Exclusive: Misco returns to the UK

UK Computer Group acquires naming rights, with new business to launch next month from office in Wellingborough

Misco is returning to the channel after UK Computer Group acquired the naming rights to the reseller.

UK Computer Group, which operates UK Computer Supplies (UKCS), told CRN that it is currently recruiting a team for the new Misco, with a launch date set for 1 July.

The group has also secured an office in Wellingborough, where Misco was originally based.

Russell Dickinson, head of marketing at UK Computer Group and an ex-Misco employee, said the aim is to revive the Misco of old.

"I was there for 10 years," he said.

"There was a massive change in the Misco perception after 2012; we all know what happened, but we want to try to bring the old, pre-2012 Misco back."

The business will fall under the leadership of UK Computer Group CEO Gary Watson, but will operate independently of UKCS.

UKCS reported sales of £15m in 2017, according to files on Companies House, and says its 2018 revenue hit £23m.

"All I can say is watch this space," Watson said.

"We are still in the initial planning stages, but the coming weeks and months are certainly exciting for the group.

"Misco is a reseller I have admired for many years, so this is a truly exciting addition to the UK Computer Group. We have made a significant investment and one that uniquely positions the UK Computer Group to make a step-change in its position within the channel."

The original Misco went out of business in 2017 after a turnaround programme proved unsuccessful.

Dickinson said that, as before, Misco will have a transactional presence online, along with a team of account managers that is currently being assembled.

UK Computer Group already has six former Misco employees on board, with more potentially joining the project.

The new Misco will launch with a team of 10, with headcount expected to hit 30 by the end of the year.

Dickinson also said that the response from vendors has been overwhelming.

"It's been brilliant," he said. "Some were shocked when we told them, but they're delighted.

"We didn't realise just how big Misco was in the channel, but when we spoke to the vendors they said that it's a brand that the channel has been missing for the last two years.

"We're building a team of young and experienced account managers, as well as possibly some of the old Misco account managers coming back into the business."