Member Article

Leading Computer Supplier Celebrates 17 Years in Business

One of the region’s leading independent computer retailers is celebrating 17 years in business by revamping its website and expanding its online and offline product and service offering.

Despite a large decline in computer retailers over recent years, Gateshead-based COMPUTER orBIT has managed to sustain the £2million business, streamline its services, build its customer reach and retain 18 staff in full time positions.

Established in 1996, the family-run company has recently seen a surge in new business after expanding more into e-commerce and is now one of the only firms in the region that offers service and repair on a wide and varied product range.

Owner Kasim Malik, who took over the business from his father in 2000, said: “The business originated as a trade centre in a warehouse and generated most income from trade fairs for the B2B market. However, to keep up with consumers’ needs I saw massive potential in refurbishing the warehouse to create an open and welcoming retail showroom and within a year, we doubled the turnover.

“Our shop is now a landmark, known by everyone in the area and we are proud to provide a great customer service to people of the North East and beyond.

“We launched the e-commerce website in 2004, which was another turning point for the business and something which we have further expanded upon recently. Customers can not only enjoy the convenience of buying parts and services online but we’re also introducing a new pickup and drop off service saving them even more time. We will also be growing our repair services to include a wider range of tablets and other devices, to further satisfy customer demand.

“Our growth and sustainability is down to focusing on what we know best whilst diverting into different service lines that help to reinforce our offering without diluting our core business of supplying hardware, support and excellent customer service. This has helped us gain recognition and credibility from our customers, old and new.”

Former project manager for One North East and Business Link, Paul Burkin joined COMPUTER orBIT in 2011 to help grow the business by creating the robust and sustainable business structure focusing on consumers’ needs.

He said: “It is a massive achievement that when multi-national chains in a similar field to us such as Jessop’s and Comet are closing down due to the recession that we have been able to stay afloat and not only that, continue to mature our turnover.

“It is a simple formula we adopt - we listen to our customers. By staying up to date with what people want and providing expert services, we can grow and develop with them.”

COMPUTER orBIT is looking to continue its success by staying ahead of the game with new technological product launches and is aiming to expand its customer base targeting more local authorities, businesses, educational bodies and trade resellers.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Jodie Balmer .