Figures tell us a lot about a company’s financial performance. Just as important, however, are the facts behind the figures. In other words, the company’s values and strengths, and the people who drive sustainable, successful growth. These are the pillars that create trust and will enable us to weather the storms that lie before us in 2009, and quite possibly beyond.

Our company is built on strong foundations. This solid basis, established over a number of years, enables us to remain competitive even in economically trying times. And we can back up this confident outlook with concrete examples. The best ones are showcased in this edition of the Linde Annual.

For example, we outline the synergies that exist between our Gases and Engineering Divisions. Our position as a technology leader in international plant engineering gives us a real competitive edge that we systematically use to our advantage. Over many years, the Engineering Division has established itself as a trustworthy partner, building an extensive network of business relationships in numerous countries, particularly in emerging markets. We are increasingly using these contacts to drive new business for our Gases Division.

Our confidence is also fuelled by a number of global megatrends from which we continue to profit. Growing demand for a sustainable, secure source of energy is just one example. Here, our products and processes are helping to make renewable sources of energy economically viable and cut fossil fuel consumption levels.

Stability is another key factor behind our excellent position in promising growth markets such as China. As the following example illustrates, the potential for growth in these economies is huge. In Western Europe, the annual per capita outlay for industrial gases totals USD 38. In China, this figure currently amounts to just USD 2. Furthermore, the acquisition of BOC has made us a true global player. We are now active in around 100 countries across the globe and enjoy a strong foothold in each of these markets.

Innovation is the engine that enables us to maintain our steady course. Thanks to our ongoing research and development activities, we can continually launch new gas applications for areas as diverse as healthcare and the photovoltaic industry. Our R&D experts are committed to developing new ideas – after all, we have only begun to unlock the true potential of industrial gases.

Our relative resistance to economic turbulence is further bolstered by our extensive product portfolio, serving customers from a wide range of industries. Naturally, we are also affected if, for example, fewer orders for welding gases are placed by customers in the automotive industry. Yet this has to be seen in the context of a diversified business base with segments such as the beverages industry, where demand for our gases remains at a stable high.

The world of Linde is an exciting place – which is why we are keen for you to take a closer look. But this is not the only reason. You also have the right to find out how well prepared we are to face what may well be the most serious economic crisis in decades. However, even the best strategies and business models will come to nothing without a dedicated workforce willing to do their utmost to realise these plans every single day.

We have set ourselves the clear goal of becoming an all-out high performance organisation (HPO). In other words, a company where everyone gives 100 percent and continuously strives for improvement. And where processes are examined and optimised whenever and wherever necessary. This approach will enable us to significantly drive efficiency and productivity levels over the coming years and further improve our overall competitive position. Although we can only present just a few of the people who are passionate about Linde in this edition of the Annual, you can rest assured that they represent the dedication and positive mindset of each and every member of our nearly 52,000-strong team.

Professor Dr Wolfgang Reitzle
Chief Executive Officer of Linde AG