Distributor Gem is celebrating its 25th year at the heart of the UK PC and video games trade, a timeline which spans numerous key milestones and is almost as long as the industry itself.

The company was formed in 1984 and landed the all important Microsoft contract in 1988. After being acquired by DCC (which also owns fellow distributor Micro-P) in 1995, the firm made a number of important moves in the hardware, software and video games markets in the ensuing years.

“We are delighted to be celebrating this significant milestone in our business. This industry has advanced considerably since Gem was founded back in 1984 and we are very proud to be a part of it”, said managing director Chris Peacock. “I would like to thank everybody who has worked with us over the past 25 year and we look forward to another exciting 25 years in the industry.”

More recently, Gem unveiled a new identity which represented the evolution of its business and further strengthened its importance in the sector. The launch of the Gem Logistics & Gem Creative divisions along with its new “one integrated solution” strap line signified the change and saw the distributor acquiring France based Banque Magnétique.

After a strong year of success and a number of innovative campaigns throughout 2008, Gem was awarded the PC Retail Grand Prix Award at last year’s event. Gem is starting its celebrations with February Frenzy, a one month long sales event for its customers.