by business editor Trevor Sturgess

Kent has bagged more than a dozen new jobs.

Crazy Bags, a growing multi-million pound business, has moved from Sussex to Eridge, near Tunbridge Wells.

The firm, set up in 2000 to specialise in promotional, carrier and eco-bags, has switched a dozen employees and expects to take on more locally over the next few months.

In recent years, reusable bags have become big business. Crazy Bags expects this trend to continue, with a shift to branded bags with designer cachet. The company uses a wide range of materials, including cotton, canvas, jute, traditional paper and polythene.

Boss Andy Steavenson (corr) said the move to Eridge Park was a major milestone. "As we continue to grow and explore, moving into wider markets we will need to add to our team to help us meet and cope with growing demand. Our new premises will enable us to do that."

Crazy Bags is Fair Trade accredited and caters for all aspects of the branded bags market, ranging from one-off orders to large contracts. Clients include major national, international and independent brands.

Mr Steavonson added: "It is an exciting time for our industry and despite the recession, next year looks set to offer some fantastic opportunities.

"The reusable bag has become embedded in the consumer psyche, with corporate and retail clients beginning to move in line with this trend, looking for innovative, fashionable and practical bags to help boost their brand visibility, whilst lengthening the life of their marketing campaigns."