Centre-file Ltd, the low-key services and software subsidiary of National Westminster Bank Plc, has decided to ride the downsizing wave and reposition itself as a purveyor of systems integration expertise at the desktop. Its new ‘Desktop Services’ are designed to provide everything from Consultancy and Design to the supply of personal computer hardware and training services. Currently the bulk of the division’s UKP85m a year turnover comes from software development and around half of its business is done with the parent organisation. Last week’s announcement was in the line of a preliminary throat-clearing as the business attempts to re-organise itself and educate its staff. In January it will announce a series of new services. It seems, however, that Centre-file is about to become aquisitive it has bought in a new Windows-based payroll package from an undisclosed company which it will launch under its own name next week, and marketing director Peter Shepard says there is no shortage of cash in the (National Westminster) bank to finance any future company acquisitions.
