Expansion Announcement: Meritus Bolsters Its Team with Three New Hires

Meritus Gas Partners Expands with New Appointments and Acquisitions

Meritus Gas Partners, a portfolio company of AEA Investors Small Business Private Equity, has announced several new appointments and acquisitions as part of its strategy to build a national network of independent distributors of industrial, medical, and specialty gases, as well as welding and safety supplies.

The newest addition to the Meritus family is Buckeye Welding Supply, which joined the group earlier this month. Steven Schwegman has been announced as President of Buckeye Welding Supply, based in Henderson, Colorado. With over a decade of experience within the industrial gases market, Schwegman brings a wealth of expertise to his new role. Buckeye Welding Supply operates three locations across Colorado.

In addition to Buckeye Welding Supply, Meritus has also welcomed A-OX Welding Supply to its network. A-OX has a combined eight locations in North and South Dakota and Iowa. Mindy Geiser has been announced as Vice-President of Sales for A-OX Welding Supply in South Dakota. Geiser previously held leadership roles at Metroplex Welding and Airgas, most recently serving as Area Manager in Colorado Springs.

The appointments are not limited to executive roles. Vince Biagiotti has been named as Chief Financial Officer for Meritus' operations in California. Biagiotti brings more than 15 years of experience in the industrial gas market, with most of his tenure spent at industrial gas major Praxair Distribution, now Linde plc, on the West Coast.

Rob D'Alessandro, President and Chief Operating Officer of Meritus Gas Partners, stated that these appointments will help the company pursue its goal of being the first national footprinted independent gas distributor. The appointments are part of Meritus' strategy to build the talent depth of its organization.

Founded in December 2020, Meritus is currently assembling its national network. The network serves growing end-markets and is located in diverse geographies. Meritus continues to seek out opportunities for growth and expansion, with a focus on providing high-quality products and services to its customers.

As of September 1, 2023, there is no publicly available information about a person who took over the position of Chief Financial Officer at Meritus operations in California. The company has not released any further details about this appointment.

The acquisitions of Buckeye Welding Supply and A-OX Welding Supply mark significant steps in Meritus' growth strategy. With a strong team in place and a growing network of distributors, Meritus is well-positioned to become a leading player in the industrial gas market.