Telford-based Filtermist International Ltd (www.filtermist.co.uk), an air extraction and filtration specialist, has acquired industrial vacuum cleaner manufacturer Kerstar Ltd in Northampton.

Established in 1960, Kerstar produces a range of cleaners, including ATEX-accredited machines for use in explosion-risk environments, and has built up a loyal customer base. It also exports its machines to more than 19 countries world-wide through a network of approved distributors.

Filtermist CEO James Stansfield, said: “The opportunity to add Kerstar to our portfolio was a very interesting proposition for us.

“Its products are used by a number of our existing customers in a range of industrial sectors, so it is a perfect addition to our offering.

"The firm also has a presence in some markets that we are not currently active in, so we will have the opportunity to cross-sell expertise and services from our other business units.”

This is the third acquisition Filtermist has completed so far this year.

It acquired the Banbury-based DCS Group in January and recently announced a deal to purchase the assets of Birmingham-based Carter Environmental Engineers’ air services division.

Mr Stansfield said: “Acquisitions play a key role in our wider group strategic growth plans. This strategy is being rolled out world-wide.”