CREATING 3D virtual shops for blue chip fashion brands such as Adidas and Hugo Boss has set one of the region's leading software firms on the road to global success.

VR Software, based in Boroughbridge near York, is eyeing further expansion after securing funding from investors Finance Yorkshire.

The company, which announced 18 per cent year on year growth in 2010, can build a computer generated store display at a fraction of the cost it would take to build the real thing, enabling retailers to keep pace with the latest trends on the high street.

Colin Liversedge, VR Softwares CEO and MD, said: "Actual mock shop facilities can cost retailers hundreds of thousands of pounds a year in terms of rent, maintenance and staff costs. Years ago, there were only two shopping seasons to worry about but now, with many seasons to look after to maximise profits, mocking up the look of a shop becomes even more time-consuming than in the past.

"Our software helps merchandisers put together a visual plan of the collection on their PC which shows the full range and can then be circulated to every store."

The funding from Finance Yorkshire will assist with the next stage of VR Softwares expansion which will focus on finding new distributors and approved agents to spread the word about the companys visual planning and communication tools even further.

"Having the backing from Finance Yorkshire has allowed us to keep building on our business model of creating and developing a trusted brand. It will allow us to continue reinvesting cash, develop our products and support our global growth," added Mr Liversedge whose firm has also worked with sports brand Reebok and US department store Macy's.

Finance Yorkshire investment manger Ian Atkinson said: "VR Software is just the sort of business our region needs, they have a vision, have developed a product designed to save time and money and are now the go-to software suppliers for major brands.

"As a result, they are a market-leading global software brand established right here in Yorkshire and we are delighted to be able to support such a shining example of home-grown innovation and enterprise."

The deal was introduced to Finance Yorkshire by Peter Beresford of Red Sky Corporate Services who helped the company with their application.

Finance Yorkshire is supported financially by the European Union and provides funding ranging from £15,000 to £2m. For more information visit www.finance-yorkshire.com or ring 0845 649 0000.