Principal to push Mac clones for Motorola

The hardware giant has chosen the distributor channel as its firstroute to market for Mac clones

Motorola has signed Principal to act as sole UK distributor for Macintosh clones and has ruled out selling direct to large account resellers.

Two weeks ago, PC Dealer revealed that Motorola was deciding which channels to use for its clones. Virtually all of Motorola's Star Max computers will sell through the reseller channel. Rod McMillan, chairman and chief executive of Principal, sees Motorola's entry into the market as a sign that things are set to improve.

'There have been supply shortages and some quality issues as well, but Motorola should be able to get away from these problems. Its reputation will help it become established.

'We are now looking into establishing a network of dealers and resellers that are well placed to handle the new products,' he said.

According to McMillan, Principal does not feel threatened by the possibility of Motorola using other sales channels. 'We are aware of all Motorola's channels and we see nothing that we are unhappy with.'

McMillan's enthusiasm for the future of the Macintosh clone market is not matched by all those already in it.

IMC acts as distributor of Umax clones and its director, Andrew Williams, is wary of Apple's recent change of heart.

'Earlier this year, Apple said that licensing its operating system was part of its plan to turn round its fortunes,' he said. 'Now instead of focusing on the high-end market, Apple is bringing out a range of cheap product. It is forcing clone manufacturers to push their prices even lower.'

Williams said that he was not impressed with Motorola's machines.

'Motorola products are very PC-based and won't appeal to traditional Macintosh users. Umax' kit follows more traditional Macintosh lines.'