Microsoft remains confident it can hold the interest of partners in the face of arch-rival Google’s assault on the applications channel.

Google launched its Google Apps programme last month, claiming it needed a channel to fulfil demand for the 3,000 businesses a day that are signing up for its offering.

The vendor is offering VARs a 20 per cent margin once they have deployed the in-the-cloud messaging, collaboration, security and compliance offering to 25 users.

However, Simon Gautrey, software-plus-services lead at Microsoft UK, was confident the 18 per cent rebate scheme it offers partners would see off the threat.

“We undertake the risk of no payments for the partner ­ if a customer places an order but folds, the partner will still receive the rebate,” he said.

Gautrey said the software-plus-services market is growing and that Google entering the arena is a signpost to show that there are still opportunities available for partners.

“We know how to help our partners through challenging times. Microsoft is confident that it will enable its partners to be a success with their customers. I do not know if everyone else can make those claims,” he added.

Keith Humphreys, managing consultant at analyst EuroLAN, said: “Resellers may be concerned by the fact that they have never seen Google as a partner, so it has yet to prove itself before VARs decide whether or not they want to sign.

“Microsoft’s channel appears to be loyal and feedback suggests VARs are pleased with its programme.”