By Rik Turner
Siemens Computer Systems executives say the formation of Fujitsu Siemens Computers following its joint venture agreement is not a face-saving way for the German conglomerate to exit the computer market. The two recently agreed to merge their respective European operations in a joint venture and fold SCS’ units into local Fujitsu operations in other territories. SCS claims there is no current plan for staff reductions as a result of the joint venture with Fujitsu Ltd, and that’s probably true, given the terms of the agreement aren’t due to be inked until today, Thursday. Moreover, as neither company is a major player in the enterprise market in the US, the company hinted that it may add a further partner to beef up the venture’s appeal to US corporate buyers. After all, they are trying to create the world’s third- largest IT vendor. Combined they are currently in fifth place.
