Airgas Increases Quarterly Dividend by 33%
RADNOR, PA - October 23, 2008 -- Airgas, Inc. (NYSE: ARG) today announced that the Board of Directors increased the quarterly cash dividend on the company's common stock to $0.16 per share from $0.12. The dividend will be payable December 31, 2008 to shareholders of record as of December 15, 2008.
"We continue to return value to shareholders in appropriate ways, one of which is dividend growth commensurate with earnings," commented Airgas Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Peter McCausland. "Given our confidence in our operating performance and cash flow, this dividend increase is a good way to support our shareholders in a difficult market environment."
About Airgas, Inc.
Airgas, Inc. (NYSE: ARG), through its subsidiaries, is the largest U.S. distributor of industrial, medical and specialty gases, and hardgoods, such as welding equipment and supplies. Airgas is also one of the largest U.S. distributors of safety products, the largest U.S. producer of nitrous oxide and dry ice, the largest liquid carbon dioxide producer in the Southeast, and a leading distributor of process chemicals, refrigerants, and ammonia products. More than 14,000 employees work in over 1,100 locations, including branches, retail stores, gas fill plants, specialty gas labs, production facilities and distribution centers. Airgas also distributes its products and services through eBusiness, catalog and telesales channels. Its national scale and strong local presence offer a competitive edge to its diversified customer base. For more information, please visit www.airgas.com.
Media Contact:
Jay Worley (610) 902-6206
jay.worley@airgas.com
Investor Contact:
Barry Strzelec (610) 902-6256
barry.strzelec@airgas.com
