PST targets smaller resellers

PST, the surplus stock inventory management specialist, has created a new division which will run an online service targeting small and medium sized resellers.

PST, the surplus stock inventory management specialist, has created a new division which will run an online service targeting small and medium sized resellers.

The new division and website, both named JustXS, will move away from PST's broadline approach to specialise in IT.

It will also work on commission-based sales rather than PST's purchasing model. Subsequently, all stock sold on the JustXS website will keep the original manufacturers' branding and appropriate warranty.

John Broderick, chief executive of JustXS, said the site was a natural development from PST that would give it access to smaller customers. "Apart from the usual online benefits of 24x7 trading and global access, it means we can work with smaller quantities of product. Where previously buyers would have to order in the hundreds or thousands, now we can work with threes and fours," he said.

Interested resellers can purchase stock through fixed-price listings or a number of on-site auctions. Howard Strowman, chairman of JustXS, revealed that the site has signed up more than 1200 customers, and turned over in excess of £200,000 since it went online on 22 September.

The new division has also appointed David Svendsen, former Microsoft UK managing director, in a part time advisory role. "David has tremendous experience and a real in-depth knowledge of the business-to-business sector and the way in which the internet is changing the dynamics of IT channels. He will be a real asset," said Broderick.

Strowman confirmed that the firm had looked to employ Compaq chairman Joe McNally in a similar capacity to Svendsen, but was rebuffed. Strowman refused to rule out a second approach in the near future, however. "We are hopeful that some sort of compromise can be reached," he said.

Sukh Rayat, managing director of distributor Avnet, said the formation of an online division was a logical extension of PST's service, but that it is likely to face competition if it proves successful. "There is a surprising gap in the market for this kind of service, but you have to question how long it will last," he said.