MacFarlane Group, the manufacturers and suppliers of cardboard, plastic and bespoke packaging, is looking to sell off non-core divisions of its manufacturing business in order to concentrate on its successful packaging distribution operation.

The group is also looking to promote growth through acquisitions, and is seeking in particular suitable regional distribution businesses between £5m to £10m to add to its current UK operations.

The group has not spcified which of its businesses it is looking to offload, although it is not thought that its Kilmarnock and Dublin-based labels division will be targets, as they have had significant sales successes in Europe.

Chief Executive Peter Atkinson said "Our packaging distribution business is benefitting from investments made last year in the management team and new business development. Our market leading position creates clear potential for profitable growth in this business both organically and by acquisition.

The board has concluded that the group's interests would be best served by concentrating on those business activities where we have good market positions. Accordingly, discussions with prospective purchasers for certain non-strategic activities within our manufacturing operations are being pursued."