“The only thing guaranteed in business is change (and taxes).”

MY STORY

In the early 1990s, my journey in the retail industry began in my parents’ basement, where I started building computers as a side hustle during university.

It wasn’t long before I realized the potential to offer quality “refurbished” computers at affordable prices by using a combination of new and used components. In 1995, I took the leap and opened my first retail store in partnership with one of my suppliers.

Despite starting from scratch with little capital, the business grew rapidly, expanding to 24 brick-and-mortar stores, each averaging around 10,000 square feet, specializing in refurbished and closeout electronics and home products.
Our online presence, factorydirect.ca, debuted in October 2000, at the dawn of the internet era. It quickly rose to become one of Canada’s premier retail websites, attracting over 3 million users annually.

Throughout it’s nearly three-decades in business, factorydirect.ca amassed over $1 billion in revenue, served millions of satisfied customers, and provided employment opportunities for thousands.

Ajax

Brantford

Cambridge

Downtown Toronto

Hamilton

Mississauga

Perhaps most notably, the business was profitable every single year until its final year of operation, when changing market dynamics required significant operational changes. However, the restructuring that was needed involved taking on additional risks and proved to be overly resource-intensive to pursue.
The journey from pioneering success to confronting the challenges of today’s retail environment has given me a wealth of invaluable insights and lessons. These experiences, spanning over 30 years, have equipped me with the expertise to help guide your business towards not only prosperity, but also resilience in the face of adversity.

HOW I WORK

No business is just a set of data points. Data-driven strategies are vital, but they lose their value if they aren’t grounded in the human experience. I believe success requires balancing quantitative insights with the qualitative reality of the people we serve.

As an entrepreneur who thrives on challenging projects, I would love to hear more about yours. Fees are determined on a project-by-project basis, and I’m open to discussing various compensation structures. Contact me via email to explore the possibilities.

SERVICES

Business Development

The strongest businesses are the ones that know how to pivot and diversify. I lean on a network that I’ve built over three decades. Whether it's new suppliers or the right people to launch a new idea, I usually know exactly who to call.

“Change = Opportunity”

Operational Assessments

Success requires a hard look at your day-to-day operations. I spend time on the floor observing your processes and people to uncover practical changes that can lower your overhead and increase your revenue.

“A penny saved is worth 2 pennies earned (before taxes, overhead and capital costs).”

IT and Cyber Consulting

From navigating cybersecurity crises to custom software builds, my approach is defined by hands-on involvement. Experience has taught me that IT is not a cost center, it's an engine that drives growth and creates stability.

“They say that there’s two types of companies, those who have lost data and those who are about to.”

Private Investment

If you’re looking for strategic money, I may be able to help.

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