The acquisition is effective immediately and ensures both continuity of production and all the jobs at the facility.

The Braintree plant has been producing licensed veterinary vaccines for Novartis and other major pharmaceutical companies for over 25 years. Under Benchmark, the plant's role as a toll manufacturer will be expanded. Following a major investment in production and R&D capability at the plant, new specialist small- to medium-scale products will be manufactured for developing world markets.

Benchmark Holdings is delighted with the addition of the Braintree plant to the Benchmark family, an excellent team in a first class facility. It also provides a great fit with the existing businesses and will play a major role in our continuing growth.

The business will maintain Benchmark's core ethical philosophy based on the 3Es of ethical, environmental and economic business practices.

Terms of the acquisition are confidential.

The names of actual companies mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.

About Benchmark Holdings Limited

Benchmark is a progressive international investment group. Set up in 1999 Benchmark has gone on to grow successful businesses in sectors throughout the entire food chain. Across its companies - which include 5m Publishing - Benchmark employs over 130 people, in seven countries.

Benchmark believes that ethical business and financial success are entirely compatible and sets out to make a difference. The Benchmark principle of driving sustainability is based on the 3Es; Environment AND Ethics AND Economics, and when these are made part of any organisation the essence of sustainability is built in.

Benchmark frequently creates partnerships with others and excels in combining skills, knowledge, and operational expertise from a range of industries to build exciting and successful business.