No value has been disclosed for the acquisition of the Swiss firm.

Baldwin Jimek, the Swedish subsidiary of US-based Baldwin, is already the exclusive global distributor for Hildebrand Systeme, following a deal struck in March 2005.

In a statement, Baldwin president and chief operating officer Karl Puehringer said the acquisition was a “logical next step” for the two firms’ relationship.

He said: “That relationship… has proven so beneficial to both companies that we decided to combine them to consolidate the marketing and operating strengths.

“Further, the Hildebrand owner/management team has demonstrated their support for the venture with their agreement to remain with Baldwin and continue to expand and grow the business.”