VIP bites into Apple

Components distributor extends reach into systems market in bid to become one-stop tablet shop

Components, peripherals and systems distributor VIP Computers is setting up a dedicated Apple business unit after taking stock of the vendor's kit for the first time in its 20-year existence.

The Warrington-based distributor will be offering desktops, tablets and MP3 players from the vendor, as well as related accessories. VIP claims it has cultivated its relationship with Apple as a result of increasing customer demand.

Dave Stevinson, sales director at the distributor, said: "Historically, VIP has focused primarily on PC-related components. However, our systems business has grown exponentially with core resellers asking us to broaden our offering to include the Apple products."

But the sales chief warns prospective resellers of Apple wares that the margins are considerably lower than they would be used to achieving with PCs. Nevertheless, plans are afoot at VIP to build a focused Apple division, and the hunt is on for a senior business manager to head up sales.

The distributor also stressed that it can be a one-stop shop for resellers operating in the tablet space, as it carries devices based on the three major operating systems: Windows Mobile, Apple and Android.

"By being able to offer resellers ASUS, MSI and Apple systems, tablets and peripherals, VIP are in a much stronger position to help these business-savvy resellers leverage demand in this growing market," added Stevinson.