International auto industry marketing researcher JD Power & Associates has acquired its UK-based partner and has announced plans to open an office in Munich, Germany.

JD Power has acquired the Oxford-based LMC Automotive Services Ltd.

Terms of the deal were not announced, but the partnership dates back eight years.

The new office in Germany is part of the company's strategy of strengthening its relationship with major European manufacturers, such as DaimlerChrysler AG, Volkswagen AG, Fiat Auto, as well as parts makers Siemens AG and Bosch.

The office will be managed by David Lauth.