Pictured above: L-R (back) Richard Curtis, Mark Kaiser, Wayne Smith,  (front) Monira Matin, Graham Harrington, Yvonne Harrington

Coventry and Warwickshire businesses are being urged to work together to see their fortunes flourish by a company that has seen the benefit of adopting a local focus.

Graham Harrington, managing director of Dialhouse, a graphic design agency, on the outskirts of the city centre, said collaborations with local businesses across Coventry and Warwickshire is a great way forward for businesses looking for new markets as his company has proven, increasing local clientele by around 30 per cent.

"Most businesses have had to readjust due to the tough trading conditions of recent years, " said Mr Harrington, whose company is based on the Henley Business Park, on the Henley Road.

"Often there is a temptation to cast the net far and wide, but we have found that by focusing on all the great businesses we have in this area there are incredible opportunities."

Mr Harrington, whose business has been in operation since 1984, said: "Although we live in an age where there say there is a global village, there is a lot to be said for working with your own local community. It has many benefits in terms of time saved on meetings, being environmentally friendly and helping the local economy. I urge businesses who haven't already explored this opportunity to do so."

John Ison (corr), managing director, of Holbrooks based Midrepro, who works with Dialhouse said: "When local companies work together there is more referral business and as the community is so close a better quality of service."  

His views were backed by Tim Allen, director of Student Internet.co.uk, a Kenilworth based company who provide broadband to students.

Mr Allen said: "It makes good business sense to use local companies. Often local companies have a greater understanding of each other's needs and Coventry and Warwickshire businesses working together can only benefit the region in general."