HAMPSHIRE-based Safeguard International has branched out by taking over a fellow supplier of consumable hygiene products.

The Alton company has bought out Davidson Hygiene - based in Waterlooville - a leading supplier of paper-based hygiene cleaning solutions for the agricultural and commercial/office sectors.

Set up in 1991, Safeguard is a successful supplier of hygiene products, protective clothing, packaging and consumables supplies to both the manufacturing and industrial sectors.

The two companies are a perfect fit as both operate in the same product areas but target distinctly different sectors. The combined operation will be known as Consumables Solutions and has already relocated all operations to one site in Waterlooville, securing additional capacity and room for continual growth.

Managing director Ray Hall said: "Davidson Hygiene has a great reputation and I'm delighted that we have taken over a company we have respected for so long."