Airgas announces pricing actions.

On 27 Jan 2011, Airgas Inc announced that beginning 1 Mar 2011, or as contracts permit, its operating units will increase prices on bulk and packaged industrial, medical, and specialty gases 10% - 12% on average, and up to 10% for delivery and other service charges. Cylinder and bulk tank rental rates will increase 8% - 10% effective 1 Feb 2011, or as contracts permit. The actions are in response to rising product costs from suppliers as well as operating costs at Airgas plants and distribution facilities, driven by higher power, fuel, raw material, and labor and benefits costs. Increases in metals prices are also driving up costs for cylinders, bulk tanks, gas handling plants and …