Germans to invade UK in top three bid

German computer manufacturer Siemens Nixdorf will begin an assault on the UK retail sector this spring as part of its strategy to become one of the top three computer makers in Europe.

Last week, the company bought a 10% share in fellow German PC retailer-manufacturer Vobis and earlier this month, upped its stake from 10 to12.5% in Vobis' arch rival, Escom, after Escom filed a DM120 million year-end loss and sought fresh financing.

The share acquisitions will enable Siemens and its partners to purchase PC components in bulk at lower prices.