LAUNCHING a company in the midst of a recession can lead to success as Notts-based Hunter Systems has proved.

The business was founded in the difficult trading conditions of 1991 and has grown to become a leading provider of hardware, software and training solutions to small and medium sized companies throughout the UK.

With traditional sales seeing a downturn in the current economic climate, Hunter Systems was looking to develop other markets to ensure the business continued to flourish.

Managing director Neville Hunter says he contacted Business Link for advice and guidance on the development and launch of a new bespoke software solution.

"We have developed a product called SAM (Service & Asset Management) software and wanted to source appropriate suppliers of brand development and other funding routes.

"This new product was key to developing the business further which is why I thought Business Link might be able to help."

SAM is the company's frontline software solution and interfaces with Sage Accounts and Payroll software.

With the help of a Business Link adviser, Hunter Systems successfully applied for a Business Transformation Grant (BTG) to assist with the engagement of a marketing consultancy to design the brand image, advise on packaging and website development.

"Our adviser also put us in touch with Enterprise Loans East Midlands," said Neville. "Through this organisation we were able to access funding to help fund the working capital requirements of launching the product at the NEC Service Management (SME) exhibition."

Hunter Systems has also been working with UK Trade and Investment to identify export opportunities.

Neville says that whatever the economic climate, businesses need to remain flexible in order to seize opportunities.

"Business is ever changing and you have got to be prepared to invest time and money in developing new routes and products in order to continue to succeed."