Director of sales and marketing Mike Favell said Alcan had been reviewing the acquisition for just over a year, following an approach from Qualicoat owner Nigel Anderson, who will leave the firm at the end of the year.

At the time, we were not looking to expand. But the company has a strong security finishing base which we dont have, said Favell.

Favell said a review of Qualicoat was underway, but that the plan was to retain all of its staff.

Anderson will leave the company at the end of the year to explore a career outside the industry, said Favell.

Andersons brother Carl, currently production director, will take up the new role of factory manager.