Global Internet takes on distributors in SME move

Global Internet has appointed two distributors, Metrologie and Gem, to deal with its Network Business Connection Net package.

As part of its focus on small business internet requirements, the ISP vendor is offering Microsoft's BackOffice small business server with its Network Business Connection to provide an off-the-shelf internet package. The package includes three months internet access, domain name registration or transfer, 25-user internet access, 10Mb Web space, unlimited email for all networked users and a copy of accounting software package Dosh Cashbook.

Maria Cappella, general manager of Global Internet business services group, said: 'In terms of distribution, it's the first time we've had a product that can be sold off the shelf.

'It's a common sense argument to use distributors and resellers. They can get good margins from this sector since small businesses don't have a dedicated IT person and they need some degree of assistance.

'Small business obviously aspire to be bigger and this can give them a leading edge.'

Cappella added that the company had just taken delivery of a 155Mbps STM1 transatlantic link. 'It's the largest transatlantic link in the UK and it's six times our requirement, but it allows us to offer better service.'

Bob Grindley, commercial director at Metrologie, said: 'It's a new area for us, but it is complementary to our work with Microsoft small business server.'