Picker to buy x-ray distributor

Picker International last month signed a letter of intent to acquire Marmer X-Ray, a Cincinnati-based distributor of x-ray supplies. Picker plans to add Marmer to its Health Care Product subsidiary, which distributes radiology supplies and accessories. Marmer's area of operation is in Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky, and the company reported sales of $18 million in 1996. Picker said the company will operate under the Marmer name as a subsidiary of HCP.