A fast-growing north Suffolk packaging company is expanding again, with work having started on an additional 24,000sq ft of space.

Spectra Packaging, based at Holton, near Halesworth, was established in 2007 and has already grown to employ around 130 people on its 17.4-acre site.

Its existing buildings, also purpose-built, total around 56,000sq ft and the company’s long-term vision for the site includes three further units, also each measuring 24,000sq ft.

Groundwork foundations have been set for the steel frame of the latest new unit which is intended to be finished by the end of this year and operational by the end of April 2018, with some additional jobs likely to be created as a result.

Joe Maynard, managing director at Spectra, says the current construction work is a measure of how far the company has come in just less than 10 years since its launch.

He said: “It’s hugely satisfying to see the next phase of Spectra’s history unfold. We have made the bold decision to increase the size of our site in order to satisfy increased demand and we can’t wait to see the new buildings in full production.”

Spectra specialises in the manufacture of packaging for the toiletries, cosmetics and person care sectors, with its customers including a number a major brands.

“Making sure we have the capacity to continually provide outstanding quality, service and innovation is vital in maintaining our reputation,” said Mr Maynard. “The fact that we have the trust of a number of leading high street brands is proof of our credentials to deliver and further expansion will help us maintain this.”

Mr Maynard believes Spectra’s success is down to a “forward-thinking ethos”, which includes a range of in-house services, such as a decoration unit which has been a big hit with customers.

“Providing a full in-house solution for customers has proved highly successful for us,” added Mr Maynard. “It has meant we can offer consistently high levels of quality as well as total control over lead-times.

“It has also meant we can push the boundaries of innovation, developing new ways to give customers a leading edge solution. The expansion of the site will help us continue this whilst maintaining our independence.”