Air Liquide receives triple-B rating for BEE and leads the way in to transformation in its industry.

“This result is in line with our 3-year BEE action plan and is complimentary to stronger local investment and job creation.” says Air Liquide CEO, Alain Larousse

Air Liquide (Pty) Ltd is the world leader in industrial and medical gases and enjoys the second largest market share in the Southern African market. The triple-B rating gives Air Liquide leadership in the industry in terms of BEE implementation, as a level five contributor according to the DTI schedule. “We are fully supporting national objectives to develop skills and entrepreneurship of previously disadvantaged people and are proud to see our efforts recognized. In parallel, our subsidiary Air Liquide Healthcare Pty Ltd, which supplies medical gases and services to hospitals has already achieved level A last year and is also expected to improve its rating this year. ” Larousse adds.

“I think the new rating is significant in that it signals a clear intent to the market that we are committed to the goals of transformation in South Africa.” says Derek Wilson, Air Liquide’s Human Resources Director. “It (the new rating) allows us to be a lot more attractive to existing and prospective customers” says Derek. It also improves their BEE ratings by association.”

“We achieved the maximum rating in the categories of Enterprise Development and Socio Economic Development, while scoring near perfect ratings in Skills Development and Preferential Procurement,” says Elias Mothibe, Air Liquide’s Group Industrial Relations Manager.

“Air Liquide views Black Economic Empowerment as a process and not an event. By Empowerment we refer to a process wherein the company assists and educates previously disadvantaged persons and businesses in surrounding communities close to Air Liquide plants to enable them to contribute positively to the economy of the country.”

“This process is enshrined in our policies with respect to affirmative procurement, skills-development, employment equity, ownership, management, enterprise development and social development. An integrated and coherent approach towards the implementation of these policies is fully supported by the Air Liquide Board of Directors and its shareholders” adds Elias.