October 19, 2005

By Daniel Mark Wheaton

Starting a new business is never a simple task.

Doing it at just 23 years old doesn’t make it any easier.

But for Darrell McKenna, it was a challenge he was willing to take on. Although he doesn’t see himself as a business owner forever, opening a computer sales and service store is a step toward his long-term career goals.

“This is more of a stepping stone for me,” said McKenna, owner and sole operator of The Only Stop Computer Shop on Grafton Street in downtown Charlottetown.

McKenna purchased an existing business at the same location in March and has since transformed it into his own enterprise.

He first began working for the previous owner in October 2004. When the owner encountered financial and personal difficulties that forced him to close the Charlottetown location while keeping the Summerside branch open, McKenna decided to take over.

Armed with a line of credit, college technology courses, and a determination to keep the business alive, McKenna opened The Only Stop Computer Shop.

He repainted the walls and completed renovations to create a more welcoming atmosphere for customers.

But atmosphere alone doesn’t pay the bills.

“The more money you make, the more you have to spend.”

As products sell, he has to continually reinvest in new inventory to keep his shelves stocked and meet customer demand.

After more than seven months in business, McKenna said his next priority is advertising.

“Getting the word out is the big thing.”

In addition to selling new and used computers and computer parts, McKenna performs troubleshooting and maintenance work.

For now, all repairs are completed in the store. Because he works alone, he can’t leave to provide on-site service for homes and businesses.

That’s something he hopes will change.

His goal is to hire someone to watch the store so he can make use of his network administration training, provide on-site service, and continue upgrading his technical skills.