Airgas Inc. has reported strong growth in sales, operating income, and record earnings for its first quarter ended 30th June 2008 – while also reiterating its strong outlook for energy and infrastructure construction.
Quarterly net earnings grew 33% to $68.9m, compared to $51.7m in the prior year, while first quarter sales increased 22% from the prior year to $1.1bn.
Acquisitions contributed 15% to the increase, and total same-store sales grew 7% in the quarter, with hardgoods up 6% and gas and rent up 7%.
“Our strategic product categories, which are focused on healthcare, life sciences, research, environmental, and food and beverage markets, comprising about 40% of our sales, posted 10% organic growth in the quarter,” said Airgas Chairman and CEO Peter McCausland.
... to continue reading you must be subscribed
