Gas Suppliers Could Join Forces

BOC UK, and Praxair of the USA are reported to be merger talks. A merger would create the largest industrial gases company in the world, overtaking the current world leader, Air Liquide of France. In the UK, BOC has a market share of around 60% and has a significant presence in the USA, Asia, Australia and Africa. BOC and Praxair each hold around 15% in the global gases sector, Air Liquide has around 17% and Air Products represents around 8%. (whole item)