The deal, completed in early August, will support Reproflex3’s expansion in the European corrugated packaging sector by boosting its overall production capacity, while helping it break into the pharmaceutical sector.

Andrew Hewitson, Reproflex3’s group CEO, said: “ANF is a respected player in the UK pharma and corrugated packaging industries, whose expertise is unquestioned with excellent people, processes and products. 

“We are pleased to formally announce this strategic investment for the Reproflex3 Group as we seek to increase our manufacturing capacity and knowhow within corrugate both here in the UK and internationally.

“By adding ANF’s capabilities and pre-press plate technologies to our portfolio of businesses, we can provide customers with an even higher level of service and expertise as we combine the assets and strengths of both businesses.”

ANF co-owners David Ball and Paul Stoddart, both in their late 70s, have stepped back from ANF following the deal.

Stoddart, managing director, said: “I am pleased about this deal for ANF and our people.

“Reproflex3 is an innovative and ambitious company with a successful 25-year track record in pre-press and flexible packaging. 

“Our talented team will now have access to their state-of-the-art technologies as well as benefit from Reproflex3’s vast knowledge and digital workflow management systems.”

Ball added that he was proud for the company to become part of Reproflex3: “Their extensive resources will enable us to provide our customers with the highest quality products and services.”

Reproflex3 was recognised in June at Insider’s Made In the UK Awards, where it received the Digital Engineering & Technology award for its high-definition Vortex screening products.