A computer-generated image of the extension to CCL Label in Ashford

At least 15 jobs are being created by a labelling firm.

On the same day Thamesteel, in Sheppey, collapsed into administration with a threat to 400 jobs, CCL Label provided better news by unveiling plans for expansion of its Foster Road, Ashford, plant.

The specialist labelling company has been in Ashford since 1990. It was initially part of the Inprint group that was acquired by CCL Label in 2005.

The company makes labels and information leaflets for the pharmaceutical, clinical trial and agrochemical markets. It employs more than 150 staff in Ashford.

"Although we serve the UK market, 85 per cent of our output is exported, principally into mainland Europe, which is why our location here in Ashford, with its good transport links, is so important," said European marketing co-ordinator Claire Richardson.

Ashford-based Epps, one of Kent's oldest construction firms, has won the contract to build the 1,700 sq m extension. It has started work on the project designed by Ashford-based RDA Architects.