Computer Care South moves into distribution

Reading-based dealer Computer Care South is taking the plunge into distribution later this year, initially supplying local dealers with computer components and accessories.

Plans to convert some of the dealer?s premises on Oxford Road, making way for a warehouse, telesales department and administration offices have been given the go-ahead.

Building work will begin in March and the distribution service will probably be launched in May.

?We?ve watched other people and the mistakes they have made and the things they have done right, and now we?re ready,? said Robin Sasson, general manager of Computer Care South.

One of the pitfalls Sasson is determined to avoid is mixing trade customers with users. ?We?re building a trade area with a separate accounting system and separate stock system,? he said. ?If you buy direct from manufacturers but you also have user sales, nobody in the trade wants to deal with you; they think you?re going to cut them out.?

The tailor-made accounts and stock systems will also give the dealer greater control over inventory levels and enable predictive buying. An experienced distribution manager is being recruited to run the new operation and telesales staff will be added as required.

The dealer turned over #1.5 million in its 1995/96 fiscal year, supplying its own brand Cyclone PCs and servers, plus add-ins such as network cards, graphic boards, tape drives and software.