BRE, the UK's long-established building research and consultancy centre, is negotiating to purchase the Loss Prevention Council from its owners, Lloyd's and the Association of British Insurers.

LPC specialises in product testing and certification, as well as general research, focused mainly on fire and security issues. Its activities are complementary to BRE interests, especially in fire safety.

Says ABI director general Mary Francis: "We see the sale as an important initiative to help LPC grow in an international marketplace whilst strengthening the research and certification service it provides to the insurance industry."

LPC currently has an annual turnover of about £6.5M and employs 120 staff. BRE, owned by the Foundation for the Built Environment following privatisation in 1997, is hoping to complete the acquisition by the end of January.

Elliott Chase