BARTERCARD, the UK’s largest business-to-business trade exchange, is opening its latest district franchise office in the south west.

The launch of Bartercard Wessex will enable businesses in the region to use their spare capacity and to source the goods and services required to run or expand their business while protecting their cash reserves.

The new franchise owners, Sean Arnold and Angela Elliott, will help complete Bartercard coverage of the south west.

The area the Wessex office will cover borders with existing offices in Dorset, Devon and Cornwall helping to boost the opportunities for local businesses in this key region of the UK.

Sean Arnold, director for Bartercard Wessex Limited, said: "We are delighted to be involved in such a dynamic business. We know that more can be done to help support local businesses and we’re confident that the barter concept will be hugely beneficial to business growth in the Wessex region.

“Bartering enables businesses to cost-effectively expand their business market reach, improve profits and attract new customers.

“We’re looking forward to helping SMEs in the area and building on these business opportunities."

Bartercard provides its members with new customers, allowing them to use their spare capacity and increase business.

An interest free line of credit then enables members to source the goods and services they require to run and grow their business and the income from these new customers can be used to effectively fund future business purchases.

Businesses that use their own products or services to fund day-to-day overhead costs can protect their cash reserves and increase profitability in the process at a time when banks are being criticised for refusing to lend to SMEs.

Ms Elliott said: “There are a large number of businesses throughout the area in a wide range of sectors, making it ideal for business bartering.

“We can’t wait to start working with them and creating a network of likeminded professionals, who can all experience the benefits that Bartercard brings."

The Wessex operation is the latest part of Bartercard’s five-year growth plan, which includes appointing 200 new businesses.

For more information go to bartercard.co.uk.