INVESTMENT in new machinery and more jobs will follow the takeover of an Oakworth-based labels and packaging supplier.

SA Labels Ltd, based in Station Road, which supplies labels, flexible packaging and graphic services, will be boosting operations at its present site after being acquired by the Mansfield-based Reflex Group.

Reflex already employs more than 500 people at 14 sites and is on track for a £70 million turnover this year.

Reflex which was established in 2002 through a management buy-in of Yorkshire-based Easdale Labels, has promised further investment in Oakworth, where SA Labels employs 42 people.

Founded in 1984 by business partners Jonathan Hutton and Roman Luczyn, SA Labels today has sales of around £6 million. It is one of the UK’s largest printers of bespoke labels for the beverage, food, personal care and beauty industries.

The company's Station Road HQ, located next to the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway line, boasts high tech design and combination printing kit.

It makes labels for some of the biggest names in global business, though also supplies small and medium sized enterprises.

The firm has been an important supporter of Manorlands Hospice, through its role in sponsoring the annual Manorlands Garden Party.

Mr Hutton, who is managing director, will remain in his role alongside sales director Mike Reynolds.

Ian Kendall, Reflex chief executive, said: “We are very pleased to have brought this high quality business into the group.

"It is profitable with a great team and everyone at Reflex is looking forward to integrating it into the family and moving forward together.”

Mr Hutton added: “Being part of the Reflex Group will allow SA Labels to further our reputation for innovation and customer service, and allow us to enter the next exciting phase of growth and investment.”

In 2005 SA Labels beat competitors from around the world to land two coveted industry awards.

The company scooped the top prize in the global Flexo Tech International Print and Innovations Awards.

The business was judged the best in its section – combination print – before receiving the Supreme Award for the outstanding entry across all 13 categories.

Reflex has an international customer base and serves a wide range of clients. Its products include self adhesive labels, shrink sleeves, linerless labels, flexible packaging, artwork and design.

The business aims to to be "the world’s most sustainable packaging company", and prides itself on its low reliance on landfill, its systematic recycling, efforts to reduce waste and use of certified non-carbon energy.