Catering equipment supplier Malibu Corporation has been acquired by Jestic Foodservice Equipment.

The Manchester-based family-run business will continue to operate as a separate company under its existing name, said Jestic managing director Ben Dale.

Malibu supplies items including heavy-duty griddles, ventless fryers and drawer warmers to UK-based casual dining and quick-service restaurants, hotels and convenience stores.

Dale described the acquisition, the first Jestic has made since it was taken over by South Africa-based Universal Industries International in April this year, as an “exciting chapter”.

“The range of equipment distributed by Malibu perfectly complements and broadens our existing portfolio,” he said.

“Jestic will be investing heavily in its facilities at the Manchester site in order to create a fully-equipped test kitchen and meeting facility for Jestic customers in the north of England.”

Tony Keating, former Malibu owner and current managing director, will remain involved in the business.

Brands including Josper, Wood Stone, Sveba-Dahlen, Edge and Alfa Pro are among those in Kent-based Jestic’s portfolio.