With operations across all economic sectors, Multigas rests on a heritage of almost a hundred years servicing Malta’s industries. From its facilities in Kirkop, Multigas plays a key role in multiple aspects of Malta’s economy, supplying the healthcare sector, water treatment plants, the food, pharmaceutical, automotive and electronic industries as well as metal fabrication among many others. And, as CEO Noel Micallef observes, providing a seamless and reliable service is essential, requiring a dedication to operate at the highest levels.
Inġ Micallef was appointed CEO of Multigas earlier this year, having joined the company twelve months prior. With three decades of experience in the electronic sector, very much focused on efficiency, and building on his predecessor’s valuable work; he outlines his vision for the company based on “operational excellence, digital transformation; innovation and sustainability, a customer-centric approach, talent development, and diversity”.
Originally established in 1926 as L. Farrugia and Sons, the company restructured under the Multigas brand in 1986. It now continues to serve as the lead gas supplier for several industries. Besides nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide, argon, acetylene and hydrogen products and a wide range of gas mixtures and refrigerant gases, Multigas also caters for so-called specialty gases. As Inġ Micallef explains, “These rare and ultra-pure gases are often used in research, semiconductor manufacturing, environmental monitoring, food and beverage production, pharmaceuticals, and medical settings.”
Providing overall service, including its own technicians, bulk and cylinder delivery fleet, and logistical personnel covering a 24/7 service, Multigas also “imports and distributes complimentary gas-management equipment, specialised welding machines and consumables” under its MGTech brand.
Its facilities are located strategically to ensure a key service to key customers. A hub of well-organised activity, the company also produces nitrogen and oxygen gases on site. Inġ Micallef explains that this capability came to the fore during the pandemic, as Multigas continued to furnish the health sector with medical oxygen, GMP nitrogen and medicinal air, irrespective of the logistical challenges that severely impacted supplies to Malta.
And this emphasis on ensuring that clients are well-supplied is integrated into the various operations adopted by Multigas. Inġ Micallef explains that both the company and its major clients are equipped with connected dashboards that monitor use and allow for timely deliveries. This digitalisation of services is one of the “added benefits” of partnering with Multigas as the company’s CEO highlights, noting that “the seamless supply to the client, results in a reliable service.” A good example are supplies to clients in Gozo including its hospital, which involve specific logistical issues due to the nature of the products. Planning is crucial to ensure delivery. Inġ Micallef is amply clear on the company’s mindset, as he states that “you can count on us today and tomorrow.”
The company has recently been awarded the “Supply of Domiciliary Medical Oxygen Including Home Delivery” tender for the next three years starting from 2025. Inġ Micallef remarks that they are “looking forward to embarking on this journey and setting new benchmarks in healthcare support.” And preparations are already underway as the CEO pinpoints that “we will be overhauling our IT infrastructure by leveraging cutting-edge AI technology” to provide health authorities with the possibility to monitor oxygen consumption patterns of patients and identify any health deterioration if need be.
With its long-standing experience in the industry, the company is well placed to identify the developments ahead. Inġ Micallef observes that “the gas industry is undergoing significant transformations due to various developments” going on to list several scenarios including ongoing geopolitical tensions; the rapid advancement of various technologies, and the shift toward clean energy policies, among others.
On the production of semiconductors, the CEO points out that “Europe has responded with the European Chips Act (ECA), aimed at bolstering the region’s leadership in semiconductor technologies. As chip production expands, industrial gas consumption—especially for nitrogen and special gases—will rise to support semiconductor manufacturing.”
Furthermore, of particular interest to the local business community, Inġ Micallef notes that businesses in the refrigeration and air conditioning sectors should keep an eye on “the evolving regulatory landscape for refrigerant gases: stay informed and invest in compliant technologies for long-term sustainability”. As a company, they “closely monitor local demand” as he expects that “natural refrigerants like Ammonia and Carbon Dioxide are poised to gain popularity due to these changes.”
Safety and integrity are paramount. Inġ Micallef underlines that at Multigas, “we have people at heart, both those we employ and those we serve,” and that they “do the right thing even when the choice isn’t easy.” The company is a member of the European Industrial Gases Association (EIGA), a hundred-year-old organisation representing most European companies in the field with a special focus on safety and technical matters. This membership allows the company to tap into what Inġ Micallef considers an “excellent resource of knowledge and best practices”.
The company operates in various highly-regulated sectors. As Inġ Micallef points out, this translates into constant audits, and Multigas is “very proud” of its track record, reflecting “the ethos of its shareholders: that of pursuing the highest of standards.” The company is certified to various ISO standards in quality, environment, and health and safety, as well as being certified for food safety. Its workshop is also ISO accredited to test and repair cylinders in accordance with European Standards.
Aware of its responsibilities towards sustainability, Multigas is set to continue placing “priority on developing eco-friendly gas production methods, reducing emissions, and championing energy-efficient solutions to appeal to environmentally conscious customers,” explains Inġ Micallef. Looking ahead, he notes that the expected adoption of a national hydrogen strategy “could significantly pave the way for importation of green hydrogen” that will in turn “revolutionise the local energy sector and transform the transportation landscape for both people and goods.”
These developments have great potential, with Multigas highlighting its expertise in the safe storage, transportation and application of cryogenic gases. Inġ Micallef is quick to point out that they “are committed to supporting the integration of hydrogen technology as soon as it becomes viable, both technically and economically.”
Inġ Micallef is confident that Multigas’ experience and commitment puts it in good stead to continue playing an important role in its position as a leading supplier of various gas products, unequivocally stating that “by adhering to our core values and embracing change, I am confident that we will realise this vision and unlock a wealth of new opportunities for growth and prosperity in the years ahead.”
