12293: Two brothers sell the service, in addition to selling the machine (fwd)

[Bob Corbett <corbetre@webster.edu>]

From: leonie hermantin <lhermantin@hotmail.com>

Two brothers sell the service, in addition to selling the machine

Sun-Sentinel
By Antonio Fins
Business Writer
Posted June 10 2002


Two recessions. An Internet bust. A telecommunications implosion. In the
past decade, Computer Bargains Inc. in Miami and Plantation has flourished
despite the crises.

Today, the company founded by two Haitian immigrant brothers a decade ago
continues to add retail and business customers as it expands in South
Florida and Haiti. From two storefront offices, the company sells computers
and custom-built software, offers Web design help and provides computer
training for small businesses and individuals.

"We started this business because we figured the computer would be like the
television -- everyone would eventually have one," Jay "Schlegel" Jean-Louis
said. "But it's not just about making money, it's about giving something to
the community."

Jean-Louis, 33, and his older brother and partner, Harry Jean-Louis, 39, say
the company has developed a larger goal: to bring technology to the region's
immigrant communities they fear may get left behind.

Their non-traditional objective, they say, was achieved by stressing
customer service.

The company, which will take in $500,000 in revenues this year, lists about
3,000 mostly minority customers in South Florida. The Haitian part of the
operation, which caters to wholesalers, has 500 accounts.

Computer Bargains' offices are open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., seven days a week
and they employ 10 full-time and 25 part-time workers.

Client Jerry Dominique, who runs Cruise Line Inc., a Miami travel agency,
said the availability of Computer Bargains staff is a key selling point. "On
Saturdays and Sundays, it's difficult to get support from the big boys," he
said. "With [Computer Bargains], it's different."

Business clients, the brothers say, get a visit from a company technician
who will figure out how their business can best use a PC as well as software
package. Maybe it's an accounting program. Or perhaps a program to track
inventory or bills that need to be collected or paid.

"This is what I call personal service," said Harry Jean-Louis.

On South Florida's Haitian radio programs, the two appeal to a broader
audience by making a pitch to families.

The two are looking for further growth opportunities. They are thinking of
adding another office in Deerfield Beach or in Delray Beach. What does not
change, Harry Jean-Louis said, is the company's strategy.

"It's not about selling a computer. It's about selling the usefulness of the
computer," he said. "Whatever field you're in, you have to look for that
niche that provides a service to your customers, but is not something your
competition is doing."

Antonio Fins can be reached at afins@sun-sentinel.com or 954-356-4669.



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