Polyurethanes converter Recticel (Brussels / Belgium; www.recticel.com) is to acquire UK insulation manufacturer Gradient (Wolverhampton; www.gradientuk.com) for an undisclosed sum. Gradient specialises in the flat roof market and has forecast turnover in 2007 of EUR 7m. The company, which has around 25 employees, produces insulation in varying thicknesses for flat roofs.

Its acquisition allows Recticel to extend its presence in the insulation market for standard products and in specialised applications. The deal complements Recticel’s investment in a new production plant in Stoke-on-Trent / UK that is due to become operational in mid-2008.