3 Nov 2026 Business Buddies

Meet the Business Movement Member ABS. A Better Way’s Jacob Crawshaw

For more than three decades, West Yorkshire-based ABS. A Better Way has been helping businesses make the most of technology, building lasting relationships and delivering solutions that make a real difference.

As a proud family run business, ABS understands the importance of supporting its local community, which is why being part of The Kirkwood's Business Movement means so much to the team. We caught up with Jacob Crawshaw, Account Manager at ABS, to learn more about the business, his passion for helping customers and why supporting The Kirkwood is so important. We also discovered his love of Manchester United, travelling and the perfect Sunday roast. Founded in 1992 by Jacob's grandfather, ABS has grown into an established IT and managed print provider, supporting organisations across Yorkshire and beyond.

The business provides a wide range of services, including IT support, cyber security, Microsoft 365, cloud services, telecoms and print solutions, helping customers work more efficiently and securely.

For Jacob, being part of a family business with more than 30 years of history is something he takes great pride in. He said: "ABS was founded by my grandfather in 1992 and remains a family business today, so I've grown up around the business and have seen first-hand how important long-term relationships and great customer service are. We work with organisations of all sizes, from charities and professional services firms to manufacturers, healthcare providers and construction businesses, helping them use technology to work smarter and more securely."

While technology continues to evolve, Jacob believes the company's commitment to its customers is what makes ABS stand out from the competition. He explained: "We genuinely care about our customers and act as an extension of their business rather than just another supplier. Anyone can sell technology, but we focus on understanding our customers' goals and making sure technology helps them achieve them.

"Being family owned also means we take a long-term approach. Many of our customers have been with us for years because they know we'll always do what's right for them."

For Jacob, the most rewarding part of his role is knowing that the work he does has a positive impact on the businesses and people he supports. Whether helping customers overcome challenges or introducing new technology to improve their operations, he enjoys finding solutions that deliver genuine value.

He said: "A day spent helping customers solve problems, improve their business, or discover new ways technology can make life easier. The best days are when you finish knowing you've genuinely added value rather than just sold something."

That determination to make a difference, combined with his competitive nature, continues to motivate him. Jacob added: "Seeing the impact our work has on customers and being part of a business with a strong reputation built over more than three decades. I'm also quite competitive by nature, so I'm always looking for ways to improve and achieve more."

As a business with strong roots in West Yorkshire, supporting local organisations and making a positive contribution to the community is an important part of ABS's values. Through The ABS Foundation, the company is committed to giving back, and its involvement with The Kirkwood's Business Movement reflects that dedication.

Jacob recognises the vital role The Kirkwood plays in supporting people affected by life limiting illnesses, as well as their families and loved ones, across Kirklees. He said: "The Kirkwood does incredible work in our local community and provides support to families during some of the most difficult times in their lives.

"As a local business, and because of our Foundation, The ABS Foundation, it's important to give something back and support organisations that make such a positive difference close to home."

By being part of The Kirkwood's Business Movement, ABS joins a growing network of local organisations united by a shared ambition to make a meaningful difference in their communities.

Away from the world of technology, Jacob is a passionate football supporter and enjoys spending his spare time following Manchester United. He revealed: "I'm a Manchester United season ticket holder, so you'll often find me at Old Trafford on a Saturday. I also enjoy travelling and getting away whenever I can, whether that's a city break or a longer trip abroad."

With a passion for exploring new places, Jacob still has one particularly exciting experience he hopes to tick off his bucket list: "Attending a Formula 1 race in either Singapore or Abu Dhabi," he said. And while he enjoys travelling the world, his idea of the perfect weekend is much closer to home.

Jacob smiled: "An afternoon at the football, a walk with the dog, a Sunday roast and I am a happy man!" When it comes to social media, Jacob admits TikTok is his favourite platform, although he occasionally finds himself spending longer scrolling than planned.

He joked: "TikTok. I am guilty of hour-long scrolls from time to time." And his most-used emoji? The laughing face, of course.

The Kirkwood's Business Movement brings together organisations from across Kirklees and beyond, creating opportunities to build relationships, share expertise and support local people and families when they need it most.

Businesses like ABS. A Better Way demonstrate how strong community values, long-standing relationships and a commitment to giving back can help make a lasting difference.

The Kirkwood is proud to have Jacob and the team at ABS as part of its growing Business Movement and looks forward to continuing to work together to support communities across Kirklees.

Want to join The Kirkwood Business Movement then click HERE!