Austin Fierstadt (AS Wireless)

Interview: Eric (Screenbuyer.com) and Austin Fierstadt (AS Wireless)

Eric: Austin, can you share the story behind AS Wireless? How did you enter this field?

Austin: It's been quite an adventure. We started 25 years ago as a small ATT store in Hicksville, New York. Initially, it was a local retail business. However, I soon recognized a significant opportunity in device repair and refurbishment. The mobile technology landscape was evolving rapidly, and we needed to keep up.

Eric: What led to the shift from a retail store to a repair-centric business?

Austin: About a decade into our business, we observed that customers were facing high costs for device repairs. Smartphones and tablets were becoming more intricate, and replacement expenses were soaring. We identified a market gap – people required affordable, high-quality repair services.

Eric: Can you elaborate on your expertise in LCD refurbishing? How did you acquire it?

Austin: LCD reglassing was our breakthrough. Initially, it was incredibly tough. We lost a substantial amount of money – probably around $100,000 in our first two years of offering this service. We broke numerous screens, had dissatisfied customers, and almost gave up multiple times. But we were committed to mastering the technique.

Eric: What motivated you to persevere through those challenging early years?

Austin: Passion and dedication. Our team believed in our potential to be the best. We invested in training, studied screen technologies, and developed proprietary techniques. Now, we're regarded as industry leaders in LCD refurbishing. What was once our biggest challenge is now our main competitive edge.

Eric: How do you manage business-to-business services alongside walk-in repairs?

Austin: It's a delicate balance. Our B2B clients include local businesses, schools, and corporate clients who require bulk device repairs. At the same time, we maintain a robust walk-in service for individual customers. Our Hicksville location has become a popular repair destination in Nassau County.

Eric: Which geographic area do you primarily serve?

Austin: We're deeply rooted in Hicksville, but our reputation extends throughout Nassau County. We attract customers from Bethpage, Jericho, Plainview, and nearby areas. Word-of-mouth has been our most effective marketing tool.

Eric: Looking forward, what challenges do you foresee in the device repair industry?

Austin: Technology is advancing at an unprecedented pace. LCD screens are becoming more sophisticated, with newer materials and more complex designs. Additionally, new repair businesses are continuously emerging. Our advantage is experience – we've navigated multiple technological shifts over 25 years.

Eric: How do you maintain competitiveness in such a dynamic market?

Austin: Continuous learning and adaptation. We invest significantly in training, stay updated on the latest repair technologies, and maintain a passionate, skilled team. Our longevity isn't just about survival; it's about consistently providing exceptional service.

Eric: Any advice for entrepreneurs entering the device repair industry?

Austin: Be patient, persistent, and eager to learn. This industry isn't about quick wins but building expertise and trust. Invest in your skills, understand the technology, and always prioritize customer satisfaction.