New BuckNet bundle launched

Johannesburg, 28 Jun 2002

Cape Town-based BuckNet, a division of Atreyu Enterprises, has launched two more offerings in its campaign to get South Africans online.

BuckNet now offers a bundled PC/software/Internet and on-site support package for a flat fee of R5 900. This offering follows the company`s entry into the low-cost Internet Service Provider arena, and the launch of its HomeCall offering, which bundles Internet access with on-site technical support for a set monthly fee.

We have signed up around 1700 Internet subscribers in the first month, many of them former free Absa users.
Ralf Muller, chief executive, BuckNet

The new PC/Internet/support offering, the "BuckBox", is a complete computer system with Windows `98, Word Processor, Spreadsheet Program, Presentation Software, Anti-Virus, Firewall and Modem. BuckBox is pre-configured for every user and comes with six months free Internet access and on-site technical support.

BuckNet chief executive Ralf Muller says the company is seeing an exceptionally positive response to its budget ISP, technical support and Web development offerings. "We have signed up around 1700 Internet subscribers in the first month, many of them former free Absa users and 'premium ISP service` subscribers," says Muller.

The Web development service, launched a month ago along with the budget ISP offering, has completed 60 Web sites for small companies, individuals, guest houses and a few medium to large companies. "This side of the business has grown nicely. We have had to employ more developers and designers and upgrade our internal network to keep up, "Muller says. "We have also installed a number of servers on our customers` premises to bring e-mail and Internet access to every desktop in the office. Most of our clients now outsource all their IT needs to us."

BuckNet has also released its re-seller programme, which resells the ISP service via smaller companies and individuals. Services, billing and debit orders are handled by BuckNet, with the reseller simply adding its own margin. Muller reports that five resellers have signed up so far.