Ultima discovers the name of the game

Relaunched systems integrator Ultima Networks - formally Microvitec - has become the subject of an inquiry after reseller Ultima Business Systems hit out at the company's name.

The networking division of UK-based Microvitec was given 90 days to find a different company title, after its monitor display section, along with the Microvitec name, was sold to Conrac Technology on 16 February for #1.4 million.

The change of name to Ultima Networks was finalised at an extraordinary general meeting on 9 April.

However, Max MacNeill, chairman at corporate reseller Ultima Business Systems, said: 'I found out this week and am disappointed we were not consulted.'

Andi Robinson, sales and marketing director at Ultima Networks, countered: 'The name was held in a subsidiary business called MSI, so it was registered but never used.'

Ultima Networks could not confirm if it had consulted Ultima Business Systems before the reorganised company's name was introduced. Robinson said: 'I am not sure - it was done some months ago.'

Robinson claimed the firm had registered the name on the internet and had shown details to its solicitors. 'We put it to the legal people and it is watertight,' he said.

MacNeill, however, said he would be seeking legal advice about Ultima Business Systems' position: 'It may affect business but I cannot say for definite. I would like to see what our stance is,' he said.

Ultima Networks deals in products including Newbridge Networks, Bay Networks and Microsoft. Although Ultima Business Systems, which was established over eight years ago, also sells Microsoft, the reseller focuses on Toshiba, Digital and Compaq kit.

MacNeill said: 'There may be an overlap in business but it is too early to tell.'