C2000 disrupts Seagate intimacy party

Seagate Software has appointed Computer 2000 as its third distributor breaking up a long-term duopoly between Ideal Hardware and CHS Electronics.

Ideal and CHS have been distributing the vendor's full range of network and storage management products for more than three years.

Paul Segrave, sales director for Northern Europe at Seagate, revealed that the vendor had been looking to broaden its reseller base following the company's recent shift over to enterprise information management (EIM).

While he refused to rule out the addition of further distributors, Segrave added that it was not an intention in the near future.

Seagate's existing distributors insisted that the addition of C2000 was not a significant cause of concern for them.

James Wickes, managing director of Ideal Hardware, said: 'C2000 is a bland organisation but there may be a struggle for margin.'

He added: 'Now there are three distributors in the fray, we will see who has the stomach for the fight.'

Peter Rigby, director of marketing and communications at CHS, said: 'Seagate is a key franchise for us and although I would have preferred it if it hadn't signed anyone else, I'm sure we can work together without treading on each other's toes.'

Andy Shepperd, storage channel manager at C2000, said: 'Seagate only has another two UK distributors so there is significant opportunity out there.'

Meanwhile, in the aftermath of the unexpected ousting of Seagate Technology's chief executive, Al Shugart two months ago, the storage specialist has taken on four vice presidents.

It has also announced the promotion of William Watkins, former head of the vendor's disk drive operations, to the position of chief operating officer.