A LEADING Bradford-based healthcare business is in new ownership after 30 years following its acquisition by the UK arm of a US-based global competitor.

Drive Medical Limited, based in Elland, has bought Birkenshaw-based Park House Healthcare for an undisclosed sum. Park House, whose founder Stephen Owens said they faced a positive future under new ownership, will continue to trade under its own name as an autonomous subsidiary from its £3 million purpose-built headquarters which opened in 2007 and employs nearly 200 people.

Drive UK managing director Richard McGleenan said the two businesses had many synergies and the closeness of locations was one of the attractions of the deal.

Drive has nearly 400 staff in the UK with manufacturing sites in Leicester, Derbyshire and a distribution operation in South Wales.

Stephen Owens, who founded Park House in the garage of his East Bierley home in 1984, said the business was now one of the top 20 SMEs in Yorkshire and the takeover would provide new impetus for further growth and development.

Park House Healthcare, which has become a leading manufacturer and supplier of pressure care products, hospital and community beds and moving and handling equipment, will continue to trade under its own name and branding .

Mr Owens said the deal would provide new opportunities for employees to advance their careers. He said: “This deal provides the impetus for future progress for the business which is highly respected in its field.”

Drive has made three UK acquisitions and is part of the largest company of its type in the United States.

“ Everyone at Park House Healthcare is delighted with the acquisition by Drive Medical. It is an excellent fit for our people whilst providing a formidable platform to increase market share and quickly gain recognition as leaders in pressure care.”

Richard McGleenan said: “ With over 25 distributors worldwide and over 30 years of healthcare experience in the UK, this is a key acquisition for Drive and extends our product portfolio in the pressure prevention and long-term care market segments. We look forward to working with Stephen and his team in expanding our business in this specialised area.”

Drive Medical Limited is part of the US-based Drive Medical Group, a global manufacturer and distributor of medical equipment, including manual and powered wheelchairs, scooters and walking aids.

Harvey P. Diamond, chairman and chief executive, said: “This is a strategic acquisition for Drive Medical and will greatly enhance our global stature in the rapidly growing markets of pressure prevention and long term care.

“Furthermore, with this acquisition Drive gains a seasoned management team, led by Stephen Owens, who will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to our organisation.”

The acquisition would boost Drive’s presence in Europe and its position as a supplier to the NHS and UK long-term care markets.