A NEW style of small business which sells products over the internet is providing a global outlet for creative artists in South Devon.

Dubbed 'micro enterprise', the style of business is typically single owner-operator, with a turnover of less than £20,000 per year.

But the reach of the internet enables boutique brands or hand-crafted items to be sold across the world.

One example is the internet-based firm Not a Jewellery Box set up by Torquay mum-of-two Emma Cox.

The internet business sells jewellery storage solutions hand-made by Emma, and stocks trinkets produced by a co-operative of suppliers across the country.

Emma set up the firm in April last year, designing the website herself and running the small firm from her home in Heron Way.

She also sells items through eBay and other websites.

"The basic idea is that everyone stuffs their jewellery into a box and it all gets tangled up together," she said.

"These solutions are designed to keep them in better condition."

Emma said it was the effects of the recession which led her to set up her 'micro' business.

"Last year was really awful for us, and it was for a lot of people," she continued.

"I wanted to do something so I didn't have to work at the supermarket at the weekend as well as doing my day job."

Emma said her salaried job — as a part-time business adviser — meant her venture needed to be self-sufficient on a day-to-day basis.

She added: "The online sales side allows your business to be open 24 hours a day — and you don't have to be in a 'premises'.

"For me it means I am able to work part-time as a regular employee and then maintain my business at the weekend.

"The key is to be organised, as if a line sells out then you've got to make sure you go through all the websites removing them from sale."

Emma said the factors in 'micro' business success was creating a memorable brand name, providing adequate details and being technically proficient

Emma said: "If somebody searches for a 'silver necklace' on Google then I would probably be listed on about page 55, so I need somebody to search by a particular name.

"I think you need a good photo of each product on your site, and provide full details on everything."

She added: "I am quite lucky as I am 30 and grew up with computers which takes you a long way, but it really is important to know about using social media.

"I think people with no computer skills at all need to do a course."