Rapport's staff greet Bimbo with open arms

Milton Keynes-based distributor Rapport Distribution has changed ownership, following a buyin management buyout (Bimbo) backed by venture capitalists Gresham Trust.

Rapport's management plans to expand the specialist network distributor into new markets. The company's general manager Steve Boddy said the general mood at the company was positive.

'We have a good mix of excellent products and specialist knowledge and feel the market is ready for the sort of work we are doing.

'Rapport is very skilled in providing niche products and services to niche markets. By specialising in this way we feel we can differentiate from the broadline distributors.'

Boddy said the new management team's priority would be to grow the company by concentrating on its existing strengths, which would be good news for Rapport staff.

Rapport became distinct from its direct-selling parent company GADC in 1994 to gain favour with resellers that did not trust it.

Rapport Distribution deals exclusively with the indirect channel.