Chesterfield-based Cathelco — a manufacturer of equipment for ships — has acquired Hydro-Electrique Marine (HEM), a French company that specialises in desalinators and water treatment systems. The acquisition makes Cathelco one of Europe’s largest producers of shipboard water treatment systems and a key supplier to the super-yacht sector.

Managing director Justin Salisbury said: “The new venture will operate under the name of Cathelco HEM, emphasising the strength of two well-known brand names and creating a stronger presence in the water treatment market. The HEM range greatly increases the scope for desalinator sales and provides a good fit with our existing range.”

Cathelco, which was founded in 1956, said that manufacture of the HEM equipment will continue at the company's premises near Antibes in southern France.