A Wiltshire-based supply chain specialist has established a presence in the defence and aerospace markets after buying a logistics services provider.

Wincanton plc, which has operations throughout the UK and Europe, now serves companies such as AgustaWestland, BAE Systems and Honeywell after buying Product Support.

The group paid £27 million for the company, funded from its existing debt. A further £3 million is also due depending on Product Support’s performance by April 2009.

The acquisition is the latest in a series by Wincanton designed to broaden its operations and increase its profits. Its other acquisitions this year have included HeBo, a logistics provider to technology companies in Germany, and the container logistics operations of Hanbury Davies.

Wincanton chief executive Graeme McFaull said the group has a track record of growing organically and through acquisition and this latest deal will continue its development.

Product Support’s services include managing time-critical spare parts and components, specialised storage, protective packaging design and manufacture, security screening and distribution. Wincanton intends to market these services to support new sectors.

The company employs more than 400 people from its 25 support centres. In the year to April 2008, it reported an EBITDA of £3.6 million from a £19.4 million turnover.