AWARD-WINNING brickmaker Wienerberger has bought a rival.

The world's largest brick manufacturer, which recently won an Environment Award for Kent Business for continuous improvement at its Sittingbourne plant, has taken over Baggeridge Brick to create one of the largest brick manufacturers in the UK.

Alan Baxter, former chief executive of Baggeridge, becomes CEO of the new company, which now has 14 manufacturing sites and two distribution depots.

He said: "2008 is sure to be an exciting year for Wienerberger and we are now ready to move forward as one company. Wienerberger and Baggeridge complement each other perfectly and we are now able to offer our customers a lot more in terms of choice and availability."

He added: "Sustainability will be a key focus for the enlarged company and the principles of environmental best practice are embraced by everyone throughout each of our manufacturing locations.

"Care for the environment is at the heart of our business and we remain committed to reducing our carbon footprint for the benefit of future generations."