The new company aims to provide one-stop support for businesses and to offer an extended range of services.

The combined business teams - managed by Peter Nicholson - will operate from Business Link's premises in Putney, while Ian Parkes will head-up the overall company from Aztec's office in Kingston.

The service will be available to all businesses in south- west London.

The merged organisation believes that by combining resources and expertise it will be able to provide a much more comprehensive and in-depth service.

Businesses will be able to access help through a single point of contact, and there will be less confusion.

The Business Link London South West brand will be used for all business services.

The merger will also improve the potential for grants to help with business development.

A series of Aztec and Business Link London South West workshops are planned in May.

For details on these, or for a general chat about how Business Link London South West can provide advice and support to your business, call 020 8780 6500