Our Story

Holston Gases was founded in 1958 by Pat Baxter and Bob Walsh in Knoxville, TN. They were a 2-man operation that grew to employ many others.

In 1976, Baxter bought out Walsh. In 1981, Pat’s son Bill joined the company, then in 1983 growth began in earnest. By 1990 there was a need for additional management depth, and Robert Anders joined the company. Over the next few years, Anders and Baxter groomed additional management talent internally. They also added people from national companies who sought the family owned, independent atmosphere that Holston offered.

Holston has grown to over 40 locations serving customers in 12 states. Steady, strategic acquisition continues, on top of a strong commitment to internal growth in existing locations.

Managers typically take over a branch operation and stay there for many years, running it as if it was their own business. They are part of the community and become involved in business, social and recreational activities. They take pride in representing Holston Gases and their role in local industry and commerce. They take the lead on our various efforts at “giving back” to our communities. This is part of our business philosophy.

We are proud of where we have come from, proud of where we are, and excited and optimistic about where we are going. We would be proud to earn your business, build a relationship, and keep you as a valued, long term customer.

Holston Gases is one of the largest independent suppliers of Industrial, Medical, Propane, and Beverage gases in the United States. Headquartered in Knoxville, Tn., Holston has grown to 42 locations in 6 states: Tennessee, Kentucky, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina, and serving customers in Virginia, West Virginia, Ohio, Mississippi, Illinois, and Indiana.

We carry all welding and industrial gases, medical, specialty and laboratory gases, beverage CO2, and propane. We equip ourselves to handle compressed cylinders, bulk facilities, and liquid requirements.

Holston Gases is a full line welding supply company that also carries safety and industrial supplies. Representing the finest lines in the industry, we can provide them to you at competitive prices. Financially strong, Holston Gases carries the inventory you expect and deserve from a top notch supplier.

We staff and equip ourselves to be responsive to your needs, day and night. Our people are dedicated, well trained, and courteous. Our equipment is top of the line, well maintained, and safe. Holston Gases is ready and able to be a valuable partner for your business success.

At Holston Gases, we pride ourselves in the fact that “the corporate overhead” is pretty lean. Here it is:

Chairman

Bill Baxter

President & CEO

Robert Anders

Executive Vice President

Joe Baxter

Vice President Operations

Wes Cooper

Regional Vice Presidents

Grant Sartain

Jason Blair

Matt Bird

Phil Kirby

Spyro Vassiliou

Troy Brown

That’s it. The real key for us is our Branch Managers. Each branch manager runs their own market, with support from the ten of us. They are the key to our success because they are the key person to our customers.