Arch Coatings UK has increased its share of the wood finishes market with the acquisition of Butler Mabbutt & Wrighton (BM&W) of Northampton and the industrial division of Humbrol Ltd, Hull.
BM&W manufactures finishes for wood, leather and plastics, while Humbrol’s product lines comprise varnishes, textured finishes and other industrial coatings. Their combined sales in 2000 were about £1.7m.
Philip Crouchman, general manager of Arch Coatings UK, said the acquisitions gave Arch increased manufacturing capacity, more specialty products, additional technology and entrance into some niche markets within the joinery/furniture sector.
He said the two companies’ products would retain their brand names for the foreseeable future and extra staff would be recruited.
Mr Crouchman, who estimates Arch’s market share to be around 15% now, said: ‘These acquisitions strengthen Arch’s position as one of the top three coatings suppliers in the UK.’
Manufacture of Humbrol’s industrial range will transfer to BM&W’s Northampton site.
