Global Sources Posts Positive 2011 Full-year, Q4 Earnings Results

March 25, 2012

Global Sources ended 2011 with a positive Q4 revenue increase to $74 million, compared with $63 million in 2010, as well as positive increases in full-year revenues to $225 million from $197 million in 2010.

Exhibitions revenue in the fourth quarter last year was $35.5 million, compared with $29.9 million in 2010, and online revenue rose to $30.5 million, compared with $25.5 million the year before.

“We had a good quarter driven by continued strength in our online and exhibition businesses,” said Global Sources’ Executive Chairman Merle A. Hinrichs.

He added, “Looking to the first half of 2012, we expect the challenging economic environment to impact our growth. However, despite the soft economic outlook we are optimistic on several fronts.”

Growth has been driven across many sectors, according to Hinrichs.

“Exporters need to identify new buyers and open new markets, and we have been leading the way by aggressively building our buyer community in emerging markets,” he added.

Hinrichs said, “Our regional shows take suppliers directly to the sourcing hubs of Dubai, Mumbai, Miami, Johannesburg and Sao Paulo. We also continue to enhance our multichannel solution that uniquely enables clients to achieve lead generation, branding and order generation objectives. Within mainland China’s domestic market, we are excited about our recent investment in one of the country’s largest and most prestigious fashion shows.”

Here are some of Global Sources’ recent company highlights:

Acquired an 80-percent interest in the China (Shenzhen) International Brand Clothing & Accessories Fair (SZIC), one of the largest fashion shows in Asia, in March 2012, for a total cash consideration of up to approximately $17.3 million.


Held 14 Sourcing Fairs in Hong Kong in October 2011, featuring over 7,400 booths. The electronics series was the largest ever with more than 3,900 booths, up by 19 percent compared with last year.


Six China Sourcing Fairs were held at the Bombay Exhibition Center in Mumbai in November 2011. With over 600 booths, the Fairs offer the largest collection of Greater China suppliers of any trade show in India.

Held its 2nd Annual China Sourcing Fairs in Johannesburg in December 2011, with more than 820 exhibitor booths, representing a 29-percent increase.


Held Global Sourcing Fairs in Shanghai in December 2011 with more than 600 booths. Show categories included Home Products, Gifts & Premiums, Fashion Accessories and Baby & Children’s Products.

Announced the planned transition of Peter Zapf to CIO and Brent Barnes to COO. The transitions were completed as of Jan. 1.

Looking to the future, Global Sources expects revenues to continue to make positive gains in the range of $108.0 million to $110.0 million, representing an increase of 4 percent to 6 percent, compared with $104.1 million for the first half of 2011.

Add new comment

Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here. New Wave Experiences Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024. Enhanced Technology Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space. Refreshing New Design & Fine Art The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights. Sustainable Spectacles Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles. The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.