Vacuum cleaner manufacturer sold to West Mids counterpart

James Stansfield

A Northampton-based industrial vacuum cleaner manufacturer has been bought by Telford air extraction and filtration specialist Filtermist International.

Established in 1960, Kerstar produces a range of cleaners, including ATEX-accredited machines for use in explosion risk environments, from its facility in Northampton, exporting to more than 19 countries worldwide through a network of approved distributors.

“The opportunity to add Kerstar to our portfolio offered a very interesting proposition for us,” said Filtermist International CEO James Stansfield.

“Its products are used by a number of our existing customers in a range of industrial sectors so are a perfect addition to our offer. The firm also has a presence in some markets that we’re not currently active in, so offer a good opportunity to cross-sell expertise and services from our other business units.

“Kerstar already has established routes to global markets and we will be expanding this side of the business using our own channels and exporting experience.”

Kerstar’s previous owners, Andrey and Tom Starcevic, will stay on with the business for a time after the acquisition to assist with the handover and all other employees will be retained in their existing positions.

Tom Starcevic said: “Kerstar has been a family firm for almost 60 years and, in that time, the business has grown significantly and achieved a huge amount. We are very pleased to have found a buyer that is willing to invest in the firm to ensure it continues to grow and we wish Filtermist every success in the future.”

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