INDEPENDENT contract stationer Whitegrove has acquired the Midlands business of Central Office and will merge operations in the Midlands and on the South Coast.

Whitegrove, which is based in Boyatt Wood, Eastleigh, says the established furniture division and distribution operation of Central will be used to enhance Whitegrove's distribution logistics, and similarly Central will benefit from Whitegrove's strong presence in the South.

Whitegrove managing director Ben Richards said: "We have been looking for an opportunity to grow our business in the Midlands. Central provides not only this but also some valuable expertise in furniture.''