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Cyber Security is Everyone’s Business

Posted on by Alison Haley

Cybersecurity can feel like something that only matters when something goes wrong.

A suspicious email may land in the inbox. Someone may click a link they shouldn’t have. A payment is sent to the wrong account. A staff member discovers they can no longer access an important system.

Suddenly, cybersecurity is everyone’s problem.

The good news is that protecting your business does not have to be complicated. Take a few straightforward steps to make life much harder for cybercriminals and start by recognising that cybersecurity isn’t just an IT issue.

It is everyone’s business.

Start with the people

Technology can do a brilliant job of protecting a business, but it can’t always protect us from ourselves.

Phishing remains one of the biggest ways criminals try to gain access to businesses. A phishing email might look like it came from a supplier, a customer, your bank, a colleague, or even your Managing Director.

It might ask you to open an attachment, click a link, change bank details or make an urgent payment.

Sadly, scams are evolving and becoming remarkably convincing.

So, before clicking, stop for a moment and ask yourself:

  • Was I expecting this?
  • Does the request make sense?
  • Is the sender really who they say they are?
  • Am I being pushed to act quickly?

If something doesn’t feel right, don’t be afraid to check.

Contact the person or organisation using a telephone number or email address you already know rather than using the details in the suspicious message.

And if you do click something you shouldn’t, don’t panic and don’t try to hide it. Tell someone straight away. The sooner you identify a potential problem, the sooner you can deal with it.

Don’t put all your trust in passwords

We have all been told for years to use strong passwords. And that’s still important where passwords are used.

However, the way we protect our online accounts is changing.

The National Cyber Security Centre now recommends using passkeys where they are available. Passkeys let you sign in using built-in device security, such as a fingerprint, facial recognition, or PIN, instead of a password that could be stolen through phishing.

Where passkeys are not available, use a strong, unique password and turn on two-step verification (2SV).

It is especially important to protect accounts that would cause serious problems if your business or school is compromised.

Think about your email account, online banking, payroll, cloud storage, social media, website administration and other systems containing important business or customer information.

Former employees, suppliers or contractors should also be considered. When someone no longer needs access to a system, it is really important that you remove or disable their account.

A surprising number of security problems start with access which nobody realised still existed.

Keep your devices up to date

That little notification that an update is ready can be easy to ignore.

How many times have you said or heard someone say: “We’ll do it later” or “We’re too busy – it can wait until tomorrow”?  Security updates exist for a reason.

Cybercriminals constantly look for weaknesses in software and devices. Keeping operating systems, applications, phones, tablets and other connected devices up to date helps to close any known security gaps.

The same applies to the equipment people use when working away from the office. A laptop in a coffee shop, a tablet at a customer’s premises or a mobile phone containing business information all need to be treated as part of your business’s security.

Think of it like locking your house doors.

You wouldn’t knowingly leave the front door open overnight. Your digital doors deserve the same attention.

What happens if something goes wrong?

Even with strong security measures, no business should assume nothing will ever happen to them.

That is why backups matter.

A cyberattack could make your data inaccessible, but it could also disappear if a laptop is stolen, a device fails, or someone accidentally deletes something important.

Your backups should cover the information your business or school relies on, from documents and personal contact information to emails, financial records, and other essential data.

There is also another important question:

Could you actually restore your business from your backups if you needed to?

An untested backup can be a major cause for concern, especially when you’re facing a crisis.

It is also worth thinking about what you would do if an attack did happen.

  • Who would your staff contact?
  • Who has responsibility for shutting down the affected systems?
  • Who would speak to customers?
  • Who needs to know?

A simple plan means you have those answers worked out before you have to act.

What about AI?

Artificial intelligence is changing how businesses work, and there are plenty of good reasons to use it, but cyber criminals are using it too.

AI can help attackers create really convincing messages, research potential targets, and make some cyberattacks quicker and more effective.

That means we simply can’t rely on the old-fashioned signs of a scam.

Poor spelling and strange wording might once have made a suspicious email easy to spot. Today, a convincing message can look perfectly professional.

In this case, the golden rule remains the same:

Don’t trust a message simply because it looks right.

Check the request. Check the sender, and if money, passwords or sensitive information are involved, take an extra moment to pause before acting.

Cybersecurity is a team effort

The most important thing to remember is that cybersecurity isn’t solely your IT team’s responsibility.

Everyone in a business has a part to play.

From the person opening the morning’s emails to the finance team member making payments, from the receptionist using a shared device to the Director accessing company information from home, everyone can help keep the business safe.

With the right technology, sensible systems in place, and a team that knows what to look for, you can reduce the chances of a small problem becoming a much bigger one.

How secure is your business?

If you’re not sure whether your business has the right protection in place, now is a good time to take a fresh look.

At CBS, we understand that every business is different. Our IT team can help you look at the technology, systems and support your business relies on and identify where improvements may be needed.

Cyber security doesn’t have to be complicated. But it does need to be taken seriously.

If you’re not sure where to start, talk to CBS.

One Team. One Place. Many Possibilities.

If you would like to find out how CBS could support your business or school, speak to one of our dedicated IT Account Managers today.

Contact the CBS team to discuss your IT requirements.
Call: 01274 496 220
Email: james.lyles@commercebusinesssystems.co.uk

 

 

CBS shortlisted for two BOSS Awards in first year of entry

Posted on by Alison Haley

Commerce Business Systems (CBS) is celebrating after being shortlisted for two BOSS Awards in its first year of entering the prestigious workplace supplies industry awards.

We are delighted to have been selected as a finalist for both the Dealer of the Year and Outstanding Workplace Award, with the winners to be announced at the BOSS Awards ceremony on Thursday 26th November in Manchester.

The BOSS Awards organisers described the quality of this year’s submissions as “outstanding”, making the judging process more difficult than ever. For CBS, being shortlisted in two categories is a fantastic achievement and recognition of the continued growth and development of the business.

Being shortlisted for Dealer of the Year reflects just how far CBS has come. What started as a managed print business has grown into a much broader business, helping customers with everything from IT support, telecoms and cyber security to office supplies, furniture and workplace solutions.

The Outstanding Workplace Award is particularly special because CBS has always been about its people. As we’ve grown, we’ve continued to invest in our team through recruitment, training, apprenticeships and opportunities to develop, while making sure we don’t lose the friendly, supportive culture that makes CBS what it is.

Managing Director John Green said:

“We’re incredibly proud to be shortlisted for two BOSS Awards in our first year of entering. We’ve worked hard to grow the business and broaden what we can offer our customers, but we’ve always wanted to do that without losing the personal service and the culture that make CBS what it is.

“To be recognised in both a business and workplace category means a great deal to us. It’s a reflection of the whole team and the way everyone at CBS works together.”

John added:

“We’d also like to thank our customers for their continued trust and support. We wouldn’t be where we are without them, and we’re very proud of the relationships we’ve built over the years.”

CBS will join fellow finalists at the BOSS Awards ceremony in Manchester on 26th November, when the winners will be announced.

With strong competition across both categories, CBS is delighted to be shortlisted and we wish all 2026 finalists the very best of luck.

Fingers crossed for the big night!

 

 

Managed IT Services & Hardware: Technology that works for your business or school

Posted on by Alison Haley

Choosing the right IT partner matters. As technology continually evolves, businesses and schools need reliable systems, foolproof security, and the right hardware for the job, which can put undue pressure on an in-house IT manager or department, so choosing the right IT partner to support them, too, is really important.

At Commerce Business Systems (CBS), we provide a comprehensive range of managed IT services and hardware solutions which can be tailored to our customers’ specific needs.

Whether you already have an in-house IT team that needs extra support, or you are looking for a partner to handle all of your IT requirements, our highly experienced team can provide the expertise and practical support you need.

Your IT. Your way.

Every business is different, so our approach is flexible.

We can act as an extension of your existing IT team, providing additional expertise and support where needed, or take responsibility for specific areas of your IT infrastructure and remove some of the day-to-day management pressures from your business.

Our aim is simple:
To keep your technology running smoothly, securely, and efficiently, so you can focus on running your business or school.

Managed IT Services

Our IT specialists can support your business across a wide range of essential services, including:

  • Microsoft Licensing
    Helping you manage the Microsoft licences your business and school rely on.
  • Proactive & Reactive IT Support
    We support your staff’s IT and all your systems by addressing issues as they happen while proactively maintaining your IT environment.
  • Infrastructure Support
    Providing support for the essential infrastructure on which your business systems are built, including servers, switches, Wi-Fi solutions and firewalls.
  • Managed Backup Solutions
    Helping to protect your important data with managed backup solutions.
  • Antivirus Solutions
    Offer protection designed to help keep your systems and devices secure from malicious software.
  • Cyber Threat Prevention & Detection
    Provide solutions that are designed to help you prevent, identify and respond to potential cyber threats

Providing a wide range of hardware solutions for your school or business

The right technology always starts with the right equipment.

CBS supplies a wide range of IT hardware from leading manufacturers, providing businesses and schools flexibility by sourcing the technology they need from a single, experienced supplier.

  • Laptops such as HP, Dell and Lenovo
  • Chromebooks including ASUS and Acer
  • PCs – we work with renowned manufacturers, HP, Dell and Lenovo
  • Peripherals including monitors, keyboards, mice, headsets, docking stations and cables.

Whether you are setting up a new employee on your system, upgrading your existing equipment, or refreshing your IT hardware, our team can help you find the right solution.

IT support without the added pressure

Managing IT does not mean you have to do it all yourself.

As a CBS customer, you will have access to our highly experienced IT specialists, who understand that not everyone is comfortable with technology and who regularly work with large, tech-savvy IT teams. They can guide you through the hardware and solutions your business needs in a way that suits you and can be tailored to how you work.

If you would like to find out how CBS could support your business or school, speak to one of our dedicated IT Account Managers today.

Contact the CBS team to discuss your IT requirements.
Call: 01274 496 220 or contact us here

Is Your Office Printer Ready for Microsoft’s Latest Email Security Changes?

Posted on by Alison Haley

Don’t wait until Scan-to-Email stops working. This is what you need to know.

For many businesses and schools, Scan-to-Email is now such a routine part of everyday activity that it is easy to take it for granted. Whether you send invoices, contracts, purchase orders or signed documents, it is a very quick and efficient way to keep information moving.

However, as Microsoft continues to strengthen the security of its email services, this could affect how some older multifunction printers connect to Microsoft 365.

The good news is there is no need to panic.

Many modern printers are already compatible with Microsoft’s latest security standards, while others may simply need a firmware update or a settings change. The important thing is making sure you know whether your printer is affected before it causes unnecessary disruption.

Why is Microsoft making these changes?

Cybersecurity is now a top priority for organisations of every size.

Older methods of authenticating email connections, known as Basic Authentication, are gradually being replaced with a more secure approach called OAuth 2.0. Although the technical names are not especially important, the reason behind the change certainly is.

Basic Authentication has been used successfully for many years, but as cyber threats have become more sophisticated, Microsoft has been encouraging businesses and schools to adopt more stringent methods of protecting user accounts, data and business information.

As part of this ongoing programme, the way some multifunction printers (MFPs) connect to Microsoft 365 is changing.

What does this mean for your business or school?

If you use Scan-to-Email, your printer may rely on the older authentication method at the moment. Many newer devices already support Microsoft’s preferred security standards, and some existing machines can be updated or reconfigured to continue working without interruption.

Only some of the older devices may need replacing. That is why it is worth checking now rather than waiting until a future Microsoft update highlights an issue.

Good news! Your printer may be ready as it is

One of the biggest misconceptions is that every MFP will be affected.

Fortunately, that is not the case.

Many newer Sharp and Develop MFPs already support Microsoft’s latest authentication requirements. In addition, firmware updates are becoming available for a number of earlier models, allowing them to continue using Scan-to-Email securely.

If you are not certain about your own MFP, a simple assessment can quickly establish whether any action is needed.

How can you tell if your printer could be affected?

You really don’t need to be an IT expert to recognise if your MFP might need a little attention. If your device is old, is connected to Microsoft 365 for Scan-to-Email or has not had a firmware update for some time, it is worth checking to see if it is ready for Microsoft’s latest authentication requirements.

Of course, many businesses and schools are not sure how their printer is configured, and that is perfectly understandable. These systems are designed to work quietly in the background, so unless there is a problem, most people never need to think about them.

If you are not sure, a quick assessment by our engineers can establish whether your device is already compatible or whether a simple update is all that is needed.

If you are uncertain of the answers, don’t worry. That is exactly what our engineers are here to help with.

What are your options?

Every business is different, which means there is no single solution that suits every MFP. The right approach depends on the make, model, age and how the machine is configured.

For many schools and businesses, the answer is reassuringly straightforward. A firmware update, a change to the printer’s email settings or a simple reconfiguration may be all that is needed to ensure Scan-to-Email continues working as expected. However, some much older machines, which no longer support up-to-date authentication methods, might eventually need replacing.

The important thing is not to make assumptions. A quick assessment can identify the most appropriate solution, often saving unnecessary expense and disruption.

How Commerce Business Systems can help

Every school and business uses its MFPs slightly differently, which is why, at CBS, we begin by understanding how your business works before recommending any changes.

Our skilled engineers can assess whether your existing printer supports Microsoft’s latest authentication standards, check whether firmware updates are available and review your current Scan-to-Email configuration. If any changes are needed, we will explain the options that are available to you clearly and recommend the most practical and cost-effective solution for your business.

In many cases, it may be a matter of making a few simple adjustments. If an older MFP has reached the end of its supported life, we will explain why and help you plan the next steps without unnecessary pressure or jargon.

Whether you have a single MFP or an entire fleet across many sites, our aim is simple: to keep your business running smoothly with as little disruption as possible.

Why wait until it becomes a problem?

Technology continues to evolve, and improvements in cyber security are good news for everyone.

By checking your MFP now, you can avoid unnecessary disruption later and be confident that your business is ready for Microsoft’s latest security requirements.

Book your FREE Scan-to-Email Health Check

If you would like peace of mind that your MFP is ready for Microsoft’s latest email security changes, we would be delighted to help.

Contact us to arrange a FREE Scan-to-Email Health Check, and we will advise whether your device is already compatible, requires a simple update, or if there are any changes you should consider in the future.

A quick check today could save unexpected disruption tomorrow.

Call now on 01274 496220
Email us at info@commercebusinesssystems.co.uk

 

Is your office multifunction printer the weakest link in your cyber security?

Posted on by Alison Haley

When businesses think about cyber security, they naturally focus on protecting their laptops, servers, email systems and firewalls. But there is one device that is often overlooked, despite being connected to the network and handling some of most sensitive information every day.

The office multifunction printer (MFP).

MFPs are far more than just printers. They scan documents directly to email, connect to cloud storage, store data on internal hard drives, communicate with business applications and, like any other network device, have their own operating systems and IP addresses.

In many ways, they are computers in their own right. However, they are often not a consideration during discussions about strengthening a business or school’s cyber security and that can, leave organisations vulnerable to unnecessary risk.

Why are printers attractive to cyber criminals?

Every time a document is printed, scanned or copied, information passes through the MFP. Without the right security measures in place, confidential documents, financial information, customer records and employee data could potentially be exposed.

Like any connected device, printers can also become a route into your wider IT network if they are running outdated firmware, protected by default passwords or left without the latest security updates. It is also important for businesses and schools to be prepared for guests who may need to use their WiFi with a method of added security to prevent viruses being brought in.

While businesses and schools have become increasingly aware of cyber threats, print infrastructure is still an area that is often underestimated.

Independent research from industry analyst, Quocirca highlights just how significant the issue has become. Around 7 out of 10 organisations, including businesses and schools, have experienced some data loss as a result of a print-related incident in the past year, and that improving print security continues to rank among the highest technology priorities for businesses during 2026.

It is also no surprise that organisations are increasingly looking for managed print providers with strong IT and cyber security expertise, rather than simply the ability to supply and service their hardware.

It is not just hackers you need to consider

When people hear the words “cyber security”, they often picture sophisticated hackers breaking into company systems.

However, in reality, some security breaches are far simpler.

Imagine a confidential payroll report left unattended on an output tray, or customer information collected by an unscrupulous person or sensitive documents accidentally sent to an incorrect recipient. All of these can result in data breaches, legal issues and damage to an organisation’s reputation.

The printer sitting in the corner of the office could be processing hundreds of confidential documents every week. Protecting that information should be just as important as protecting the computers that created it.

Print security has come a long way

The good news is that in the past 10 years, or so, business MFPs have been designed with built-in security at their core.

As an authorised Sharp reseller, Commerce Business Systems (CBS) supplies MFPs that include a wide range of advanced security features to help protect both your information and your wider IT environment.

These include features such as secure print release, ensuring confidential documents are only printed when the authorised user is present at the device, along with user authentication that prevents unauthorised access to sensitive functions.

Documents and print jobs can be automatically deleted once completed, while data stored on the MFP’s hard drive can be encrypted and securely erased to reduce the risk of information being recovered.

Secure cloud connectivity, encrypted scanning and the latest communication protocols help protect information as it moves between people, applications and cloud platforms such as Microsoft 365.

Sharp devices also support automatic firmware updates, self-healing BIOS technology and centralised security management, helping MFPs to stay protected against new threats which evolve throughout their lifecycle.

For organisations with particularly demanding security requirements, selected Sharp models can also be enhanced with the Bitdefender Virus Detection Kit. This provides an additional layer of protection by scanning files as they enter and leave the MFP in real time, helping to prevent malware from spreading across your network and alerting administrators if suspicious activity is detected.

When combined with administrator controls, user permissions and print management solutions such as PaperCut, businesses and schools can create a secure print environment that supports their wider cyber security goals.

Security is only as strong as your weakest connected device

Cyber criminals are constantly looking for opportunities, and they do not always target the most obvious devices first.

Every laptop, server, smartphone and printer connected to your network should form part of your organisation’s security strategy.

If your print system has not been reviewed recently, now is the ideal time to make sure your network printers and MFPs are properly configured, fully updated and protected against the latest threats.

At CBS, we help businesses and schools to create secure, efficient print environments that protect their sensitive information and support the way their teams work every day.

Whether you are reviewing your existing printer fleet or considering new Sharp multifunction devices, our specialists can help you identify any potential risks and recommend practical solutions that give you greater confidence in your print security.

When it comes to cyber security, every connected device matters, and CBS do not leave anything to chance.

If you would like a clearer picture of how sturdy your current security strategy is, or you want a no-nonsense plan to improve it, the CBS team is here to help.

Call now on 01274 496220
Email us at info@commercebusinesssystems.co.uk

 

Commerce Business Systems recognised as Yorkshire’s IT Solutions Specialist

Posted on by Alison Haley

Commerce Business Systems (CBS) has been named ‘IT Solutions Specialist – Yorkshire’ in the 2026 Diamond Distinction Awards, recognising the company’s outstanding expertise, customer service and continued innovation across the region.

The award recognises businesses that stand out in their field for the quality of their products, services and customer support, making it another proud achievement for the Bradford-based technology company.

CBS has been helping businesses for 24 years and has built a reputation for friendly, reliable service. While many people still know the company for its managed print services, CBS also provides managed IT support, cyber security, cloud services, business communications and a wide range of technology solutions.

As the business has grown one thing has stayed the same:  total commitment to looking after customers and helping them introduce new technology with confidence.

John Green, Managing Director of Commerce Business Systems, said:
“We’re delighted to receive this award. It’s a wonderful recognition for everyone at CBS and reflects the hard work and dedication of our whole team. Over the years we’ve grown from being known for managed print services to a business that now supports customers with many different aspects of their IT. Whatever services we’re providing, our approach is always the same: taking the time to understand what each customer needs and giving them the support they can rely on. We’d like to thank all of our customers for their continued trust in CBS and our team for everything they do every day.”

The award adds to a growing list of industry recognition for CBS and reflects the progress the company has made as it continues to grow its IT services while staying true to the values it was built on.

Whether a customer needs help improving cyber security, moving to the cloud, upgrading their communications or managing their print environment, CBS prides itself on offering practical advice, dependable support and technology that helps businesses work more effectively.

Are your print systems match-fit this summer?

Posted on by Alison Haley

As excitement builds ahead of this summer’s Football World Cup, businesses and schools across the UK are preparing for a busy second half to the year.

Whether on the football pitch or in the workplace, the foundations of success rely on preparation, teamwork and having the right support in place when it matters most.

However, while football fans focus on their team’s tactics, performance and avoiding costly mistakes, many businesses and schools are still relying on outdated print systems that drain time, money and productivity behind the scenes.

From unexpected downtime and rising toner and energy costs to unreliable machines and wasted time, an unmanaged print setup can quickly become an expensive ‘own goal’ for any business.

That is where Commerce Business Systems’ Managed Print Services can help.

Is your current print system costing you more than you think?

Many businesses don’t realise just how much their printers affect the smooth running of the working day. Most businesses don’t give much thought to their printers… until something goes wrong.

Without proper monitoring and management, organisations can face:

  • Unnecessary printing costs
  • Wasted consumables
  • Inefficient machines
  • Increased energy usage
  • Reduced productivity due to downtime
  • Frustration for staff and the IT teams who support them

Over time, these issues can affect the efficiency of businesses and schools and budgets.

Much like a football team which can lose momentum by making small mistakes, even minor printing problems can disrupt business, slow teams down, affect their workflow and result in reducing the overall business performance.

Stay match-ready with Managed Print Services

Managed Print Services (MPS) help businesses keep their printing running smoothly, without the headaches that often come with managing multiple machines and supplies.

Rather than waiting for problems to happen, MPS helps businesses and schools keep their printing running smoothly with ongoing support and regular checks to prevent problems in advance.

With support from Commerce Business Systems (CBS), businesses can benefit from:

  • Proactive maintenance and remote monitoring
  • Automated toner and consumables replenishment
  • Reduced downtime and issues can be resolved faster
  • Improved data security and peace of mind
  • Greater awareness and control of how printers are being used
  • Modular solutions which can be tailored to business and schools’ needs

Updating print environments and improving machine performance allows extra time to focus on what CBS customers do best: their day-to-day activity.

Sustainable printing that delivers results

Many schools and businesses are becoming more aware of the impact printing can have on both costs and the environment.

Older machines, excessive printing and wasted toner and paper can all quickly add up, so CBS works with businesses to put more sustainable print strategies into practice, with:

  • More efficient print usage
  • Reduced paper waste
  • Responsible consumables management
  • Smarter document workflows
  • Efficient energy consumption

Strong business performance and sustainability should go hand-in-hand and with the right print strategy in place, organisations can improve efficiency and environmental responsibility.

A winning technology partner for your business

Choosing the right technology partner is just as important as choosing the right technology itself.

With years of experience supporting businesses and the education sector, CBS provides tailored Managed Print Services designed around the specific needs of each organisation. The CBS team works closely with customers to deliver reliable, scalable and cost-effective print solutions backed by their expertise and on-going support.

From the initial consultation right through to the installation, maintenance and long-term account management, CBS helps their customers to stay productive, efficient and fully supported every step of the way.

Making sure you have the right team behind you

As businesses prepare for the months ahead, now is the perfect time to review whether your current print environment is helping your business or school to perform at its best, or whether you are being held back.

CBS helps its customers to reduce costs, improve efficiency, strengthen sustainability and keep operations running smoothly from kick-off to final whistle.

To find out more about Managed Print Services and how CBS can support your business, contact the team today.

Call now on 01274 496220
Email us at info@commercebusinesssystems.co.uk

CBS wins “IT Solutions Specialist of the Year 2026/27” at Yorkshire Prestige Awards

Posted on by Alison Haley

We are celebrating another major milestone, at CBS, after we were named “IT Solutions Specialist of the Year 2026/27” at the Yorkshire Prestige Awards.

This latest recognition marks the second time CBS has received the award, having previously won the same title in 2023/4;  a clear reflection of our continued growth, consistency, and commitment to delivering high-quality IT solutions across the region.

The Yorkshire Prestige Awards celebrate businesses that demonstrate excellence in their field, with winners selected based on a combination of publicly available information, including customer reviews, testimonials, and overall market presence. For CBS, this recognition highlights not just strong performance, but sustained progress over time.

John Green, Managing Director of CBS, commented:
“We’re absolutely delighted to receive this award again. Winning it once was a real achievement, but to be recognised a second time says a lot about the consistency of our growth, the dedication of our team and the work they put in day in, day out.”

Over the past few years, CBS has continued to build on its reputation as a trusted technology partner, supporting our customers in the region with tailored IT solutions, managed print services, telecoms and ongoing support. The award recognises not only our technical capability, but also the strength of our customer relationships and ability to adapt and evolve.

With a growing client base and an expanding range of services, CBS remains focused on delivering practical, reliable solutions that genuinely support businesses and schools in their day-to-day operations.

This latest award adds to a growing list of industry recognition for CBS and reinforces our position as one of Yorkshire’s leading IT solutions providers.

Commerce Business Systems Ltd acquires ASK and expands its office services in Yorkshire.

Posted on by Alison Haley

CBS is delighted to announce the acquisition of ASK The Office Equipment Specialists.

ASK is a long-established supplier of office interiors, business and facilities supplies, promotional merchandise, workwear, PPE, tools and equipment to customers across West Yorkshire.

The acquisition is the self-funded asset purchase of ASK ‘s customer contracts, staff and vehicles.  The two companies will operate at CBS’ Bradford Headquarters, under the CBS brand, ensuring continued business growth, on-going team development and the strengthening of the local economy.

The partnership enables CBS to expand its range of services, with ASK’s Managing Director, Greg Colehan, running the business equipment, office furniture and supplies operation. This will provide all CBS and ASK customers with an even wider choice of products and services, while receiving the same high standard of customer support that both businesses are renowned for.

John Green, Managing Director of CBS, explained why ASK is the perfect company for CBS to work with: “CBS and ASK are very similar. We are both Bradford based, service-led companies, with the same values. ASK stands for ‘Advice’, ‘Service’ and ‘Knowledge’, which fits perfectly with our own approach to business. I have known Greg for years and am really looking forward to working with him. My team is already working closely with ASK ’s team, to ensure a smooth transition to the CBS brand”.

 

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