PACKAGING group Ferguson yesterday launched an agreed #37.7m takeover

of printer Elswick.

Ferguson, whose offer values each Elswick share at 18.25p, reckons the

takeover will enhance the performance of its labels business.

The packaging group said it will consider selling the agrochemicals

business of Elswick, which is based at Alcester in Warwickshire.

Ferguson said activity in the UK is encouraging but Continental Europe

remains difficult.