Ingram extends credit to boost channel coffers

Ingram has claimed its latest credit drive is in response to reseller demand across EMEA.

The distribution behemoth announced last week that it was to open more credit lines to struggling SME resellers to ensure cashflow.

As a result, the firm is evaluating all its pre-payment SME partners to see whether they would benefit from switching to a credit line style of payment. The scheme is up and running in Belgium and the Netherlands, and is under way in other EMEA territories including the UK.

Johannes Kamleitner, senior channel and marketing manager SME at Ingram EMEA, said that the lines range between €2,000 (£1,850) and €15,000 (£13,848).

“We are using a range of analytics to decide the suitability of resellers for these credit lines ­ it is not a one-size-fits-all approach,” he said. “It is based on our knowledge and credit ratings of customers in each country, and it really depends on each specific situation.”

Kamleitner said many smaller resellers are finding it increasingly difficult to secure credit.

“It is our objective to support resellers in difficult times and build a long-term relationship with our SME partners. They are a key part of our business, and we have the full support of our vendor partners too,” he said.

Eddie Pacey, director of credit at rival Bell Micro, said any move to unlock credit is welcome.

“I am sure some smaller resellers will benefit, but I do not think there will be stampeding hordes at Ingram’s door. Resellers need to help themselves by sharpening up control of their debts and making sure their customers pay up on time.”

Grahame Smee, managing director of VAD Cohort, which launched its own finance package last week (Channelweb, 11 March), said: “It is good for distribution to be supportive, innovative and proactive when it comes to providing credit in these difficult times.”