CA signs Open Computing deal

Open Computing has won a distribution deal claimed to be 'worth millions' with Computer Associates' Business Alliances Group to sell CA's systems management product, Unicentre.

The Leeds-based distributor beat big broadliners such as Frontline and Ingram Micro to the deal because it specialises in software. It joins PSL, P&P's distribution arm, which was signed up in April.

The expansion into distribution is part of CA's strategy to put 50 per cent of its business indirect by 2000.

Julia Hawkins, business unit manager for CA's business alliances group, said: 'We wanted Open Computing because they're very aggressive and they're based in the North. PSL do a lot of their business in the South East and we wanted the extra coverage.'

Open Computing is expected to sign 12 Vars within the next six to 12 months as part of the deal. The software firm is also looking to strike partnerships with software developers and systems integrators.

The flagship Unicentre contributed $650 million towards CA's turnover last year.