Meet Tomas Davidsson: "Technology is constantly evolving so my work never becomes boring"

Tomas Davidsson of TD Sat & Sound

It was a skiing holiday to Austria that gave former car mechanic Tomas Davidsson the urge to up sticks from his native Sweden and try life somewhere else. The sunny shores of the Costa del Sol beckoned and in 2000 Tomas made the permanent move south. Six years later he set up his own company, though in a field far removed from the one of brake discs, oil changes and head gaskets. Also with a background in installing television antennas, Tomas decided that the future was in user-friendly audio and visual solutions for homes and businesses…

Tell us what you do and what it involves

I started up TD Sat & Sound by installing television systems and antennas for homes but now it is all home electronics and smart systems, including home cinemas, heating temperature systems, lighting systems… whatever you can control electronically basically!

Smart homes are becoming increasingly popular and particularly on the Costa del Sol, where many of the higher-end homes tend to be kitted out with all the latest in home technology.

How do you start your day?

The first thing is I read my emails and then I have breakfast. I’ll then answer any emails I have to and am usually out of the house for work by 9am.

What part of your work do you enjoy most?

There are two parts of my job that I really enjoy. To make a client really happy by doing a good job is always great. It gives you such a nice feeling. The other thing is that technology is constantly evolving so my work never becomes boring. Every day is different.

And when you’re not working?

I try to go skiing in the winter and I love to scuba dive during the summer.

What do you love most about the Costa del Sol lifestyle?

Well, the weather of course. But the outdoor lifestyle is what I like the most. Being able to socialise outdoors with friends, eat outdoors… it’s very different from Sweden where almost everything you do is indoors.

Your favourite beach?

Perla Blanca in Elviria.

Your favourite Sunday lunch venue?

Perla Blanca again, or the Beach House in Elviria.

Your favourite Spanish dish?

Paella… made by my wife!

Preferred night out with friends/family?

Well, we are a family with two kids so we try to go to restaurants rather than bars. A good meal in La Sala or The Playwright is nice.

Jump in the car for the weekend, where do you head?

Sierra Nevada or Cabo de Palos in Murcia for the scuba diving.

Have you had the opportunity to travel much in Spain?

Yes quite a bit. My wife is Spanish so we have been around quite a few areas, Madrid, Murcia, around Andalucía… lots of different places.

One thing you miss about Sweden?

How well organised Sweden is! Sometimes trying to get things done here can be a bit of a nightmare, and in Sweden organisation is much more evident.

Do you speak Spanish?

Yes. There are always things to learn, but yes.

What does the future hold for you?

I would like to expand the company, get more employees and generally grow the business!

What advice would you give to someone relocating and wanting to start a business here?

You will not get rich overnight! You have to work hard of course and I’ve found that the best way to grow the business is by doing a great, professional job which generates more business through word of mouth and referrals.

Tomas Davidsson is the founder and owner of TD Sat & Sound, a VIVA Recommended Partner. You can contact him on +34 606 661 344