AN ESSEX-based print finishing firm is expecting to create up to 100 jobs after securing several large contracts. Pakfin Ltd, based at Colchester and Earls Colne, won the new work after a six-month sales drive and says it is now looking for a diverse range of staff from technicians to production supervisors, forklift drivers, factory workers and office assistants.

AN ESSEX-based print finishing firm is expecting to create up to 100 jobs after securing several large contracts.

Pakfin Ltd, based at Colchester and Earls Colne, won the new work after a six-month sales drive and says it is now looking for a diverse range of staff from technicians to production supervisors, forklift drivers, factory workers and office assistants.

“We are delighted to have brought in all this extra work,” said Tom Owen, the company's head of sales and marketing.

“We have had to diversify into areas because we saw our core market was shrinking. It is vitally important that in the future we continue to be at the forefront of new technologies and research.”

The company had adapted, and invested in new labour-saving computer systems, he said.

The firm, which celebrates its 20th anniversary next year and scooped an i10 business award earlier this year, is now looking forward to a record-breaking year.

“It looks like 2007 could break revenue and profit records,” said Mr Owen.

“The company has a new management team who are developing on the great work of the founding directors, by bringing new, fresh ideas and enthusiasm to the business.”

He added: “We will be continuing to go for more and more large contracts, and we already have a couple in the pipeline, and are working on others. We want to be recognised for our relationships with customers, our innovation and our dedication to staff as we work towards gaining IIP status.”