Deb Ltd, which was based in Spencer Road, Belper, for more than 70 years, until its move to Denby was completed in July is on the market for around £300million. It comes after consistent success and a boost from people buying handwash to combat the flu pandemic.

Wall-mounted hand cleaners, which allow people wash their hands on the go to protect against the virus, are in great demand.

Investment banking firm UBS has now been appointed to look for a buyer for the Denby Hall firm.

The company, which is famed for making industrial hand cleaner Swarfega, is currently owned by Barclays Private Equity.

A spokesman for the company said: "We can confirm that UBS has been appointed by Barclays Private Equity to explore strategic options for Deb Group Ltd, which may or may not lead to a sale of the business."

Deb was set up on Spencer Road by Audley Bowdler Williamson in 1941.

The company moved to brand new £20 million purpose built premises, which brought all 220 staff from Belper, offices in Burton-on-Trent, and warehouses at Junction 28 of the M1.