Heres a newspaper article i found on dude
Contra Costa Times (Walnut Creek,CA)
Copyright 2007 Contra Costa Times
March 23, 2007
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: Making a difference in the environment
Name of business: Cartridge World of Antioch
Type of business: toner cartridge recycling
Owners: Michelle and Matt Buschini and Nick Valentic
Founded: March 2007
Address: 3405 Deer Valley Road, Antioch
Phone number: 757-7091
Hours: Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Number of employees: five
Products and services: Ink and toner cartridge refills for most cartridges.
They also sell specialty paper for digital printing. While they put most of their emphasis on recycling, refilling and reconditioning used toner cartridges, Cartridge World also sells new toner cartridges.
How did you get into the business? Michelle Buschini previously owned a business in the food industry, but she and her husband, Matt, decided they wanted to start something different. While in their previous business, they used a lot of ink cartridges and found that they liked going to Cartridge World in Brentwood. After talking with the owner of the Brentwood franchise, they decide to open their own store in Antioch.
"It really works out well, because now we won't have to commute," Buschini said.
She also likes the idea of having her son Nick involved in the business.
"This really gives him a chance to get involved in a small business venture."
Best thing about the business: Buschini said that she likes the fact that people love the product and the service. She says the customers not only like the money savings in recycling their cartridges, but also like the positive impact the service offers the environment.
Worst part about the business: There is still a lot of work left in educating the public on the services provided in recycling a cartridge.
Buschini said that the process is complex and technical. Done right, the service will offer a product just as good as a new cartridge.
Key to success: "Showing people what a positive impact on the environment the service at Cartridge World provides," she said.
She also believes that the community support from local fundraising events will also be helpful.
Cartridge World has been working with local schools to help they raise money. Schools collect used cartridges and they Cartridge World donates money to the school per cartridge. The service not only helps Cartridge World and the school, but also brings good will to the community.
Biggest misperception about the business: "Cartridges cannot be refilled and when they are an inferior product," Buschini said. She said there is a misperception. Not only are the refilled cartridges just as good as the new product, but also they cost 30 to 40 percent less.
Future plans: Buschini said that she hopes to expand the fundraising program and offer it to any groups interested in raising money for their organization. Schools, churches and more are welcome to apply; she said that it isn't necessary to be a nonprofit to apply.
Buschini also said that she is hoping to expand her business by hiring a printer repair person. It is a service that many customers have asked for.
-- Roni Gehlke
