Airgas Acquires Gas and Welding Distributor ABCO

Airgas ARG today announced it has completed the acquisition of ABCO Gases, Welding and Industrial Supply Company. The Waterford, CT-based business serves medical and industrial customers with high-purity gases, liquid gases, specialty gas mixes, protocol gases, as well as industrial welding and cutting equipment, and automated and robotic welding solutions. With locations in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire, and more than 100 employees, ABCO generated annual revenues of about $35 million in 2010. ABCO locations and employees are now part of Airgas East operations. There are 12 ABCO New England locations that include a headquarters, retail stores, a fill plant and an equipment service center. “ABCO has been a family owned business since 1921 and is a well-respected name throughout New England,” said Tony Simonetta, president of Airgas East. “They support the same industries as Airgas, including shipyards, steel fabricators, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, and defense contractors. This acquisition is a natural and complimentary fit for both Airgas and ABCO, and is a win-win for the customers and employees of both companies.”