Shipbuilding and support services supplier VT Group PLC bought training company Touchstone Learning and Skills Ltd for $20.9 million. VT acquired the work-based training provider, which specializes in the retail sector, from Martin Loftus and Touchstone Property Management Ltd. Southampton-based VT is paying $1.3 million in cash on completion and $19.6 in loan notes. Touchstone has annual profits of more than $1.7 million, operates primarily through UK government-funded contracts with the Learning and Skills Council (LSC) and has offices in several locations across England. VT, which already works in the hospitality, leisure, engineering and care sectors, said the acquisition would allow it to move into the retail market.
(Source: Forbes)