Education Development International (EDI), a provider of vocational and professional qualifications, has acquired Peter Honey Publications (PHP) for up to £1.25 million.

Maidenhead-based PHP publishes self-assessment learning tools and customers include universities, public authorities and blue chip private sector organisations.

Nigel Snook, EDI chief executive, said: 'The business can be integrated with our own operations in a short period of time and with the minimum of disruption. This will provide immediate synergies although we plan to invest in the development and marketing of the... services we have acquired.'

In the year ending September, EDI reported an increase in revenue of 32 per cent to £28.3 million, while operating profits were up 200 per cent to £8.1 million.