PAVING specialists Sharcon have invested £100,000 in new products, as it looks to expand into new markets.

The Shildon-based business has worked with experts from Sedgefield Borough Business Service (SBBS) on developing an action plan to boost the development of the company.

Graham Sewell, business development adviser at SBBS, has worked with Sharcon owner Alan Corner, to develop an action plan for the business over the past 18 months.

That action plan has included contacting the National Association of Monumental Masons (NAMM) and potential customers across the region.

As a result, Alan has won orders from eight new customers in the last six months and expanded the product range to include grave surrounds, monumental sub-structures and pet cemetery plaques.

Company turnover is now set to increase by 20 per cent in the current year.

Commenting on the company's, Alan said: "I am delighted with the input from Graham and the mentoring programme offered through SBBS.

"His business experience has enabled me to explore viable options for my business and guided me on an investment plan that has helped expand the my customer base.

"Expanding the business has meant that company growth is no longer restricted by a seasonal market."

Alan added: "We are continuously developing a portfolio of products for the monumental masons industry. This month alone four new products have been developed.

"The company intends to launch its full range of products nationally."

Alan is currently taking advantage of IT advice, available from SBBS's Business Development team, to develop a company website.