Lisburn-based Unicorn Group has purchased PF Copeland Ltd and its subsidiary PFC Rainwater Systems Ltd, situated in Mallusk.

Adding the metal fabrication and rainwater product brands to its portfolio will strengthen the group’s export capabilities and give the acquisitions new export opportunities.

Unicorn (www.unicorn-group.com) exports to 42 countries world-wide and has reported a sales increase of 28% in the last two years.

Roger Pannell, the group’s managing director, said: “PF Copeland is a well-established company with a strong reputation for excellence in engineering.

"We look forward to building on the company’s success to date and its proud heritage by exploring further business opportunities.”

Peter Bloomfield, PF Copeland’s finance director, said: “PF Copeland Ltd is a third-generation company, and we are extremely proud of our heritage. This acquisition by Unicorn Group provides a great opportunity for the business in terms of accessing new markets.

"Unicorn Group is committed to keeping business in Northern Ireland, and there is a natural synergy between the services that PF Copeland Ltd and PFC Rainwater Systems provide and those that Unicorn Group offers.

"Essentially, the acquisition will extend Unicorn Group’s product portfolio, while the PF Copeland Ltd and PFC Rainwater Systems brands will be able to access new opportunities. It really is a very exciting time for the company, and our loyal and committed staff.”