AN independent light bulb and accessories supplier based in Cleckheaton has expanded by acquiring a rival firm in Sussex.

Family-run Status International (UK) Limited has taken over Maxim Lamps to increase its market share.

In Cleckheaton Status operates from its head office, warehouse and distribution centre and in-house design studio and employs more than 80 staff.

Run by father and son, Peter and Nicholas McVeigh, who have more than 80 years combined experience in the lighting industry, the company is celebrating its 25th anniversary.

Status has customers across the UK and Europe, including national retailers, wholesalers, independent retailers and electrical wholesalers.

Maxim Lamps, based in Haywards Heath, produced its first light bulb in 1879. The company has been run in the UK by the Poytner family since 1910. It supplies a range of light bulbs and accessories for industrial applications to customers ranging from retailers and market traders to larger cash and carry outlets and electrical wholesalers .

Peter McVeigh, Status chairman, said: “I am delighted with the purchase of Maxim Lamps which will strengthen our existing product range. Maxim Lamps has been a competitor of ours for a number of years and it is a significant addition to our company as we look to grow the business further this year.

"We intend to retain the Maxim Lamps brand in certain categories. It is very much business as usual for existing Maxim Lamps customers during this period as we look to merge the two businesses.”