Matheson Tri-Gas, Inc. Expands in the U.S

Business Wire, Nov 2, 2004

PARSIPPANY, N.J. -- Matheson Tri-Gas, Inc., has successfully completed its purchase of six air separation plants and related assets from Air Liquide. The transaction involves mainly liquid gas and distribution operations, as well as certain pipeline assets located in the southern and western parts of the United States (see list below).

Mr Hiroshi Taguchi, President and CEO of Taiyo Nippon Sanso Corporation (parent Company of Matheson Tri-Gas, Inc.) stated, "This acquisition is consistent with Taiyo Nippon Sanso's focused strategy to expand our presence in the US Market. The conditions were fully satisfactory for both parties. Our US management team has successfully carried out this transaction, and is skillfully managing both the transition and integration plans. The acquisition will solidify our position in the South, and will further establish our presence in the West, where we hope to capture more electronic, medical and packaged gas business through our expanded portfolio of gas and equipment products. Matheson Tri-Gas is a key player in the industrial gas market in the South, and the strategic fit of these assets with existing business significantly strengthens Matheson Tri-Gas as a competitive supplier of industrial gases."

According to Bill Kroll, Chairman, President & CEO of Matheson Tri-Gas. Inc., "The acquisition has been finalized in an expeditious manner to the benefit of all employees involved. We have already begun adopting best practices from both organizations blending them into one culture to serve the combined customer base in an exemplary fashion."

Matheson Tri-Gas, Inc., is a single source provider of industrial and specialty gases, including bulk and cylinder gases, gas handling equipment, high performance purification systems, and related hardgoods. The Company also provides support services, engineering services, and systems management services to analytical laboratories and semiconductor manufacturers worldwide. As a member of the Taiyo Nippon Sanso Corporation group, Matheson Tri-Gas, Inc., is part of a worldwide industrial gas organization focusing on being the single source provider for global customer requirements.

List of facilities acquired by Matheson Tri-Gas, Inc.:

Irwindale, California

Vacaville, California

Westlake, Louisiana

Waxahachie, Texas

De Lisle, Mississippi

San Antonio, Texas