NORWALK, CT -- Arch Chemicals Inc. has acquired Butler Mabbutt & Wrighton (BM&W), a producer of finishes for wood, leather and plastic products, and the Industrial Division of Humbrol Ltd., a manufacturer of varnishes, textured finishes and various other industrial coatings.

The total combined sales of the two businesses, both located in the UK, were approximately $2.5 million in 2000. Arch said the businesses will be integrated into Arch Coatings UK, part of the company's Performance Products segment. The acquisitions "strengthen Arch's position as one of the top three coatings suppliers in the U.K. market," said Philip Crouchman, general manager of Arch Coatings UK.