Insight turns a profit for FY 2011

But EMEA region sees three per cent drop in gross profit as economic challenges continue

Insight’s gross profit in EMEA dropped three per cent for its fourth-quarter 2011, as challenging economic conditions continue to bite.

However, EMEA turnover for the quarter increased one per cent to $369.4m (£234.3m), compared with $366.2m a year ago, with gross profit hitting $48.8m for Q4, compared with $50.1m in 2010.

Overall global sales increased two per cent to $1.4bn, with gross profit jumping four per cent to $179m.

The US and APAC regions saw Q4 profit increase by seven per cent and one per cent respectively.

For the full financial year overall sales for the group increased 10 per cent to $5.3bn, the highest in the company’s history, with gross profit also increasing 10 per cent to $709.2m.

Ken Lamneck, chief executive of Insight, said: “Our fourth-quarter results reflect a strong close to another successful year for Insight. Modest sales growth combined with higher gross margin and strong expense control led to a 13 per cent growth in earnings from operations in the quarter.

“For the full year 2011, our team delivered double-digit sales and earnings growth with improved operating margins, reflecting progress towards our long-term financial targets.

"As we head into 2012, we remain confident that consistent execution of our strategic priorities combined with operational discipline will result in increased value for our stakeholders.”