Accantia Hair & Beauty has shrugged off suggestions it may streamline the brand portfolio acquired last week from Smith & Nephew Consumer Division. In fact it has declared its strategy will be one of "buy and build". The company's umbrella covers the 32 product Simple skincare, toiletries and soap range, Lil-lets tampons, and Wrights and Cidal soap ­ all acquired by a management buy in. Accantia will also continue to produce retailer own brand toiletries ­ around 20-25% of its business. MD Geoff Percy said all the brands were performing well. "We are looking to grow the company," he added. "Both organically and by acquisition." Percy hinted at possible target areas but refused to be specific. "Our core competencies are toiletries and skin care and we already have the number three soap brand in the UK. That should offer some clue," he said. Accantia is currently reviewing brands' marketing budgets and Percy said these would increase. "Now that consumer products is a strategic focus, we're able to respond very quickly to retail brands in consumer areas ­ probably more quickly than global brands. Our approach to consumer advertising will be different," he said. {{P&P }}