Airgas, Inc. (NYSE: ARG), Radnor, PA, has reorganized its North Central distribution region into two separate regions: a redefined North Central region, headquartered in Appleton, WI, and a new Midwest region, headquartered in the Chicago area.

"We are optimistic about the long-term prospects for the U.S. manufacturing industry, as structural drivers like the abundant supply of low-cost energy and higher shipping costs from overseas should favor the U.S. for years to come," said Michael L. Molinini, Airgas president and CEO. "We're positioning our resources in this area of the country to enhance our competitive position and assure that we fully capitalize on these long-term growth prospects in what is already one of the largest industrial gas markets in the U.S."

Pamela Swanson, who has led the North Central region as president since 2009, has been named president of the redefined North Central region. Rick Keefer, who has served as president of The Encompass Gas Group since its acquisition by Airgas in Nov. 2013, has been named president of the Midwest Region.