1. Explain your business in thirty seconds or less.
Central Computers is a store for those who need computers, laptops, peripherals, even printer ink. Its main reason for existing is repairs, upgrades and servicing on all the above. The diversity of problems that come into a computer store amazes me and keeps me on my toes.
I know that my services and products are something people will always need because technology is always expanding, and everyone always has to have the new ‘in thing’, and I will be able to offer these services and products at an affordable price
2. Where are you based and why is it a good location for your business?
We are based in Driffield, which is in East Yorkshire. It’s a good location because the town is central to a lot of villages and very busy. The town didn’t have any place for people to go for this line of work until we opened our store here just over a month ago.
3. How did you come up with the idea?
I am a self-described workaholic who loves the fast-past world of retail and working with computers. The idea to open my own store came from my fiancée who noticed that I was happy all the time at my previous employment working in a computer store and this was declining in my current employment.
On a personal note, this is very exciting to me and I do not see this as work but more of a full-time hobby.
4. What stage was your business at when you applied for the Start Up Loan?
It was a mix of ideas on paper with a little bit of research into the area. Then after finding Virgin StartUp online we worked with Jenn from Yorkshire in Business to develop a business plan. This involved doing a lot of research and legwork to make this come true. It is not only a dream but my purpose in life and I was so happy to have the opportunity to make this a reality from Virgin StartUp.
5. How have you used it to grow your business?
The business was non-existent, we used the loan for everything, from sourcing and upgrading premises, including state of the art security, to buying stock, signage and marketing. Now we have been open for nearly 2 months we are flourishing, I haven’t stopped. That’s all thanks to the Start Up Loan from Virgin StartUp.
6. Biggest achievement so far?
Retro-fitting the shop from the poor state it was in was my best achievement. It was previously a greengrocers and was very run down, however, we enjoyed turning it into the workhorse it is now, and it looks pretty good.
7. What’s next for your business?
I will keep expanding by looking into new technologies and bringing these into the business for new and existing customers. I will also be looking to staff the shop on weekends to enable me to offer a delivery service to the rural community.
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