AN organic produce distributor is aiming for growth after joining the IT revolution.
Butterby, based at Low Butterby Farm, in Croale, near Durham, delivers locally-grown produce to customers in the surrounding area.
Company founder Edward Richardson is also aiming to achieve organic status on his own farm later this year.
The business had become a victim of its own success, after demand put a strain on its paper-based ordering and stock control system.
"The day I ended up with 100 unwanted aubergines, I realised something had to be done," said Mr Richardson.
Support from Business Link helped Butterby to integrate an IT system that manages stock control, as well as orders and delivery information.
It means Butterby can even record details of customers' allergies, or likes and dislikes, and shows drivers where to leave the delivery if a customer is out.
A centralised computer is linked to hand-held computers, so delivery drivers can input customers' requests, which then automatically update the following weeks' orders.
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