CompuServe UK and office supplies provider Viking Direct yesterday launched a new co-branded online service designed to help small and medium-sized UK firms play a greater role in the emerging digital economy. The two companies will work together to distribute jointly branded Viking Direct/CompuServe UK software.

Members of the co-branded service will have access to a range of exclusive online offers and interactive business services, including online credit reports and customisable news services. These features are in addition to CompuServe UK's extensive online content and member community Forums. The service will be powered by the new CompuServe 2000 software, launched by CompuServe late last year.

President and CEO of Viking Office Products, Bruce Nelson, said: "Our alliance with CompuServe UK is an excellent opportunity to strengthen our presence in the fast growing UK internet market."

"An increasing number of UK businesses are realising that their future lies in seizing the immense commercial advantages of the internet. In joining forces with one of the most powerful and respected internet brands in the world, we are now incredibly well placed to deliver new and existing customers a professional online service," finished Nelson.

Anna Lagerkvist