With the American economy in recession, local bartering companies say a growing number of business owners have been turning to them for help.

Eric Mattera, the owner of Park Lane Deli in Milford, decided to give the traditional barter method a try and signed up with the Business Network, Inc. Through that company, which acts as a third party in business transactions, Mattera can get whatever services he needs, like getting his menus printed, and in exchange he is connected with potential clients.

?We provide that extra that maybe allows them to do advertising that they can't do in the cash world,? says Clay Yalof, of Business Network Inc.

All bartering companies charge commission for their services, including the Business Network Inc., which charges 6.5 percent.