INVESTMENT company Benchmark Holdings has agreed to acquire the Novartis Animal Health vaccine manufacturing plant in Braintree.

Benchmark, which is based in Sheffield, said the deal – the value of which has not been disclosed – would ensures both continuity of production and all the jobs at the facility.

The Braintree plant has been producing licensed veterinary vaccines for Novartis and other major pharmaceutical companies for more than 25 years.

Under Benchmark, the plant’s role as a toll manufacturer will be expanded. Following a major investment in production and R&D capability at the plant new specialist small to medium scale products will be manufactured for developing world markets.

A company spokesman said: “Benchmark Holdings is delighted with the addition of the Braintree plant to the Benchmark family, an excellent team in a first class facility. It also provides a great fit with the existing businesses and will play a major role in our continuing growth.

“The business will maintain Benchmark’s core ethical philosophy based on the 3Es of ethical, environmental and economic business practices.”