Multiple Zones rockets on Microsoft deal

Multiple Zones International (Nasdaq: MZON) blasted ahead 87 percent Wednesday on a deal with Microsoft to become its primary source for computer products and services.

Shares in the reseller of brand name computer products were up 3 3/8 to 7 1/4, but still below a 52-week high of 17.

The multi-year agreement will make the company Microsoft's primary source for the procurement, configuration and distribution of hardware and software.

Microsoft said it is confident Multiple Zones' business will help drive down costs, while maintaining premier service levels.

The Microsoft deal comes on the heels of strong second quarter earnings from Multiple Zones, reported July 27. Compared to the same quarter a year ago, Multiple Zones' net domestic sales increased over than 50 percent. Much of the growth was fueled by the company's Zones Business Solutions division, the company said. No analysts cover the company.