Lincoln Electric Announces Year-End Leadership Transition

Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: LECO) announced today that John M. Stropki, Jr., 61, who has been Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer since 2004, will become Executive Chairman of the Board, and Christopher L. Mapes, 50, will be named President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, both effective December 31, 2012. As Executive Chairman, Mr. Stropki will work closely with Mr. Mapes to ensure a seamless transition for Lincoln Electric's shareholders, global employee base, key customers, industry associations, and community and government relationships, including Lincoln's global headquarters' community in Cleveland. Mr. Mapes has been serving as Chief Operating Officer of the Company since September 1, 2011, and has been a member of the Board of Directors since February 2010.

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