Aquent has acquired Indian recruitment company, Professionale Consulting, with 24 consultants and offices in Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore.

Aquent CEO Greg Savage wouldn't comment on the price of the deal, but said the purchase gave Aquent a foothold in a market with massive growth potential.

"We moved into China three years ago and now have four markets that generate sound profits in that country.

"I see India as the next China, and it would not surprise me if these two countries eventually challenge Australia and Japan as the profit powerhouses for our business in the Asia-Pacific region," Savage said.

Professionale will be rebranded and operate as Aquent. It will continue to be run by founder Mahalakshmi, who will report to Aquent Asia director Steven Pang.

Savage said Aquent would use the new business as a platform for organic growth in India, and might also make further acquisitions.

He said the company had also opened new offices in Taipei, Lyon, Hamburg and Frankfurt in the past six months, taking it to 35 locations in 17 countries.