As of a few weeks ago, UK customers have been able to buy Microsoft Office Accounting Professional 2008 from retail outlets as well as direct from Microsoft.

Since its UK launch in November 2007 there have been over 40,000 downloads of the Microsoft Office Accounting 2008 software. An impressive result, due mainly to the availability of a free Express edition, designed to tempt start-ups and small businesses who otherwise might avoid using accounting software altogether.

The Express edition is based on the same core technology as the full Professional package and provides all the functions a small business requires, from sales order processing to VAT and banking. It also benefits from full HMRC accreditation and an Outlook-style user interface. Plus it can be upgraded to the full package simply by buying and applying a new licence.

A raft of extra features has been added in the Professional version including stock control, cashflow forecasting and multi-currency support. Office Accounting Professional also offers multi-user facilities and integration with the Outlook 2007 Business Contact Manager.

Individuals and businesses wanting this enhanced functionality can now buy Office Accounting Professional from retail stores including Dixons Store Group and Staples, plus online retailer Amazon. A single user licence is £149.99 inc. VAT (£249 if an initial year's payroll service is included) while the 3-seat multi-user version has a suggested price of £349.99 inc. VAT.