Al Harris

Richmond PC maker humming along

While computer makers like Dell and Hewlett Packard are slashing prices as they brace for a drop in demand, Richmond-based Velocity Micro, which produces high-end custom PCs, says things are holding steady. The Chesterfield company’s PCs are favored by gamers. “Obviously we are seeing a little bit of a downturn in sales, but we aren’t… Read more »

Pipeline Commercial Real Estate Round Up for 11.14.08

Thalhimer reports Kroger has leased 86,000 square feet at The Corner at Short Pump located at the corner of West Broad Street. and Lauderdale Drive. The 250,000 square feet shopping center recently broke ground and the new Kroger is expected to open in late 2009. Old Bon Air Partners sold two office buildings at 1030… Read more »

MBA grads face fierce job market

Professionals are flocking to graduate business schools across the country, hoping to shore up their credentials and sharpen their competitive edge. BizSense previously reported on the increased interest at local area MBA programs. C and University of Richmond have experienced a swell of interest for their programs, paralleling the surge occurring nationwide.

Kaine says energy and environmental changes coming

The horizon is green in Virginia. In opening remarks at a conference on technology and sustainability, Gov. Tim Kaine said the last year of his administration would focus on energy and environmental issues. “Whether it’s green state government or whether it’s big-picture legislative initiatives with respect to land use, public transportation, open space preservation, water… Read more »

Local teams win with season ticket sales

For local sports fans, season tickets are one expense that’s not getting cut. Virginia Commonwealth University and the University of Richmond are reporting strong season ticket sales for the upcoming men’s basketball season. Both schools, however, are taking measures to bring in casual fans who might be watching their wallets more closely this year. “We… Read more »

No position safe at Circuit City

Five hundred eighty-eight. That is the number of employees Circuit City laid off Friday. From account executive to visual merchandiser, the company axed positions in seemingly every department and every level of employment, according to paperwork filed with the state.

Circuit City lays off hundreds

Updated: 9:52 a.m. Electronics retailer Circuit City laid off as many as 1,000 employees at their corporate headquarters in Henrico this morning, according to an employee inside the company. The Times-Dispatch is reporting that the number is between 600 and 1,000.

Check this out: The RBS Guide for small business checking

Most businesses should try to keep about a month’s worth of cash in the account. The balance is insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation up to $250,000. A normal balance might be between $5,000 and $10,000 for a start-up or small business. A small business savings account can earn more interest and is easily… Read more »

Gun dealers aim for big profits

Gun and ammo dealers will be counting extra profits this week; the election of Barack Obama is driving sales at gun shops from coast to coast. Frightened that Obama will infringe or restrict Second Amendment rights, buyers are stocking up on firearms, especially assault-type rifles that were banned during the Clinton Administration but became available… Read more »

Obama in, gun sales up??

Fears that an Obama presidency will place tighter restrictions on gun ownership have boosted sales at local gun stores, according to Richmond area firearm dealers. Almost all of the shops BizSense called said they saw increased sales leading up to Election Day. Workers at DeGoff’s Guns in Mechanicsville and Green Top Sporting Goods in Glen… Read more »