The Devon-based label manufacturer said the move would enable it to grow its presence in Europe, specifically in the pet care sector.

Tamar has retained the sales force of Cork-based Labelit but has transferred manufacturing, including three eight-colour Nilpeter UV flexo presses and a range of Omega finishing equipment, to its Tavistock site.

The equipment will complement Tamar's Edale narrow web flexo press and its two HP Indigo digital label presses, a 4050 and a 4500 model, while creating five new positions at the site, boosting total headcount to 36.

Tamar Labels managing director Robert Lee, said the acquisition of Labelit broadened the company's customer base while boosting its output capabilities.

He said: "We have always been an acquisitive company, taking on four since we were founded in 1996, and we will continue to be so.

"Labelit will enable us to expand into new markets and new geographies and continue our year-on-year growth."