Comet orbits VARs in SoHo push

Networking vendor looking to the UK channel

Networking vendor Comet Labs is seeking a distributor and resellers to launch its SME and small office/home office (SoHo) range of switches, routers and hubs in the UK.

The company is due to launch a range of 150 networking products in October and is looking to the UK channel as its route to market.

"We want to work with a distributor that can help us build a reseller network. The only area we might sell outside this channel is through retail, but we will take advice from our distributor about this," said Richard Strong, business development manager at Comet Labs.

The company claimed its SoHo push has been encouraged by the availability of high-speed connections in the UK. "Most homes are getting more than one computer and broadband connections," Strong said.

Andy Shepperd, general manager networking at Computer 2000, said using a distributor to build a channel is a classic way for US firms to gain a foothold in the UK. But he added the slowdown will make it difficult for any company trying to establish itself.