The UK's top 40 IT distributors generated nearly £13bn revenues in their latest years, CRN research has found. Here we count down those ranked 40th to 26th...
"We are probably the largest client distributor of rugged devices in Europe"
34. Ci Distribution
Revenues: £21m (+22%)
Headcount: 25
Specialism: Rugged devices
Key vendors include: Kanguru, Coolermaster, iKey, Getac, MSi
HQ: Basingstoke
Part of £125m-revenue powerhouse Centerprise, this rugged device specialist has seen revenue almost double in the space of two years to hit £21m in the 12 months to 31 August 2020 (according to numbers it shared with us).
Carrying over 30 vendors and serving over 600 resellers, Ci Distribution's Basingstoke and Telford offices focus on rugged devices and gaming/security, respectively.
Quickfire Q&A with Ci Distribution managing director Jon Atherton
What specialism is your firm known for, and what sets you apart from your peers?
Rugged- we are the industry experts.
Which emerging vendors are you betting big on this year?
Alibaba Cloud - Anduril - BlueRiver Tech… check them out.
Largest UK warehouse?
Caerphilly, Sunny South Wales. We will be announcing an expansion to this facility shortly.
Have you made any significant vendor signings in the last 12 months?
Yes - Zebra, with some exciting new products being announced in the coming weeks.
How would you summarise the health of the distribution sector in 2021?
Strong, but consolidation will gain further pace.
What's been your biggest disappointment of the last year?
Not meeting my customers and suppliers face to face.
Do you expect to grow in 2021?
Yes, with some exciting new announcements around the corner. 😊
Tell us one thing most people won't know about your company?
We are probably the largest client distributor of rugged devices in Europe.
Which distie is now a £20m-plus revenue outfit after adding Chromebooks to its portfolio? Find out on next page...
