Retail giant Marks and Spencer is launching a range of software products which were developed in partnership with Formjet.

The range will initially consist of five titles including internet security software, an office suite, antivirus software, a greetings card maker and driving test software.

It will be available in the technology departments of selected M&S stores and also online. Formjet, which has previously helped develop own brand software for Tesco and Woolworths, will provide customers with email and telephonic technical support.
Traditionally known for its food and clothing products, Marks and Spencer branched out into technology retail in 2006. Its range of software will now be sold alongside an increasing range of PCs and accessories.

David Hennell, group development director for Formjet, said: "The individual titles within the M&S Software range have been jointly and carefully selected to provide the widest appeal.

"We are delighted that the range will be available in M&S, making the products accessible to its wide-ranging customer base."

David Emm, senior technology consultant for software developer Kaspersky Lab, said: "I do not see this as a threat to traditional resellers; I see it as a positive thing as having products like this in major stores will raise people's awareness.

"This is not within Marks and Spencer's normal sphere of operations. I do not suppose it is trying to brand itself as an internet security expert, but rather that it is just making technology like this available to more people."

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