The founders of the US-based equipment manufacturer BakeTech have decided to merge into AMF Bakery Systems.

BakeTech is the wholesale baking industry's leading supplier of continuous proofers, ovens, and coolers.

Geri Walker, president of BakeTech, said: "As Bob Miller and I approach our retirement, we were concerned
about the future of our company and how to best position it to continue leading the industry in both technology and service.

"The two of us along with Stephen Smith, who will continue working for many years, were particularly concerned about our customers as well as the people who work at BakeTech. When we looked at our industry, we concluded that AMF was the best place to ensure the legacy we have worked over 20 years to create.

"They have a similar commitment to our customers and our people as well as a financial situation that gives the industry great confidence that they will be around for many, many years.

"It was the only place we felt would enhance BakeTech and continue to support our people and our customers like we would."