A CARPET firm is enjoying a busy time after announcing a takeover, two awards and a positive annual report.

Kidderminster's Victoria Carpets has splashed out more than £1.6 million on Irish business Navan Carpets - and will transfer equipment to its Kidderminster base.

Two prestigious industry awards have also been bestowed on Victoria by 130 members of Hereford-based Greendale Carpets, an independent carpet-buying group.

The firm has scooped the best service award and best product award, both for 2002.

Joint managing director John Duncan said: "We are delighted once again to receive this level of recognition from Greendale, particularly as Victoria is the only manufacturer who has ever won the best service and best product awards in the same year.

"The awards reflect official credit from one of the most respected buying groups in the country, who have acknowledged the investment and dedication to products and service from everyone here at Victoria Carpets.

"We look forward to building further on this strong partnership with Greendale and its members."

The firm was judged on efficiency of service, while its Tudor Twist, which comes in 40 colours, was named best product.

County Meath-based Navan, formed in 1938, manufactured and distributed leading carpet brands in the Irish residential and contract markets, being a significant supplier to the hotel sector.

The Navan Carpet range will be managed and serviced in Ireland and will form a division of Munster Carpets, which became part of the Victoria group last October.

Plant will be transferred to Kidderminster, where there is capacity to serve both Victoria and Navan.

Victoria chairman Bob Gilbert said: "With Navan's strength in retail and Munster's in contract, Victoria will now undoubtedly be one of the most significant players in the Irish market."

Meanwhile, the firm has reported strong trading across the group in the first quarter of the new financial year, with the Australian operation performing well - with sales up - despite difficult market conditions both there and in the UK.

And sales from Victoria Carpets have continued to grow, resulting in increased profitability.