J-Flex at 41
Yes, we know it’s 1st April, and you might be wondering if we’re just pulling your leg. But no joke: today, we’re celebrating 41 years of J-Flex!
From starting out at home in Tuxford in 1984 to where we stand in Retford today, thank you to everybody who has played a part in that incredible journey.
Supplying a vast range of specialist rubber sheetings and an array of fabrications made from premium grade elastomers including silicone and Viton™ – many of which are available for next-day delivery. We actively supply into a wide range of markets and sectors, including Energy & Utilities, Food & Drink, Manufacturing & Engineering, Rail, Pharmaceutical, Automotive, Aerospace, Defence, and Marine.
A Brief History
J-Flex was launched on 1st April 1984 by John and Jill Kirk from their home in Newcastle Street, Tuxford, before subsequent moves to Tuxford’s Old Library and then offices on Eldon Street in 1986 and 1990 respectively.
Despite trading under the name and style of J-Flex Rubber Products, the Company was officially incorporated as Clockpress Limited at Companies House in 1989 and received its first ISO 9001 certification in 1994.
To cope with expansion, J-Flex relocated to a purpose-built facility in Retford in 1998 where it has remained ever since, now occupying Units 1 & 2, London Road Business Park.
To support its export sales strategy a distribution partnership was formed with Reglin Rubber in Australia in 2004 and in 2010 an Indian office was established with the appointment of a General Manager shortly afterwards. Overall, export sales account for 50% of sales, a feat that has been recognised by the UK Government’s Department for Business and Trade who appointed current Managing Director, Sam Kirk, as a Midlands Export Champion in 2022.
Through the Years (of Change)
The gallery includes: the original typewriter used to start J-Flex back in 1984, one of our “feature walls” in our Retford offices, our state of the art Zund digital cutter, and some of the current team celebrating (any excuse for cake!)
A word from our Managing Director, Sam Kirk
“As we mark 41 years of J-Flex, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our incredible team, our loyal customers, and our valued partners who have been an integral part of our journey.
Your support and dedication have contributed to our growth and success, and I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together and cementing J-Flex reputation as the preferred supply partner for rubber-based products within technology-driven markets. Here’s the next chapter of industry leading quality, service, and innovation!”
