Small and medium sized businesses often find buying new IT systems an expensive investment, however many are realising that leasing their IT equipment is an affordable alternative. By providing a leasing service, from a single computer to an entire IT package, Hardsoft Computers is capitalising on this market.

As a customer of Hardsoft Computers David Hawkins had seen the benefits of the service it provides. "I was a professional Architectural Photographer and I needed IT for my digital photography," remembers David. "Although my business had been ticking over for 17 years I was looking to improve my business and income. I decided to join a franchise as I though it would suit what I was looking to do.

"I straight away knew that I wanted to join Hardsoft Computers as it was a company I had been working with for quite a while. In fact I became one of the two pilot franchisees for Hardsoft Computers."

Although David was an experienced business owner prior to launching his Hardsoft Computers franchise in August 2007, he had not taken on employees or been in his own business premises before. He, therefore, found the training very useful. He reveals: "The training was both in-house and external. The in-house training concentrated a lot on the products we provide and how to get them to the end user. The external training was quite intensive and got us in the right frame of mind for running this type of business.

"Since the initial training I have had ongoing training and support. If I get an enquiry come through that I don't know the answer to I know that help is only a phone call away. Head office is always sending us extra information to keep us up-to-date with what is going on in the business. I feel secure in the knowledge that head office is looking after us all the time."

On course to meet his first year target turnover of £250,000, David already has plans to expand his business. He explains: "I'm looking to grow my business steadily and aim for a turnover of £1 million by the end of year two, building up a team of five to take me beyond that."