Helix Well Technologies, the Aberdeen-based oil drilling consultancy, is looking to expand into the lucrative US market following its (pounds) 5m acquisition of Reservoir Development Services (RDS), a local competitor, writes Jenny Masters.

Helix advises oil companies on the best method of extracting oil and gas from individual reservoirs, whereas RDS offers expertise in pinpointing the exact size and location of these deposits. The acquisition of RDS, which has offices in Aberdeen and London, was financed with loans from Bank of Scotland and was facilitated by 3i. The enlarged company will be known as Helix RDS.