Ashram to foray into hardware biz

Software solution resellers Ashram Computers and Consultancy Services is
planning to foray into hardware business in the near future to tap the booming
retail market. For almost 15 years, Ashram Computers has been in the software
solutions trade.

“We plan to set-up a showroom of about 800sq ft to display hardware,
software, branded PCs and latest IT products. This showroom will act as a
one-stop shop for all the costumer requirements in Chennai,” said Kaushal
Srivastava, Branch Manager, Ashram Computers, Chennai.

Explaining the sudden decision to enter into the hardware business,
Srivastava said that the move behind the new venture was the booming retail
industry and Ashram didn't want to lose the opportunity.70 percent of Ashram's
business comes from anti-virus solutions. “Even large enterprises are in need
for security, and the demand is increasing by the hour. We are confident of
meeting the customer demands in future as well.”

Rejecting the idea that retail industry is eating the margins of the traders
at a large scale, Srivastava said that the move was a huge one and volume would
compensate the loss of margins. “The value addition in the service is always a
necessary factor for the survival and every trader should be providing that
value addition to his or her customers,” he added.