A NORTH-EAST packaging firm has saved more than 100 jobs after taking on a Yorkshire rival.

Encore Envelopes has bought Great Northern Envelope Company after the Leeds-based business fell into administration following prolonged trading difficulties.

Bosses say the deal, confirmed yesterday, means 129 posts have been saved by Encore, which, alongside sister company Encore Packaging Solutions, makes more than three billion items a year from factories in Peterlee, east Durham, and Washington, Wearside, that include corrugated and solid board boxes.

Russell Croisdale, managing director, said: “This will provide continuous employment for the company’s experienced and loyal workforce.

“Importantly, the acquisition, coupled with the ongoing strong financial and technical support we can provide, will also ensure the continuity of supply for all Great Northern Envelope customers from its Leeds factory.”

He added the company will trade as Great Northern Envelopes going forward.

Joint administrator Nick Reed, of Begbies Traynor, said: “The business will benefit from being part of a large, established company like Encore. “In the circumstances, the sale is the best possible outcome for creditors, staff and customers.”