A DOVER marine company is steering a path to success, thanks to help from Kent's independent business advice agency. Smye-Rumsby Ltd, the navigation equipment and communications firm based in Snargate Street, has been receiving advice from Business Link Kent.

Personal business adviser Ron Morgan worked with the company to help it to adapt to fast changing technology and market conditions, to achieve a turnover now approaching £2 million. A family business, started in 1948, Smye-Rumsby's product range includes marine navigation and radio communication equipment, public address, CCTV and satellite telephones.

Mr Morgan said: "Business Link Kent's relationship with Smye-Rumsby has been a long-term one, and the company has made good use of the products and services we provide." Directors Paul and Philip Smye-Rumsby and finance director Christine Booth re-examined the business, exploring the company's strengths, weaknesses and opportunities for profitable growth.

The exercise led to 24 recommendations being drawn up including new business acquisition, improving the marketing focus and introducing e-commerce. The company's website was overhauled with the help of a Business Link grant, while another grant was used to introduce a new product range.

Paul Smye-Rumsby said: "We were intitally sceptical about outsider interference, but this converted to enthusiasm as our trust in Ron Morgan developed. As a family business we are acutely aware of the need to maintain loyalty and customer satisfaction. We view our continuing relationship with Business Link Kent as an integral part of the quality of our management."