A business has acquired an internationally renowned consultancy as part of plans to accelerate its growth.

BEP Surface Technologies, situated in Radcliffe, has completed a deal for an undisclosed sum to acquire Huddersfield-based Plating Solutions, a specialised metal finishing plant design and equipment consultancy.

Plating Solutions, which was launched 20 years ago by industry luminary John Torr, boasts a "raft of UK and international clients and is a chemical stockist for plating solutions".

The deal marks BEP's "significant expansion and positions it as a forerunner in the UK’s metal plating and specialty chemicals trading" and enhances its "capabilities to serve diverse industries".

The deal will allow for the eventual retirement of Mr Torr, who will take a consultant’s role and lead a team of commercial staff and chemical engineers.

BEP managing director Andrew McClusky said: "We are thrilled to welcome John Torr and the Plating Solutions clients into the BEP family.

"John's unparalleled expertise and dedication to advancing surface technologies perfectly align with our mission to drive innovation and excellence in engineering.”

The acquisition marks another significant milestone for BEP, which recently launched BEP Solutions to accelerate international R&D partnerships to solve global challenges in surface coating.

“John’s stellar reputation in innovation and problem-solving has been instrumental in providing cutting-edge solutions to clients across the UK and internationally,” added Mr McClusky.

“Our recently launched innovation arm, BEP Solutions, will benefit from his deep understanding of process chemistry and commitment to excellence, which have earned him recognition as a leader in the field.”

Mr Torr, who has more than 55 years of experience developing pioneering electroplating solutions, shared his excitement about the partnership.

He said: "Joining forces with BEP Solutions presents an exciting opportunity for me to share my expertise.

"I am confident that we will continue to deliver exceptional solutions while driving innovation in metal plating.

"I look forward to contributing to BEP's visionary projects and leading a team of passionate professionals toward new heights of success."

Established more than half a century ago, BEP operates in the plastics, defence, energy, power generation, and nuclear sectors, offering unique solutions to contemporary challenges in cutting-edge industries, including EV battery production.