Monkey Bytes Computer Repair, along with its two corgis, moves to West Street

Monkey Bytes Computer Repair has had a prominent spot on East Douglas just east of Washington for several years, but owner Matthew Kesterson has sold his more than 4,000-square-foot building at 1219 E. Douglas.

“I had the opportunity to make a profit on it, and at the same time it allowed me to downsize,” he said. “When I really looked at the work area I was using, I was using only about 400 square (feet).”

There’s no sign up yet, but Monkey Bytes now is in 600 square feet of leased space at 853 N. West St.

“I’m sure my bills are going to be way less,” Kesterson said.

He said that will help him keep his prices lower, too. Monkey Bytes repairs desktop computers, laptops and tablets.

Kesterson had spoken out against a proposed Business Improvement District along Douglas last year, but he said that had nothing to do with his move. He said he wasn’t philosophically opposed to the district, which ended up not happening. However, Kesterson said his business doesn’t even need to advertise anymore due to strong word-of-mouth recommendations, so he didn’t feel he needed to be part of such a district.

“There was nothing they were offering me for the money I would have to put out.”

Kesterson said that like Douglas Avenue, West Street is a busy thoroughfare that’s easy to get to.

He said he also chose the site because he’s allowed to have his two corgis, Belle and Lola, with him at the office. Kesterson said he “even set my counter so they can greet customers.” They’re behind a gate but can still be petted.

Kesterson said they’re pretty good at sales.

“For the most part.”

Next up: See who’s taking Kesterson’s old space later this month.

This story was originally published September 9, 2020 at 2:28 PM.