Channel shake-up for Asymetrix as contracts tumble

Asymetrix is to prune its list of distributors after completing a review of its UK channel.

The multimedia authoring software vendor expects to terminate distribution contracts with two or three suppliers at the end of the month. It also wants to expand UK authorised training centres from three to six, and to double authorised resellers from 12 to 24.

Gary Cutress, who joined Asymetrix two months ago from Delrina, said: 'We are rationalising our distribution channel and will approach distributors which can bring us incremental revenue, rather than just eat into existing sales.' Asymetrix currently operates franchises with Merisel, Ingram, RM and Management Software and BlackLine Communications for its flagship ToolBook range, and ICS for its database products.

The company also runs contracts with Principal, Micro-Warehouse, and Paper Direct for its European remarketing rights for the T-Maker lClick Art, and Vroom Book lines.

Cutress said that some relationships might change from distribution to reseller status. 'Until now we have been reactive with our channel policy - if a distributor or dealer came to us, we would give them a contract.' Asymetrix is stepping up the marketing activity to accompany the launch of Toolbook 4. A spokesman said 19 product reviews are due to appear. It is also setting up a series of mail-order promotions for its retail product 3DFX and Web 3D.