.

24

 
 
 
The following table reflects changes in key cash flow measures:

Year Ended December 31,

$ Change

2013

2012

2011

2013 vs. 2012

2012 vs. 2011

Cash provided by operating activities
Cash used by investing activities:

$

Capital expenditures
Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired
Proceeds from the sale of property, plant and

equipment

Other investing activities

Cash used by financing activities:

(Payments) proceeds on short-term borrowings,

net

Payments on long-term borrowings, net

Proceeds from exercise of stock options
Excess tax benefit from stock-based compensation
Purchase of shares for treasury
Cash dividends paid to shareholders

Transactions with non-controlling interests

Other financing activities

Increase (decrease) in Cash and cash equivalents

$

338,894
(129,500)
(76,015)
(53,161)

1,393
(1,717)
(194,184)

(1,451)
(389)
20,297

10,602
(167,879)
(49,277)
(6,087)
—

13,361

327,484
(187,471)
(52,715)
(134,602)

1,387
(1,541)
(216,838)

(4,533)
(84,770)
18,776

7,819
(81,018)
(73,112)
—

—
(74,637)

$

193,518
(130,796)
(65,813)
(66,229)

1,246

—
(63,370)

8,981
(1,032)
11,351

2,916
(36,997)
(51,935)
—

3,346
(5,092)

$

11,410

$

57,971
(23,300)
81,441

6
(176)
22,654

3,082

84,381
1,521

2,783
(86,861)
23,835
(6,087)
—

133,966
(56,675)
13,098
(68,373)

141
(1,541)
(153,468)

(13,514)
(83,738)
7,425

4,903
(44,021)
(21,177)
—
(3,346)

Cash and cash equivalents increased 4.7%, or $13,361, to $299,825 during the twelve months ended December 31, 2013, from 
$286,464 as of December 31, 2012.  This increase was predominantly due to cash provided by operating activities offset by 
capital expenditures of $76,015, cash used in the acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired of $53,161, purchases of 
common shares for treasury of $167,879 and cash dividends paid to shareholders of $49,277.  Additionally, in the twelve 
months ended December 31, 2012 a deposit of $89,448 for tax and interest assessed by the Canada Revenue Agency (“CRA”) 
was made, which did not recur in the current period. 

Cash provided by operating activities increased $11,410 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2013 compared with the 
twelve months ended December 31, 2012.  The increase was predominantly due to increased Net income for the twelve months 
ended December 31, 2013, compared with the twelve months ended December 31, 2012 and a deposit of $89,448 for tax and 
interest assessed by the CRA made in 2012, which did not recur in the current period, offset by a slight improvement in net 
operating working capital requirements in the twelve months ended December 31, 2013 as compared  to a significant 
improvement in the twelve months ended December 31, 2012.  Net operating working capital, defined as the sum of Accounts 
receivable and Total inventory less Trade accounts payable, decreased $8,667 in 2013 compared with a decrease of $102,155 in 
2012.  Net operating working capital to sales, defined as net operating working capital divided by annualized rolling three 
months of Net sales, decreased to 17.6% at December 31, 2013 compared with 18.8% at December 31, 2012.  Days sales in 
inventory decreased to 93.2 days at December 31, 2013 from 94.3 days at December 31, 2012.  Accounts receivable days 
decreased to 50.3 days at December 31, 2013 from 51.8 days at December 31, 2012.  Average days in accounts payable 
increased to 45.5 days at December 31, 2013 from 43.9 days at December 31, 2012.

Cash used by investing activities in the twelve months ended December 31, 2013 compared with the twelve months ended 
December 31, 2012 decreased by $57,971.  The decrease was predominantly due to a decrease in the acquisition of businesses 
of $81,441 offset by an increase in capital expenditures of $23,300.  The Company anticipates capital expenditures of $60,000 
to $80,000 in 2014.  Anticipated capital expenditures reflect investments for capital maintenance, to improve operational 
effectiveness and the Company's continuing international expansion.  Management critically evaluates all proposed capital 
expenditures and requires each project to increase efficiency, reduce costs, promote business growth, or to improve the overall 
safety and environmental conditions of the Company's facilities.

Cash used by financing activities decreased $22,654 in the twelve months ended December 31, 2013 compared with the twelve 
months ended December 31, 2012.  The decrease was predominantly due to lower net payments of long-term borrowings of 
$84,381, lower cash dividends paid to shareholders of $23,835 offset by higher purchases of common shares for treasury of 
$86,861.

25

 
 
The Company continues to expand globally and periodically looks at transactions that would involve significant investments.  
The Company can fund its global expansion plans with operational cash flow, but a significant acquisition may require access 
to capital markets, in particular, the long-term debt market, as well as the syndicated bank loan market.  The Company's 
financing strategy is to fund itself at the lowest after-tax cost of funding.  Where possible, the Company utilizes operational 
cash flows and raises capital in the most efficient market, usually the U.S., and then lends funds to the specific subsidiary that 
requires funding.  If additional acquisitions providing appropriate financial benefits become available, additional expenditures 
may be made.

The Company's debt levels decreased from $20,275 at December 31, 2012 to $19,087 at December 31, 2013.  Debt to total 
invested capital decreased to 1.2% at December 31, 2013 from 1.5% at December 31, 2012. 

The Company paid $49,277 in cash dividends to its shareholders in the twelve months ended December 31, 2013. 

The Company has a share repurchase program for up to 45 million shares of the Company's common stock.  At management's 
discretion, the Company repurchases its common stock from time to time in the open market, depending on market conditions, 
stock price and other factors.  During the twelve months ended December 31, 2013, the Company purchased 2,671,614 shares 
at a cost of $164,755.  As of December 31, 2013, 15,670,759 shares remained available for repurchase under the stock 
repurchase program.

The Company made voluntary contributions to its U.S. defined benefit plans of $75,216, $60,277 and $30,000 in 2013, 2012 
and 2011, respectively.  The Company expects to voluntarily contribute approximately $20,000 to its U.S. plans in 2014.  Based 
on current pension funding rules, the Company does not anticipate that contributions to the plans would be required in 2014.

Canada - Notice of Reassessment

As discussed in Note 12 to the consolidated financial statements, in July 2012, the Company received a Notice of Reassessment 
from the CRA for 2004 to 2011, which would disallow the deductibility of inter-company dividends.  These adjustments would 
increase Canadian federal and provincial tax due by $58,824 plus approximately $16,022 of interest, net of tax.  The Company 
disagrees with the position taken by the CRA and believes it is without merit.  The Company will vigorously contest the 
assessment through the Tax Court of Canada.  A trial date has not yet been scheduled.  

In connection with the litigation process, the Company is required to deposit no less than one half of the tax and interest 
assessed by the CRA.  The Company has elected to deposit the entire amount of the dispute in order to suspend the continuing 
accrual of a 5% interest charge.  Additionally, deposited amounts will earn interest of approximately 1% due upon a favorable 
outcome.  A deposit was made in 2012 and is recorded as a non-current asset as of December 31, 2013.  Although the Company 
believes it will prevail on the merits of the tax position, the ultimate outcome of the assessment remains uncertain. 

Rationalization and Asset Impairments

In 2013, the Company recorded rationalization and asset impairment net charges of $8,463 resulting from rationalization 
activities primarily initiated in 2012 and the third quarter 2013.  The 2013 net charges include $3,658 primarily related to 
employee severance and other related costs and $4,961 in asset impairment charges, partially offset by gains from sales of 
assets of $156.

In 2012, the Company recorded rationalization and asset impairment net charges of $9,354 resulting from rationalization 
activities primarily initiated in 2012. The Company initiated a number of rationalization activities in 2012 to align its business 
to current market conditions. The 2012 net charges include $7,512 primarily related to employee severance and other related 
costs, partially offset by gains from sales of assets at rationalized operations and $1,842 in asset impairment charges.

In 2011, the Company recorded rationalization and asset impairment net charges of $282 resulting from rationalization 
activities primarily initiated in the third and second quarters of 2009.  The Company initiated a number of rationalization 
activities in 2009 to align its business to current market conditions.  The 2011 net charges include $259 primarily related to 
employee severance and other related costs and $23 in asset impairment charges.

Fair values of impaired assets were determined using projected discounted cash flows.

Acquisitions

During November 2013, the Company completed the acquisition of Robolution.  Robolution, based outside of Frankfurt, 
Germany, is a leading European provider of robotic arc welding systems.  The acquisition added to the Company's growing 
automation business and will enable the Company to seamlessly support automation customers across three continents.  

26

During November 2013, the Company acquired an ownership interest in Burlington.  Burlington, based in Hamilton, Ontario, 
Canada, is a leader in the design and manufacture of 3D robotic plasma cutting systems whose products are sold under the 
brand name Python X®.  The acquisition broadens the Company's portfolio of automated cutting and welding process solutions.

Combined revenues for Robolution and Burlington in 2013 were approximately $35,000.  The Company acquired Robolution 
and Burlington for approximately $54,023 in cash, net of cash acquired, and assumed debt and a $17,225 liability to acquire the 
remaining financial interest in Burlington.  The fair value of net assets acquired was $30,051, resulting in goodwill of $41,197.  
The purchase price allocations are preliminary and subject to final opening balance sheet adjustments.  In addition, during 2013 
the Company acquired a greater interest in its majority-owned joint venture, Lincoln Electric Heli (Zhengzhou) Welding 
Materials Company Ltd.

On December 31, 2012, the Company completed the acquisition of the privately-held automated systems and tooling 
manufacturer, Tenn Rand.  Tenn Rand, based in Chattanooga, Tennessee, is a leader in the design and manufacture of tooling 
and robotic systems for welding applications.  The acquisition added tool design, system building and machining capabilities 
that will enable the Company to further expand its welding automation business.  Annual sales for Tenn Rand at the date of 
acquisition were approximately $35,000.

On November 13, 2012, the Company completed the acquisition of Kaliburn from ITT Corporation.  Kaliburn, headquartered 
in Ladson, South Carolina, is a designer and manufacturer of shape cutting solutions, producer of shape cutting control systems 
and manufacturer of web tension transducers and engineered machine systems.  The acquisition added to the Company's cutting 
business portfolio.  Annual sales for Kaliburn as of the date of acquisition were approximately $36,000.

On May 17, 2012, the Company completed the acquisition of Wayne Trail.  Wayne Trail, based in Ft. Loramie, Ohio, is a 
manufacturer of automated systems and tooling, serving a wide range of applications in the metal processing market.  The 
acquisition added to the Company’s welding and automated solutions portfolio.  Annual sales for Wayne Trail at the date of 
acquisition were approximately $50,000. 

On March 6, 2012, the Company completed the acquisition of Weartech.  Weartech, based in Anaheim, California, is a producer 
of cobalt-based hard facing and wear-resistant welding consumables.  The acquisition added to the Company’s consumables 
portfolio.  Sales for Weartech during 2011 were approximately $40,000.

The Company acquired Tenn Rand, Kaliburn, Wayne Trail and Weartech for approximately $144,423 in cash, net of cash 
acquired, and assumed debt.  The fair value of net assets acquired was $73,257, resulting in goodwill of $71,166.  

On July 29, 2011, the Company acquired substantially all of the assets of Techalloy.  Techalloy, based in Baltimore, Maryland, 
is a manufacturer of nickel alloy and stainless steel welding consumables.  The acquisition added to the Company's 
consumables portfolio.  Annual sales for Techalloy at the date of acquisition were approximately $70,000.

On July 29, 2011, the Company acquired substantially all of the assets of Torchmate.  Torchmate, based in Reno, Nevada, 
provides a wide selection of computer numeric controlled plasma cutter and oxy-fuel cutting systems.  The acquisition added to 
the Company's plasma and oxy-fuel cutting product offering.  Annual sales for Torchmate at the date of acquisition were 
approximately $13,000.

On March 11, 2011, the Company completed the acquisition of Severstal.  Severstal is a leading manufacturer of welding 
consumables in Russia and was a subsidiary of OAO Severstal, one of the world's leading vertically integrated steel and mining 
companies.  This acquisition expanded the Company's capacity and distribution channels in Russia and the Commonwealth of 
Independent States ("CIS").  Sales for Severstal during 2010 were approximately $40,000.

On January 31, 2011, the Company acquired substantially all of the assets of Arc Products.  Arc Products is a manufacturer of 
orbital welding systems and welding automation components based in Southern California.  Orbital welding systems are 
designed to automatically weld pipe and tube in difficult to access locations and for mission-critical applications requiring high 
weld integrity and sophisticated quality monitoring capabilities.  The acquisition will complement the Company's ability to 
serve global customers in the nuclear, power generation and process industries worldwide.  Sales for Arc Products during 2010 
were not significant.

The Company acquired Techalloy, Torchmate, Severstal and Arc Products for approximately $65,321 in cash and assumed debt 
and a contingent consideration liability fair valued at $3,806.  The contingent consideration is based upon estimated sales at the 
related acquisition for the five-year period ending December 31, 2015 and will be paid in 2016 based on actual sales during the 
five-year period.  The fair value of net assets acquired was $46,837, resulting in goodwill of $22,290.  

Pro forma information related to these acquisitions has not been presented because the impact on the Company's Consolidated 
Statements of Income is not material.  Acquired companies are included in the Company's consolidated financial statements as 
of the date of acquisition.

27

Debt

At December 31, 2013 and 2012, the fair value of long-term debt, including the current portion, was approximately $4,212 and 
$1,919, respectively, which was determined using available market information and methodologies requiring judgment.  Since 
considerable judgment is required in interpreting market information, the fair value of the debt is not necessarily the amount 
which could be realized in a current market exchange.

Revolving Credit Agreement

The Company has a line of credit totaling $300,000 through the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the “Credit 
Agreement”), which was entered into on July 26, 2012.  The Credit Agreement contains customary affirmative, negative and 
financial covenants for credit facilities of this type, including limitations on the Company and its subsidiaries with respect to 
liens, investments, distributions, mergers and acquisitions, dispositions of assets, transactions with affiliates and a fixed charges 
coverage ratio and total leverage ratio.  As of December 31, 2013, the Company was in compliance with all of its covenants and 
had no outstanding borrowings under the Credit Agreement.  The Credit Agreement has a five-year term and may be increased, 
subject to certain conditions, by an additional amount up to $100,000.  The interest rate on borrowings is based on either 
LIBOR or the prime rate, plus a spread based on the Company’s leverage ratio, at the Company’s election.

Short-term Borrowings

The Company's short-term borrowings included in Amounts due banks were $14,581 and $18,220 at December 31, 2013 and 
2012, respectively, and represent the borrowings of foreign subsidiaries at weighted average interest rates of 11.3% and 11.3%, 
respectively. 

Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments

The Company's contractual obligations and commercial commitments as of December 31, 2013 are as follows:

Payments Due By Period

Total

2014

2015 to
2016

2017 to
2018

2019 and
Beyond

Long-term debt, including current portion

$

2,722

$

Interest on long-term debt
Capital lease obligations

Short-term debt

Interest on short-term debt

Operating leases

Purchase commitments(1)

Total

311
236

14,581

1,019

48,170

$

644

107
72

14,581

1,019

13,263

164,232
231,271

$

160,987
190,673

$

$

854

104
127

—

—

$

450

$

54
37

—

—

18,631

2,983
22,699

$

9,708

175
10,424

$

774

46
—

—

—

6,568

87
7,475

_______________________________________________________________________________

(1)  Purchase commitments include contractual obligations for raw materials and services.

As of December 31, 2013, there was $25,907 of tax liabilities related to unrecognized tax benefits.  Because of the high degree 
of uncertainty regarding the timing of future cash outflows associated with these liabilities, the Company is unable to estimate 
the years in which settlement will occur with the respective taxing authorities.  See Note 12 to the Company's consolidated 
financial statements for further discussion.

The Company expects to voluntarily contribute approximately $20,000 to the U.S. pension plans in 2014.

Stock-Based Compensation

On April 28, 2006, the shareholders of the Company approved the 2006 Equity and Performance Incentive Plan, as amended 
("EPI Plan"), which replaced the 1998 Stock Plan, as amended and restated in May 2003.  The EPI Plan provides for the 
granting of options, appreciation rights, restricted shares, restricted stock units and performance-based awards up to an 
additional 6,000,000 of the Company's common shares.  In addition, on April 28, 2006, the shareholders of the Company 
approved the 2006 Stock Plan for Non-Employee Directors, as amended ("Director Plan"), which replaced the Stock Option 
Plan for Non-Employee Directors adopted in 2000.  The Director Plan provides for the granting of options, restricted shares 
and restricted stock units up to an additional 600,000 of the Company's common shares.  At December 31, 2013, there were 
2,315,239 common shares available for future grant under all plans.

28

 
 
Under these plans, options, restricted shares and restricted stock units granted were 357,494 in 2013, 567,023 in 2012 and 
648,561 in 2011.  The Company issued shares of common stock from treasury upon all exercises of stock options and the 
granting of restricted stock awards in 2013, 2012 and 2011.

Expense is recognized for all awards of stock-based compensation by allocating the aggregate grant date fair value over the 
vesting period.  No expense is recognized for any stock options, restricted or deferred shares or restricted stock units ultimately 
forfeited because recipients fail to meet vesting requirements.  Total stock-based compensation expense recognized in the 
Consolidated Statements of Income for 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $9,734, $8,961 and $6,610, respectively.  The related tax 
benefit for 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $3,727, $3,409 and $2,515, respectively.  As of December 31, 2013, total unrecognized 
stock-based compensation expense related to non-vested stock options, restricted shares and restricted stock units was $21,633, 
which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately 3.3 years.

The aggregate intrinsic value of options outstanding and exercisable which would have been received by the optionees had all 
awards been exercised at December 31, 2013, was $85,404 and $76,076, respectively.  The total intrinsic value of awards 
exercised during 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $20,297, $18,776 and $10,028 respectively.

Product Liability Costs

Product liability costs have historically been significant particularly with respect to asbestos claims.  Costs incurred are volatile 
and are largely related to trial activity.  The costs associated with these claims are predominantly defense costs which are 
recognized in the periods incurred.  Product liability costs decreased $767 in 2013 compared with 2012 primarily due to 
reduced trial activity.

The long-term impact of the asbestos loss contingency, in the aggregate, on operating results, operating cash flows and access 
to capital markets is difficult to assess, particularly since claims are in many different stages of development and the Company 
benefits significantly from cost sharing with co-defendants and insurance carriers.  Moreover, the Company has been largely 
successful to date in its defense of these claims.  

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

The Company utilizes letters of credit to back certain payment and performance obligations.  Letters of credit are subject to 
limits based on amounts outstanding under the Company's Credit Agreement.

New Accounting Pronouncements

New Accounting Standards to be Adopted:

In July 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2013-11, 
"Income Taxes (Topic 740): Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar 
Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists."   ASU 2013-11 requires an entity to present an unrecognized tax benefit in the 
financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss or a tax credit 
carryforward, with limited exceptions.  The amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, 
beginning after December 15, 2013.  Early adoption and retrospective application is permitted.  The Company is currently 
evaluating the impact of the adoption of ASU 2013-11, but does not expect it will have a significant impact on the Company's 
financial statements.

In March 2013, the FASB issued ASU No. 2013-05, "Foreign Currency Matters (Topic 830): Parent's Accounting for the 
Cumulative Translation Adjustment upon Derecognition of Certain Subsidiaries or Groups of Assets within a Foreign Entity or 
of an Investment in a Foreign Entity."  ASU 2013-05 clarifies the applicable guidance for the release of the cumulative 
translation adjustment under current U.S. GAAP by emphasizing that the accounting for the release of the cumulative 
translation adjustment into net income for sales or transfers of a controlling financial interest within a foreign entity is the same 
irrespective of whether the sale or transfer is of a subsidiary or a group of assets that is a nonprofit activity or business.  When a 
reporting entity ceases to have a controlling financial interest in a subsidiary or group of assets that is a nonprofit activity or a 
business within a foreign entity, the parent is required to apply the guidance in Subtopic 830-30 to release any related 
cumulative translation adjustment into net income.  The amendments are effective prospectively for fiscal years (and interim 
reporting periods within those years) beginning after December 15, 2013.  The Company is currently evaluating the impact of 
the adoption of ASU 2013-05 on the Company's financial statements.

29

Critical Accounting Policies

The Company's consolidated financial statements are based on the selection and application of significant accounting policies, 
which require management to make estimates and assumptions.  These estimates and assumptions are reviewed periodically by 
management and compared to historical trends to determine the accuracy of estimates and assumptions used.  If warranted, 
these estimates and assumptions may be changed as current trends are assessed and updated.  Historically, the Company's 
estimates have been determined to be reasonable.  No material changes to the Company's accounting policies were made during 
2013.  The Company believes the following accounting policies are some of the more critical judgment areas affecting its 
financial condition and results of operations.

Legal and Tax Contingencies

The Company, like other manufacturers, is subject from time to time to a variety of civil and administrative proceedings arising 
in the ordinary course of business.  Such claims and litigation include, without limitation, product liability claims and health, 
safety and environmental claims, some of which relate to cases alleging asbestos induced illnesses.  The costs associated with 
these claims are predominantly defense costs, which are recognized in the periods incurred.  Insurance reimbursements mitigate 
these costs and, where reimbursements are probable, they are recognized in the applicable period.  With respect to costs other 
than defense costs (i.e., for liability and/or settlement or other resolution), reserves are recorded when it is probable that the 
contingencies will have an unfavorable outcome.  The Company accrues its best estimate of the probable costs, after a review 
of the facts with management and counsel and taking into account past experience.  If an unfavorable outcome is determined to 
be reasonably possible but not probable, or if the amount of loss cannot be reasonably estimated, disclosure is provided for 
material claims or litigation.  Many of the current cases are in differing procedural stages and information on the circumstances 
of each claimant, which forms the basis for judgments as to the validity or ultimate disposition of such actions, varies greatly.  
Therefore, in many situations a range of possible losses cannot be made.  Reserves are adjusted as facts and circumstances 
change and related management assessments of the underlying merits and the likelihood of outcomes change.  Moreover, 
reserves only cover identified and/or asserted claims.  Future claims could, therefore, give rise to increases to such reserves.  

The Company is subject to taxation from U.S. federal, state, municipal and international jurisdictions.  The calculation of 
current income tax expense is based on the best information available and involves significant management judgment.  The 
actual income tax liability for each jurisdiction in any year can in some instances be ultimately determined several years after 
the financial statements are published.

The Company maintains reserves for estimated income tax exposures for many jurisdictions.  Exposures are settled primarily 
through the completion of audits within each individual tax jurisdiction or the closing of a statute of limitation.  Exposures can 
also be affected by changes in applicable tax law or other factors, which may cause management to believe a revision of past 
estimates is appropriate.  Management believes that an appropriate liability has been established for income tax exposures; 
however, actual results may materially differ from these estimates.  See Note 12 to the Company's consolidated financial 
statements and the "Item 3. Legal Proceedings" section of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further discussion of tax 
contingencies.

Translation of Foreign Currencies

Asset and liability accounts are translated into U.S. dollars using exchange rates in effect at the dates of the Consolidated 
Balance Sheets; revenue and expense accounts are translated at average monthly exchange rates.  Translation adjustments are 
reflected as a component of Total equity.  For subsidiaries operating in highly inflationary economies, both historical and 
current exchange rates are used in translating balance sheet accounts and translation adjustments are included in Net income.

Foreign currency transaction losses are included in Selling, general & administrative expenses and were $7,759, $4,608 and 
$4,904 in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

30

Venezuela – Highly Inflationary Economy

Venezuela is a highly inflationary economy under U.S. GAAP.  As a result, the financial statements of the Company's 
Venezuelan operation are reported under highly inflationary accounting rules as of January 1, 2010.  Under highly inflationary 
accounting, the financial statements of the Company's Venezuelan operation have been remeasured into the Company's 
reporting currency and exchange gains and losses from the re-measurement of monetary assets and liabilities are reflected in 
current earnings.  On February 8, 2013, the Venezuelan government announced the devaluation of its currency relative to the 
U.S. dollar.  Effective February 13, 2013 the official rate moved from 4.3 to 6.3 bolivars to the U.S. dollar.  The devaluation of 
the bolivar resulted in a foreign currency transaction loss of $8,081 in Selling, general & administrative expenses and higher 
Cost of goods sold of $4,117 due to the liquidation of inventory valued at the historical exchange rate.  In January 2014, the 
Venezuelan government announced the formation of the National Center of Foreign Trade ("CENCOEX") to replace the 
Commission for the Administration of Currency Exchange ("CADIVI").  In addition, the government announced the 
CENCOEX would utilize the rate used in the SICAD auction-based exchange rate program (the "SICAD rate") for certain 
transactions as opposed to the official rate.  Transactions executed at the SICAD rate most recently used a rate of 11.7 bolivars 
to the U.S. dollar.  In February 2014, the government announced a new foreign exchange system, SICAD 2, which is expected 
to use a currency mechanism based on bond swaps.  At this time, the Company expects to continue to use the official rate of 6.3 
bolivars to the U.S. dollar to translate its Venezuelan subsidiary's financial results.  The Company will continue to assess the 
information available relative to Venezuelan exchange rates, however, the future impact on the Company's financial statements 
is uncertain.

Future impacts to earnings of applying highly inflationary accounting for Venezuela on the Company's consolidated financial 
statements will be dependent upon movements in the applicable exchange rates between the bolivar and the U.S. dollar and the 
amount of monetary assets and liabilities included in the Company's Venezuelan operation's balance sheet.  The bolivar-
denominated monetary net asset position was $38,633 at December 31, 2013, which includes $50,642 of cash and cash 
equivalents, and $31,545 at December 31, 2012, which includes $32,610 of cash and cash equivalents.  The increased exposure 
was due to the limited opportunities to convert bolivars into U.S. dollars.  

The Company's ability to effectively manage sales and profit levels in Venezuela will be impacted by several factors.  These 
include, but are not limited to, the Company's ability to mitigate the effect of any potential devaluation and Venezuelan 
government price exchange controls.  If in the future the Company were to convert bolivars at a rate other than the official 
exchange rate or the official exchange rate is revised, the Company may realize a loss to earnings.  For example, a future 
devaluation in the Venezuelan currency to a rate of 12.6 would result in the Company realizing additional charges of 
approximately $3,000 to Cost of goods sold based on current inventory levels and $20,000 to Selling, general and 
administrative expenses based upon the current bolivar-denominated monetary net asset position.  Additionally, the various 
restrictions on the distribution of foreign currency by the Venezuelan government could affect the Company's ability to pay 
obligations and maintain normal production levels in Venezuela.

Deferred Income Taxes

Deferred income taxes are recognized at currently enacted tax rates for temporary differences between the financial reporting 
and income tax bases of assets and liabilities and operating loss and tax credit carry-forwards.  The Company does not provide 
deferred income taxes on unremitted earnings of certain non-U.S. subsidiaries, which are deemed permanently reinvested.  It is 
not practicable to calculate the deferred taxes associated with the remittance of these earnings.  Deferred income taxes 
associated with earnings of $8,354 that are not expected to be permanently reinvested were not significant.  At December 31, 
2013, the Company had approximately $102,128 of gross deferred tax assets related to deductible temporary differences and 
tax loss and credit carry-forwards which may reduce taxable income in future years.

In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, the Company assesses whether it is more likely than not that a portion or all 
of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.  The Company considers the scheduled reversal of deferred tax liabilities, tax 
planning strategies, and projected future taxable income in making this assessment.  At December 31, 2013, a valuation 
allowance of $49,684 was recorded against these deferred tax assets based on this assessment.  The Company believes it is 
more likely than not that the tax benefit of the remaining net deferred tax assets will be realized.  The amount of net deferred 
tax assets considered realizable could be increased or reduced in the future if the Company's assessment of future taxable 
income or tax planning strategies changes.

31

Pensions

The Company maintains a number of defined benefit and defined contribution plans to provide retirement benefits for 
employees.  These plans are maintained and contributions are made in accordance with the Employee Retirement Income 
Security Act of 1974 ("ERISA"), local statutory law or as determined by the Board of Directors.  The plans generally provide 
benefits based upon years of service and compensation.  Pension plans are funded except for a domestic non-qualified pension 
plan for certain key employees and certain foreign plans.

A substantial portion of the Company's pension amounts relates to its defined benefit plan in the United States.  The fair value 
of plan assets is determined at December 31 of each year.

A significant element in determining the Company's pension expense is the expected return on plan assets.  At the end of each 
year, the expected return on plan assets is determined based on the weighted average expected return of the various asset 
classes in the plan's portfolio and the targeted allocation of plan assets.  The asset class return is developed using historical asset 
return performance as well as current market conditions such as inflation, interest rates and equity market performance.  The 
Company determined this rate to be 7.4% and 7.7% at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.  The assumed long-term rate 
of return on assets is applied to the market value of plan assets.  This produces the expected return on plan assets included in 
pension expense.  The difference between this expected return and the actual return on plan assets is deferred and amortized 
over the average remaining service period of active employees expected to receive benefits under the plan.  The amortization of 
the net deferral of past losses will increase future pension expense.  During 2013, investment returns were 12.4% compared 
with a return of 11.1% in 2012.  A 25 basis point change in the expected return on plan assets would increase or decrease 
pension expense by approximately $1,900.

Another significant element in determining the Company's pension expense is the discount rate for plan liabilities.  To develop 
the discount rate assumption, the Company refers to the yield derived from matching projected pension payments with 
maturities of a portfolio of available non-callable bonds rated AA- or better.  The Company determined this rate to be 4.7% at 
December 31, 2013 and 3.8% at December 31, 2012.  A 10 basis point change in the discount rate would increase or decrease 
pension expense by approximately $1,100.

Pension expense relating to the Company's defined benefit plans was $29,908, $36,258 and $26,370 in 2013, 2012 and 2011, 
respectively.  The Company expects 2014 defined benefit pension expense to decrease by a range of approximately $15,000 to 
$18,000.

The Accumulated other comprehensive loss, excluding tax effects, recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheet was $256,260 
as of December 31, 2013 and $417,967 as of December 31, 2012.  The decrease is primarily the result of actuarial gains 
recorded during the year.  Actuarial gains arising during 2013 are primarily attributable to a higher discount rate.

The Company made voluntary contributions to its U.S. defined benefit plans of $75,216, $60,277 and $30,000 in 2013, 2012 
and 2011, respectively.  The Company expects to voluntarily contribute $20,000 to its U.S. plans in 2014.  Based on current 
pension funding rules, the Company does not anticipate that contributions to the plans would be required in 2014.

Inventories

Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market.  Fixed manufacturing overhead costs are allocated to inventory based on 
normal production capacity and abnormal manufacturing costs are recognized as period costs.  For most domestic inventories, 
cost is determined principally by the last-in, first-out ("LIFO") method, and for non-U.S. inventories, cost is determined by the 
first-in, first-out ("FIFO") method.  The valuation of LIFO inventories is made at the end of each year based on inventory levels 
and costs at that time.  Accordingly, interim LIFO calculations are based on management's estimates of expected year-end 
inventory levels and costs.  Actual year-end costs and inventory levels may differ from interim LIFO inventory valuations.  The 
excess of current cost over LIFO cost was $70,882 at December 31, 2013 and $72,173 at December 31, 2012.

The Company reviews the net realizable value of inventory on an on-going basis, with consideration given to deterioration, 
obsolescence and other factors.  If actual market conditions differ from those projected by management, and the Company's 
estimates prove to be inaccurate, write-downs of inventory values and adjustments to Cost of goods sold may be required.  
Historically, the Company's reserves have approximated actual experience.

Accounts Receivable

The Company maintains an allowance for doubtful accounts for estimated losses from the failure of its customers to make 
required payments for products delivered.  The Company estimates this allowance based on the age of the related receivable, 
knowledge of the financial condition of customers, review of historical receivables and reserve trends and other pertinent 
information.  If the financial condition of customers deteriorates or an unfavorable trend in receivable collections is 
experienced in the future, additional allowances may be required.  Historically, the Company's reserves have approximated 
actual experience.

32

Long-Lived Assets

The Company periodically evaluates whether current facts or circumstances indicate that the carrying value of its depreciable 
long-lived assets to be held and used may not be recoverable.  If such circumstances are determined to exist, an estimate of 
undiscounted future cash flows produced by the long-lived asset, or the appropriate grouping of assets, is compared to the 
carrying value to determine whether impairment exists.  If an asset is determined to be impaired, a loss is recognized to the 
extent that carrying value exceeds fair value.  Fair value is measured based on quoted market prices in active markets, if 
available.  If quoted market prices are not available, the estimate of fair value is based on various valuation techniques, 
including the discounted value of estimated future cash flows.

Goodwill and Intangibles

The Company performs an annual impairment test of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets in the fourth quarter using 
the same dates each year or more frequently if changes in circumstances or the occurrence of events indicate potential 
impairment.  The fair value of each indefinite-lived intangible asset is compared to its carrying value and an impairment charge 
is recorded if the carrying value exceeds the fair value.  Goodwill is tested by comparing the fair value of each reporting unit 
with its carrying value.  If the carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the implied value of goodwill is 
compared to its carrying value and impairment is recognized to the extent that the carrying value exceeds the implied fair value.

Fair values are determined using established business valuation multiples and models developed by the Company that 
incorporate allocations of certain assets and cash flows among reporting units, estimates of market participant assumptions of 
future cash flows, future growth rates and the applicable discount rates to value estimated cash flows.  Changes in economic 
and operating conditions impacting these assumptions could result in asset impairments in future periods.

The fair value of goodwill for all of the Company's operating business units exceeded its carrying value by at least 20% as of 
the testing date during the fourth quarter of 2013.  Key assumptions in estimating the reporting unit's fair value include 
assumed market participant assumptions of revenue growth, operating margins and the rate used to discount future cash flows.  
Actual revenue growth and operating margins below the assumed market participant assumptions or an increase in the discount 
rate would have a negative impact on the fair value of the reporting unit that could result in a goodwill impairment charge in a 
future period.

Stock-Based Compensation

The Company utilizes the Black-Scholes option pricing model for estimating fair values of options.  The Black-Scholes model 
requires assumptions regarding the volatility of the Company's stock, the expected life of the stock award and the Company's 
dividend yield.  The Company utilizes historical data in determining these assumptions.  An increase or decrease in the 
assumptions or economic events outside of management's control could have a direct impact on the Black-Scholes model.

ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

The Company's primary financial market risks include fluctuations in currency exchange rates, commodity prices and interest 
rates.  The Company manages these risks by using derivative financial instruments in accordance with established policies and 
procedures.  The Company does not enter into derivatives or other financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes.

Included below is a sensitivity analysis based upon a hypothetical 10% weakening or strengthening in the U.S. dollar compared 
to foreign currency exchange rates at December 31, 2013, a 10% change in commodity prices, and a 100 basis point increase in 
effective interest rates under the Company's current borrowing arrangements.  The contractual derivative and borrowing 
arrangements in effect at December 31, 2013 were compared to the hypothetical foreign exchange, commodity price, or interest 
rates in the sensitivity analysis to determine the effect on income before taxes, interest expense, or accumulated other 
comprehensive loss.  The analysis takes into consideration any offset that would result from changes in the value of the hedged 
asset or liability.

Foreign Currency Exchange Risk

The Company enters into forward foreign exchange contracts principally to hedge the currency fluctuations in transactions 
denominated in foreign currencies, thereby limiting the Company's risk that would otherwise result from changes in exchange 
rates.  At December 31, 2013, the Company hedged certain third-party and inter-company purchases and sales.  At 
December 31, 2013, the Company had foreign exchange contracts with a notional value of approximately $36,880.  At 
December 31, 2013, a hypothetical 10% weakening of the U.S. dollar would not materially affect the Company's financial 
statements.

33

Commodity Price Risk

From time to time, the Company uses various hedging arrangements to manage exposures to price risk from commodity 
purchases.  These hedging arrangements have the effect of locking in for specified periods the prices the Company will pay for 
the volume to which the hedge relates.  A hypothetical 10% adverse change in commodity prices on the Company's open 
commodity futures at December 31, 2013 would not materially affect the Company's financial statements.

Interest Rate Risk

As of December 31, 2013, the Company had no interest rate swaps outstanding.  Additionally, the Company had no outstanding 
borrowings under the Credit Agreement, therefore an interest rate increase would have no effect on interest expense.

The fair value of the Company's Cash and cash equivalents at December 31, 2013 approximated carrying value.  The 
Company's financial instruments are subject to concentrations of credit risk.  The Company has minimized this risk by entering 
into investments with a number of major banks and financial institutions and investing in high-quality instruments.  The 
Company does not expect any counter-parties to fail to meet their obligations.

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

The response to this item is submitted in a separate section of this Annual Report on Form 10-K following the signature page.

ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL 
DISCLOSURES

None.

ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Conclusion Regarding the Effectiveness of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Under the supervision and with the participation of management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial 
Officer, the Company conducted an evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures, as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(e) 
of the Exchange Act.  Based on this evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the 
Company's disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this Annual Report on 
Form 10-K.

Management's Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

The Company's management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, 
as such term is defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f).  Under the supervision and with the participation of the Company's 
management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, the Company conducted an evaluation of the 
effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2013 based on the 1992 framework in "Internal 
Control – Integrated Framework" issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.  Based 
on the Company's evaluation under such framework, management concluded that the Company's internal control over financial 
reporting was effective as of December 31, 2013.

The effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2013 has been audited by 
Ernst & Young LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report, which is included elsewhere in 
this Annual Report on Form 10-K and is incorporated herein by reference.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There have been no changes in the Company's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the fourth quarter 
of 2013 that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company's internal control over financial 
reporting.

ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION

None.

34

 
 
PART III

ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

The Company is expected to file its 2014 proxy statement pursuant to Regulation 14A of the Exchange Act prior to April 30, 
2014.

Except for the information set forth within Part I, Item 1C section of this Annual Report on Form 10-K concerning our 
Executive Officers, the information required by this item is incorporated by reference from the 2014 proxy statement.

ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

The information required by this item is incorporated by reference from the 2014 proxy statement.

ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED 
STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

The information required by this item is incorporated by reference from the 2014 proxy statement.

For further information on the Company's equity compensation plans, see Note 1 and Note 9 to the Company's consolidated 
financial statements.

ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

The information required by this item is incorporated by reference from the 2014 proxy statement.

ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

The information required by this item is incorporated by reference from the 2014 proxy statement.

35

PART IV

ITEM 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

(a)(1) Financial Statements

The following consolidated financial statements of the Company are included in a separate section of this report following 
the signature page and certifications:

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Consolidated Balance Sheets – December 31, 2013 and 2012 

Consolidated Statements of Income – Years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income – Years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011

Consolidated Statements of Equity – Years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows – Years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

(a)(2) Financial Statement Schedules

The following consolidated financial statement schedule of the Company is included in a separate section of this report 
following the signature page:

Schedule II – Valuation and Qualifying Accounts

All other schedules for which provision is made in the applicable accounting regulation of the Securities and Exchange 
Commission are not required under the related instructions or are inapplicable, and therefore, have been omitted.

(a)(3) Exhibits

Exhibit No.
3.1

3.2

10.1

10.2*

10.3*

10.4*

10.5*

10.6*

Description

Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. (filed as Exhibit 3.1 to
Form 8-K of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. filed on September 27, 2011, SEC file No. 0-1402 and
incorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof).

Amended and Restated Code of Regulations of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. (as Amended on November 3,
2009) (filed as Exhibit 3.2 to Form 10-Q of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. for the three months ended
September 30, 2009, SEC File No. 0-1402 and incorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof).

Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of July 26, 2012, by and among Lincoln Electric Holdings, 
Inc., The Lincoln Electric Company, Lincoln Electric International Holding Company, J.W. Harris Co., Inc., 
Techalloy, Inc., Wayne Trail Technologies, Inc., Lincoln Global, Inc., the Lenders and KeyBank National 
Association, as Letter of Credit Issuer and Administrative Agent (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K of Lincoln 
Electric Holdings, Inc. filed on July 31, 2012, SEC File No. 0-1402 and incorporated herein by reference and 
made a part hereof).

1998 Stock Plan (Amended, Restated and Renamed as of May 1, 2003) (filed as Appendix B to the Lincoln
Electric Holdings, Inc. proxy statement dated March 31, 2003, SEC File No. 0-1402 and incorporated herein by
reference and made a part hereof).

Amendment No. 1 to the 1998 Stock Plan (Amended, Restated and Renamed Effective May 1, 2003) dated
October 20, 2006 (filed as Exhibit 10.6 to Form 10-K of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. for the year ended
December 31, 2007, SEC File No. 0-1402 and incorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof).

1988 Incentive Equity Plan (filed as Exhibit 28 to the Form S-8 Registration Statement of The Lincoln Electric
Company, SEC File No. 33-25209 and incorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof) as adopted and
amended by Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. pursuant to an Instrument of Adoption and Amendment dated
December 29, 1998 (filed as Exhibit 10(d) to Form 10-K of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. for the year ended
December 31, 1998, SEC File No. 0-1402 and incorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof).

Amendment No. 2 to the 1988 Incentive Equity Plan dated October 20, 2006 (filed as Exhibit 10.8 to Form 10-
K of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. for the year ended December 31, 2007, SEC File No. 0-1402 and
incorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof).
Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan (Amended and Restated as of December 31, 2008) (filed as
Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. filed on January 7, 2009, SEC File No. 0-1402 and
incorporated herein by reference and made part hereof).

36

 
Exhibit No.
10.7*

10.8*

10.9*

10.10*

10.11*

10.12*

10.13*

10.14*

10.15*

10.16*

10.17*

10.18*

10.19*

10.20*

10.21*

10.22*

10.23*

10.24*

10.25*

Description

Deferred Compensation Plan for Certain Retention Agreements and Other Contractual Arrangements
(Amended and Restated as of January 1, 2004) (filed as Exhibit 10(i) to Form 10-K of Lincoln Electric
Holdings, Inc. for the year ended December 31, 2003, SEC File No. 0-1402 and incorporated herein by
reference and made a part hereof).
Non-Employee Directors' Deferred Compensation Plan (Amended and Restated as of December 31, 2008)
(filed as Exhibit 10.3 to Form 8-K of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. filed on January 7, 2009, SEC File
No. 0-1402 and incorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof).

2005 Deferred Compensation Plan for Executives (Amended and Restated as of August 1, 2011) (filed as
Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. filed on August 4, 2011, SEC File No. 0-1402 and
incorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof).
Description of Management Incentive Plan (filed as Exhibit 10(e) to Form 10-K of The Lincoln Electric
Company for the year ended December 31, 1995, SEC File No. 0-1402 and incorporated herein by reference
and made a part hereof).
Description of Long-Term Performance Plan (filed as Exhibit 10(f) to Form 10-K of The Lincoln Electric
Company for the year ended December 31, 1997, SEC File No. 0-1402 and incorporated herein by reference
and made a part hereof).

Form of Severance Agreement (as entered into by the Company and the following executive officers:
Messrs. Stropki, Mapes, Petrella, Stueber, LeBlanc and Blankenship) (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Form 10-Q of
Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. for the three months ended June 30, 2009, SEC File No. 0-1402 and
incorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof).

Stock Option Plan for Non-Employee Directors (filed as Exhibit 10(p) to Form 10-Q of Lincoln Electric
Holdings, Inc. for the three months ended March 31, 2000, SEC File No. 0-1402 and incorporated herein by
reference and made a part hereof).

Amendment No. 1 to the Stock Option Plan for Non-Employee Directors dated October 20, 2006 (filed as
Exhibit 10.26 to Form 10-K of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. for the year ended December 31, 2007, SEC File
No. 0-1402 and incorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof).

Summary of Cash Long-Term Incentive Plan, as amended (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K of Lincoln
Electric Holdings, Inc. filed on April 6, 2005, SEC File No. 0-1402 and incorporated herein by reference and
made a part hereof).

2006 Equity and Performance Incentive Plan (Restated as of March 3, 2011) (filed as Annex A to the Lincoln
Electric Holdings, Inc. proxy statement dated March 18, 2011, SEC File No. 0-1402 and incorporated herein by
reference and made a part hereof).
2006 Stock Plan for Non-Employee Directors (filed as Appendix C to the Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. proxy
statement dated March 28, 2006, SEC File No. 0-1402 and incorporated herein by reference and made a part
hereof).

Amendment No. 1 to the 2006 Stock Plan for Non-Employee Directors dated October 20, 2006 (filed as
Exhibit 10.2 to Form 10-Q of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. for the three months ended March 31, 2007, SEC
file No. 0-1402 and incorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof).

Amendment No. 2 to the 2006 Stock Plan for Non-Employee Directors dated July 26, 2007 (filed as
Exhibit 10.1 to Form 10-Q of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. for the three months ended September 30, 2007,
SEC file No. 0-1402 and incorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof).

2007 Management Incentive Compensation Plan (Amended and Restated as of December 31, 2008) (filed as
Exhibit 10.4 to Form 8-K of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. filed on January 7, 2009, SEC File No. 0-1402 and
incorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof).

Form of Restricted Shares Agreement for Non-Employee Directors (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Form 10-Q of
Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. for the three months ended September 30, 2010, SEC File No. 0-1402 and
incorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof).

Form of Restricted Shares Agreement for Executive Officers (filed as Exhibit 10.2 to Form 10-Q of Lincoln
Electric Holdings, Inc. for the three months ended September 30, 2010, SEC File No. 0-1402 and incorporated
herein by reference and made a part hereof).

Form of Stock Option Agreement for Non-Employee Directors (filed as Exhibit 10.3 to Form 10-Q of Lincoln
Electric Holdings, Inc. for the three months ended September 30, 2010, SEC File No. 0-1402 and incorporated
herein by reference and made a part hereof).
Form of Stock Option Agreement for Executive Officers (filed as Exhibit 10.4 to Form 10-Q of Lincoln
Electric Holdings, Inc. for the three months ended September 30, 2010, SEC File No. 0-1402 and incorporated
herein by reference and made a part hereof).

Form of Restricted Shares Agreement for Non-Employee Directors (for awards made on or after December 1,
2010) (filed as Exhibit 10.35 to Form 10-K of the Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. for the year ended
December 31, 2010, SEC File No. 0-1402 and incorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof).

37

Exhibit No.
10.26*

10.27*

10.28*

10.29*

10.30*

10.31*

10.32*

Description
Form of Restricted Shares Agreement for Executive Officers (for awards made on or after December 1, 2010)
(filed as Exhibit 10.36 to Form 10-K of the Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. for the year ended December 31,
2010, SEC File No. 0-1402 and incorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof).
Form of Stock Option Agreement for Executive Officers (for awards made on or after December 1, 2010) (filed
as Exhibit 10.37 to Form 10-K of the Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. for the year ended December 31, 2010,
SEC File No. 0-1402 and incorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof).
Form of Restricted Stock Unit Agreement for Executive Officers (filed as Exhibit 10.2 to Form 8-K of Lincoln
Electric Holdings, Inc. filed on August 4, 2011, SEC File No. 0-1402 and incorporated herein by reference and
made a part thereof).

Form of Officer Indemnification Agreement (effective February 23, 2012) (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K of 
Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. filed on February 29, 2012, SEC File No. 0-1402 and incorporated herein by 
reference and made a part hereof).
Form of Director Indemnification Agreement (effective February 23, 2012) (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K 
of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. filed on February 29, 2012, SEC File No. 0-1402 and incorporated herein by 
reference and made a part hereof).
Form of Amendment to Restricted Shares Agreement for Executive Officers (for awards granted prior to
December 2013) (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. filed on December 20,
2013, SEC File No. 0-1402 and incorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof).

Form of Amendment to Restricted Stock Unit Agreement for Executive Officers (for awards granted prior to
December 2013) (filed as Exhibit 10.2 to Form 8-K of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. filed on December 20,
2013, SEC File No. 0-1402 and incorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof).

10.33*

Form of Restricted Stock Unit Agreement for Executive Officers (for awards granted on or after December 16,
2013) (filed herewith).

21

23
24

31.1

31.2

32.1

Subsidiaries of the Registrant.

Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.
Powers of Attorney.

Certification by the President and Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934.

Certification by the Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) of
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

Certifications pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley
Act of 2002.

101.INS

XBRL Instance Document

101.SCH

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document

101.CAL

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document

101.LAB
101.PRE

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

101.DEF

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document

* 

Reflects management contract or other compensatory arrangement required to be filed as an exhibit pursuant to Item 15(b) of this 
report.

38

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this 
report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

SIGNATURES

LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
By:

/s/ VINCENT K. PETRELLA

Vincent K. Petrella
Senior Vice President, Chief Financial
Officer and Treasurer
(principal financial and accounting officer)
February 21, 2014

39

 
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following 
persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

/s/ CHRISTOPHER L. MAPES
Christopher L. Mapes, 
President and Chief Executive Officer 
(principal executive officer)
February 21, 2014

/s/ VINCENT K. PETRELLA
Vincent K. Petrella,
Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and
Treasurer (principal financial and accounting officer)
February 21, 2014

/s/ VINCENT K. PETRELLA
Vincent K. Petrella as
Attorney-in-Fact for
Harold L. Adams, Director
February 21, 2014

/s/ VINCENT K. PETRELLA

Vincent K. Petrella as
Attorney-in-Fact for
David H. Gunning, Director
February 21, 2014

/s/ VINCENT K. PETRELLA
Vincent K. Petrella as
Attorney-in-Fact for
Robert J. Knoll, Director
February 21, 2014

/s/ VINCENT K. PETRELLA

Vincent K. Petrella as
Attorney-in-Fact for
Kathryn Jo Lincoln, Director
February 21, 2014

/s/ VINCENT K. PETRELLA

Vincent K. Petrella as
Attorney-in-Fact for
Phillip J. Mason, Director
February 21, 2014

/s/ VINCENT K. PETRELLA

Vincent K. Petrella as
Attorney-in-Fact for
George H. Walls, Jr., Director
February 21, 2014

/s/ VINCENT K. PETRELLA
Vincent K. Petrella as
Attorney-in-Fact for
Curtis E. Espeland, Director
February 21, 2014

/s/ VINCENT K. PETRELLA

Vincent K. Petrella as
Attorney-in-Fact for
Stephen G. Hanks, Director
February 21, 2014

/s/ VINCENT K. PETRELLA
Vincent K. Petrella as
Attorney-in-Fact for
G. Russell Lincoln, Director
February 21, 2014

/s/ VINCENT K. PETRELLA

Vincent K. Petrella as
Attorney-in-Fact for
William E. MacDonald, III, Director
February 21, 2014

/s/ VINCENT K. PETRELLA

Vincent K. Petrella as
Attorney-in-Fact for
Hellene S. Runtagh, Director
February 21, 2014

40

[THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK]

The Board of Directors and Shareholders of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc.

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. and subsidiaries as of 
December 31, 2013 and 2012, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, equity, and cash 
flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2013. Our audits also included the financial statement 
schedule listed in the Index as Item 15 (a) (2). These financial statements and schedule are the responsibility of the Company's 
management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and schedule based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). 
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 audits provide a 
reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial 
position of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. and subsidiaries at December 31, 2013 and 2012, and the consolidated results of 
their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2013, in conformity with 
U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Also, in our opinion, the related financial statement schedule, when considered 
in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly in all material respects, the information set forth 
therein.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), 
Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. and subsidiaries' internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2013, based on 
criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the 
Treadway Commission (1992 framework) and our report dated February 21, 2014 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

Cleveland, Ohio
February 21, 2014

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

F-1

The Board of Directors and Shareholders of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc.

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

We have audited Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. and subsidiaries' internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 
2013, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring 
Organizations of the Treadway Commission (1992 framework) (the COSO criteria). Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. and 
subsidiaries' management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its 
assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management's Report 
on Internal Control over Financial Reporting in Item 9A. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the company's internal 
control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). 
Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal 
control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of 
internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and 
operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered 
necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the 
reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally 
accepted accounting principles. A company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures 
that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and 
dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit 
preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and 
expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the 
company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or 
disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, 
projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate 
because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. and subsidiaries maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control 
over financial reporting as of December 31, 2013, based on the COSO criteria.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), 
the consolidated balance sheets of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, and the 
related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the 
period ended December 31, 2013 of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. and subsidiaries and our report dated February 21, 2014 
expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

Cleveland, Ohio
February 21, 2014

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

F-2

LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Dollars in thousands)

ASSETS

Current Assets

Cash and cash equivalents
Accounts receivable (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $8,398 in 
   2013; $8,654 in 2012)
Inventories

Raw materials

Work-in-process
Finished goods

Total inventory
Deferred income taxes
Other current assets
Total Current Assets

Property, Plant and Equipment

Land

Buildings

Machinery and equipment

Less accumulated depreciation

Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
Other Assets

Prepaid pensions

Equity investments in affiliates
Intangibles, net

Goodwill

Long-term investments

Deferred income taxes

Other non-current assets

Total Other Assets
TOTAL ASSETS

December 31,

2013

2012

$

299,825

$

286,464

367,134

360,662

112,478

38,963
198,522

349,963
10,922
102,931

119,963

41,805
203,122

364,890
16,670
104,130

1,130,775

1,132,816

48,369

373,373

723,715

1,145,457
661,452

484,005

36,116

26,618
147,012

174,715

32,763

3,556

116,307

537,087

44,510

343,867

732,461

1,120,838
634,602

486,236

—

24,606
132,902

132,903

31,187

44,639

104,574

470,811

$

2,151,867

$

2,089,863

See notes to these consolidated financial statements.

F-3

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Dollars in thousands)

LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

Current Liabilities

Amounts due banks
Trade accounts payable
Accrued employee compensation and benefits

Accrued expenses
Accrued taxes, including income taxes

Accrued pensions
Dividends payable

Customer advances

Other current liabilities

Current portion of long-term debt

Total Current Liabilities
Long-Term Liabilities

Long-term debt, less current portion

Accrued pensions
Deferred income taxes

Accrued taxes

Other long-term liabilities
Total Long-Term Liabilities

Shareholders' Equity

Preferred shares, without par value – at stated capital amount; 
   authorized – 5,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding – none
Common shares, without par value – at stated capital amount; 
   authorized – 240,000,000 shares; issued – 98,581,434 shares in 2013 and 2012; 
   outstanding – 81,010,084 shares in 2013 and 82,944,817 shares in 2012

Additional paid-in capital
Retained earnings

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

Treasury shares, at cost – 17,571,350 shares in 2013 and 15,636,617 shares in 2012

Total Shareholders' Equity

Non-controlling interests
Total Equity
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

See notes to these consolidated financial statements.

F-4

December 31,

2013

2012

$

$

14,581
212,799
68,263

29,613
46,109

10,564
18,619

24,319

31,335

715
456,917

3,791

26,999
48,103

36,149

49,220

164,262

18,220
209,647
68,698

29,420
45,505

3,639
—

26,335

38,347

456
440,267

1,599

216,189
8,349

35,550

29,588

291,275

—

—

9,858

240,519
1,908,462
(151,941)
(480,296)
1,526,602

4,086

9,858

205,124
1,682,668
(235,400)
(319,877)
1,342,373

15,948

1,530,688

1,358,321

$

2,151,867

$

2,089,863

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(In thousands, except per share amounts)

Net sales

Cost of goods sold
Gross profit

Selling, general & administrative expenses
Rationalization and asset impairment charges
Operating income

Other income (expense):

Interest income
Equity earnings in affiliates

Other income
Interest expense

Total other income (expense)

Income before income taxes

Income taxes

Net income including non-controlling interests

Non-controlling interests in subsidiaries' loss
Net income

Basic earnings per share

Diluted earnings per share

Cash dividends declared per share

Year Ended December 31,

2013

2012

2011

$

2,852,671

$

2,853,367

$

2,694,609

1,910,017
942,654

527,206
8,463
406,985

1,986,711
866,656

495,221
9,354
362,081

1,957,872
736,737

439,775
282
296,680

3,320
4,806

4,194
(2,864)
9,456

416,441

124,754

291,687
(2,093)
293,780

3.58

3.54

0.830

$

$

$

$

3,988
5,007

2,685
(4,191)
7,489

369,570

112,354

257,216
(195)
257,411

3.10

3.06

0.710

$

$

$

$

3,121
5,385

2,849
(6,704)
4,651

301,331

84,318

217,013
(173)
217,186

2.60

2.56

0.635

$

$

$

$

See notes to these consolidated financial statements.

F-5

 
 
 
 
 
 LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(In thousands)

Net income including non-controlling interests

Other comprehensive income, net of tax:

Unrealized gain (loss) on derivatives designated and qualifying as cash
flow hedges, net of tax of $(141) in 2013; $(201) in 2012; $264 in 2011
Defined pension plan activity, net of tax of $60,556 in 2013; $(3,492)
in 2012; $(47,413) in 2011
Currency translation adjustment

Transactions with non-controlling interests

Other comprehensive income (loss)
Comprehensive income

Comprehensive (loss) income attributable to non-controlling interests

Comprehensive income attributable to shareholders

$

Year Ended December 31,

2013

2012

2011

$

291,687

$

257,216

$

217,013

289

(832)

1,264

101,151
(19,955)
155
81,640
373,327
(3,912)
377,239

$

(6,475)
19,635

—
12,328
269,544
(348)
269,892

(79,936)
(26,773)
—
(105,445)
111,568

315

$

111,253

See notes to these consolidated financial statements.

F-6

 
 
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LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands)

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES

Net income

Non-controlling interests in subsidiaries' loss

Net income including non-controlling interests

Adjustments to reconcile Net income including non-controlling interests to Net cash

provided by operating activities:

Rationalization and asset impairment charges

Depreciation and amortization

Equity (earnings) loss in affiliates, net

Deferred income taxes

Stock-based compensation

Pension expense

Pension contributions and payments

Other, net

Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects from acquisitions:

(Increase) decrease in accounts receivable

Decrease (increase) in inventories

Decrease (increase) in other current assets

Increase in accounts payable

(Decrease) increase in other current liabilities

Net change in other long-term assets and liabilities

NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES

Capital expenditures

Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired

Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment

Other investing activities

NET CASH USED BY INVESTING ACTIVITIES

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES

Proceeds from short-term borrowings

Payments on short-term borrowings

Amounts due banks, net

Proceeds from long-term borrowings

Payments on long-term borrowings

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

Excess tax benefit from stock-based compensation

Purchase of shares for treasury

Cash dividends paid to shareholders

Transactions with non-controlling interests

Other financing activities

NET CASH USED BY FINANCING ACTIVITIES

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

Year Ended December 31,

2013

2012

2011

$

293,780

$

257,411

$

217,186

(2,093)

291,687

5,092

68,883

(1,660)

17,817

9,734

29,774

(87,356)

1,910

(5,437)

13,310

2,811

794

(7,785)

(680)

338,894

(76,015)

(53,161)

1,393

(1,717)

(195)

257,216

1,740

65,334

160

(2,137)

8,961

35,515

(69,646)

2,688

57,759

28,286

(9,506)

16,110

21,887

(86,883)

327,484

(52,715)

(134,602)

1,387

(1,541)

(173)

217,013

23

62,051

(1,971)

15,139

6,610

26,370

(36,322)

991

(67,518)

(51,679)

(2,857)

8,672

20,838

(3,842)

193,518

(65,813)

(66,229)

1,246

—

(129,500)

(187,471)

(130,796)

1,230

(2,164)

(517)

61

(450)

20,297

10,602

(167,879)

(49,277)

(6,087)

—

(194,184)

(1,849)

13,361

286,464

2,518

(4,293)

(2,758)

918

(85,688)

18,776

7,819

(81,018)

(73,112)

—

—

(216,838)

2,188

(74,637)

361,101

23,224

(15,446)

1,203

909

(1,941)

11,351

2,916

(36,997)

(51,935)

—

3,346

(63,370)

(4,444)

(5,092)

366,193

361,101

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF YEAR

$

299,825

$

286,464

$

See notes to these consolidated financial statements.

F-8

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

NOTE 1 – SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Principles of Consolidation

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. and its wholly-owned and 
majority-owned subsidiaries for which it has a controlling interest (the "Company") after elimination of all inter-company 
accounts, transactions and profits.

General Information

The Company is a manufacturer of welding, cutting and brazing products.  Welding products include arc welding power 
sources, wire feeding systems, robotic welding packages, fume extraction equipment, consumable electrodes and fluxes.  The 
Company's product offering also includes computer numeric controlled ("CNC") plasma and oxy-fuel cutting systems, 
regulators and torches used in oxy-fuel welding, cutting and brazing and consumables used in the brazing and soldering alloys 
market.

Translation of Foreign Currencies

Asset and liability accounts are translated into U.S. dollars using exchange rates in effect at the dates of the Consolidated 
Balance Sheets; revenue and expense accounts are translated at average monthly exchange rates.  Translation adjustments are 
reflected as a component of Total equity.  For subsidiaries operating in highly inflationary economies, both historical and 
current exchange rates are used in translating balance sheet accounts and translation adjustments are included in Net income.

The translation of assets and liabilities originally denominated in foreign currencies into U.S. dollars is for consolidation 
purposes, and does not necessarily indicate that the Company could realize or settle the reported value of those assets and 
liabilities in U.S. dollars.  Additionally, such a translation does not necessarily indicate that the Company could return or 
distribute the reported U.S. dollar value of the net equity of its foreign operations to shareholders.

Foreign currency transaction losses are included in Selling, general & administrative expenses and were $7,759, $4,608 and 
$4,904 in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

Venezuela – Highly Inflationary Economy

Venezuela is a highly inflationary economy under U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP").  As a result, the 
financial statements of the Company's Venezuelan operation are reported under highly inflationary accounting rules as of 
January 1, 2010.  Under highly inflationary accounting, the financial statements of the Company's Venezuelan operation have 
been remeasured into the Company's reporting currency and exchange gains and losses from the re-measurement of monetary 
assets and liabilities are reflected in current earnings.  On February 8, 2013, the Venezuelan government announced the 
devaluation of its currency relative to the U.S. dollar.  Effective February 13, 2013 the official rate moved from 4.3 to 6.3 
bolivars to the U.S. dollar.  The devaluation of the bolivar resulted in a foreign currency transaction loss of $8,081 in Selling, 
general & administrative expenses and higher Cost of goods sold of $4,117 due to the liquidation of inventory valued at the 
historical exchange rate.  

Future impacts to earnings of applying highly inflationary accounting for Venezuela on the Company's consolidated financial 
statements will be dependent upon movements in the applicable exchange rates between the bolivar and the U.S. dollar and the 
amount of monetary assets and liabilities included in the Company's Venezuelan operation's balance sheet.  The bolivar-
denominated monetary net asset position was $38,633 at December 31, 2013, which includes $50,642 of cash and cash 
equivalents and $31,545 at December 31, 2012, which includes $32,610 of cash and cash equivalents.  The increased exposure 
was due to the limited opportunities to convert bolivars into U.S. dollars.

Cash Equivalents

The Company considers all highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less when purchased to be cash 
equivalents.

F-9

LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

Accounts Receivable

The Company maintains an allowance for doubtful accounts for estimated losses from the failure of its customers to make 
required payments for products delivered.  The Company estimates this allowance based on the age of the related receivable, 
knowledge of the financial condition of customers, review of historical receivables and reserve trends and other pertinent 
information.  If the financial condition of customers deteriorates or an unfavorable trend in receivable collections is experienced 
in the future, additional allowances may be required.  Historically, the Company's reserves have approximated actual 
experience.

Inventories

Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market.  Fixed manufacturing overhead costs are allocated to inventory based on 
normal production capacity and abnormal manufacturing costs are recognized as period costs.  For most domestic inventories, 
cost is determined principally by the last-in, first-out ("LIFO") method, and for non-U.S. inventories, cost is determined by the 
first-in, first-out ("FIFO") method.

Reserves are maintained for estimated obsolescence or excess inventory equal to the difference between the cost of inventory 
and the estimated market value based upon assumptions about future demand and market conditions.  Historically, the 
Company's reserves have approximated actual experience.

Equity Investments

Investments in businesses in which the Company does not have a controlling interest and holds between a 20% and 50% 
ownership interest are accounted for using the equity method of accounting.  The Company's 50% ownership interest in equity 
investments includes investments in Turkey and Chile.  The amount of retained earnings that represents undistributed earnings 
of 50% or less owned equity investments was $16,694 at December 31, 2013 and $15,034 at December 31, 2012.

Property, Plant and Equipment

Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost and include improvements which significantly increase capacities or extend the 
useful lives of existing plant and equipment.  Depreciation and amortization are computed using a straight-line method over 
useful lives ranging from three to 20 years for machinery, tools and equipment, and up to 50 years for buildings.  Net gains or 
losses related to asset dispositions are recognized in earnings in the period in which dispositions occur.

Routine maintenance, repairs and replacements are expensed as incurred.  The Company capitalizes interest costs associated 
with long-term construction in progress.

Goodwill and Intangibles

Goodwill is recorded when the cost of acquired businesses exceeds the fair value of the identifiable net assets acquired.  
Intangible assets other than goodwill are recorded at fair value at the time acquired or at cost, if applicable.  Intangible assets 
that do not have indefinite lives are amortized in line with the pattern in which the economic benefits of the intangible asset are 
consumed.  If the pattern of economic benefit cannot be reliably determined, the intangible assets are amortized on a straight-
line basis over the shorter of the legal or estimated life.

Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangibles assets are not amortized, but are tested for impairment in the fourth quarter using the 
same dates each year or more frequently if changes in circumstances or the occurrence of events indicate potential impairment.  
The fair value of each indefinite-lived intangible asset is compared to its carrying value and an impairment charge is recorded if 
the carrying value exceeds the fair value.  Goodwill is tested by comparing the fair value of each reporting unit with its carrying 
value.  If the carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the implied value of goodwill is compared to its carrying 
value and impairment is recognized to the extent that the carrying value exceeds the implied fair value.

Fair values are determined using established business valuation multiples and models developed by the Company that 
incorporate allocations of certain assets and cash flows among reporting units, estimates of market participant assumptions of 
future cash flows, future growth rates and the applicable discount rates to value estimated cash flows.  Changes in economic 
and operating conditions impacting these assumptions could result in asset impairments in future periods.  The Company's 
annual impairment test of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets in 2013 resulted in no impairment loss being 
recognized.

F-10

LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

Long-Lived Assets

The Company evaluates whether current facts or circumstances indicate that the carrying value of its depreciable long-lived 
assets to be held and used may not be recoverable.  If such circumstances are determined to exist, an estimate of undiscounted 
future cash flows produced by the long-lived asset, or the appropriate grouping of assets, is compared to the carrying value to 
determine whether impairment exists.  If an asset is determined to be impaired, a loss is recognized to the extent that carrying 
value exceeds fair value.  Fair value is measured based on quoted market prices in active markets, if available.  If quoted market 
prices are not available, the estimate of fair value is based on various valuation techniques, including the discounted value of 
estimated future cash flows.

Fair Value Measurements

Financial assets and liabilities, such as the Company's defined benefit pension plan assets and derivative contracts, are valued at 
fair value using the market and income valuation approaches.  Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an 
asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date (exit price). 
The Company uses the market approach to value similar assets and liabilities in active markets and the income approach that 
consists of discounted cash flow models that take into account the present value of future cash flows under the terms of the 
contracts using current market information as of the reporting date.  The following hierarchy is used to classify the inputs used 
to measure fair value:

Level 1

Inputs to the valuation methodology are unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets.

Level 2

Inputs to the valuation methodology include:

• Quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets;
• Quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in inactive markets;

• Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability; and

• Inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data by correlation or other

means.

If the asset or liability has a specific (contractual) term, the Level 2 input must be observable for substantially the
full term of the asset or liability.

Level 3

Inputs to the valuation methodology are unobservable and significant to the fair value measurement.

Product Warranties

The Company accrues for product warranty claims based on historical experience and the expected material and labor costs to 
provide warranty service.  Warranty services are provided for periods up to three years from the date of sale. The accrual for 
product warranty claims is included in "Accrued expenses."

Revenue Recognition

Substantially all of the Company's revenues are recognized when the risks and rewards of ownership and title to the product 
have transferred to the customer which generally occurs at point of shipment.  The Company recognizes any discounts, credits, 
returns, rebates and incentive programs based on reasonable estimates as a reduction of Sales to arrive at Net sales at the same 
time the related revenue is recorded.  

For contracts accounted for under the percentage of completion method, revenue recognition is based upon the ratio of costs 
incurred to date compared with estimated total costs to complete.  The cumulative impact of revisions to total estimated costs is 
reflected in the period of the change, including anticipated losses.

Distribution Costs

Distribution costs, including warehousing and freight related to product shipments, are included in Cost of goods sold.

Stock-Based Compensation

Expense is recognized for all awards of stock-based compensation by allocating the aggregate grant date fair value over the 
vesting period.  No expense is recognized for any stock options, restricted or deferred shares or restricted stock units ultimately 
forfeited because the recipients fail to meet vesting requirements.

Common stock issuable upon the exercise of employee stock options is excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per 
share when the calculation of option equivalent shares is anti-dilutive. 

F-11

 
 
 
 
 
LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

Financial Instruments

The Company uses forward contracts to hedge exposures to commodity prices and exchange rate fluctuations on certain purchase 
and sales transactions, balance sheet and net investment exposures.  Contracts are generally written on a short-term basis but may 
cover exposures for up to two years and are not held for trading or speculative purposes.  The Company uses interest rate swaps 
from time to time to hedge changes in the fair value of debt.  The Company recognizes derivative instruments as either assets or 
liabilities at fair value.  The accounting for changes in the fair value of derivative instruments depends on whether it has been 
designated and qualifies as part of a hedging relationship and on the type of hedging relationship.

For derivative instruments that qualify as a fair value hedge (i.e., hedging the exposure to changes in the fair value of an asset 
or a liability), the gain or loss on the derivative instrument, as well as the offsetting loss or gain on the hedged item are 
recognized in earnings.  For derivative instruments that qualify as a cash flow hedge (i.e., hedging the exposure to variability in 
expected future cash flows), the effective portion of the unrealized gain or loss on the derivative instrument is reported as a 
component of Accumulated other comprehensive loss with offsetting amounts recorded as Other current assets, Other non-
current assets, Other current liabilities or Other long-term liabilities depending on the position and the duration of the contract.  
At settlement, the realized gain or loss is reflected in earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged 
transaction affects earnings.  Any remaining gain or loss on the derivative instrument is recognized in earnings.  For derivative 
instruments not designated as hedges, the gain or loss from changes in the fair value of the instruments is recognized in 
earnings.

Research and Development

Research and development costs are charged to Selling, general & administrative expenses as incurred and totaled $42,126, 
$37,305 and $32,834 in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

Bonus

Included in Selling, general & administrative expenses are the costs related to the Company's discretionary employee bonus 
programs, which for certain U.S.- based employees are net of hospitalization costs.  Bonus costs were $123,571 in 2013, 
$124,947 in 2012 and $104,361 in 2011.

Income Taxes

Deferred income taxes are recognized at currently enacted tax rates for temporary differences between the financial reporting 
and income tax basis of assets and liabilities and operating loss and tax credit carry-forwards. In assessing the realizability of 
deferred tax assets, the Company assesses whether it is more likely than not that a portion or all of the deferred tax assets will 
not be realized.

Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions in 
certain circumstances that affect the amounts reported in the accompanying consolidated financial statements and notes. Actual 
results could differ from these estimates.

Reclassification

Certain reclassifications have been made to prior year financial statements to conform to current year classifications.

New Accounting Pronouncements

New Accounting Standards to be Adopted:

In July 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2013-11, 
"Income Taxes (Topic 740): Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar 
Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists."   ASU 2013-11 requires an entity to present an unrecognized tax benefit in the 
financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss or a tax credit 
carryforward, with limited exceptions.  The amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, 
beginning after December 15, 2013.  Early adoption and retrospective application is permitted.  The Company is currently 
evaluating the impact of the adoption of ASU 2013-11, but does not expect it will have a significant impact on the Company's 
financial statements.

F-12

LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

In March 2013, the FASB issued ASU No. 2013-05, "Foreign Currency Matters (Topic 830): Parent's Accounting for the 
Cumulative Translation Adjustment upon Derecognition of Certain Subsidiaries or Groups of Assets within a Foreign Entity or 
of an Investment in a Foreign Entity."  ASU 2013-05 clarifies the applicable guidance for the release of the cumulative 
translation adjustment under current U.S. GAAP by emphasizing that the accounting for the release of the cumulative 
translation adjustment into net income for sales or transfers of a controlling financial interest within a foreign entity is the same 
irrespective of whether the sale or transfer is of a subsidiary or a group of assets that is a nonprofit activity or business.  When a 
reporting entity ceases to have a controlling financial interest in a subsidiary or group of assets that is a nonprofit activity or a 
business within a foreign entity, the parent is required to apply the guidance in Subtopic 830-30 to release any related 
cumulative translation adjustment into net income.  The amendments are effective prospectively for fiscal years (and interim 
reporting periods within those years) beginning after December 15, 2013.  The Company is currently evaluating the impact of 
the adoption of ASU 2013-05 on the Company's financial statements.

NOTE 2 - EARNINGS PER SHARE  

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share:

Numerator:

Net income

Denominator:

Basic weighted average shares outstanding

Effect of dilutive securities - Stock options and awards

Diluted weighted average shares outstanding

Basic earnings per share

Diluted earnings per share

Year Ended December 31,

2013

2012

2011

$

293,780

$

257,411

$

217,186

81,978

1,064

83,042

$

$

3.58

3.54

$

$

83,087

1,088

84,175

3.10

3.06

$

$

83,681

1,027

84,708

2.60

2.56

For the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, common shares subject to equity-based awards of 45,850, 107,814 and 
626,135, respectively, were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share because the effect of their exercise would 
be anti-dilutive.

NOTE 3 – ACQUISITIONS

During November 2013, the Company completed the acquisition of Robolution GmbH ("Robolution").  Robolution, based 
outside of Frankfurt, Germany, is a leading European provider of robotic arc welding systems.  The acquisition added to the 
Company's growing automation business and will enable the Company to seamlessly support automation customers across 
three continents.

During November 2013, the Company acquired an ownership interest in Burlington Automation Corporation ("Burlington").  
Burlington, based in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, is a leader in the design and manufacture of 3D robotic plasma cutting systems 
whose products are sold under the brand name Python X®.  The acquisition broadens the Company's portfolio of automated 
cutting and welding process solutions.

Combined revenues for Robolution and Burlington in 2013 were approximately $35,000.  The Company acquired Robolution 
and Burlington for approximately $54,023 in cash, net of cash acquired, and assumed debt and a $17,225 liability to acquire the 
remaining financial interest in Burlington.  The fair value of net assets acquired was $30,051, resulting in goodwill of $41,197.  
The purchase price allocations are preliminary and subject to final opening balance sheet adjustments.  In addition, during 2013 
the Company acquired a greater interest in its majority-owned joint venture, Lincoln Electric Heli (Zhengzhou) Welding 
Materials Company Ltd.

On December 31, 2012, the Company completed the acquisition of the privately-held automated systems and tooling 
manufacturer, Tennessee Rand, Inc. ("Tenn Rand").  Tenn Rand, based in Chattanooga, Tennessee, is a leader in the design and 
manufacture of tooling and robotic systems for welding applications.  The acquisition added tool design, system building and 
machining capabilities that will enable the Company to further expand its welding automation business.  Annual sales for Tenn 
Rand in 2012 were approximately $35,000.

F-13

LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

On November 13, 2012, the Company completed the acquisition of the Kaliburn, Burny and Cleveland Motion Control 
businesses (collectively, "Kaliburn") from ITT Corporation.  Kaliburn, headquartered in Ladson, South Carolina, is a designer 
and manufacturer of shape cutting solutions, producer of shape cutting control systems and manufacturer of web tension 
transducers and engineered machine systems.  The acquisitions added to the Company's cutting business portfolio.  Annual 
sales for Kaliburn at the date of acquisition were approximately $36,000. 

On May 17, 2012, the Company completed the acquisition of Wayne Trail Technologies, Inc. (“Wayne Trail”).  Wayne Trail, 
based in Ft. Loramie, Ohio, is a manufacturer of automated systems and tooling, serving a wide range of applications in the 
metal processing market.  The acquisition added to the Company’s welding and automated solutions portfolio.  Annual sales for 
Wayne Trail at the date of acquisition were approximately $50,000.

On March 6, 2012, the Company completed the acquisition of Weartech International, Inc. (“Weartech”).  Weartech, based in 
Anaheim, California, is a producer of cobalt-based hard facing and wear-resistant welding consumables.  The acquisition added 
to the Company’s consumables portfolio.  Sales for Weartech during 2011 were approximately $40,000.

The Company acquired Tenn Rand, Kaliburn, Wayne Trail and Weartech for approximately $144,423 in cash, net of cash 
acquired, and assumed debt.  The fair value of net assets acquired was $73,257, resulting in goodwill of $71,166.  

On July 29, 2011, the Company acquired substantially all of the assets of Techalloy Company, Inc. and certain assets of its 
parent company, Central Wire Industries Ltd. (collectively, "Techalloy").  Techalloy, based in Baltimore, Maryland, is a 
manufacturer of nickel alloy and stainless steel welding consumables.  The acquisition added to the Company's consumables 
portfolio.  Annual sales for Techalloy at the date of acquisition were approximately $70,000.

On July 29, 2011, the Company acquired substantially all of the assets of Applied Robotics, Inc. (d/b/a Torchmate) 
("Torchmate").  Torchmate, based in Reno, Nevada, provides a wide selection of computer numeric controlled plasma cutter 
and oxy-fuel cutting systems.  The acquisition added to the Company's plasma and oxy-fuel cutting product offering.  Annual 
sales for Torchmate at the date of acquisition were approximately $13,000.

On March 11, 2011, the Company completed the acquisition of OOO Severstal-metiz: welding consumables ("Severstal").  
Severstal is a leading manufacturer of welding consumables in Russia and was a subsidiary of OAO Severstal, one of the 
world's leading vertically integrated steel and mining companies.  This acquisition expanded the Company's capacity and 
distribution channels in Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States ("CIS").  Sales for Severstal during 2010 were 
approximately $40,000.

On January 31, 2011, the Company acquired substantially all of the assets of SSCO Manufacturing, Inc. (d/b/a Arc Products) 
("Arc Products").  Arc Products is a manufacturer of orbital welding systems and welding automation components based in 
Southern California.  Orbital welding systems are designed to automatically weld pipe and tube in difficult to access locations 
and for mission-critical applications requiring high weld integrity and sophisticated quality monitoring capabilities.  The 
acquisition will complement the Company's ability to serve global customers in the nuclear, power generation and process 
industries worldwide.  Sales for Arc Products during 2010 were not significant.

The Company acquired Techalloy, Torchmate, Severstal and Arc Products for approximately $65,321 in cash and assumed debt 
and a contingent consideration liability fair valued at $3,806.  The contingent consideration is based upon estimated sales at the 
related acquisition for the five-year period ending December 31, 2015 and will be paid in 2016 based on actual sales during the 
five-year period.  The fair value of net assets acquired was $46,837, resulting in goodwill of $22,290.  

Pro forma information related to these acquisitions has not been presented because the impact on the Company's Consolidated 
Statements of Income is not material.  Acquired companies are included in the Company's consolidated financial statements as 
of the date of acquisition.

F-14

LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

NOTE 4 – GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLES

The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill by reportable segments for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 were 
as follows:

North
America
Welding

Europe
Welding

Asia
Pacific
Welding

South
America
Welding

The Harris
Products
Group

Consolidated

Balance at December 31, 2011

$

18,514

$

23,867

$

5,208

$

561

$

Additions and adjustments
Foreign currency translation

Balance as of December 31, 2012

Additions and adjustments
Foreign currency translation

67,740
23

86,277
44,446
(284)

Balance as of December 31, 2013

$

130,439

$

66
1,424

25,357
—
(927)
24,430

—
40

5,248
—
111

$

5,359

$

—
53

614
—
(52)
562

$

16,951
(1,109)
(435)
15,407
(1,027)
(455)
13,925

$

$

65,101

66,697
1,105

132,903
43,419
(1,607)
174,715

Additions to goodwill primarily reflect goodwill recognized in the acquisitions of Robolution and Burlington in 2013 and the 
acquisitions of Weartech, Wayne Trail, Kaliburn and Tenn Rand in 2012 (see Note 3).  Reductions to goodwill result from the 
tax benefit attributable to the amortization of tax deductible goodwill in excess of goodwill recorded for financial reporting 
purposes.

Gross and net intangible assets other than goodwill by asset class as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 were as follows:

Trademarks and trade names
Customer relationships
Patents
Other
Total

Trademarks and trade names
Customer relationships
Patents
Other
Total

Weighted
Average Life
12
14
20
14

December 31, 2013

Gross
Amount

Accumulated
Amortization

Indefinite
Lived Assets

Total Intangible,
Net

$

  $

38,566
74,935
23,861
49,578
186,940

Gross
Amount

30,611
63,906
20,882
44,769
160,168

$

$

$

$

$

$

11,898
16,837
6,205
23,298
58,238

$

$

18,310
—
—
—
18,310

$

$

44,978
58,098
17,656
26,280
147,012

December 31, 2012

Accumulated
Amortization

Indefinite
Lived Assets

Total Intangible,
Net

9,493
12,099
5,103
18,847
45,542

$

$

18,276
—
—
—
18,276

$

$

39,394
51,807
15,779
25,922
132,902

Additions to gross and net intangible assets primarily reflect assets and related amortization recognized in  the acquisitions of 
Robolution and Burlington in 2013 and the acquisitions of Weartech, Wayne Trail, Kaliburn and Tenn Rand in 2012.  Aggregate 
amortization expense was $13,342, $10,641 and $6,661 for 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.  Estimated annual amortization 
expense for intangible assets for each of the next five years is $15,745 in 2014, $15,337 in 2015, $14,367 in 2016, $12,228 in 
2017 and $11,484 in 2018.

F-15

 
 
 
 
 
LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

NOTE 5 – SEGMENT INFORMATION

The Company's primary business is the design and manufacture of arc welding and cutting products, manufacturing a broad line 
of arc welding equipment, consumable welding products and other welding and cutting products.  The Company also has a 
leading global position in the brazing and soldering alloys market.  The Company has aligned its business units into five 
operating segments to enhance the utilization of the Company's worldwide resources and global end user and sourcing 
initiatives.  The operating segments consist of North America Welding, Europe Welding, Asia Pacific Welding, South America 
Welding and The Harris Products Group.  The North America Welding segment includes welding operations in the United 
States, Canada and Mexico.  The Europe Welding segment includes welding operations in Europe, Russia, Africa and the 
Middle East.  The other two welding segments include welding operations in Asia Pacific and South America, respectively.  The 
fifth segment, The Harris Products Group, includes the Company's global cutting, soldering and brazing businesses as well as 
the retail business in the United States.

Segment performance is measured and resources are allocated based on a number of factors, the primary profit measure being 
earnings before interest and income taxes ("EBIT"), as adjusted.  Segment EBIT is adjusted for special items as determined by 
management such as the impact of rationalization activities, certain asset impairment charges and gains or losses on disposals of 
assets.  The accounting principles applied at the operating segment level are generally the same as those applied at the 
consolidated financial statement level with the exception of LIFO.  Segment assets include inventories measured on a FIFO 
basis while consolidated inventories are reported on a LIFO basis.  Segment and consolidated income before interest and 
income taxes are reported on a LIFO basis.  At December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, approximately 38%, 34% and 31%, 
respectively, of total inventories were valued using the LIFO method.  LIFO is used for certain domestic inventories included in 
the North America Welding segment.  Inter-segment sales are recorded at agreed upon prices that approximate arm's length 
prices and are eliminated in consolidation.  Corporate-level expenses are allocated to the operating segments on a basis that 
management believes to be reasonable.  Certain corporate-level expenses may not be allocated to the operating segments and 
are reported as Corporate/Eliminations.

F-16

LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

Financial information for the reportable segments follows:

North
America
Welding

Europe
Welding

Asia
Pacific
Welding

South
America
Welding

The Harris
Products
Group

Corporate /
Eliminations

Consolidated

$

1,652,769

127,254

1,780,023

318,507

1,052

317,455

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

429,548

19,911

449,459

36,247

2,045

34,202

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

266,282

14,906

281,188

1,815

6,071

(4,256) $

195,895

233

196,128

57,306

12,198

45,108

$

$

$

$

308,177

9,605

317,782

27,826

—

27,826

$

$

$

$

— $

2,852,671

(171,909) $

—

(171,909) $

2,852,671

(4,350) $

437,351

— $

21,366

(4,350) $

415,985

Total assets

$

1,048,412

$

403,094

$

325,656

$

169,027

$

162,496

$

43,182

—

41,181

39,086

23,315

10,305

10,933

—

2,073

13,559

3,303

20,840

1,893

—

3,931

3,636

— $

(2,315) $

(224) $

Total assets

$

980,093

$

451,654

$

350,189

$

134,650

$

195,881

$

(22,604) $

2,089,863

$

1,580,818

131,062

1,711,880

293,070

827

292,243

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

452,227

16,048

468,275

37,299

3,534

33,765

$

$

$

$

324,482

14,829

339,311

7,247

4,993

2,254

$

$

$

$

161,483

38

161,521

18,301

1,381

16,920

$

$

$

$

334,357

8,549

342,906

29,477

—

29,477

$

$

$

$

— $

2,853,367

(170,526) $

—

(170,526) $

2,853,367

(4,886) $

380,508

— $

10,735

(4,886) $

369,773

3,988

(4,191)

$

369,570

—

36,834

33,479

21,798

5,372

11,008

—

8,833

15,102

2,808

899

1,878

—

831

3,934

— $

(54) $

(67) $

24,606

52,715

65,334

$

1,309,499

136,314

1,445,813

227,924

—

227,924

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

508,692

17,422

526,114

36,171

392

35,779

$

$

$

$

376,276

15,614

391,890

2,629

(110)

2,739

$

$

$

$

156,684

494

157,178

12,895

—

12,895

$

$

$

$

343,458

8,496

351,954

25,151

—

25,151

$

$

$

$

— $

2,694,609

(178,340) $

—

(178,340) $

2,694,609

426

$

305,196

— $

282

426

$

304,914

For the Year Ended 
   December 31, 2013

Net sales

Inter-segment sales

Total

EBIT, as adjusted

Special items charge (gain)

EBIT

Interest income

Interest expense

Income before income taxes

Equity investments in affiliates

Capital expenditures

Depreciation and amortization

For the Year Ended 
   December 31, 2012

Net sales

Inter-segment sales

Total

EBIT, as adjusted

Special items charge (gain)

EBIT

Interest income

Interest expense

Income before income taxes

Equity investments in affiliates

Capital expenditures

Depreciation and amortization

For the Year Ended 
   December 31, 2011

Net sales

Inter-segment sales

Total

EBIT, as adjusted

Special items charge (gain)

EBIT

Interest income

Interest expense

Income before income taxes

$

$

3,320

(2,864)

416,441

2,151,867

26,618

76,015

68,883

$

$

3,121

(6,704)

301,331

1,976,776

24,618

65,813

62,051

Total assets

$

771,315

$

436,327

$

380,282

$

110,781

$

181,916

$

96,155

Equity investments in affiliates

Capital expenditures

Depreciation and amortization

—

31,826

29,237

20,500

8,566

11,736

—

21,498

14,663

4,118

2,314

2,033

—

1,792

4,714

— $

(183) $

(332) $

F-17

LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

In 2013, special items include net charges of $1,052, $2,045 and $922 in the North America Welding, Europe Welding and Asia 
Pacific Welding segments, respectively, primarily related to employee severance and other costs associated with the 
consolidation of manufacturing operations.  The Asia Pacific Welding segment special items also include charges of $4,444 
related to impairment of long-lived assets and a charge of $705 related to a loss on the sale of land.  The South America 
Welding segment special items represent charges of $12,198 related to the devaluation of the Venezuelan currency.

In 2012, special items include net charges of $827, $3,637 and $3,151 for rationalization actions in the North America Welding, 
Europe Welding and Asia Pacific Welding segments, respectively, primarily related to employee severance and other costs 
associated with the consolidation of manufacturing operations.  The Europe Welding segment special items also include a gain 
of $103 on the sale of assets.  The Asia Pacific Welding segment special items also include a charge of $1,842 related to asset 
impairments.  The South America Welding segment special item represents a charge of $1,381 related to a change in 
Venezuelan labor law, which provides for increased employee severance obligations.

In 2011, special items include net charges of $188 and $93 for rationalization actions in the Europe Welding and Asia Pacific 
Welding segments, respectively, primarily related to employee severance and other costs associated with the consolidation of 
manufacturing operations.  The Europe Welding and Asia Pacific Welding segments special items also include a loss of $204 
and a gain of $203, respectively, on the sale of assets at rationalized operations.

Export sales (excluding inter-company sales) from the United States were $260,195 in 2013, $268,331 in 2012 and $242,380 in 
2011.  No individual customer comprised more than 10% of the Company's total revenues for any of the three years ended 
December 31, 2013.

The geographic split of the Company's Net sales, based on the location of the customer, and property, plant and equipment were 
as follows:

Net sales:

United States

China
Other foreign countries

Total

Property, plant and equipment, net:

United States

China

Other foreign countries

Eliminations

Total

Year Ended December 31,

2013

2012

2011

1,350,309

$

1,283,066

$

1,092,838

219,490
1,282,872

229,996
1,340,305

286,121
1,315,650

2,852,671

$

2,853,367

$

2,694,609

December 31,

2013

2012

2011

162,357

$

170,831

$

83,416

238,685
(453)
484,005

$

92,744

223,050
(389)
486,236

$

149,637

96,374

224,801
(361)
470,451

$

$

$

$

F-18

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

NOTE 6 – RATIONALIZATION AND ASSET IMPAIRMENTS

The Company recorded rationalization net charges of $8,463, $9,354 and $282 for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 
and 2011, respectively.  The 2013 net charges include $3,658 primarily related to employee severance and $4,961 in asset 
impairment charges, partially offset by gains of $156 related to sale of assets.  A description of each restructuring plan and the 
related costs follows:

North America Welding Plans:

During 2012, the Company initiated various rationalization plans within the North America Welding segment.  Plans for the 
segment include consolidating its Oceanside, California operations and its Reno, Nevada operations to another facility in Reno, 
Nevada and consolidating its Baltimore, Maryland manufacturing operations into its current manufacturing operations in 
Cleveland, Ohio.  These actions impacted 72 employees within the North America Welding segment.  During the year ended 
December 31, 2013, the Company recorded charges of $1,052, which represent employee severance and other related costs.  At 
December 31, 2013, a liability relating to these actions of $466 was recognized in Other current liabilities, which will be 
substantially paid in 2014.  Additional charges related to the completion of this plan are expected to be immaterial.  

Europe Welding Plans:

During 2013, the Company announced a rationalization plan within the Europe Welding segment to relocate the manufacturing 
of certain consumable products from its Portuguese operations to current facilities in Italy.  These actions impacted 56 
employees within the Europe Welding segment.  During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company recorded charges of 
$1,832 related to these activities.  The amount represents employee severance and other related costs of $1,599 and asset 
impairment charges of $233.  At December 31, 2013, a liability relating to these actions of $1,209 was recognized in Other 
current liabilities.  The Company expects to incur additional charges in the range of $400 to $700 related to the completion of 
this plan.

During 2012, the Company initiated various rationalization plans within the Europe Welding segment.  Plans for the segment 
include the consolidation of manufacturing facilities in Russia, relocation of its Italian machine manufacturing operations to 
current facilities in Poland and headcount restructuring at various other manufacturing operations within the segment to better 
align the cost structure and capacity requirements with current economic needs and conditions.  These actions impacted 285 
employees within the Europe Welding segment.  During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company recorded net charges 
of $213 related to these activities.  The amount represents employee severance and other related costs and asset impairment 
charges, partially offset by a gain on sale of assets.  At December 31, 2013, a liability relating to these actions of $1,226 was 
recognized in Other current liabilities, which will be substantially paid in 2014.  Additional charges related to the completion of 
this plan are expected to be immaterial. 

Asia Pacific Welding Plans:

During 2012, the Company initiated various rationalization plans within the Asia Pacific Welding segment.  These included the 
rationalization of the Australian manufacturing operations and headcount reductions at various other manufacturing operations 
within the segment to better align the cost structure and capacity requirements with current economic needs and conditions.  
These actions impacted 268 employees within the Asia Pacific Welding segment.  During the year ended December 31, 2013, 
the Company recorded net charges of $922, which represent employee severance and other related costs of $841 and asset 
impairment charges of $235, partially offset by gains of $154 from the sale of assets.  At December 31, 2013, a liability relating 
to these actions of $375 was recognized in Other current liabilities, which will be substantially paid in 2014.  Additional 
charges related to the completion of this plan are expected to be immaterial.

The Company continues evaluating its cost structure and additional rationalization actions may result in charges in future 
periods.  

During 2013, the Company recorded long-lived asset impairment charges of $4,444 in Rationalization and asset impairment 
charges.  The charge is the result of the Company removing capacity to align itself with current market conditions and improve 
operating efficiency.

F-19

LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

The following tables summarize the activity related to the rationalization liabilities by segment for the years ended 
December 31, 2013 and 2012:

Balance at December 31, 2011

Payments and other adjustments
Charged to expense

Balance at December 31, 2012

Payments and other adjustments
Charged to expense

Balance at December 31, 2013

North
America
Welding

Europe
Welding

Asia
Pacific
Welding

The Harris
Products
Group

Consolidated

$

$

$

— $

(827)
827
— $

(586)
1,052

$

$

173
(1,797)
3,637
2,013
(1,343)
1,765

— $

(2,107)
3,151
1,044
(1,510)
841

$

$

82
(82)
—
— $

—
—

466

$

2,435

$

375

$

— $

255
(4,813)
7,615
3,057
(3,439)
3,658

3,276

NOTE 7 – ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE (LOSS) INCOME ("AOCI")

The following tables set forth the total changes in AOCI by component, net of taxes, for the years ended December 31, 2013 
and 2012:   

Unrealized
(loss) gain on
derivatives
designated and
qualifying as
cash flow
hedges

Defined benefit
pension plan
activity

Currency
translation
adjustment

Total

Balance at December 31, 2011

Other comprehensive income (loss) before
reclassification

Amounts reclassified from AOCI

Net current-period other comprehensive income
(loss)

Balance at December 31, 2012

Other comprehensive income (loss) before
reclassification

Amounts reclassified from AOCI

Net current-period other comprehensive income
(loss)

Balance at December 31, 2013

$

$

$

912

$

(255,369)

$

6,576

$

(247,881)

(1,997)
1,165 1

(26,373) 2
19,898 2

(832)
80

(681)
970 1

289

369

$

$

(6,475)
(261,844)

82,050 2
19,101 2

101,151
(160,693)

$

$

19,555 3
233 3

19,788

26,364

(19,316) 3
1,335 3

(17,981)
8,383

$

$

(8,815)
21,296

12,481
(235,400)

62,053

21,406

83,459
(151,941)

_______________________________________________________________________________

1  During the 2013 period, this AOCI reclassification is a component of Net sales of $619 (net of tax of $99), Cost of goods sold of 

$418 (net of tax of $295) and SG&A of $(67) with no tax effect; during the 2012 period, the reclassification is a component of Net 
sales of $931 (net of tax of $157) and Cost of goods sold of $234 (net of tax of $169).  (See Note 13 - Derivatives for additional 
details.)

2  This AOCI component is included in the computation of net periodic pension costs (net of tax of $60,556 and $(3,492) during the 

years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively).  (See Note 11 - Retirement and Postretirement Benefit Plans for additional 
details.)

3  The Other comprehensive income before reclassifications excludes $(1,819) and $(153) attributable to Non-controlling interests in 

the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.  The reclassified AOCI component is included in the computation of 
Non-controlling interests.  (See Consolidated Statements of Equity for additional details.)

F-20

LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

NOTE 8 – DEBT

At December 31, 2013 and 2012, debt consisted of the following:

Long-term debt

Capital leases due through 2017, interest at 1.12% to 3.63%
Other borrowings due through 2023, interest up to 4.00%

Less current portion

Long-term debt, less current portion

Short-term debt

Amounts due banks, interest at 11.28% (11.32% in 2012)

Current portion long-term debt

Total short-term debt

Total debt

December 31,

2013

2012

$

$

236
4,270

4,506
715

3,791

14,581

715
15,296
19,087

$

$

267
1,788

2,055
456

1,599

18,220

456
18,676
20,275

At December 31, 2013 and 2012, the fair value of long-term debt, including the current portion, was approximately $4,212 and 
$1,919, respectively, which was determined using available market information and methodologies requiring judgment.  Since 
considerable judgment is required in interpreting market information, the fair value of the debt is not necessarily the amount 
which could be realized in a current market exchange.

Revolving Credit Agreement

The Company has a line of credit totaling $300,000 through the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the “Credit 
Agreement”), which was entered into on July 26, 2012.  The Credit Agreement contains customary affirmative, negative and 
financial covenants for credit facilities of this type, including limitations on the Company and its subsidiaries with respect to 
liens, investments, distributions, mergers and acquisitions, dispositions of assets, transactions with affiliates and a fixed charges 
coverage ratio and total leverage ratio.  As of December 31, 2013, the Company was in compliance with all of its covenants and 
had no outstanding borrowings under the Credit Agreement.  The Credit Agreement has a five-year term and may be increased, 
subject to certain conditions, by an additional amount up to $100,000.  The interest rate on borrowings is based on either 
LIBOR or the prime rate, plus a spread based on the Company’s leverage ratio, at the Company’s election.

Capital Leases

At December 31, 2013 and 2012, $236 and $267 of capital lease indebtedness was secured by property, plant and equipment, 
respectively.

Other

Maturities of long-term debt, including payments under capital leases and amounts due banks, for the five years succeeding 
December 31, 2013 are $15,297 in 2014, $535 in 2015, $446 in 2016, $285 in 2017, $202 in 2018 and $774 thereafter.  Total 
interest paid was $2,864 in 2013, $4,423 in 2012 and $6,979 in 2011.  The primary difference between interest expense and 
interest paid in 2012 and 2011 is the amortization of the gains on terminated interest rate swaps.

The Company's short-term borrowings included in Amounts due banks were $14,581 and $18,220 at December 31, 2013 and 
2012, respectively, and represent the borrowings of foreign subsidiaries at weighted average interest rates of 11.3% and 11.3%, 
respectively. 

F-21

 
 
 
 
 
 
LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

NOTE 9 – STOCK PLANS

On April 28, 2006, the shareholders of the Company approved the 2006 Equity and Performance Incentive Plan, as amended 
("EPI Plan"), which replaced the 1998 Stock Plan, as amended and restated in May 2003.  The EPI Plan provides for the 
granting of options, appreciation rights, restricted shares, restricted stock units and performance-based awards up to an 
additional 6,000,000 of the Company's common shares.  In addition, on April 28, 2006, the shareholders of the Company 
approved the 2006 Stock Plan for Non-Employee Directors, as amended ("Director Plan"), which replaced the Stock Option 
Plan for Non-Employee Directors adopted in 2000.  The Director Plan provides for the granting of options, restricted shares and 
restricted stock units up to an additional 600,000 of the Company's common shares.  At December 31, 2013, there were 
2,315,239 common shares available for future grant under all plans. 

Stock Options

The following table summarizes stock option activity for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, under all Plans:

2013

2012

2011

Year Ended December 31,

Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price

Options

Balance at beginning of year

3,060,944

$

Options granted
Options exercised

Options canceled

Balance at end of year

Exercisable at end of year

273,105
(774,783)

(106,618)

2,452,648

1,837,014

30.98

70.88
26.20

40.54

36.52

29.93

Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price

26.05

47.66
19.52

24.07

30.98

27.19

Options

3,632,463

$

412,980
(962,029)
(22,470)
3,060,944

2,208,455

Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price

23.99

35.34
19.82

26.62

26.05

23.73

Options

3,779,824

$

459,263
(572,795)
(33,829)
3,632,463

2,677,071

Options granted under both the EPI Plan and its predecessor plans may be outstanding for a maximum of 10 years from the date 
of grant.  The majority of options granted vest ratably over a period of three years from the grant date.  The exercise prices of 
all options were equal to the quoted market price of the Company's common shares at the date of grant.  The Company issued 
shares of common stock from treasury upon all exercises of stock options in 2013, 2012 and 2011.

The Company uses the Black-Scholes option pricing model for estimating fair values of options.  In estimating the fair value of 
options granted, the expected option life is based on the Company's historical experience.  The expected volatility is based on 
historical volatility.  The weighted average assumptions for each of the three years ended December 31, 2013 were as follows:

Expected volatility

Dividend yield

Risk-free interest rate

Expected option life (years)

32.97%

1.40%

1.52%

4.4

45.67%

1.66%

0.70%

4.5

Weighted average fair value per option granted during the year

$

18.14

$

15.87

$

41.92%

1.63%

0.80%

4.3

10.97

Year Ended December 31,

2013

2012

2011

F-22

 
 
 
 
 
LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

The following table summarizes non-vested stock options for the year ended December 31, 2013:

Balance at beginning of year

Granted
Vested
Forfeited

Balance at end of year

Year Ended December 31, 2013

Number of
Options

Weighted
Average Fair
Value at Grant
Date

$

852,489
273,105
(410,542)
(99,418)
615,634

13.63
18.14
12.50
14.04
16.32

The aggregate intrinsic value of options outstanding and exercisable which would have been received by the optionees had all 
awards been exercised at December 31, 2013 was $85,404 and $76,076, respectively.  The total intrinsic value of awards 
exercised during 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $20,297, $18,776 and $10,028, respectively.

The following table summarizes information about awards outstanding as of December 31, 2013:

Outstanding

Exercisable

Number of
Stock
Options

Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price

Number of
Stock
Options

Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price

Weighted
Average
Remaining
Life (years)

738,614

$

1,092,456

621,578

2,452,648

23.41

33.20

57.93

738,614

$

1,001,199

97,201

1,837,014

23.41

33.00

47.85

4.6

6.2

9.4

6.5

Exercise Price Range

Under $29.99

$30.00 - $39.99

Over $40.00

Restricted Share Awards ("RSAs")

The following table summarizes restricted share award activity for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, under 
all Plans:

2013

2012

2011

Year Ended December 31,

Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value

28.49
70.88
25.68
25.76
39.55

$

Shares

336,808
14,464
(224,021)
(11,935)
115,316

Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value

28.06
47.81
32.10
—
28.49

$

Shares

379,233
20,099
(62,524)
—
336,808

Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value

27.36
35.55
26.97
24.67
28.06

$

Shares

523,730
22,779
(159,842)
(7,434)
379,233

Balance at beginning of year
Shares granted
Shares vested*
Shares forfeited
Balance at end of year

_______________________________________________________________________________

* 

Includes shares vested but not exercisable

RSAs are valued at the quoted market price on the grant date.  The majority of RSAs vest over a period of three to five years.  
The Company issued shares of common stock from treasury upon the granting of RSAs in 2013, 2012 and 2011.  All restricted 
shares issued in 2013, 2012 and 2011, were under the the Director Plan.  The remaining weighted average life of all non-vested 
RSAs is 1.8 years as of December 31, 2013. 

F-23

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

The following table summarizes non-vested restricted share awards for the year ended December 31, 2013:

Balance at beginning of year

Shares granted
Shares vested
Shares forfeited

Balance at end of year

Restricted Stock Units ("RSUs")

Year Ended December 31, 2013

Number of Restricted
Shares

Weighted Average Fair
Value at Grant Date

318,088

$

14,464
(205,301)
(11,935)
115,316

28.74

70.88
25.80
25.76

39.55

The following table summarizes restricted stock unit activity for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, under all 
Plans:

2013

2012

2011

Year Ended December 31,

Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value

40.83

67.17

39.20
41.70

47.38

Units

288,669

$

69,925

(33,698)
(40,952)

283,944

Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value

34.55

47.97

33.06
35.55

40.83

Units

166,519

$

133,944
(10,499)
(1,295)
288,669

Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value

—

34.55

—
—

Units

— $

166,519

—
—

166,519

34.55

Balance at beginning of year

Units granted

Units vested
Units forfeited

Balance at end of year

RSUs are valued at the quoted market price on the grant date.  The majority of RSUs vest over a period of  three to five years.  
The Company will issue shares of common stock from treasury upon the vesting of RSUs and any earned dividend equivalents.  
Conversion of 31,552 RSUs to common stock in 2013 were deferred as part of the 2005 Deferred Compensation Plan for 
Executives (the "2005 Plan").  As of December 31, 2013, 43,012 RSUs, including related dividend equivalents, have been 
deferred under the 2005 Plan.  These units are reflected within dilutive shares in the calculation of earnings per share.  All RSUs 
issued in 2013, 2012 and 2011, were under the the EPI Plan.  The remaining weighted average life of all non-vested RSUs is 4.1 
years as of December 31, 2013.

Stock-Based Compensation Expense

Expense is recognized for all awards of stock-based compensation by allocating the aggregate grant date fair value over the 
vesting period.  No expense is recognized for any stock options, restricted or deferred shares or restricted stock units ultimately 
forfeited because recipients fail to meet vesting requirements.  Total stock-based compensation expense recognized in the 
Consolidated Statements of Income for 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $9,734, $8,961 and $6,610, respectively.  The related tax 
benefit for 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $3,727, $3,409 and $2,515, respectively.  As of December 31, 2013, total unrecognized 
stock-based compensation expense related to non-vested stock options, restricted shares and restricted stock units was $21,633, 
which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately 3.3 years.

Lincoln Stock Purchase Plan

The 1995 Lincoln Stock Purchase Plan provides employees the ability to purchase open market shares on a commission-free 
basis up to a limit of ten thousand dollars annually.  Under this plan, 800,000 shares have been authorized to be purchased.  
Shares purchased were 4,653 in 2013, 4,908 in 2012 and 4,466 in 2011.

F-24

 
 
 
 
LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

NOTE 10 – COMMON STOCK REPURCHASE PROGRAM

The Company has a share repurchase program for up to 45 million shares of the Company's common stock.  At management's 
discretion, the Company repurchases its common stock from time to time in the open market, depending on market conditions, 
stock price and other factors.  During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company purchased 2,671,614 shares at an 
average cost per share of $61.67.  As of December 31, 2013, 15,670,759 shares remained available for repurchase under the 
stock repurchase program.  The treasury shares have not been retired.

NOTE 11 – RETIREMENT ANNUITY AND GUARANTEED CONTINUOUS EMPLOYMENT PLANS

The Company maintains a number of defined benefit and defined contribution plans to provide retirement benefits for 
employees.  These plans are maintained and contributions are made in accordance with the Employee Retirement Income 
Security Act of 1974 ("ERISA"), local statutory law or as determined by the Board of Directors.  The plans generally provide 
benefits based upon years of service and compensation.  Pension plans are funded except for a domestic non-qualified pension 
plan for certain key employees and certain foreign plans.  The Company uses a December 31 measurement date for its plans.

The Company does not have, and does not provide for, any postretirement or postemployment benefits other than pensions and 
certain non-U.S. statutory termination benefits.

F-25

LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

Defined Benefit Plans

Contributions are made in amounts sufficient to fund current service costs on a current basis and to fund past service costs, if 
any, over various amortization periods.

Obligations and Funded Status

Change in benefit obligations

Benefit obligations at beginning of year

Service cost
Interest cost

Plan participants' contributions
Plan amendments
Actuarial (gain) loss

Benefits paid

Settlement/curtailment

Currency translation

Benefit obligations at end of year

Change in plan assets

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year

Actual return on plan assets

Employer contributions

Plan participants' contributions
Benefits paid

Settlement

Currency translation

Fair value of plan assets at end of year

Funded status at end of year

Unrecognized actuarial net loss

Unrecognized prior service cost

Unrecognized transition assets, net

Net amount recognized

December 31,

2013

2012

$

1,033,725

$

991,979

23,188
37,225

221
1,623
(91,851)
(59,296)
(1,390)
(2,003)
941,442

813,897

101,044

85,456

221
(57,644)
(1,390)
(1,589)
939,995

(1,447)
258,781
(2,547)
26

21,538
41,584

334
(3,681)
70,015
(86,722)
(3,946)
2,624

1,033,725

749,456

83,156

68,029

334
(85,238)
(3,798)
1,958

813,897

(219,828)
422,042
(4,101)
26

$

254,813

$

198,139

The actuarial gain arising during 2013 was primarily attributable to a higher discount rate.  In 2012, the Company's U.S. 
defined benefit plans were amended to allow participants, including those with deferred vested pension benefits, additional 
payment options including a lump sum and a five year payment option.  The decrease in benefits paid in 2013 primarily reflect 
the disbursements related to deferred vested participants taking lump sum payment options in the prior period.

The after-tax amounts of unrecognized actuarial net loss, prior service costs and transition assets included in Accumulated other 
comprehensive loss at December 31, 2013 were $162,983, $(2,307) and $17, respectively.  The actuarial loss represents 
changes in the estimated obligation not yet recognized in the Consolidated Income Statement.  The pre-tax amounts of 
unrecognized actuarial net loss, prior service credits and transition obligations expected to be recognized as components of net 
periodic benefit cost during 2014 are $16,104, $(618) and $4, respectively.  

F-26

 
 
 
 
 
 
LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

Amounts Recognized in Consolidated Balance Sheets

Prepaid pensions
Accrued pension liability, current
Accrued pension liability, long-term

Accumulated other comprehensive loss, excluding tax effects
Net amount recognized in the balance sheets

Components of Pension Cost for Defined Benefit Plans

Service cost
Interest cost

Expected return on plan assets

Amortization of prior service cost

Amortization of net loss

Settlement/curtailment loss
Pension cost for defined benefit plans

December 31,

2013

2012

36,116
(10,564)
(26,999)
256,260
254,813

$

$

—
(3,639)
(216,189)
417,967
198,139

$

$

Year Ended December 31,

2013

2012

2011

$

$

$

23,188
37,225
(61,244)
(613)
30,929

$

21,538
41,584
(58,754)
(90)
31,085

423
29,908

$

895
36,258

$

17,331
44,161
(57,405)
(62)
21,816

529
26,370

The Company's defined benefit plans costs decreased in 2013 primarily as a result of a lower interest cost and a higher expected 
return on plan assets.

Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets

U.S. pension plans

Projected benefit obligation

Accumulated benefit obligation

Fair value of plan assets
Non-U.S. pension plans

Projected benefit obligation

Accumulated benefit obligation

Fair value of plan assets

December 31,

2013

2012

$

$

37,355

$

33,416

10,028

49,990

$

42,593

39,753

956,837

905,541

755,491

76,884

70,492

58,403

The total accumulated benefit obligation for all plans was $891,397 as of December 31, 2013 and $976,033 as of December 31, 
2012.

Contributions to Plans

The Company expects to contribute approximately $20,000 to its defined benefit plans in the United States in 2014.  The actual 
amounts to be contributed in 2014 will be determined at the Company's discretion.

F-27

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

Benefit Payments for Plans

Benefits expected to be paid for the U.S. plans are as follows:

Estimated Payments

2014
2015
2016

2017
2018

2019 through 2023

Assumptions

$

61,755
53,992
61,654

59,570
58,422

307,094

Weighted average assumptions used to measure the benefit obligation for the Company's significant defined benefit plans as of 
December 31, 2013 and 2012 were as follows:

Discount rate

Rate of increase in compensation

December 31,

2013

2012

4.7%

4.2%

3.8%

4.0%

Weighted average assumptions used to measure the net periodic benefit cost for the Company's significant defined benefit plans 
for each of the three years ended December 31, 2013 were as follows:

Discount rate
Rate of increase in compensation

Expected return on plan assets

December 31,

2013

2012

2011

3.8%
4.1%

7.4%

4.2%
4.0%

7.7%

5.3%
4.0%

7.9%

To develop the discount rate assumption to be used for U.S. plans, the Company refers to the yield derived from matching 
projected pension payments with maturities of a portfolio of available non-callable bonds rated AA- or better.  The expected 
long-term rate of return assumption is based on the weighted average expected return of the various asset classes in the plans' 
portfolio and the targeted allocation of plan assets.  The asset class return is developed using historical asset return performance 
as well as current market conditions such as inflation, interest rates and equity market performance.  The rate of compensation 
increase is determined by the Company based upon annual reviews.

Pension Plans' Assets

The primary objective of the pension plans' investment policy is to ensure sufficient assets are available to provide benefit 
obligations when such obligations mature.  Investment management practices must comply with ERISA or any other applicable 
regulations and rulings.  The overall investment strategy for the defined benefit pension plans' assets is to achieve a rate of 
return over a normal business cycle relative to an acceptable level of risk that is consistent with the long-term objectives of the 
portfolio.  The target allocation for plan assets is 60% to 70% equity securities and 30% to 40% debt securities.

F-28

 
 
 
 
 
LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

The following table sets forth, by level within the fair value hierarchy, the pension plans' assets as of December 31, 2013:

Common trusts and 103-12 investments (1)

Cash and cash equivalents

Common trusts and 103-12 investments

Private equity funds (2)
Total assets at fair value

Pension Plans' Assets at Fair Value as of December 31, 2013

Quoted Prices
in Active Markets
for Identical
Assets
(Level 1)

Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)

Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)

$

$

— $

—
—
— $

4,686

$

— $

902,746
—
907,432

$

—
32,563
32,563

$

Total

4,686

902,746
32,563
939,995

The following table sets forth, by level within the fair value hierarchy, the pension plans' assets as of December 31, 2012:

Pension Plans' Assets at Fair Value as of December 31, 2012

Quoted Prices
in Active Markets
for Identical
Assets
(Level 1)

Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)

Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)

Total

Corporate stock (3)

Cash and cash equivalents

Corporate and other obligations (4)
Common trusts and 103-12 investments (1)

Private equity funds (2)

Total assets at fair value

— $

107,763

$

107,763

$

5,170

—
—

—

— $

—

412
673,469

—

—

—
—

27,083

$

112,933

$

673,881

$

27,083

$

5,170

412
673,469

27,083

813,897

_______________________________________________________________________________

(1)  Common trusts and 103-12 investments are comprised of a number of investment funds that invest in a diverse portfolio of assets 
including equity securities, corporate and governmental bonds, equity and credit indexes, and money markets. Trusts are valued at 
the net asset value ("NAV") as determined by their custodian. NAV represents the accumulation of the unadjusted quoted close 
prices on the reporting date for the underlying investments divided by the total shares outstanding at the reporting dates.

(2)  Private equity funds consist of four funds seeking capital appreciation by investing in private equity investment partnerships and 
venture capital companies. Funds are comprised of unrestricted and restricted publicly traded securities and privately held 
securities. Unrestricted securities are valued at the closing market price on the reporting date. Restricted securities may be valued at 
a discount from such closing public market price, depending on facts and circumstances. Privately held securities are valued at fair 
value as determined by the fund directors and general partners.

(3)  This investment category includes publicly traded equity investments directly held by the plans. Investments are valued at the 

unadjusted quoted close prices reported on the reporting date. 

(4)  This investment category is composed of publicly traded bonds and asset backed securities which are valued at the quoted closing 

market prices on the reporting date.  

F-29

 
 
 
 
LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

The table below sets forth a summary of changes in the fair value of the Level 3 pension plans' assets for the year ended 
December 31, 2013:

Balance at the beginning of year
Purchases, sales, issuances and settlements

Realized and unrealized gains
Balance at the end of year
The amount of total gains during the period attributable to the change in unrealized gains relating to Level 3

net assets still held at the reporting date

Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan

Private
Equity
Funds

27,083
2,186

3,294
32,563

3,035

$

$

$

The Company maintains a domestic unfunded supplemental executive retirement plan ("SERP") under which non-qualified 
supplemental pension benefits are paid to certain employees in addition to amounts received under the Company's qualified 
retirement plan which is subject to Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") limitations on covered compensation.  The annual cost of 
this program has been included in the determination of total net pension costs shown above and was $2,329, $2,254 and $2,110 
in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.  The projected benefit obligation associated with this plan is also included in the pension 
disclosure shown above and was $22,877, $25,646 and $23,930 at December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

Defined Contribution Plans

Substantially all U.S. employees are covered under a 401(k) savings plan in which they may invest 1% or more of eligible 
compensation, limited to maximum amounts as determined by the IRS.  For most participants the plan provides for Company 
matching contributions of 35% of the first 6% of employee compensation contributed to the plan. 

The plan also includes a feature in which all participants hired after November 1, 1997 receive an annual Company contribution 
of 2% of their base pay. The plan allowed employees hired before November 1, 1997, at their election, to receive this 
contribution in exchange for forfeiting certain benefits under the pension plan.  In 2006, the plan was amended to include a 
feature in which all participants receive an annual Company contribution ranging from 4% to 10% of base pay based on years 
of service.

The annual costs recognized for defined contribution plans were $10,812, $9,405 and $8,478 in 2013, 2012 and 2011, 
respectively.

Multi-Employer Plans

The Company participates in multi-employer plans for several of its operations in Europe. Costs for these plans are recognized 
as contributions are funded.  The Company's risk of participating in these plans is limited to the annual premium as determined 
by the plan.  The annual costs of these programs were $1,048, $972 and $966 in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

Other Benefits

The Cleveland, Ohio, area operations have a Guaranteed Continuous Employment Plan covering substantially all employees 
which, in general, provides that the Company will provide work for at least 75% of every standard work week (presently 
40 hours).  This plan does not guarantee employment when the Company's ability to continue normal operations is seriously 
restricted by events beyond the control of the Company.  The Company has reserved the right to terminate this plan effective at 
the end of a calendar year by giving notice of such termination not less than six months prior to the end of such year.

F-30

LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

NOTE 12 – INCOME TAXES

The components of income before income taxes for the three years ended December 31, 2013 were as follows:

U.S.
Non-U.S.
Total

Year Ended December 31,

2013

2012

2011

$

$

281,724
134,717
416,441

$

$

243,382
126,188
369,570

$

$

204,667
96,664
301,331

The components of income tax expense (benefit) for the three years ended December 31, 2013 were as follows:

Current:
Federal
Non-U.S.
State and local

Deferred:
Federal
Non-U.S.
State and local

Total

Year Ended December 31,

2013

2012

2011

$

$

58,099
40,348
8,490
106,937

21,946
(5,734)
1,605
17,817
124,754

$

$

72,809
33,510
8,172
114,491

(1,673)
(750)
286
(2,137)
112,354

$

$

42,510
19,970
6,699
69,179

12,140
2,768
231
15,139
84,318

The differences between total income tax expense and the amount computed by applying the statutory federal income tax rate 
to income before income taxes for the three years ended December 31, 2013 were as follows:

Statutory rate of 35% applied to pre-tax income
Effect of state and local income taxes, net of federal tax benefit

Taxes (less) more than the U.S. tax rate on non-U.S. earnings,

including utilization of tax loss carry-forwards, losses with no
benefit and changes in non-U.S. valuation allowance

Manufacturing deduction

U.S. tax cost (benefit) of foreign source income

Resolution and adjustments to uncertain tax positions

Other

Total

Effective tax rate

Year Ended December 31,

2013

145,754
7,124

$

2012

129,350
5,598

$

2011

105,466
4,585

(17,352)
(6,386)
995
(313)
(5,068)
124,754

(11,263)
(6,287)
(4,766)
(1,493)
1,215

$

112,354

$

(13,637)
(5,330)
145
(5,103)
(1,808)
84,318

29.96%

30.40%

27.98%

$

$

The 2013 effective tax rate is impacted by the geographic mix of earnings and taxes at lower rates in foreign jurisdictions, 
including Canada, Mexico, Poland and the U.K., as well as loss utilization in other foreign jurisdictions.  Total income tax 
payments, net of refunds, were $84,567 in 2013, $78,506 in 2012 and $62,600 in 2011.

F-31

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

Deferred Taxes

Significant components of deferred tax assets and liabilities at December 31, 2013 and 2012, were as follows:

Deferred tax assets:

Tax loss and credit carry-forwards
Inventory
Other accruals

Employee benefits
Pension obligations

Other

Deferred tax assets, gross

Valuation allowance

Deferred tax assets, net

Deferred tax liabilities:

Property, plant and equipment

Intangible assets

Inventory
Pension obligations

Other

Deferred tax liabilities

Total Deferred taxes

December 31,

2013

2012

$

$

51,762
1,277
15,709

18,909
4,643

9,828
102,128
(49,684)
52,444

38,653

24,014

7,311
7,315

8,777

86,070
(33,626) $

$

40,373
1,328
14,981

17,904
82,903

12,686
170,175
(38,799)
131,376

41,380

19,545

5,783
2,940

8,769

78,417

52,959

At December 31, 2013, certain subsidiaries had tax loss carry-forwards of approximately $121,044 that will expire in various 
years from 2014 through 2030, except for $77,380 for which there is no expiration date.

In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, the Company assesses whether it is more likely than not that a portion or all 
of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.  The Company considers the scheduled reversal of deferred tax liabilities, tax 
planning strategies, and projected future taxable income in making this assessment.  At December 31, 2013, a valuation 
allowance of $49,684 was recorded against certain deferred tax assets based on this assessment.  The Company believes it is 
more likely than not that the tax benefit of the remaining net deferred tax assets will be realized.  The amount of net deferred 
tax assets considered realizable could be increased or decreased in the future if the Company's assessment of future taxable 
income or tax planning strategies changes.

The Company does not provide deferred income taxes on unremitted earnings of certain non-U.S. subsidiaries which are 
deemed permanently reinvested.  It is not practicable to calculate the deferred taxes associated with the remittance of these 
earnings.  Deferred income taxes associated with earnings of $8,354 that are not expected to be permanently reinvested were 
not significant.

Unrecognized Tax Benefits

Liabilities for unrecognized tax benefits are classified as "Accrued taxes" non-current unless expected to be paid in one year.  
The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in "Income taxes."  Current income tax 
expense included an expense of $492 for the year ended December 31, 2013 and an expense of $893 for the year ended 
December 31, 2012 for interest and penalties.  For those same years, the Company's accrual for interest and penalties related to 
unrecognized tax benefits totaled $10,257 and $10,295, respectively.

F-32

 
 
 
 
 
 
LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

The following table summarizes the activity related to unrecognized tax benefits:

Balance at January 1
Increase related to current year tax provisions

Increase related to prior years' tax positions
Increase related to acquisitions
Decrease related to settlements with taxing authorities

Resolution of and other decreases in prior years' tax liabilities
Other

Balance at December 31

2013

2012

25,255
1,990

208
3,528
(95)
(3,491)
(1,488)
25,907

$

$

26,656
3,838

212
1,274
(940)
(5,964)
179

25,255

$

$

The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would affect the effective tax rate was $13,739 at 
December 31, 2013 and $14,839 at December 31, 2012.

The Company files income tax returns in the U.S. and various state, local and foreign jurisdictions.  With few exceptions, the 
Company is no longer subject to U.S. federal, state and local or non-U.S. income tax examinations by tax authorities for years 
before 2003.  The Company is currently subject to various U.S. state audits, an Indian tax audit for 2012 - 2013 and an 
Indonesian tax audit for 2003 and 2005 - 2007.

The Company is generally not able to precisely estimate the ultimate settlement amounts or timing until after the close of an 
audit.  The Company evaluates its tax positions and establishes liabilities for uncertain tax positions that may be challenged by 
local authorities and may not be fully sustained.

Unrecognized tax benefits are reviewed on an ongoing basis and are adjusted for changing facts and circumstances, including 
progress of tax audits and closing of statutes of limitations.  Based on information currently available, management believes 
that additional audit activity could be completed and/or statutes of limitations may close relating to existing unrecognized tax 
benefits.  It is reasonably possible there could be a further reduction of $4,284 in prior years' unrecognized tax benefits in 2014.

In July 2012, the Company received a Notice of Reassessment from the Canada Revenue Agency (the “CRA”) for 2004 to 
2011, which would disallow the deductibility of inter-company dividends.  These adjustments would increase Canadian federal 
and provincial tax due by $58,824 plus approximately $16,022 of interest, net of tax.  The Company disagrees with the position 
taken by the CRA and believes it is without merit.  The Company will vigorously contest the assessment through the Tax Court 
of Canada.  A trial date has not yet been scheduled.  

In connection with the litigation process, the Company is required to deposit no less than one-half of the tax and interest 
assessed by the CRA.  The Company has elected to deposit the entire amount of the dispute in order to suspend the continuing 
accrual of a 5% interest charge.  Additionally, deposited amounts will earn interest of approximately 1% due upon a favorable 
outcome.  A deposit was made and is recorded as a non-current asset valued at $84,128 as of December 31, 2013.  Any 
Canadian tax ultimately due will be creditable in the parent company's U.S. federal tax return.  The Company expects to be able 
to utilize the full amount of foreign tax credits generated in the statutorily allowed carry-back and carry-forward periods.  
Accordingly, should the Company not prevail in this dispute, the income statement charge will approximate the deficiency 
interest, net of tax. 

The Company believes it will prevail on the merits of the tax position.  In accordance with prescribed recognition and 
measurement thresholds, no income tax accrual has been made for any uncertain tax positions related to the CRA reassessment.  
An unfavorable resolution of this matter could have a material effect on the Company's financial statements in the quarter in 
which a judgment is reached.

NOTE 13 – DERIVATIVES

The Company uses derivatives to manage exposures to currency exchange rates, interest rates and commodity prices arising in 
the normal course of business.  Derivative contracts to hedge currency and commodity exposures are generally written on a 
short-term basis but may cover exposures for up to two years while interest rate contracts may cover longer periods consistent 
with the terms of the underlying debt.  The Company does not enter into derivatives for trading or speculative purposes.

F-33

LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

All derivatives are recognized at fair value on the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheets.  The accounting for gains and 
losses resulting from changes in fair value depends on the use of the derivative and whether it is designated and qualifies for 
hedge accounting.  The Company formally documents the relationship of the hedge with the hedged item as well as the risk-
management strategy for all designated hedges.  Both at inception and on an ongoing basis, the hedging instrument is assessed 
as to its effectiveness, when applicable.  If and when a derivative is determined not to be highly effective as a hedge, the 
underlying hedged transaction is no longer likely to occur, or the derivative is terminated, hedge accounting is discontinued.  
The cash flows from settled derivative contracts are recognized in operating activities in the Company's Consolidated 
Statements of Cash Flows.  Hedge ineffectiveness was immaterial for the three years ended December 31, 2013. 

The Company is subject to the credit risk of the counterparties to derivative instruments.  Counterparties include a number of 
major banks and financial institutions.  The Company manages individual counterparty exposure by monitoring the credit rating 
of the counterparty and the size of financial commitments and exposures between the Company and the counterparty.  None of 
the concentrations of risk with any individual counterparty was considered significant at December 31, 2013.  The Company 
does not expect any counterparties to fail to meet their obligations.

Cash flow hedges

Certain foreign currency forward contracts are qualified and designated as cash flow hedges.  The dollar equivalent gross 
notional amount of these short-term contracts was $36,880 at December 31, 2013 and $39,597 at December 31, 2012.  The 
effective portions of the fair value gains or losses on these cash flow hedges are recognized in Accumulated other 
comprehensive income ("AOCI") and subsequently reclassified to Cost of goods sold or Sales for hedges of purchases and 
sales, respectively, as the underlying hedged transactions affected earnings.

Net investment hedges

The Company had a foreign currency forward contract that qualified as a designated net investment hedge.  No such contract 
was outstanding as of December 31, 2013.  The effective portion of the fair value gain or loss on these net investment hedges 
were recognized in AOCI and subsequently reclassified to Selling, general and administrative expenses when the underlying 
hedged investment was liquidated.

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments

The Company has certain foreign exchange forward contracts which are not designated as hedges.  These derivatives are held as 
economic hedges of certain balance sheet exposures.  The dollar equivalent gross notional amount of these contracts was 
$186,158 at December 31, 2013 and $189,259 at December 31, 2012.  The fair value gains or losses from these contracts are 
recognized in Selling, general and administrative expenses, offsetting the losses or gains on the exposures being hedged.

The Company has short-term silver and copper forward contracts with notional amounts of 290,000 troy ounces and 375,000 
pounds, respectively, at December 31, 2013 and short-term silver and copper forward contracts with notional amounts of 
275,000 troy ounces and 375,000 pounds, respectively, at December 31, 2012.  Realized and unrealized gains and losses on 
these contracts were recognized in Cost of goods sold.

Fair values of derivative instruments in the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheets follow:

Derivatives by hedge designation

Designated as hedging instruments:

Foreign exchange contracts

Not designated as hedging instruments:

Foreign exchange contracts

Commodity contracts

Total derivatives

December 31, 2013

December 31, 2012

Other
Current
Assets

Other
Current
Liabilities

Other
Current
Assets

Other
Current
Liabilities

$

$

706

$

219

$

352

$

766

262

228

47

510

731

325

902

—

1,734

$

494

$

1,593

$

1,227

F-34

 
 
 
 
 
LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

The effects of undesignated derivative instruments on the Company's Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended 
December 31, 2013 and 2012 consisted of the following:

Derivatives by hedge designation
Not designated as hedges:

Foreign exchange contracts
Commodity contracts

Classification of gains (losses)

Year Ended December 31,

2013

2012

Selling, general & administrative expenses
Cost of goods sold

$

$

215
2,882

3,711
(1,117)

The effects of designated cash flow hedges on AOCI and the Company's Consolidated Statements of Income for the years 
ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 consisted of the following:

Total gain recognized in AOCI, net of tax

Foreign exchange contracts

December 31,

2013

2012

$

369

$

80

The Company expects a gain of $369 related to existing contracts to be reclassified from AOCI, net of tax, to earnings over the 
next 12 months as the hedged transactions are realized.

Derivative type
Foreign exchange contracts

Net investment contracts

Gain (loss) reclassified from AOCI to:
Sales
Cost of goods sold
Selling, general & administrative expenses

$

Year Ended December 31,

2013

2012

$

619
418
(67)

931
234
—

NOTE 14 – FAIR VALUE

The following table provides a summary of fair value assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2013 measured at fair value on a 
recurring basis:

Description

Assets:

Foreign exchange contracts

Commodity contracts

Total assets

Liabilities:

Foreign exchange contracts

Commodity contracts

Contingent consideration

Forward contract

Deferred compensation

Total liabilities

Balance as of
December 31, 2013

Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets or
Liabilities
(Level 1)

Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)

Significant
Unobservable
Inputs (Level 3)

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

1,472

262

1,734

447

47

5,375

16,974

20,132

— $

—

— $

— $

—

—

—

—

42,975

$

— $

$

$

$

1,472

262

1,734

447

47

—

—

20,132

20,626

$

—

—

—

—

—

5,375

16,974

—

22,349

F-35

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

The following table provides a summary of fair value assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2012 measured at fair value on a 
recurring basis:

Description

Assets:

Foreign exchange contracts
Commodity contracts

Total assets
Liabilities:

Foreign exchange contracts

Contingent consideration
Deferred compensation

Total liabilities

Balance as of
December 31, 2012

Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets or
Liabilities
(Level 1)

Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)

Significant
Unobservable
Inputs (Level 3)

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

862
731

1,593

1,227

4,894
16,882

— $
—

— $

— $

—
—

$

$

$

862
731

1,593

1,227

—
16,882

23,003

$

— $

18,109

$

—
—

—

—

4,894
—

4,894

The Company's derivative contracts are valued at fair value using the market approach.  The Company measures the fair value 
of foreign exchange contracts using Level 2 inputs based on observable spot and forward rates in active markets.  The Company 
measures the fair value of commodity contracts using Level 2 inputs through observable market transactions in active markets 
provided by financial institutions.  During the year ended December 31, 2013, there were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 or 3.

In connection with an acquisition, the Company recorded a contingent consideration fair valued at $5,375 as of December 31, 
2013, which reflects a $481 increase in the liability from December 31, 2012.  The contingent consideration is based upon 
estimated sales for the five-year period ending December 31, 2015 and will be paid in 2016 based on actual sales during the  
period.  The fair value of the contingent consideration is a Level 3 valuation and fair valued using a probability weighted 
discounted cash flow analysis.  

In connection with an acquisition, the Company obtained a controlling financial interest in the acquired entity and at the same 
time entered into a contract to obtain the remaining financial interest in the entity over a three-year period.  The amount to be 
paid to obtain the remaining financial interest will be based upon actual financial results of the entity.  A liability was recorded 
for the contract at a fair value of $16,974 as of December 31, 2013.  The fair value of the contract is a Level 3 valuation and is 
based on the present value of the expected future payments.  The expected future payments are based on a multiple of forecast 
earnings and cash flows over the three-year period ending December 31, 2016, present valued utilizing a risk based discount 
rate.  The present value calculations utilized an average discount rate of 16.3% and annual earnings growth rates ranging from 
14.8% to 18.8%.

The deferred compensation liability is the Company's obligation under its executive deferred compensation plan.  The Company 
measures the fair value of the liability using the market values of the participants' underlying investment fund elections.

The Company has various financial instruments, including cash and cash equivalents, short-and long-term debt and forward 
contracts.  While these financial instruments are subject to concentrations of credit risk, the Company has minimized this risk 
by entering into arrangements with a number of major banks and financial institutions and investing in several high-quality 
instruments.  The Company does not expect any counterparties to fail to meet their obligations.  The fair value of "Cash and 
cash equivalents," "Accounts receivable," "Amounts due banks" and "Trade accounts payable" approximated book value due to 
the short-term nature of these instruments at both December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012.  See Note 8 for the fair value 
estimate of debt.

F-36

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

NOTE 15 – INVENTORY

For most domestic inventories, cost is determined principally by the LIFO method, and for non-U.S. inventories, cost is 
determined by the FIFO method.  The valuation of LIFO inventories is made at the end of each year based on inventory levels 
and costs at that time.  Accordingly, interim LIFO calculations are based on management's estimates of expected year-end 
inventory levels and costs.  Because these estimates are subject to many factors beyond management's control, annual results 
may differ from interim results as they are subject to the final year-end LIFO inventory valuation.  At December 31, 2013 and 
2012, approximately 38% and 34%, respectively, of total inventories were valued using the LIFO method.  The excess of 
current cost over LIFO cost was $70,882 at December 31, 2013 and $72,173 at December 31, 2012.

NOTE 16 – LEASES

The Company leases sales offices, warehouses and distribution centers, transportation equipment, office equipment and 
information technology equipment.  Such leases, some of which are noncancelable and, in many cases, include renewals, expire 
at various dates.  The Company pays most insurance, maintenance and taxes relating to leased assets.  Rental expense was 
$18,642 in 2013, $17,751 in 2012 and $15,221 in 2011.

At December 31, 2013, total future minimum lease payments for noncancelable operating leases were $13,263 in 2014, $10,391 
in 2015, $8,240 in 2016, $5,637 in 2017, $4,071 in 2018 and $6,568 thereafter.

The following table summarizes assets held under capital leases and included in property, plant and equipment:   

Buildings

Machinery and equipment

Less: accumulated depreciation

Net capital leases

NOTE 17 – CONTINGENCIES

December 31,

2013

2012

$

$

461

$

110
(100)
471

$

441

209
(163)
487

The Company, like other manufacturers, is subject from time to time to a variety of civil and administrative proceedings arising 
in the ordinary course of business.  Such claims and litigation include, without limitation, product liability claims and health, 
safety and environmental claims, some of which relate to cases alleging asbestos induced illnesses.  The claimants in the 
asbestos cases seek compensatory and punitive damages, in most cases for unspecified amounts.  The Company believes it has 
meritorious defenses to these claims and intends to contest such suits vigorously.

The Company's accrual for contingent liabilities was $2,735 as of December 31, 2013 and $5,636 as of December 31, 2012.  
The accrual is included in Other current liabilities.  

The Company accrues its best estimate of the probable costs, after a review of the facts with management and counsel and 
taking into account past experience.  If an unfavorable outcome is determined to be reasonably possible but not probable, or if 
the amount of loss cannot be reasonably estimated, disclosure is provided for material claims or litigation.  Many of the current 
cases are in differing procedural stages and information on the circumstances of each claimant, which forms the basis for 
judgments as to the validity or ultimate disposition of such actions, varies greatly.  Therefore, in many situations a range of 
possible losses cannot be made.  Reserves are adjusted as facts and circumstances change and related management assessments 
of the underlying merits and the likelihood of outcomes change.  Moreover, reserves only cover identified and/or asserted 
claims.  Future claims could, therefore, give rise to increases to such reserves.

Based on the Company's historical experience in litigating product liability claims, including a significant number of dismissals, 
summary judgments and defense verdicts in many cases and immaterial settlement amounts, as well as the Company's current 
assessment of the underlying merits of the claims and applicable insurance, the Company believes resolution of these claims 
and proceedings, individually or in the aggregate, will not have a material effect on the Company's consolidated financial 
statements.

F-37

 
 
LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

NOTE 18 – PRODUCT WARRANTY COSTS

The changes in product warranty accruals for 2013, 2012 and 2011 were as follows:

Balance at beginning of year
Accruals for warranties
Settlements

Foreign currency translation

Balance at end of year

NOTE 19 – QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)

December 31,

2013

2012

2011

15,304
12,786
(12,794)
(116)
15,180

$

$

15,781
10,872
(11,477)
128
15,304

$

$

16,879
10,395
(11,260)
(233)
15,781

$

$

2013
Net sales

Gross profit

Income before income taxes
Net income

Basic earnings per share

Diluted earnings per share

2012
Net sales

Gross profit

Income before income taxes

Net income

Basic earnings per share
Diluted earnings per share

First

Second

Third

Fourth

$

718,573

$

727,432

$

691,875

$

226,572

90,679
66,806

0.81

0.80

727,122

215,265

92,919

64,243

0.77
0.76

$

$

$

$
$

240,338

106,534
72,606

0.88

0.87

744,045

224,997

98,157

66,319

0.80
0.79

$

$

$

$
$

232,697

97,840
66,044

0.81

0.80

697,552

213,362

90,889

64,765

0.78
0.77

$

$

$

$
$

$

$

$

$
$

714,791

243,047

121,388
88,324

1.09

1.07

684,648

213,032

87,605

62,084

0.75
0.74

The quarter ended December 31, 2013 includes rationalization and impairment net charges of $259 ($223 after-tax) primarily 
related to employee severance and other costs associated with the consolidation of manufacturing operations in North America 
Welding, Europe Welding and Asia Pacific Welding segments and a charge of $705 related to a loss on the sale of land in the 
Asia Pacific Welding segment.  Associated with the loss on the sale of land is a charge of $47 attributable to non-controlling 
interests.

The quarter ended September 30, 2013 includes rationalization and asset impairment net charges of $1,627 ($1,595 after-tax) 
primarily related to employee severance and other costs associated with the consolidation of manufacturing operations in North 
America Welding, Europe Welding and Asia Pacific Welding segments and a charge of $4,675 ($4,503 after-tax) related to 
impairment of long-lived assets in the Asia Pacific Welding segment.  Associated with impairment of long-lived assets is a 
charge of $1,021 attributable to non-controlling interests.

The quarter ended June 30, 2013 includes rationalization and asset impairment net charges of $851 ($579 after-tax) primarily 
related to employee severance and other costs associated with the consolidation of manufacturing operations in North America 
Welding, Europe Welding and Asia Pacific Welding segments and charges of $2,538 related to devaluation of Venezuelan 
currency in the South America Welding segment.

The quarter ended March 31, 2013 includes rationalization and asset impairment net charges of $1,051 ($673 after-tax) 
primarily related to employee severance and other costs associated with the consolidation of manufacturing operations in North 
America Welding, Europe Welding and Asia Pacific Welding segments and charges of $9,660 related to devaluation of 
Venezuelan currency in the South America Welding segment.

F-38

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

The quarter ended December 31, 2012 includes rationalization and asset impairment net charges of $5,037 ($3,823 after-tax) 
primarily related to employee severance and other costs associated with the consolidation of manufacturing operations in North 
America Welding, Europe Welding and Asia Pacific Welding segments.

The quarter ended September 30, 2012 includes rationalization and asset impairment net charges of $3,059 ($2,704 after-tax) 
primarily related to employee severance and other costs associated with the consolidation of manufacturing operations in North 
America Welding, Europe Welding and Asia Pacific Welding segments.

The quarter ended June 30, 2012 includes rationalization net charges of $1,258 ($915 after-tax) primarily related to employee 
severance and other costs associated with the consolidation of manufacturing operations in North America Welding, Europe 
Welding and Asia Pacific Welding segments and a charge of $1,381 ($906 after-tax) related to a change in Venezuelan labor 
law, which provides for increased employee severance obligations in the South America Welding segment.

The quarterly earnings per share ("EPS") amounts are each calculated independently.  Therefore, the sum of the quarterly EPS 
amounts may not equal the annual totals.

F-39

SCHEDULE II – VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
(In thousands)

Description

Allowance for doubtful accounts:
Year Ended December 31, 2013
Year Ended December 31, 2012

Year Ended December 31, 2011

Additions

Balance at
Beginning
of Period

Charged to
Costs and
Expenses

(1)
Charged to
Other
Accounts

(2)
Deductions

Balance at End
of Period

$

$

8,654
7,079

7,855

$

2,671
3,368

2,173

$

49
68
(303)

$

2,976
1,861

2,646

8,398
8,654

7,079

(1)  Currency translation adjustment.

(2)  Uncollectible accounts written-off, net of recoveries.

F-40

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The Company's subsidiaries and joint ventures are listed in the following table:

LINCOLN ELECTRIC HOLDINGS, INC.
SUBSIDIARIES OF THE REGISTRANT

Name

A. B. Arriendos S.A.

Arc Products, Inc.

Burlington Automation Corporation

Electro-Arco S.A.

Harris Calorific GmbH

Harris Calorific International Sp. z o.o.

Harris Calorific S.r.l.

Harris Euro S.L.

Harris Soldas Especiais S.A.

Inversiones LyL S.A.

J.W. Harris Co., Inc.

Jinzhou Zheng Tai Welding and Metal Co., Ltd.

Kaliburn, Inc.

Kaynak Teknigi Sanayi ve Ticaret A.S.

Lincoln Canada Finance ULC

Lincoln Electric Bester Sp. z o.o.

Lincoln Electric Company of Canada LP

Lincoln Electric Company (India) Private Limited

Lincoln Electric Cutting Systems, Inc.

Lincoln Electric do Brasil Industria e Comercio Ltda.

Lincoln Electric Europe B.V.

Lincoln Electric Europe, S.L.

Lincoln Electric France S.A.S.

Lincoln Electric Heli (Zhengzhou) Welding Materials Company Ltd.

Lincoln Electric Holdings S.ar.l.

Lincoln Electric Iberia, S.L.

Lincoln Electric International Holding Company

Lincoln Electric Italia S.r.l.

Lincoln Electric Japan K.K.

Lincoln Electric (Jinzhou) Welding Materials Co., Ltd.

Lincoln Electric Luxembourg S.ar.l.

Lincoln Electric Management (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.

Lincoln Electric Manufactura, S.A. de C.V.

Lincoln Electric Maquinas, S. de R.L. de C.V.

Lincoln Electric Mexicana, S.A. de C.V.

Lincoln Electric Middle East FZE

Lincoln Electric North America, Inc.

Exhibit 21

Country of
Incorporation

Chile

United States

Canada

Portugal

Germany

Poland

Italy

Spain

Brazil

Chile

United States

China

United States

Turkey

Canada

Poland

Canada

India

United States

Brazil

The Netherlands

Spain

France

China

Luxembourg

Spain

United States

Italy

Japan

China

Luxembourg

China

Mexico

Mexico

Mexico

United Arab Emirates

United States

Name

Lincoln Electric S.A.

Lincoln Electric (Tangshan) Welding Materials Co., Ltd.

Lincoln Electric (U.K.) Ltd.

Lincoln Global Holdings LLC

Lincoln Global, Inc.

Lincoln Smitweld B.V.

Lincoln Soldaduras de Colombia Ltda.

Lincoln Soldaduras de Venezuela C.A.

Metrode Products Limited

OAO Mezhgosmetiz – Mtsensk

OOO Torgovyi Dom Mezhgosmetiz

OOO Severstal – metiz: Welding Consumables

PT Lincoln Electric Indonesia

Robolution GmbH

Smart Force, LLC

Techalloy, Inc.

Tennessee Rand, Inc.

Tenwell Development Pte. Ltd.

The Lincoln Electric Company

The Lincoln Electric Company (Asia Pacific) Pte. Ltd.

The Lincoln Electric Company (Australia) Proprietary Limited

The Lincoln Electric Company (New Zealand) Limited

The Lincoln Electric Company of South Africa (Pty) Ltd.

The Nanjing Lincoln Electric Co., Ltd.

The Shanghai Lincoln Electric Co., Ltd.

Uhrhan & Schwill Schweisstechnik GmbH

Wayne Trail Technologies, Inc.

Weartech International, Inc.

Weartech International Limited

Welding, Cutting, Tools & Accessories, LLC

Country of
Incorporation

Argentina

China

United Kingdom

United States

United States

The Netherlands

Colombia

Venezuela

United Kingdom

Russia

Russia

Russia

Indonesia

Germany

United States

United States

United States

Singapore

United States

Singapore

Australia

New Zealand

South Africa

China

China

Germany

United States

United States

United Kingdom

United States

Exhibit 23

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the following registration statements: 

Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Form S-8 Registration Statement of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. for the Stock Option Plan for Non-Employee Directors 
(Form S-8 No. 333-49976),

Form S-8 Registration Statement of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. for the 1998 Stock Plan, including Post-Effective 
Amendment No. 1 (Form S-8 No. 333-58305),

Form S-8 Registration Statement of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. for The Lincoln Electric Company Employee Savings Plan 
(Form S-8 Nos. 333-107114 and 333-132036),

Form S-8 Registration Statement of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. (as successor to The Lincoln Electric Company) for The 
Lincoln Electric Company Employee Savings Plan, including Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 (Form S-8 No. 033-64187),

Form S-8 Registration Statement of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. (as successor to The Lincoln Electric Company) for The 
Lincoln Electric Company 1988 Incentive Equity Plan (Form S-8 No. 033-25209), including Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 
(Form S-8 No. 033-25210),

Form S-8 Registration Statement of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. (as successor to The Lincoln Electric Company) for the 
1995 Lincoln Stock Purchase Plan, including Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 (Form S-8 No. 033-64189),

Form S-8 Registration Statement of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. for the 2006 Equity and Performance Incentive Plan 
(Form S-8 No. 333-134212), and

Form S-8 Registration Statement of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. for the 2006 Stock Plan for Non-Employee Directors 
(Form S-8 No. 333-134210),

of our reports dated February 21, 2014, with respect to the consolidated financial statements and schedule of Lincoln Electric 
Holdings, Inc. and subsidiaries, and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting of Lincoln Electric 
Holdings, Inc. and subsidiaries, included in this Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended December 31, 2013.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Cleveland, Ohio

February 21, 2014

Exhibit 24

POWER OF ATTORNEY

Directors of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc.

Each of the undersigned Directors of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. hereby appoints Christopher L. Mapes, Vincent K. Petrella 
and Frederick G. Stueber, and each of them, as attorneys for the undersigned, for and in the name, place and stead of the 
undersigned in the capacity specified, to prepare or cause to be prepared, to execute and to file with the Securities and 
Exchange Commission under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Act"), an Annual Report on Form 10-K 
for the year ended December 31, 2013 relating to Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc., such other periodic reports as may be 
required pursuant to the Act, amendments and exhibits to any of the foregoing and any and all other documents to be filed with 
the Securities and Exchange Commission or elsewhere pertaining to such reports, with full power and authority to take any 
other action deemed necessary or appropriate to effect the filing of the documents.

Executed the date set forth below.

 /s/ Christopher L. Mapes
Christopher L. Mapes, Director

 /s/ Harold L. Adams

/s/ Curtis E. Espeland

  Harold L. Adams, Director

  Curtis E. Espeland, Director

February 21, 2014

February 21, 2014

February 21, 2014

/s/ David H. Gunning

/s/ Stephen G. Hanks

/s/ Robert J. Knoll

David H. Gunning, Director

Stephen G. Hanks, Director

Robert J. Knoll, Director

February 21, 2014

February 21, 2014

February 21, 2014

/s/ G. Russell Lincoln

/s/ Kathryn Jo Lincoln

/s/ William E. MacDonald, III

G. Russell Lincoln, Director

Kathryn Jo Lincoln, Director

William E. MacDonald, III, Director

February 21, 2014

February 21, 2014

February 21, 2014

/s/ Phillip J. Mason
Phillip J. Mason, Director

February 21, 2014

/s/ Hellene S. Runtagh
Hellene S. Runtagh, Director

/s/ George H. Walls, Jr.
George H. Walls, Jr., Director

February 21, 2014

February 21, 2014

 
 
Exhibit 31.1

I, Christopher L. Mapes, certify that:

CERTIFICATION

1. 

I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc.;

2.  Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to 
make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the 
period covered by this report;

3.  Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material 
respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4.  The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as 

defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act 
Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

a)  Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our 

supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by 
others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b)  Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our 

supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements 
for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c)  Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the 
effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d)  Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most 

recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably 
likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and

5.  The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial 

reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent 
functions):

a)  All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are 
reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b)  Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal 

control over financial reporting.

Date: February 21, 2014

  /s/ Christopher L. Mapes
Christopher L. Mapes
President and Chief Executive Officer

   
 
Exhibit 31.2

I, Vincent K. Petrella, certify that:

CERTIFICATION

1. 

I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc.;

2.  Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to 
make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the 
period covered by this report;

3.  Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material 
respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4.  The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as 

defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act 
Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

a)  Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our 

supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by 
others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b)  Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our 

supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements 
for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c)  Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the 
effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d)  Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most 

recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably 
likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and

5.  The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial 

reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent 
functions):

a)  All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are 
reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b)  Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal 

control over financial reporting.

Date: February 21, 2014

  /s/ Vincent K. Petrella

Vincent K. Petrella
Senior Vice President, Chief Financial
Officer and Treasurer

   
 
CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO
18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

Exhibit 32.1

In connection with the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. (the "Company") for the year ended December 31, 
2013, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Report"), each of the undersigned officers of the Company certifies, 
pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted pursuant to § 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that, to such officer's knowledge:

(1) 

(2) 

The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the 
Company as of the dates and for the periods expressed in the Report.

Date: February 21, 2014

  /s/ Christopher L. Mapes

Christopher L. Mapes 
President and Chief Executive Officer

/s/ Vincent K. Petrella

Vincent K. Petrella
Senior Vice President, Chief Financial
Officer and Treasurer

   
 
 
 
Corporate Information

Additional copies of Lincoln Electric’s  

2013 Annual Report and Form 10-K may be obtained 

by contacting Investor Relations at (216) 383-2534, 

sending a fax to (216) 383-8220 or visiting our website: 

www.lincolnelectric.com.

Inquiries about dividends, shareholder records, share 

transfers, changes in ownership and address changes 

should be directed to the Transfer Agent and Registrar:

MAIL
Wells Fargo Shareowner Services 

P.O. Box 64854 

St. Paul, Minnesota 55164-0854

COURIER
Wells Fargo Shareowner Services 

1110 Centre Pointe Curve 

Mendota Heights, Minnesota  

55120-4100

DIRECT
(800) 468-9716 or (651) 450-4064 

www.wellsfargo.com/shareownerservices 

ANNUAL MEETING
The Annual Meeting of Lincoln Electric Shareholders is 

scheduled to be held on Thursday, April 24, 2014, at  

11:00 a.m., at Marriott Cleveland East, 26300 Harvard 

Road, Warrensville Heights, Ohio 44122. 

STOCK INFORMATION
The Company’s Common Shares are traded on the 

NASDAQ Stock Market under the stock symbol “LECO.” 

The number of record holders of Common Shares at  

December 31, 2013 was 1,719. 

For additional Company information, contact:

Investor Relations 

Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. 

22801 St. Clair Avenue 

Cleveland, Ohio 44117-1199 USA 

Phone: (216) 383-2534 

Fax: (216) 383-8220

www.lincolnelectric.com

20202 10103131Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc.  22801 St. Clair Avenue  |  Cleveland, Ohio 44117-1199  |  U.S.A.