Airgas Increases Fourth Quarter Dividend by 16%, Full Year Dividends up 33%
RADNOR, PA - January 21, 2011 - Airgas, Inc. (NYSE: ARG) today announced that the Board of Directors increased the quarterly cash dividend on the company's common stock by 16%, from $0.25 per share to $0.29 per share. The dividend will be payable on March 31, 2011 to shareholders of record as of March 15, 2011, and will result in a 33% increase in dividends per share paid during fiscal 2011 compared to fiscal 2010.
"We are committed to enhancing shareholder value, including through a dividend program that is reflective of the financial strength of Airgas," said Airgas Chief Executive Officer Peter McCausland. "The company's sustained strength in earnings and cash flow as reported in the third quarter reinforces our confidence in Airgas' long-term prospects and allows us to raise the dividend while funding our growth strategies."
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 approximately 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
