Air Products Addresses Shareholder Concerns with Transparency

Air Products Communicates Key Information to Shareholders

Air Products' Board of Directors has fired off a timely letter aimed at shareholders as they prepare for an important Annual Meeting. The letter discusses significant strategic directions that the company is taking to enhance long-term shareholder value, with a strong focus on their core industrial gas operations and innovative movements in the clean hydrogen sector.

Setting the Record Straight

Response to Misinformation

The letter aims to correct what the Board claims are misleading statements made by Mantle Ridge. Air Products asserts that Mantle Ridge is attempting to mislead shareholders in pursuit of its own short-term objectives, providing selective and incorrect information to distract from the positive advancements that Air Products has achieved.

Highlighting Board Competence

Evaluating Director Candidates

Central to Air Products' message is the disclosure of qualifications among its board nominees compared to those proposed by Mantle Ridge. The Board emphasizes that its nominated candidates possess superior expertise in industrial gases, an area where Mantle Ridge's suggestions fall short. Names like Alfred Stern, Wayne Smith, Bob Patel, and Lisa Davis feature prominently as examples of highly qualified nominees working toward the company's best interests.

Commitment to Succession Planning

CEO Succession Strategy

Furthermore, the Board addresses claims regarding CEO succession planning. Air Products has an active and thorough plan set in motion, with expectations for a formal announcement regarding its leadership transition by March 31, 2025. They reaffirm that this planning is crucial for ensuring the company's stability and growth.

Strategic Business Initiatives

Focus on Clean Hydrogen

At the heart of Air Products' current strategy is the increasing demand for clean hydrogen, a vital component of their future projects. The company is not only committed to traditional industrial gases but is also positioning itself as a frontrunner in the clean hydrogen market. With meaningful contracts already established, including significant collaborations set to come to fruition by the end of the decade, Air Products suggests that they are prepared to capture a substantial share of this emerging market.

Financial Health and Performance Metrics

Data-Driven Decisions

While addressing financial claims made by Mantle Ridge, Air Products shines a light on its steady and reliable financial performance. The letter clarifies that the company has maintained strong margins and growth rates, even amid economic uncertainties. Through detailed evaluations, Air Products establishes its position as a profitable entity in both adjusted EBITDA and overall business performance.

Fostering Shareholder Engagement

Invitation to Participate

In closing, the Air Products Board encourages all shareholders to actively participate in upcoming votes, promoting a clear directive to support its nominated candidates on the proxy card. They also reassure shareholders of their ongoing commitment to drive shareholder satisfaction and corporate integrity amid external pressures from activist groups.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What concerns did Air Products address in the letter?

Air Products addressed misleading claims made by Mantle Ridge regarding board nominations and succession planning.

2. How does Air Products plan to enhance shareholder value?

By focusing on core industrial gas operations and significant investments in clean hydrogen initiatives.

3. Who are the nominees that Air Products supports?

The Board supports candidates like Alfred Stern, Wayne Smith, Bob Patel, and Lisa Davis, highlighting their relevant experience in the industry.

4. What is the timeline for CEO succession?

The company expects to announce details regarding its CEO succession plan by March 31, 2025.

5. How can shareholders participate in the upcoming vote?

Shareholders are encouraged to vote for Air Products' nominees using the WHITE proxy card and to discard any other proxy cards they may receive.

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