Derek Neary
Northern News Services

Fort Simpson (Sep 28/01) - Andrew and Cecile Gaule need more space for their office supplies business, and they're hoping others are in the same boat.

The Gaules recently purchased an office complex with 13 units for rent. The building was moved from Edmonton onto their lot on 100 Street in Fort Simpson last week.

"It's a gamble. It's a risk. I brought it in with no guarantees of rentals whatsoever," Andrew said.

Andrew says he's been contemplating the venture over the past several months.

"Everyone keeps saying there's nowhere in town for businesses to set up. We'll see how it goes."

The central room will be used for the Gaules' North of 60 Office Micro, which had already expanded from the Liidli Kue First Nation office building into the federal building.

"Sales are going quite well," Andrew said.

As incentives for those interested in renting one of the 120 square foot or 150 square foot offices, Andrew said he will offer flexible leases, a shared boardroom and access to a photocopy machine. In the few days the complex had been in town, he already had a couple of inquiries, he said.

"So that's encouraging," Andrew said.

He hopes to have the building operational within two weeks.

The new location will make it easier for the Gaules to unload deliveries for their own enterprise, Andrew said. It will be equipped with ramps and will be wheelchair accessible.