Former Cisco UK boss Alan Watkins has jumped the fence into the channel with the buyout of Teksys, a Microsoft LAR (large account reseller).

The buy could set off a wave of consolidation in the Microsoft channel, as Watkins and his business partner Kevin Lewis look to buy further Microsoft specialists.

Microsoft itself has steadily trimmed its channel over recent years. This, combined with the increasing costs of maintaining top level certifications and the prospect of a bumpy 2008 economically, could make other resellers more receptive to an offer.

The chairman of Hampshire-based Teksys, Shaun Frohlich, will stay on as a director of the company, overseeing further acquisitions. Simon Ognall will continue as MD of the firm.

Frohlich said Teksys was likely to pursue further strategic acquisitions, but more tactical buys could also add value - along with certifications and accounts, presumably.

The value of the Teksys deal was not disclosed. ®

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