Nicholl Food Packaging has increased its presence in continental Europe with the purchase of German aluminium foil container manufacturer Bachmann Aluminium.

Nicholl, which already has facilities in France and Belgium, said Hannover-based Bachmann "fits well" with its plans for expansion in the sector.

Nicholl chief executive Andrew Dent said: "It represents an opportunity for market growth in Germany and the Eastern European market."

Germany is the second-largest largest container market in Europe after the UK.

Cannock-based Nicholl produces aluminium foil food containers for retailers, food manufacturers and the professional catering industry, and employs 400 staff.

As well as its European plants, Nicholl operates two production sites in the UK and has a turnover of more than £60m.