Ci Distribution adds to vendor stable with treble signing

Centerprise's newly rebranded distribution arm inks deals with Brother, iKey and Mad Catz

Fledgling distribution brand Ci Distribution has made a trio of vendor signings as it continues to build out its portfolio.

Following its launch last October, the components and peripherals specialist has simultaneously inked deals with Brother, iKey and Mad Catz.

Part of public sector supplier Centerprise, Ci Distribution now has about 16 staff spread across its new sales office in Telford and Centerprise's head office in Basingstoke.

Managing director Jon Atherton (pictured) said the firm will have a tight focus on components, gaming and CCTV, playing firmly in the tier-two space.

Four or five more vendor signings will be inked in the coming weeks, adding to a vendor stable that already includes the likes of Gigabyte, Transcend and Auros, Atherton indicated.

"Our aim is to be a credible alternative to the tier ones, and to support non tier-one brands in the IT marketplace," he said. "That revolves around dealing with organisations like Synaxon and the Network Group and the wider independent channel."

The relationship with Brother will centre on the print vendor's rugged mobile printers, including its PJ-700 and RJ series.

iKey, a rugged peripherals manufacturer, and gaming and audio specialist Mad Catz, complete the trio of new faces on board.

According to sources, Ci Distribution is also in the mix for a slice of Microsoft's UK software business, which the vendor giant is currently re-tendering.

"We intend to make further sales hires," Atherton added.