A Knaresborough-based manufacturer of branded pest control products has acquired US company Curtis Gilmour, taking the firm’s total turnover to €125m and building on its worldwide expansion strategy.

The deal follows LDC’s multi-million-pound investment in Pelsis, which began in August 2017 and aims to accelerate its global growth strategy. The combined group will now operate from 15 international locations, selling into over 80 countries and employing over 420 people worldwide.

Curtis Gilmour will increase the scale of Pelsis’ US business through its Georgia and Indiana operations, and will also boost European output through its manufacturing facilities in Wales and Sweden.

Pelsis manufactures, supplies and distributes a broad range of pest control products that cover both professional and domestic markets. It sells to pest controllers, retailers, and international facilities management providers.

The company was established in 1984 as a fly killer brand. Since then, Pelsis has expanded internationally through its commitment to innovation, continued product development and quality customer care.

Curtis Gilmour also owns the B&G Equipment range of professional sprayers, Curtis Dyna-Fog premium fogging equipment, as well as trapping and monitoring brands, Agrisense and Silvandersson.

This is Pelsis’ first acquisition after LDC invested in the business in 2017, supporting the com pany’s buy-and-build strategy.

Peter Mangion, CEO of Pelsis Group, said: “LDC’s investment and support has allowed us to consolidate our market-leading position in Europe. The bringing together of these brands creates an even greater range of services and products to our customers across the USA and Europe.

“These are exciting times for Pelsis Group and we’re looking forward to expanding into further markets with LDC’s continued support.”

Dale Alderson, investment director at LDC, added: “The synergies this deal creates will bolster the position of the combined group as one of the world’s pre-eminent providers of pest control products and equipment, providing an even stronger platform for future growth.

“This is a major milestone for both businesses and we look forward to continuing to support Peter, his team and the wider group as they deliver their international growth ambitions moving forward.”