Bruynzeel, which has been manufacturing kitchens since 1937, has taken over 100% of the Keller Group shares in an agreement described as a "new and exciting cooperation".

The new organisation means the Netherlands now houses one of Europe's largest kitchen furniture factories, however a joint statement from Keller and Bruynzeel says they will "retain their own individual identities and independence and continue with their individual policies, strategies, brands, collections and production plants."

The cooperation between the two manufacturers will, the statement says, "create an organisation that will take a leading role in the European kitchen market".

Willem Keller, managing director of Keller Kitchens, said: "We are really pleased that this union represents no negative consequences for our employees; the move is entirely positive. I will remain [in my current position].

"Due to the size of our concern now, we can look forward to cost savings in areas such as purchasing, product development and new production methods and technologies. This enables Keller to improve the performance levels in terms of better products and services in a cost-effective manner which is important in these challenging times.

"The union with Bruynzeel will help Keller to increase its competitive power and to establish growth in the fast moving and widespread European kitchen industry. Equally importantly, the future of the company is guaranteed for years to come."