Two Microsoft LARs merge

Microsoft reseller and licensing consultancy Software One said it will merge with Swiss VAR Softwarepipeline, a move that will give Software One the bulk and international reach it seeks.

Software One and Softwarepipeline are both Microsoft's global large account resellers (LARs). Combining will give the merged company operations in all 50 U.S. states as well as Europe, Asia and South America.

Software One said the merger will give it international licensing expertise as well as greater volume-purchasing power. The company's U.S staff and management team will remain in place and continue running domestic operations.

The combined company will have a staff of around 120, said Software One marketing director Keith Ackerman.

Both companies will eventually do business globally under the Software One name, though that transition will take a few months, he said.

Twenty-year-old Software One had revenue last year of roughly US$44m, according to Ackerman, while Softwarepipeline took in US$120m. Both VARs are privately held.

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