Compume

Saudi Arabia-based i2 has grown into the region's largest mobile phone provider with 1,300 employees and 350 stores across multiple countries, while its acquisition of CompuME UAE earlier this year has aided its foray into the traditional IT retail market. Abdul Hameed Al Sunaid, CEO at i2, outlines where the Nokia-focused outfit's loyalties rest going forward and gives his response to would-be suitors that might have their eye on the company.

Retail brands i2 and CompuMe combine on Shopper stand with promos for visitors.

i2 Group and CompuMe reveal dramatic plans to spend US$35m on opening new retail stores in the Middle East and Africa following conclusion of share swap deal.

Saudi Arabian mobile phone retailer i2 has stepped up its expansion plans with the acquisition of computer store chain CompuMe, it said this week.

Whichever way you look at it, 2006 was a memorable year for the Middle East IT channel. From credit conflicts and audit disputes to management changes and soaring growth, the market was never short of incident. Channel Middle East reflects on the key moments of the past 12 months and gazes into its crystal ball to predict what channel life will be like in 2007.