their own business than spend long hours working for someone else.

Simon Gabriel and LuVince Cann, both in the computer field, began a computer rental business two years ago and then in June opened thebusinesscentre.bm in St. George's.

The businesscentre.bm allows business travellers to Bermuda to go online and reserve equipment they will need while on the Island.

"I was spending so many long hours working that I just decided it wasn't worth it unless it was a business of my own,'' said Mr. Cann.

The two men had been working together for the same employer and it was a natural move for them to start their own business. With only a $20,000 investment between them, they say their business is already profitable.

"We are very happy with the results,'' said Mr. Gabriel.

But the pair had more than computer smarts when they began their venture.

Recognising an untapped niche market of the cruise ship industry, they targeted crew members on the cruise lines that call at Bermuda and offered them Internet access and long distance phone service.

"When cruise ship workers finish their shifts at night there has been nothing for them to do except go to the bars or nightclubs,'' said Mr. Gabriel.

With opening hours that run up to 4 a.m. during the cruise ship season, the St. George's business seems to cater very well to the onshore needs of crew members.

"There are always people in the business centre, right up until I close at 4 a.m.,'' said Mr. Gabriel.

But the bulk of the company's business is derived from rentals they offer in computers and cellular telephones.

The company also provides courier service, photocopying, business cards, colour printing, binding, T-shirt printing, laminating and computer training and repairs.

Filling online niche The pair plan to expand with an office in the airport next year and one in Hamilton soon after. Also confirmed is that they will provide Western Union service from the St. George's office in January.

"We want to be pro-active and provide what people want,'' said Mr. Gabriel, "so we will be polling residents of St. George's and St. David's very soon on the types of services they would like us to offer.

"When that poll is complete we will make a draw and give away a cellular phone just to say thanks to everyone for taking part.''