A NORTH Wales-based builders' merchant, which has a branch in Whitchurch, is set to expand after purchasing a competitor.

Huws Gray recently announced its agreement to acquire the GB merchanting businesses from Grafton Group plc, which includes around 200 branches and 3,500 staff.

The deal is considered to be the biggest of its kind in the industry to date and is subject to customary regulatory approval by the Competition and Markets Authority.

Until this process is complete, the businesses will continue to trade independently.

This process is expected to close by the end of the first quarter of 2022.

Terry Owen, founder and chairman of Huws Gray, said he was excited by the deal.

"We are thoroughly excited and feel extremely privileged to be able to acquire such a well-respected name in the industry," he said.

"This has given us the opportunity to more than double our branch network and substantially increases our geographical footprint.

"We look forward to working alongside our new colleagues and continuing on our exciting journey."

Ian Northen, chief executive officer for Huws Gray, added: "We look forward to meeting our new colleagues across the business at the earliest opportunity.

"Through this acquisition, by working together as one team, we will continue on our journey, with a clear focus to deliver the best service possible to all our customers, at the same time as creating opportunities for new and existing colleagues."