Belgian designer and manufacturer of PVCu window systems and building profiles, Deceuninck Plastics Industries NV (Bruggesteenweg 164, B-8830 Hooglede-Gits), has acquired Status Systems PVCu Ltd (Delph New Road, Delph, GB-Oldham OL3 5BY) from the UK private equity firm Phildrew Ventures. Status Systems is one of the UK´s leading PVCu window and door profile extruders, with a staff of 120 and 1998 sales of GBP 16m (EUR 24m). It is described by Deceuninck as “profitable.” The Belgian firm said Status Systems´ range and market segments complement those of its Calne-based Deceuninck Ltd, adding that “both companies will benefit from the synergies created” through the acquisition.

For Deceuninck, the UK buy will lead to a “significant increase” in its share of the British market – the UK is the second largest window market in Europe, behind Germany. With the takeover, it will move into the ranks of the UK´s top five producers, with annual sales of up to GBP 38m (EUR 57m). Despite a softer US dollar and pound Sterling, the company said it beat its 1998 sales target of EUR 223m. Consolidated sales rose 14% to nearly EUR 230m. Full financial results for 1998 will be published in late March. Deceuninck said it continues to be in the market for futher acquisitions and/or joint ventures.