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Resources: Sucess Stories: Derek Andrews

Derek Andrews is a woodworker in Nova Scotia who has increased his business more than 40% by using the Internet to expand his effective marketplace and to reach his customers directly. He now operates an international mail order business (modest, but nonetheless significant to him), and 90% of his Internet business now comes from the United States--a market that was difficult for him to reach prior to investing in his Web site.

An unexpected side benefit of using the Web is that it has allowed Derek to diversify into an entirely new business--education. Some of his customers are now traveling to Nova Scotia to take private woodworking classes with Derek. His students, while in the area, are contributing to the local economy (hotel room nights, meals, local travel, sightseeing, and so on).

Derek was open to new lines of business, like the private woodworking classes and customized wood products (wedding favors). He reacted to customer needs and recognized opportunities to expand his business.

Read Derek's own story....

Andrews reaches out to customers

Derek provides his customers with excellent products and outstanding service. He recently added a blog to stay in better contact with customers and prospective customers

Key concepts

Derek integrated the Internet into his business, he did not just stick up a Web site and hope something good happened.
Derek identified products that lent themselves well to mail order sales.