SUCCESSFUL e-tailer dabs.com has made a major foray into Europe. The Wingates-based company has established a French connection with the acquisition of SOS Developers -- an established specialist re-seller of developer software with offices in Nice and Paris.

Dabs says it is the first step in developing a pan-European business model.

SOS has a turnover of around £10m and employs 30 full-time staff and is the biggest player in its field in France.

David Atherton, Managing Director of dabs.com, said: "We have been looking at European expansion for our consumer sales business for the past year, during which time we've closely examined several regional markets.

"Though French consumers are about 12 months behind the UK in terms of online buying, the overall French IT marketplace has much in common with that of the UK"

Dabs plans to build a successful French business in exactly the same way as it has in the UK.

Mr Atherton said: "The knowledge and skills of staff here in Bolton has helped us craft one of the best models for successful e-commerce in the UK.

"Because of this, combined with the excellent timing of this move, we hope to be just as big in France as we are in the UK within 18 to 24 months."

Dabs employs more than 200 people at its Wingates headquarters.