Gateway Web operation set for expansion

Gateway and UUNet have unveiled expansion plans for their free internet access operation as the hardware vendor restructures its e-commerce plans, which include an online superstore.

The US manufacturer will unleash a frenzy of UK Web activity over the coming months, starting with the re-launch of its Website this month.

The measures have been largely fuelled by the success of Gateway's free internet access operation, Gateway.net, which has attracted 35,000 subscribers.

The operation will launch in France and Ireland over the next three weeks, and in Holland and Sweden by the end of the year.

Michael Maloney, director of marketing at Gateway, claimed that the manufacturer will offer more services through its site. 'These are pieces of the puzzle which are forming the strategy. We are increasing value added services and internet and e-commerce products through our Website.'

Joe Clift, marketing director at UUNet, added that it would aid Gateway in the development of the services: 'This is a strong part of our strategy. The internet is definitely a growth market with many brands looking for a Web presence.'

He added that UUNet is about to partner with two further operations, one of which is a leading retailer, but refused to name them.

Gateway is also set to launch its online store SpotShop.com in the UK.

The store has 30,000 lines in the US, including peripherals, components and software. The Website - operated by NECX, which is partly owned by Gateway - is expected to be introduced by 1 September.

The orders received on the site are auctioned off to distributors at the end of each day. In the US, the orders are split between Tech Data, Computer 2000 and Merisel.

Maloney confirmed that Gateway was in discussions with one distributor in the UK and that once the site was fully operational, another two or three distributors would be recruited.