Computer 2000 prepares to share Netgear contract

Computer 2000 is set to lose its exclusive supply contract for Bay Networks' low-end products after the vendor confirmed it was holding talks with other distributors.

The distributor, formerly known as Frontline, has been the sole UK distributor for Bay Netgear. The wholly owned subsidiary of the networking giant has specialised in low-end products to the SoHo market for a year and a half.

But David Parker, UK channel distribution manager at Bay, confirmed that he has been in discussions with both existing channel partners and external distributors to look at expanding its partners in the UK.

Steve Lockie, general manager of the networking division of Computer 2000, said: 'We are very unhappy about the performance of the franchise, especially in increasing user awareness.

'We are having limited success and we want Bay to promote the products.'

According to Allan Mack, MD of Ilion, the distributor has been in discussions with the vendor to sign up the Bay Netgear portfolio.

Mack said: 'Nothing has been signed but the agreement is there in principle.

We expect it to be confirmed by the end of the year.'

Lockie added: 'I welcome another distributor. However, we believe in user awareness and taking on another distributor does not negate the need for this.'

Parker also admitted that Bay was involved in discussions with CHS Electronics about a possible pan-European supply deal.