Posted: 30th Jul, 2003 By: MarkJ
Pan-European ISP Tiscali has today issued a new press release announcing the launch of their wholesale DataStream (non-BT ADSL) broadband service. Its noted that while 65% of SMEs have access to ADSL, just 16% actually use it:
Tiscali launches Channel Sales Division for SME resellers
Tiscali Business Services UK, a subsidiary of Tiscali, the Internet communications company, today announces the launch of a new channel sales division to sell wholesale DataStream broadband services to data centric/technology resellers who provide IT outsourcing solutions, including first line support and billing services to SMEs typically employing less than 500 people.
Sean Flood, sales and commercial director for Tiscali Business Services, says: "There are over 4,000 companies that recommend and remotely manage general IT and broadband solutions to SME clients. This is a market that has been largely ignored by wholesale broadband providers but it's a great opportunity for us to support them with their existing clients and in expanding their business."
Oftel's most recent Internet and Broadband briefing document published in March 2003, supports Tiscali's SME reseller strategy. Figures published show that although 67% of UK homes and businesses have access to ADSL broadband, and 65% of SMEs are connected to the Internet, only 16% of SMEs are actually using broadband. "Clearly there is a requirement for specialist resellers to deliver the packaged broadband and related services required by SMEs. The channel will be critical to achieving the Government's targets for Broadband Britain." Says Mr Flood.
Tiscali will be adding further products including email, web space, domain names to provide turnkey solutions in conjunction with the reseller's products and services. Resellers will be able to provide DataStream broadband services with less up front capital investment and a faster turn around time when setting up and cancelling connections.
Tiscali will target this reseller community with a mix of telephone sales, DM and database marketing techniques. The company has already signed up a number of resellers including Vodat, a provider of IP and converged voice and data network solutions and support services for typical clients like government bodies, schools and colleges, solicitors, property agents, accountants, public relations consultants and construction companies.
Tiscali is the leading UK provider of wholesale DataStream broadband services to UK resellers. The DataStream product offers resellers greater reliability and diversity, compared to the incumbent IPStream, product because it is delivered over Tiscali's wholly owned IP network.
Tiscali will offer a range of data services and product solutions that smaller resellers may not previously have been able to offer. It is also providing a tailored web portal that will enable resellers to access and manage all their client's broadband provision as well as offering full product training and sales advice to further support resellers in winning business. Flood concludes, "This is a fantastic chance for resellers to improve their product and service diversity without major up-front investment."