Praxair reports record sales in Q4

Praxair, Inc. reported record sales and earnings in the fourth quarter and full year of 2006.

Sales in the fourth quarter were $2,123m, and for the year were $8,324m, the highest in the company’s history. Praxair achieved strong growth from new business and the start-up of new supply systems in every geography and end market. Sales growth was 9 percent in the fourth quarter and 10 percent for the full year, excluding the effect of lower natural gas prices passed through in hydrogen prices.

Commenting on Praxair’s business outlook, Steven Angel said: $quot;Global industry fundamentals remain strong. Demand for new energy supplies combined with tightening environmental standards globally creates significant new business opportunities for Praxair.$quot;