Exertis has acquired Computers Unlimited, a specialist distributor of products and accessories for Apple, the digital home, and creative professionals.
Computers Unlimited supplies third party branded software, IT hardware and consumer electronics products from the likes of Adobe, Epson, Griffin, Incipio, LocknCharge, Microsoft, Nemetschek, Parrot, Sonos, Wacom, and Western Digital to more than 2,000 partners throughout the UK and Europe. The business employs 200 people and operates from offices in London, Paris and Barcelona.
Exertis currently partners with 350 technology brands and more than 14,000 resellers, e-commerce operators and retailers across Europe.
The distie says Computers Unlimited’s business model aligns with its own commercial structure, and adds new product categories and specialisms to the Exertis portfolio.
“We are excited at the prospect of extending the reach of Computers Unlimited to the multiple retail channels that Exertis supports both in the UK and in France,” says Niall Ennis, group managing director at Exertis. “This acquisition also extends the Exertis footprint into the Spanish retail sector, where Computers Unlimited has a growing presence.
“Likewise, we see significant opportunities to expand the reach of the brands currently working with Computers Unlimited into the Exertis operations in the Nordics and the Middle East.”
Ennis confirmed that everything is “business as usual” and that Computers Unlimited will continue operating under its own brand identity.
“The acquisition of Computers Unlimited with its strong track-record of distributing professional creative, Apple...and digital home products is an excellent strategic fit for Exertis and the businesses’ combined strengths will create new growth opportunities,” says Ennis.
Adds James Sanson, chairman and CEO of Computers Unlimited: “Over the last 30 years, I’m so proud of what the fantastic team of past and present people at Computers Unlimited have achieved for us and our brands. Over that time we’ve launched and built channels for more than 100 brands.
The opportunity to combine Computers Unlimited’s brand and channel building talents with Exertis’ retail, logistics and geographic strengths is very compelling. I’m confident the new combined business can offer a fantastic proposition and strong growth for our current and future brands.”
