France Telecom signs Compaq for SME Web deal

NEWS France Telecom and Compaq France have signed an exclusive agreement to offer SMEs with Internet access. The French telco called the move another step closer to its ambitions to become an Internet company. Michel Monzani, director of the distribution and service division at France Telecom, said: "There is a big move by the SMEs towards the Internet. They are looking for a simple product from a global player that can offer support and services. They no longer want an off-the-shelf product." France Telecom will offer Internet access through Wanadoo Pro while Compaq will provide Prosignia PCs. However, the service will initially only be available in 12 French towns including Loire, Sevres, Nantes and Rouen. The service will be expanded to 60 other towns by September this year.