Garden timber manufacturer Hillhout has merged with Dutch brand Gouderak BV, creating one of the largest garden timber firms in Europe.
The move will see the company change its name to the Outdoor Life Group, while continuing to operate both brands separately. The new company will have a combined turnover in excess of €120m.

Commenting on the merger, head of sales Steve Wain said: "The merger makes things bigger and better than ever, increasing our capacity to produce and our ability to deliver. We will have the capability in some cases to deliver direct to the end user, which will mean less of a financial burden for our stockists."