AIR PRODUCTS has acquired the largest company in its distributor network, Weldamax. As an integral player in Air Products’ distributor business model, Weldamax distributes gases and a comprehensive range of welding products through its countrywide network of branches, which trade under the name Unique Welding.
Gaetano Perillo has been appointed the new CEO at Weldamax after heading up Air Product’s finance department for several years.
Perillo joined Air Products in 1991 as a management accountant and worked in various roles within finance until this move to Weldamax.
MD of Air Products Rob Richardson says the acquisition of Weldamax was a strategic move to maintain and grow Air Products’ position in the industrial gas market while diversifying into the welding market.
“Air Products and Weldamax are two strong entities on their own, but now that they have joined forces, we have undoubtedly created an industrial gas and welding powerhouse. The acquisition will enable us to further strengthen our market share, leverage resources and knowledge, and provide a one-stop gases and welding product offering to our customers.”
Commenting on the appointment of Perillo to the position of CEO, Richardson says that Gaetano has been a valued member of Air Products’ finance team for years. “With his leadership skills and
experience, he was an obvious choice. He understands the industrial landscape and is meticulous when it comes to business practices and maintaining a high-level of integrity.”
During his tenure as financial manager, Perillo took his team to new heights and was the recipient of numerous internal quality awards.
Perillo says he is looking forward to taking Weldamax’ performance to new heights and entrenching its position as a leading supplier of gases, welding equipment and consumables.
“Considering the current economy globally, as well as in South Africa, I know I will face challenges in my role as CEO, but I am confident that my years of experience will be of value, and I will mitigate them as I am confronted by these challenges. I believe that sticking to basic business principles and adapting to market demands are crucial in business today.
“Delivering unsurpassed quality to customers is one way of ensuring that customers remain loyal. As the CEO of Weldamax, it will be comforting to know that I have the world class support from Air Products behind us,” says Perillo.
“I am not planning to make any drastic changes to my management style. I strive to lead by example and have always viewed it as important to ensure that the team also benefits from the successes of the business.”
