The VAR Guy

Anecdotal evidence all around The VAR Guy suggests that the economy is going from bad to worse. A 30-year-old deli down the street from his Long Island hideaway just closed down; a local bar just shuttered; and now comes word that Starbucks is closing 600 US stores and cutting 12,000 full- and part-time positions.

The VAR Guy himself has gone cold turkey lately — he’s quit his daily Starbucks and Dunkin’ Donuts coffee habit, and saves money by sipping home brewed alternatives.

Kidding aside, The VAR Guy has spent considerable time chatting with local retailers on Long Island in recent weeks. At least two of them said they don’t think we’re heading for a “depression.” Huh? Depression? The VAR Guy was just getting used to recession talk.

So, what’s a savvy channel company to do? Hopefully, you’ve already tightened your belt at home. But keep investing in your business. Managed service providers (MSPs) continue to speak highly of their revenue prospects over on our sister site, MSPmentor. And events like CompTIA Breakaway (August 5-7, Orlando) should provide some tips for long-term revenue growth.

In the meantime, keep watching your local retailers for economic hints.