ONE of the largest employers in Redditch has been bought out by two of its directors, who have announced ambitious plans for its future.

AMS Group, based in South Moons Moat, employs 240 people and is one of the UK's leading manufacturers of bespoke interiors and display equipment for retail and financial outlets.

The company manufactured a majority of the display equipment in the new Debenham's and Selfridge's stores in Birmingham's Bullring development and lists Tesco, Specsavers, Carphone Warehouse, McDonald's and Nationwide among its blue chip client base.

The recent buyout was led by AMS managing director Jim Clark, who now becomes the majority shareholder, in association with its operations director Ian Parr.

Chairman John Sharp, who continues his role, previously held the majority shareholding in the company. The other existing shareholder, Neil Burton, will continue in a commercial role.

Mr Sharp said "I am delighted we have been able to achieve this planned change to the company structure, enabling it to be successfully handed over to Jim Clark and Ian Parr supported by members of the experienced management team.

"This will ensure we maintain our respected position in our core retail and financial markets but, as important, provide us with a firm base to develop our current diversification into the healthcare, education and hotel furniture marketplace.

"It is anticipated that these successful initiatives will result in the expansion of our manufacturing facilities and workforce."