In this edition of our newsletter we feature Derek Young & Michael Blackburn
from Blackburn Young Office Solutions
Q: When did you decide to go into business together?
A: 2003 – we thought the Dot Bomb economy provided a suitable challenge! Truly, it wasn’t the greatest time to start, but it forced us to work hard and build our business responsibly.
Q: What’s your team like at Blackburn Young?
A: We have every generation and every personality in our office, but everyone works hard to take care of our customers and to have fun while doing it.
Q: Where did you both work before?
A: We’ve each had a few jobs, but the ones we have in common are Paper Boy, Baseball Umpire and Office Furniture Installation – the last one was a nice stepping stone towards Blackburn Young Office Solutions.
Q: If you could have any other career – what would it be?
A: Professional athletes. We met on the ball field – shortstop and second baseman. Nothing could be better than playing the game you love for a living!
Q: Tell us about your Full Circle Program.
A: Full Circle, an exclusive program developed with ANEW, a non-profit organization dedicated to extending the life cycle of surplus furniture, fixtures and equipment in an economically, socially and environmentally responsible way.
Q: Where’s your favorite go-to spot for lunch?
A: Probably White Spot. We usually take our clients somewhere a little nicer, but White Spot is where we have our Blackburn Young board meetings and business planning sessions.
Q: What is your charity of choice?
A: We love to support any charity that approaches. A lot of people we know grow moustaches, bike, run, walk and sleep on the street (among other things) in support of great causes. We are always happy to contribute. At Blackburn Young, our team has been raising money for the Heart and Stroke through their Big Bike fundraiser. Maybe you’ve seen us cruising around downtown Vancouver dressed in red with a police escort?
Q: Tell us something about yourselves that may surprise us.
A: Even after the ups and downs of 15 years in business we are still the best of friends!
Pictured: Playing Corn Hole in Grand Cayman during the Global trip combining furniture, family and friends
Pictured: In Santa Monica having a beach bike ride with their significant others