The Essex-based label firm has received the keys for the unit next door to its existing premises in Brentwood and will begin the process of knocking through and expanding into the new space, with work expected to be complete by May.

Over 2017, Baker saw its turnover rise by around 20% from £7.6m to £9.2m, which “pushed us to our limit”, according to managing director Steve Baker.

He said: “While there is no definite plan for the new space, we are taking it in order to consolidate our business and build on our recent success to give us space for exciting new possibilities.

“All sorts of ideas are bouncing around for new markets to move into – such as digital signage with a potential HP Indigo 20000 or possibly wide-web flexo printing – but nothing is set in stone right now. We expect to invest half a million by the time we are done.

“One big reason we are expanding is to make room for more office space to accommodate our provision of wellbeing services which make sure our staff are happy and comfortable. We think doing so is as important as servicing any machine on the shop floor.”

Baker Labels has been creating space on its premises for a variety of wellbeing and mental health support services – such as grief counselling or confidence coaching – which is provided both by in-house staff and consultants.

The firm’s staff has grown by 12 in the past year – “almost exactly one new hire each month”, according to Baker – and now numbers 72 people.

According to Baker, further investments and new hires are expected as the new building – to be designated as the materials division of the firm – is established.

While the company continues to work towards its expansion, it continues to invest in new kit with delivery of an auto-set Vectra SFTR glueless turret rewinder taken from AB Graphics on 20 February. The buy cost Baker £130,000 and can be attached to the end of a flexo press for rewinding labels printed on heat sensitive substrates.

Baker Labels’ base currently covers just less than 2,600sqm and will grow to 3,730sqm once the new unit is complete.