Computer Renaissance
Owner: Don Whitman
Address: 360 Joyce Blvd., Fayetteville 72701
Phone: 443-2000
Hours: 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Mon.-Sat.
Start-Up Date: May 21
For people who just need to write a few letters, let their kids do homework and get on the Internet, buying a state-of-the-art computer system is often an impractical choice.
“Parents worry that their kids will fall behind in school without [a computer],” says owner Doug Whitman, who adds that overbuying is a common problem for computer shoppers. “They want to learn about the Internet and e-mail, but they don’t have a couple thousand dollars available to buy a new computer system.”
The Computer Renaissance franchise buys, sells and trades computers that are one and two generations old.
Brands include Compaq, IBM, Toshiba and Macintosh in full-size and laptop models. Before the computers are re-sold, staff members erase the hard drives and install clean operating systems and software.
“Most people don’t realize they can save hundreds or thousands of dollars on a perfectly acceptable computer for their home or office,” Whitman says. “Most companies don’t realize they can sell their slightly-old computers for cash instead of storing them or giving them away.”
All computers are guaranteed for 90 days, but extended warranties are also available. They also sell accessories and pieces of computer equipment, such as modems and printers.
The store handles equipment repairs and upgrades and can custom-build equipment upon request.
Whitman, the former general manager of KIX-104 radio station in Fayetteville, says he considered purchasing several radio stations before he decided to open a Computer Renaissance location in Fayetteville. He hopes to open more locations in Arkansas.
Whitman’s new business was ranked first in its category in Entrepreneur Magazine’s Franchise 500, and the National Business Employment Weekly has called the chain one of “the nation’s best franchise buys.” Computer Renaissance is America’s largest chain of used computer stores and also owns several recycled-merchandise franchises, including Play It Again Sports.