40+ Years of Growth, Innovation and Label Printing Expertise

Label Express was founded in May 1984 by Peter Masters in Croydon with a clear purpose: to deliver the fastest lead times in the industry coupled with excellent quality and customer service. Every order was backed by a bold 100% money-back guarantee if it wasn't delivered on time. Operating from a 10,000 sq ft facility in Beddington, we launched with a single press and a team built around speed, quality and customer service. From day one, delivering on our promises wasn't just part of the business, it was the business.

One of our earliest and most significant investments was the UK's first Kopack UV letterpress. With eight print stations and flat and rotary die-cutting capability, it dramatically expanded our quality, capacity and technical capabilities, helping establish Label Express as a leader in the industry from the outset.

As quality standards became increasingly important, we achieved BS5750 certification, the predecessor to ISO 9001, formalising our commitment to quality management. At the same time, we brought reprographics in-house, giving customers faster turnaround, greater flexibility and more direct control over artwork and production.

The move to UV flexographic printing marked another major step forward for Label Express. With the installation of a Mark Andy 2200 press, we increased print quality, production efficiency and capacity, helping us support a growing customer base and larger production runs.

As London's craft beer scene began to emerge, Label Express became an early supplier to a number of pioneering breweries. We helped popularise the rough and textured varnish finish that would become a defining feature of many craft beer brands. In 2011, BRC accreditation opened the door to major food and beverage supply chains.

Following its acquisition by Lynx Equity, Label Express entered a new phase of investment and development while remaining true to the principles it was built on. In 2022, Simon Williams, who joined the business in 1986, became Managing Director. Significant investment in a Durst LED inkjet digital press strengthened our digital capability and reinforced our position as one of the South East's most technically capable label manufacturers.

More than 40 years since opening our doors, Label Express continues to invest in its people, technology and capabilities. From our Croydon facility, we deliver fully in-house label production, supported by industry-leading certifications, advanced print technology and decades of experience. While much has evolved since 1984, our values remain the same: exceptional service, fast turnaround, technical innovation and a customer-first approach.