Brummie VAR celebrates 30th anniversary

After starting off life as an Apricot reseller, Computerworld Business Solutions is now a tricenarian

One of the Midlands' largest Microsoft Gold partners is celebrating 30 years in business.

Computerworld Business Solutions was formed in 1982 from a joint venture between Birmingham-based Apricot Computers and the American Tandy Corporation.

Originally an Apricot reseller, the firm reshaped itself in 1999 to become the outsourcing and consultancy-focused outfit it is today. In 1997, a management buyout was performed by chairman Danny Haines (pictured) and now managing director Julian Shaw.

Computerworld Business Solutions has seven Microsoft competencies, the most in the Birmingham area behind only pan-European goliath SCC, according to Microsoft's Pinpoint partner locator. This includes Gold competencies in virtualisation and server infrastructure.

With a headcount of 25, the VAR is in the process of taking on four more staff as it expands its repertoire of Microsoft competencies.

Steve Hennessy, sales manager at Computerworld Business Solutions, said he was a convert to Microsoft's new-look, competency-based partner programme.

"It allows us to show our specialism," he said. "As part of the training programme for technical staff, we are committed to helping them get to MCITP to help us attain more competencies.

"Last year we put on 12 per cent growth and are hoping to continue in the same vein this year."