Japanese consumer products maker Kao Corp. said Aug. 10 that its U.S. unit completed the purchase of Washing Systems LLC from California-based private equity firm Gryphon Investors for an undisclosed sum.

Washing Systems provides commercial laundry products and services in North America and Europe, including processes for textile cleaning and wastewater treatment. The Ohio-based company has approximately 130 employees.

Kao said the acquisition will allow it to expand its chemical solution business for commercial laundry operations, and also promote global development of its commercial products unit Kao Professional Services Co. Ltd.