A SURPRISING new business venture could help farmers recoup some profit following the disastrous effects of foot-and-mouth.

Farmers across the two counties are being sought for an enterprising initiative which uses redundant barns and out-buildings to display and sell outdoor garden furniture.

The Indian Ocean Trading Company - which makes high quality, teak chairs, tables and loungers - launched the scheme in December 2000 with 10 partners in areas as far afield as Sussex and North Yorkshire.

After initial training, the 10 partners started trading last month and a further 15 franchise partners are now being sought for 2002.

"Farmers don't have to pay up front for the furniture, which is unusual for a franchise partnership," said spokeswoman Wendy Franklin.

"Commission's paid on sales of the stylish and elegant furniture, which is hand-crafted and finished and extremely low-maintenance, being teak."

She added that the contemporary furniture had been selling at permanent showrooms in London and Chester, and over the internet, since the company was established in 1989.

The Indian Ocean Trading Company pays all advertising and marketing costs and assists with shop fittings.

"The agri-partners are considered core to Indian Ocean's business strategy," said Miss Franklin. "Training's thorough and ongoing and close links with the company's head office in south London are maintained."

The range of furniture, which Miss Franklin said was the largest range of teak outdoor furniture in Britain, can be viewed on the company website at www.indian-ocean.co.uk

For more information, phone the Indian Ocean Trading company on 020 8675 4808.