Emerson has expanded its presence in the fluid power market by buying the Michigan-based pneumatics and motion controls manufacturer, Numatics.

The company, which has manufacturing plants in North America and Europe, will become part of Emerson Industrial Automation, where it will strengthen the capabilities of Emerson`s Asco Joucomatic division.

Jean-Paul Montupet, Emerson`s business leader for industrial automation, says he is "excited" about the acquisition, adding that it will "further strengthen our offering to global customers in several high-growth application areas, including electronics manufacturing and assembly, medical and analytical, packaging, and other high-speed assembly".

• Emerson is closing a motor manufacturing plant in Kennett, Missouri, with the loss of about 240 jobs. The move is a response to global competition and a downturn in demand. Work will be transferred to other plants.