FirstTech Truly is First for Apple Computers

By Harvey Zuckman, FirstTech CFO/Owner

There is only one company still in existence that has been selling Apple computer products since they arrived on the market in 1977. FirstTech is not just an industry pioneer; we are an independent, locally owned family business that takes pride in our history and in being part of the Uptown neighborhood.

Maury and Betty Zuckman opened a radio repair shop in 1941 and built their reputation on principals of professionalism and customer service.

My brothers, Arnie and Rick, and I have carried on the business our parents started since moving to Uptown in 1968. Today, we feel fortunate to have over 50 loyal, dedicated staff members. Nearly half have been with us for 10 to 26 years and that contributes to our friendly environment where all feel like part of the family.

When you walk into FirstTech, you quickly notice the very relaxed, comfortable atmosphere. We hope that it's a welcoming place where our clients can make important decisions in an unhurried manner.

In the 60s and 70s, we sold a variety of consumer electronics products including audio and video. The personal computer quickly became the fastest growing part of our business in the 80s and, in 1987, we decided to focus only on computers and related technology solutions.

Today's products range from the exciting new Apple iPad to the full line of Apple computers and iPods to a broad range of associated peripheral and accessory products from leading industry manufacturers. Also unique to FirstTech is our inventory of used Macs, each certified with a 30-day warranty.

FirstTech's business has expanded over the years: beyond sales (we have both retail and business-to-business sales teams), we are proud of our highly rated, award-winning service department that offers both carry-in and on-location services. In fact, Minnesota Women's Press has recognized FirstTech as their "favorite independent shop for computer emergencies" in their annual "What Women Want" issues for both 2009 and 2010.

The training courses we offer include demonstrations and lectures mixed with hands-on exercises in small class settings. These support services are provided to individuals as well as companies large and small.

FirstTech has long been involved in the field of education, too. We sold the first Apple computers placed in Minneapolis schools and our interest in education has been ongoing. We currently provide the Promethean interactive electronic white boards to schools throughout Minnesota.

Apple's most valued independent dealers are called Apple Specialists and we are among the original members of that group. Arnie currently serves as president of ASMC, an independent national organization of Apple Specialists.

Community involvement is an important part of FirstTech and our family. We are founders of the South Hennepin Business Association and are active members of SHBA, Uptown Association and Metro Independent Business Alliance. We have served on the boards of our neighborhood associations and a variety of community organizations. In addition, our workplace giving campaign has been recognized by Community Shares of Minnesota for their Corporate Campaign Excellence Award.

"What hasn't changed is our commitment to our community and the integrity in the way we conduct our business," said Rick Zuckman, our company's Executive VP and longtime Lowry Hill resident. "We strive to provide excellence in the products and in services we provide."

Visit us at www.firsttech.com or, better yet, stop in our store at 26th & Hennepin and see for yourself what FirstTech has to offer.

Harvey Zuckman started working in the family business when he was just five years old. He has been a member of the Wedge Co-op for nearly 30 years and is an ECCO neighborhood resident.