CK Supply Announces Leadership Transitions: Brad Dunn Named CEO, Tony Ruppel Joins as President, and Ned Lane moving to Chairman of the Board
CK Supply Inc., a leading provider of industrial gases, welding supplies, and dry ice solutions, is excited to announce key leadership transitions that will drive the company’s future growth and success.
Effective immediately, Brad Dunn, 3rd Generation owner and leader has been promoted to Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of CK Supply. Dunn has been with the company for over 14 years, most recently serving as Executive Vice President, where he oversaw sales, marketing, safety, HR and the development of the Kansas City and Joplin markets. His recent success in acquisitions, leadership and business development has been instrumental in CK Supply’s continued growth. Dunn holds a BSBA in Business Management from Rockhurst University and an MBA in Entrepreneurship and Venture Management from Denver University.
Joining CK Supply as its new President is Tony Ruppel, an experienced industry executive with a strong track record in operations, sales leadership, and strategic business management. Ruppel comes to CK Supply from Linde Gas & Equipment, where he most recently served as Division General Manager for the Central South region, overseeing 200 employees, four manufacturing plants, and leading significant revenue growth across five states. With a background in finance, operations management, and sales, Ruppel is well positioned to lead CK Supply into its next phase of growth. He holds an MBA from Webster University and a Bachelor of Science in Corporate Finance from Ferris State University.
Additionally, CK Supply announces that Ned Lane, will be transitioning to Chairman of the Board, while planning for a retirement from full-time responsibilities on December 31, 2025. Lane has dedicated over 30 years to CK Supply, serving as President since 2000 and taking on the role of President and CEO in 2020. His leadership at CK Supply has improved operational and financial performance, strengthened its core values, and established CK Supply’s place as an industry leader.
Lane’s 40-year career includes leadership roles at MG Industries and Air Products and Chemicals, along with significant contributions to the industry as a member of the GAWDA (Gases and Welding Distributors Association) Board of Directors (2007-2011), Executive Board (2016-2021), and GAWDA President in 2018. He has also provided industry expertise as an advisor to Hypertherm, Lincoln Electric, ESAB, & Miller-ITW.
“This is an exciting time for CK Supply as we bring in new leadership to continue our momentum,” said Ned Lane, Chairman of the Board. “Brad has been a key part of our growth, and Tony’s expertise will be invaluable as we look toward the future. I am confident that CK Supply is in great hands.”
The Employee Owners of CK Supply congratulate all these influential leaders that are committed to growth, innovation, and delivering exceptional service to our customers under their new responsibilities.
Central McGowan and Minneapolis Oxygen Announce Historic Merger
Central McGowan, a family-owned leader in industrial, bulk, medical and specialty gas supply, welding equipment, beverage carbonation and CO2, along with a dedicated team focused in automation solutions, is thrilled to announce its merger with Minneapolis Oxygen, another renowned family-owned business with over 75 years of experience serving Minnesota and beyond. This merger represents a unique partnership that brings together two strong, locally rooted companies to better serve our customers, team members, and communities.
A Rare and Exciting Union
Mergers of this kind are exceptionally rare in the industry, making this a momentous occasion. By joining forces, Central McGowan and Minneapolis Oxygen combine decades of expertise, expanded product offerings, and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction.
“This merger marks a historic milestone for both of our companies,” said Joe Francis, CEO of Central McGowan. “Together, we’re uniting our shared values of family ownership, community involvement, and a relentless focus on delivering exceptional service to our customers. We couldn’t be more excited about what this means for our team members, customers, and future growth opportunities.”
Honoring Our Shared Histories
Central McGowan, founded in 1947, has a rich legacy of growth and innovation. Operating across 11 locations with over 165 team members who make their customers a priority, Central McGowan serves the 5-state area with its products and services. The company has always prioritized community and customer relationships, as exemplified by its first merger in 1965, when McGowan Welding merged with Central Welding to form the business known today. As third generation owned business, they are well positioned to build upon past success.
Since 1946, family-owned Minneapolis Oxygen (MO2) has been a trusted provider of gas and welding supplies. Operating across five locations with a team of over 50 customer-focused team members, MO2 serves the Twin Cities, Western Wisconsin, and the Duluth/Iron Range. As a supplier for the Absolute Air plant—the only independently co-owned plant in the country—MO2 ensures a reliable, high-quality gas supply. For nearly eight decades, MO2 has been recognized for innovation, exceptional service, and the family-oriented values its customer’s trust. Their commitment to innovation, exceptional service, and family-oriented values adds significant strength and expertise to this partnership.
“This merger builds on a foundation of mutual respect and shared goals,” said Kevin Falconer, President of Minneapolis Oxygen. “We’re excited for our teams to come together under a new roof and build a new legacy together based on our shared commitment to our team members and customers.”
What This Means for Customers
In the beginning, both companies will operate as usual under their respective names, ensuring continuity for customers. No changes to day-to-day operations are anticipated, and customers can continue to rely on the exceptional service they have come to expect. This ensures a seamless transition that prioritizes stability and reliability without disruption to service. As we grow together, we will leverage our unique capabilities together as one team with one mission to best serve our customers and team members.
Expanding Our Reach and Capabilities
Minneapolis Oxygen and Central McGowan are coming together to form a stronger, more dynamic company, uniting our expertise and resources to better serve our customers. With locations across Ham Lake, Minneapolis, Shakopee, Hibbing, and Duluth, alongside Central McGowan’s existing sites in Minnesota, South Dakota, North Dakota, and Iowa, we are building a more robust network of service and supply across Midwest. Customers can look forward to expanded access to a broader range of products, services, and industry expertise—all backed by a shared commitment to excellence.
Looking Ahead
This partnership represents the next chapter in a shared vision for growth, innovation, and exceptional customer service. Together, Central McGowan and Minneapolis Oxygen are poised to set a new standard in the industry while staying true to their family-owned values and community roots.
For more information about Central McGowan, visit www.centralmcgowan.com. To learn more about Minneapolis Oxygen, visit www.mplso2.com.
Arc3 Gases Acquires Economy Welding and Industrial Supply
Arc3 Gases is pleased to announce the acquisition of Economy Welding & Industrial Supply LLC in Baden, Pennsylvania. Arc3 Gases is one of the largest privately owned and independently operated welding supply and industrial gas distributors in the country and serves customers in 9 states from Florida to Pennsylvania. This strategic acquisition brings Arc3 Gases to the robust Pittsburgh area market, and the Baden location will be its 59th retail store.
By joining Arc3 Gases, Economy Welding’s customers will have access to a broader selection of premier welding brands and enhanced gas solutions while retaining the same local and responsive customer service to which they have become accustomed.
“We are thrilled to welcome Economy Welding into the Arc3 Gases family,” said Emmett Aldredge III, President at Arc3 Gases. “Their superior customer service and local expertise aligns perfectly with our commitment to reliability, responsiveness, technical expertise, and relationships built on trust. Together, we look forward to a bright and successful future.”
“We’re excited to join forces with Arc3 Gases, a company that shares our dedication to customer service and quality products,” said Stephen Rosenthal, Vice President of Economy Welding & Industrial Supplies, LLC. “This partnership brings expanded resources and new opportunities to our customers while maintaining the same trusted relationships they’ve relied on for years.”
Holston Gases Opens New Branch Location in Charleston, SC
Holston Gases announced the opening of its newest branch location in Charleston, SC. This new operation will be Holston’s fifth store in the state and 44th store companywide. The new facility will be located at 1021 Bankton Circle, Hanahan, SC 29406.
“We are extremely pleased to expand our presence into the lowcountry of South Carolina. The Charleston market is one of the most dynamic and fastest growing areas in the entire country,” said Holston Gases President Joe Baxter. “Supported by our expanded production capabilities in the area, we are excited to begin providing the greater Charleston area with a full offering of our products and services.”
Holston Gases is one of the largest independent industrial gas and propane companies in the United States. Holston has been in business for more than 67 years. Its headquarters are located in Knoxville and it now has 44 locations in TN, KY, AL, NC, GA and SC.
Industrial Source Acquires APIS Labs
Industrial Source announces the successful completion of the asset purchase of APIS Labs, a strategic move that strengthens its market position and enhances its product and service offerings. The acquisition is set to drive innovation, expand customer reach, and create new growth opportunities for Industrial Source in the hydrocarbon market.
With this acquisition, Industrial Source aims to leverage APIS Labs expertise and market presence to accelerate its growth strategy. The integration of both companies will bring enhanced value to customers by combining complementary strengths, expertise, and resources.
APIS Labs, known for the purest hydrocarbons, filtration media, and post processing solvents during the extraction process, along with industry know-how to help its customers grow, has built a strong reputation in the cannabis industry.
The transition is expected to be seamless, with a clear integration plan in place to ensure continuity for customers, employees, and partners. Industrial Source remains committed to
maintaining the high standards and quality that both organizations are known for.
The acquisition was finalized on March 3rd, 2025.
Dale Oxygen Named of Pennsylvania Business Central’s Top 100 Organizations
According to a post on the company’s LinkedIn page, Dale Oxygen was named to Pennsylvania Business Central’s Top 100 Organizations. “This achievement is a true testament to the dedication of our remarkable team, the unwavering support of the communities we serve, and the strength of our valued partnerships!”
Save the Date for Haun Welding Supply’s 4th Annual Charity Golf Tournament
Haun Welding Supply will host its 4th Annual Charity Golf Tournament on September 16th, 2025 at Northern Pines Golf Course in Cicero, NY. The Tournament will once again benefit David’s Refuge. Sponsorship and registration info will be available soon.
