Optimus to strengthen position and consolidate with IT sector companies

IT provider Optimus has announced that it is planning to combine Xtrade and Marketplanet as well as conclude a merger with another IT company. The two holdings are the only internet retail and service exchange providers in Poland. According to unofficial information from Puls Biznesu, Xtrade and Marketplanet are planning on joining forces, while Jacek Krawczyk, president of Optimus - Xtrade's majority shareholder - does not deny the information. "We are considering consolidation in two areas: computer production and distribution as well as B2B activities. However, I cannot discuss the details," said Krawczyk. He also admitted that his company is in talks regarding a merger with a major player, but refused to comment on the likelihood of it being JTT Computer. According to some, Optimus would gain a controlling stake in that firm in exchange for its brand and production lines. Despite Optimus' grim market performance in the first months of 2002, Krawczyk maintains that his company will achieve its planned targets for this year, "It is better to be a strong, medium-sized firm, than an ailing conglomerate," he concluded. (Puls Biznesu, p. 6) M.T.K.