Unix distribution in the UK has always been a volatile business, and since pioneering Unix software distributor Sphinx Ltd sold out to Pegasus Plc, later passing on to Vistec Level 5, the leading companies in that area have gone through a number of iterations. The French Metrologie Group, which has a stake in both Amarante and TopLog UK, went through some restructuring last month after losses were announced, and is now said to be looking for a buyer for TopLog. One suggested candidate is Computer 2000 AG, the parent company of Frontline. Meanwhile, Frontline itself is said to be looking for replacement hardware to fill the gap left by its lost Sun Microsystems account and, according to the UK magazine Microscope, has opted for Tatung Co, which sells both Intel and Sparc-based desktops. But a Frontline spokesman called the article speculative, and said Frontline was still exploring its options, including some prestige names.
