WStore sets sights on service partners

The first UK web-only reseller, WStore, is combing the ranks of service providers to find 100 dealers to help expand its corporate customer base.

The reseller has already attracted 105 corporate client accounts, including four leading corporates, since it launched on 15 July.

However, the web trader is looking for reseller partners for service fulfilment with the promise of a 50:50 share of the profit and a way into corporate accounts for smaller resellers.

Tony Price, managing director of WStore, said: "We are looking for about 100 dealers, not large ones, but companies that we can partner with for local services for corporate accounts. Our operation is geared to getting the box to the client, but we will need reseller partners to deliver the services."

He added that the company's first marketing blitz would be launched in September to push corporates to the site and attract dealers. Price said: "I don't think dealers will have concerns about working with us. We are offering them a way into business accounts that they would not have had."

He also revealed that although CHS Electronics was the only distributor providing the product fulfilment, WStore was looking for other supply partners. Computer 2000 and Ingram Micro were listed as targets.

When WStore is fully established in the UK, Price added that the store would begin looking for acquisition targets in the channel.

WStore's sister operation in France has already exceeded expectations.

It recorded turnover of £163;400,000 for 1998 with 400 customers signed up, and is predicting turnover of £163;6m for 1999 with 6000 customers.