Kärcher announced it has acquired Italian sweeping machine manufacturer and metal component producer ISAL, based in Corregio, Italy. The European Cleaning Journal reports that the purchase price is not being disclosed.

Kärcher says the two companies have been working together for over 10 years in the development of industrial sweepers. Following a bereavement in ISAL's owner family, it stepped in to acquire a 100 percent stake. ISAL will continue to run as an independent business at its current location.

“Our many years of cooperation with ISAL have been marked by great mutual appreciation and respect," said chief executive officer and chairman of the management board Hartmut Jenner. “By taking this strategic decision we are raising the bar of our competence in sweeping machine production still higher, and creating a solid foundation for long-term growth. The corporate culture of ISAL as an innovative family-run firm also fits in with us very well."

According to a press release on ISAL's coporate website, the manufacturer will continue to run as an independent company without any loss of jobs.