Following is additional detail on first-quarter 2014 results by segment.
In North America, first-quarter sales were $1,580m, 8% above the prior-year quarter, and up 10% excluding negative currency translation impacts. Organic sales growth was 5%, driven primarily by higher sales to the energy end-market as on-site volumes increased from new project start-ups for hydrogen supply to refinery customers and higher pricing. Acquisitions contributed 3% growth. Operating profit was $378m, 6% above prior-year.
In Europe, first-quarter sales were $397m, up 7% versus the first quarter of 2013. Acquisitions, primarily Dominion Technology Gases, contributed 5% growth. Organic sales growth of 2% came from higher pricing and higher volumes. Operating profit was $79m, an increase of 27% versus the prior-year quarter, including positive currency translation and acquisitions. Underlying operating profit growth was driven by higher volumes, higher price and lower costs.
In South America, first-quarter sales were $488m. Sales grew 7% from the prior-year quarter, excluding a 15% negative currency impact, primarily due to volume growth and higher overall pricing. Operating profit was $113m, up 16% excluding negative currency translation, due to higher volumes and higher pricing partially offset by cost inflation.
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