Reflex Group expands into US with CB Printed Technology acquisition

Reflex Group has expanded its global footprint by acquiring CB Printed Technology, a Californian specialist in security labels, marking its entry into the North American market.

This acquisition adds to Reflex’s presence in seven countries, including operations in the UK, Ireland, Sweden, Norway, Poland and Australia. According to CEO Ian Kendall, it strengthens the group’s position in mitigating trade policy changes and reducing environmental concerns associated with shipping.

‘When we bought the Macfarlane Labels business we had quite a lot of export work to the US, and we thought for multiple reasons it would be good to set up in the US,’ said Kendall.  ‘The beauty of the (CB Printed Technology) building is that it has a lot of space for expansion. We are planning to invest quite heavily in new equipment.’

The CB Printed Technology facility, covering 3,720sqm, primarily focuses on authentication and anti-counterfeiting products. However, Kendall envisions extending its capabilities into broader label production while sharing expertise between CB Printed and the larger Reflex Group.

As part of its 14 million GBP reinvestment initiative, Reflex Group installed its third Screen inkjet label press in September, adding a Truepress Label 350UV SAI-S model to its Grimsby site. The company also purchased Grafotronic finishing machines in October this year and two Nilpeter presses in November 2023.

The other two Screen Truepress machines are located at Reflex’s Barwell facility in Leicestershire and its Australian site, where the group first adopted Screen technology following the acquisition of an Australian labels company two years ago.

In Australia, Reflex recently upgraded to a 5,000sqm facility in Campbellfield, enabling expanded production of linerless labels with new presses and additional capacity. This expansion aligns with the group’s global strategy, supporting its goal of 190 million GBP in annual sales and reinforcing its workforce of 1,000.