Office World reopens stores to PCs

Office World is making a comeback in PC sales after two failed attempts when it struck a deal with Lancashire retailer Time Computer Systems.

Time was the latest vendor to join the infamous list of companies to operate concessions in Office World stores.

Escom ran 42 franchises before going bankrupt and was followed by the equally ill-fated Byte Computer Superstores chain, prior to its acquisition by Dixons.

The mail-order company will operate concessions in 56 Office World stores from mid September, pushing Time's total store count to 120, making it the largest specialist PC retailer in the UK.

Colin Silcock, sales director at Time, revealed that the figure included an additional 14 stores opening during the next month.

Eric Born, managing director of Office World, said: 'Time has a very high reputation for the latest quality technology and experienced customer service, coupled with very good value for money. Also, its product range is perfectly positioned for the small business, home worker and student markets we serve.'

Phil Burnham, analyst at Romtec, pointed out that service and support would be vital for the expansion: 'There are lessons to be learned from Escom's disastrous attempt to sell in Office World.'

He added: 'The retail market has been on the decline and mail order has been on the increase. That could change, though, as price battles take off on the high street, spurred on by Tesco entering the sector. The result could be growth in the retail channel.'