Nimans gives VARs a helping handset

Salford-based distributor claims channel demand inspired its latest venture into the mobile arena

Sign of the times: Market demand drove Nimans to embrace mobile technology

Telecoms distributor Nimans claims growing demand from resellers prompted its move into the mobile handset market.

The Mancunian VAD is now stocking a range of SIM-free handsets and other accessories, with prices starting from £22. About 40 handsets from the likes of Nokia, Samsung, Sony Ericsson and LG are available and Nimans is continuously adding to the line-up.

Top models singled out by the distributor include Samsung and JCB ruggedised handsets and a Windows Mobile PDA with GPS and emergency tracking facility.

Nimans chairman Julian Niman said the move towards mobiles was a natural step for his firm.

“We have responded to requests from resellers and moved into a new area of activity to meet customer expectations. It makes sense for us to embrace mobile as well as fixed-line telecoms technology as there are great synergies between the two.

"We are already experts at selling bluetooth technology such as headsets, so introducing mobiles is the next logical step to take. There are now more mobile phones in the UK than people so there are great opportunities for ourselves and our customers to capitalise on," he said.