BARCODE specialist Briarsoft is enjoying a double celebration - its tenth anniversary has been marked by a move to new headquarters.

The company is expanding into larger premises in Derwentside.

Briarsoft, which provides companies with barcode/auto ID solutions, labels and printer cartridges, was set up in 1994 by Keith Manning, of Shotley Bridge, near Consett, and started in a 430sq ft unit.

For the past three years, it has operated out of a unit on Number One Estate, Consett.

Now run by managing director and owner Malcolm Marsh, the company has moved to Consett's Hownsgill Industrial Estate, where it will occupy a 5,600sq ft unit.

The expansion, helped by County Durham Development Company (CDDC), will enable Briarsoft to absorb its sister company, contract packagers Cartmel Ltd.

Mr Marsh, who was sales and marketing manager at Briarsoft from January to September 1999, before returning in April 2001 as managing director, said the company hoped to increase the company's £500,000 turnover.

He said: "The business is growing. Three years ago, a big order for us was £500 - now it is between £1,000 and £5,000 and our most recent contract was for £33,000. The company has been built on the smaller types of business and we wish to retain them, but also make the move into contracts for larger companies as well."

Briarsoft has recently won contracts with filter company Domnick Hunter and to package Sainsbury's products. Clients also include Derwentside District Council and companies in a number of sectors, including automotive and food.

Other plans include developing an e-commerce website to sell barcode hardware directly throughout the UK, and the opening of a showroom.

The business employs 17 people but there are plans to increase that by seven within 12 months.

Mr Marsh said: "We provide solutions for clients - we do not just deliver the equipment to them, we help them install and apply it.

"It is the total solution and one which can help businesses become more efficient."