So far in 2024, Meritus Gas Partners acquired two independent industrial gas and welding supply distributors and partnered with two others.
Fasteners
Article
Weather, Weak Demand Hurt Fastenal’s 1Q Results
The distributor frequently cited adverse weather in its 1Q report, while poor demand remains the core issue as pricing has stabilized.
Manufacturing
Article
Manufacturing Technology Orders Fall Short of Expectations
Analysis of manufacturing tech orders provides an economic indicator as manufacturing industries invest in equipment to increase capacity.
Manufacturing
Article
Top Chip Manufacturer to Receive U.S. Investment
The Department of Commerce plans to grant TSMC, the world’s leading semiconductor chip manufacturer, $6.6 billion to build up a U.S. hub.
Human Resources
Article
Dirk Beveridge Launches ‘Force for Good’ Virtual Event for Distributors
Distribution industry veteran Dirk Beveridge has created a new virtual summit focused on the well-being of people working in distribution.
Operations
Article
UPS to Oust FedEx as USPS’ Primary Air Cargo Provider
Following a transition period, UPS will move the majority of the United States Postal Service’s air cargo in the U.S.
Economic Trends
Article
PMI: U.S. Factory Activity Expanded for First Time in 18 Months
At long last, U.S. manufacturing activity appears to be back in the black.
Technology
Article
Amazon Invests Another $2.75B in Gen-AI Company Anthropic
Amazon’s total investment in artificial intelligence startup Anthropic now totals $4 billion.
Legal & Regulatory Issues
Article
NAW, NAM, ABC Slam Walkaround Rule Set for Effect May 31
OSHA will publish its final “Walkaround Rule” on April 1, which has been met with staunch opposition from several trade associations.
Metals Service Centers
Article
MSC Posts Dec-Feb Results, Makes Machine Tech Acquisition
The company noted that while 2Q sales were disappointing, gross margin improvement stemmed from internal improvements.
Building Materials/Construction
Article
Home Depot to Acquire SRS Distribution for $18B in Building Materials Pro Shakeup
Building product distributor SRS Distribution will operate as an independent business unit within The Home Depot and focus on Pro customers.
Hose & Hose Accessories Distribution
Article
OSHA Hits Ohio Hosemaker Again with Violation Fines
It was the eighth time the company has been cited for safety violations since 2013.

