Heiton Holdings, the builders providers and Woodies DIY group, has acquired the builders merchants business of Monaghan-based David Patton Ltd for £780,000.

The acquisition, said Heiton's group chief executive, Mr Richard Hewat, enabled the group to "further build market share in the north east of Ireland".

The deal is subject to confirmation of working capital valuations. Patton, the leading builders merchants in the Monaghan area, operates from freehold premises in Milltown, on the edge of the town. It generates sales of £l.7 million.

Heiton intends to use the acquired business to expand its presence in that area, and margins are expected to improve.

David Patton also operates a retail DlY business which it retains. Heiton will be changing the name of Patton's builders merchants to Heitons.

The acquisition follows the purchase of McCormack Builders Merchants, in Gorey. Co Wexford, in July.