Judges Scientific, a West Sussex-based company that specialises in manufacturing scientific instruments, has acquired East Sussex-based rival Quorum Technologies for up to £1.5 million. 

Judges Scientific, a West Sussex-based company that specialises in manufacturing scientific instruments, has acquired East Sussex-based rival Quorum Technologies for up to £1.5 million.

Quorum manufactures preparation instruments for use in electron microscopy. The company was founded by Bob Kenhard, who will remain at the business for up to a year as managing director. The company generated a turnover of £4 million in the year ending October 2008, with operating profits of £749,000.

Alex Hambro, chairman of Judges Scientific, commented: “I am delighted that we have acquired this attractive business without issuing shares and without incurring imprudent levels of debt. It is important to pursue our strategy of enhancing earnings through the acquisition of niche businesses in our sector while adjusting our short-term ambitions to the realities of today’s financial environment.”

Judges Scientific reported revenues of £7.1 million in 2008, and pre-tax profits of £1.2 million.