Gloucester-based Advanced Insulation is strengthening its subsea division with the acquisition of Bardot, a French-based specialist.

As part of the acquisition, a new company, AIS Bardot, has been created. It will operate independently, but collaborate with Advanced Insulation to bring a wider range of products to both companies' customers.

Greg Hue, currently global sales manager, will become country manager for France. In his new role, Greg will continue to lead sales for AIS marine division, whilst integrating AIS Bardot product range and solutions into the portfolio.

Greg said: "Our combined strengths will help customers achieve cost efficiencies and have access to a broader range of products and solutions."

This acquisition comes just weeks after Advanced Insulation announced the expansion into a new unit in Gloucester to meet increasing demand for their subsea product range.

Andrew Bennion, group managing director, said: "This acquisition perfectly aligns with our growth strategy and meets criteria that we have already set out, including technology that complements our existing business, strong customer base and the ability to leverage our effective operating model.

"While Covid-19 has created some unexpected challenges, we are confident that our agility and continued investment in research and development will deliver continued growth."

The Bardot Group is well known as a designer and manufacturer of polyurethane moulded products including bend restrictors and bend stiffeners. It has developed a range of additional solutions to support the oil and gas and renewables sectors, which complement and extend Advanced Insulation's current product range.