Meritus Gas, OXARC Enter Partnership

Meritus Gas Partners has entered into a partnership with OXARC, an independent distributor of industrial and specialty gases, welding, and safety supplies in the United States. The financial terms of the transaction have not been disclosed. OXARC serves customers across various industries, such as agriculture, construction, and manufacturing. The partnership aligns with Meritus' strategy to expand its presence in the Western United States and is expected to generate growth opportunities for the company in the Pacific Northwest region.

Established in 1968, OXARC operates 20 locations across Washington (10), Oregon (5), and Idaho (5). The company has been owned and managed by the Walmsley family since its inception. Co-Executive Vice Presidents Jenna Fitzgerald, the granddaughter of founder Jerry Walmsley, and Jason Kirby will continue to lead the business while holding equity ownership in Meritus.

"We are thrilled to welcome OXARC into the Meritus family of operating companies," said Meritus Chairman Scott Kaltrider. "The Walmsley's have built one of the leading distributorships in the country for over 55 years."

"When we contemplated OXARC's future, it was important to us to honor our grandfather and continue our family's legacy," Fitzgerald said. "Partnering with Meritus affords two generations of Walmsley owners to retire and monetize their investments while allowing the company to remain under the direction of the family's third generation. We will maintain OXARC's independence and brand and remain committed to our dedicated employees and loyal customers."