The certification, an upgrade on the firm’s existing AA BRCGS qualification, has enabled Affinity to widen its scope to almost any printed packaging sector, including in its existing consumer goods and pharmaceuticals markets.

“We are incredibly proud of our AA grade from the BRCGS audit,” said Edward Mould, sales director at Affinity.

“This recognition reinforces our commitment to providing safe, high-quality packaging solutions for the food industry. Additionally, our expanded in-house capabilities allow us to seamlessly meet the diverse needs of all our clients, regardless of industry, ensuring that we deliver superior packaging products on time and with exceptional precision.”

Speaking to Printweek, he added that the qualification required a “whole new level” of attention to detail and printroom care.

“It’s quite different; there aren’t many independent companies that do direct food contact, so we’re very pleased,” he said.

The B0 to B3 litho and digital packaging house, based in Leyland, Lancashire, produces a wide variety of packaging and print, including a growing share of Delipac fibreboard cups and products, which can replace PE and other plastic-lined packaging.

Affinity updated its leadership roster early last year following acquisition by print entrepreneur Peter Andreou and London financiers, with a £300,000 factory revamp that saw it put in a new reception and factory floor. In January 2024, it took delivery of a Heidelberg Speedmaster 74 small-format packaging press from sister company Printstore.

The firm also prints up to size 6 on a Koenig & Bauer Rapida 142.

Affinity employs around 80.