By By Steve Swogetinsky/The Meridian Star
May 6, 2001
Jerry Purvis' motto has kept his business machine company growing since it opened in 1979. In fact, Purvis Business Machines will soon be moving to a new location on Highway 39 North.
Purvis grew up in the Meridian area. After serving three years in the U.S. Army, he returned to Meridian looking for work. He had been trained to do electronics work while in the service, and went to work with Monroe Business Systems as an office machine repairman.
In 1979, the company wanted Purvis to transfer to Miami, Fla., but he and his wife, Betty, were ready to come home.
Purvis started his business from scratch. "I was selling calculators out of my trunk and basically working out of my house," he said with a smile.
Later, he purchased the land and built his current store on 14th Street.
Purvis Business Machines currently employs 15 people. Purvis said he expected to hire two more when the company moves to the new store.
Steve Swogetinsky is regional editor of The Meridian Star. Call him at 693-1551, ext. 3217, or e-mail him at sswogetinsky@themeridianstar.com.