Posted June 1, 2011
Airgas acquires ABCO Gases
Airgas announced it has completed the acquisition of ABCO Gases, Welding and Industrial Supply Company Inc. of Waterford, Conn.
The 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."
"ABCO and its employees have worked hard for the past 90 years to steadily grow this business and earn the respect of customers," said Mike Ross, former ABCO president, who has joined the Airgas East management team. "Founded and owned by the McCourt family since 1921, ABCO employs more than 100 people. Essentially we were a large 'family', working as a team to provide the needed solutions for our customers. I'm very proud of everyone at ABCO and what we've accomplished. Our values of focusing on and serving the customer and our culture match those of Airgas. We are looking forward to continuing and expanded success as we join forces with the nation's industry leader in packaged gases."
ABCO specialists have an average of 32 years of industry experience. In addition to providing industrial, medical, and pharmaceutical gas products, ABCO offered welding and cutting equipment and supplies, welding equipment repair and service, and a complete line of safety products and accessories. ABCO also offered an extensive automation and robotics program for welding and cutting applications.
