Just read with interest the many replies to my original post some time ago.Looks like the only honest one among all the Airgas apologist is the guy who noted Airgas has legions of customers paying high prices but the new customers and prospects (spelled competitive accounts buying elsewhere) see rock bottom introductory prices on gases and single digit mark ups on machines.

Of course this was the formula used by BOC for years....sell new customers cheap and raise the heck out of the prices on your loyal current accounts. Naturally the new guys eventually wind up on the price increase treadmill until they finally realize the service sucks and they seek out the service laden Independeant distributor they left in the first place.

Cant tell you guys how many of the accounts who leave a good independent on price eventually return to us at higher prices. Don't you guys get it!!!!????

Special kudos to the national Account department. They have the best service offering of anyone on the planet and still they offer rock bottom no discipline pricing.