Airgas, Inc.

Radnor, PA United States

  (NYSE: ARG)

Company Description

Airgas has floated to the top of the industrial gas distribution industry by buying more than 400 companies since its founding in 1986. Its North American network of more than 1,100 locations includes retail stores, gas fill plants, specialty gas labs, production facilities, and distribution centers. Airgas distributes argon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, and a variety of medical and specialty gases, as well as dry ice and protective equipment (hard hats, goggles). Its gases production unit operates air-separation plants that produce oxygen, nitrogen, and argon. Airgas also sells welding machines and produces acetylene and nitrous oxide. Founder and CEO Peter McCausland and his wife control 20% of Airgas.