CMS Computers acquired by VIP

£30m UK system builder sold to PC and components distributor

PC and components distributor VIP Computers has acquired Liverpool-based CMS Computers, one of the UK's largest system builders.

The deal has been agreed for an undisclosed sum, and CMS will continue to be run by existing directors Sion Roberts and Ian Fraser, trading under the CMS brand. The system builder, which also stocks kit from all the major component vendors, sells exclusively through the channel. Its systems brands include Zoostorm and FizzBook.

During the 12 months to 31 December 2010, CMS banked operating profits of about £417,000 on sales of more than £30m. Its 2010 turnover represented a 15.7 per cent spike on the previous year. VIP's turnover for FY10 stood at £176m.

VIP chairman Jatti Sahni said: "CMS is the UK's third-largest independent PC builder and will grow further by maintaining its commitment to its business model with the added strength and support of VIP Group. I am keen to leverage the strength of VIP Group to significantly acquire scale through a blend of organic growth and further strategic acquisitions within our chosen sectors."