EMPLOYEE communications specialist, Trident Communications of York, has bought out Edinburgh-based Carter Rae for an undisclosed sum.

The move adds Scotland to Trident's international network, which includes offices in London, York, Coventry, Munich, Dubai and New York, and an associate office in the Netherlands.

But the operation will be handled from York, where Andy Douse handled the company's northern interests.

Where Trident produces internal magazines and newsletters for the likes of Yorkshire Water, Yorkshire Bank, BT, Shell and the Metropolitan Police, Carter Rae produces internal publications for Scottish Power and Scottish Heritage.

Carter Rae will continue with its name and identity and co-founder Jenny Carter will continue to maintain her shareholding.

Mr Douse said: "This is an exciting move for both Trident and Carter Rae and is indicative of some of the consolidation in the employee communications industry.

"The demands on our industry are for greater professionalism, faster response and focused resources. I believe that this merger will allow each of us to improve our support for our existing clients and extend our offer to new ones."

Both organisations have increasingly worked together on joint client projects including publications, eCommunications and consultancy.

Updated: 10:43 Wednesday, April 14, 2004