Gaining momentum

This week sees the launch of two exciting CRN initiatives. Channel Universe is exclusive research commissioned and carried out by ICM on behalf of CRN into the workings of the channel.
Not since 1998, when CRN’s predecessor PC Dealer carried out similar research, has such an extensive insight into the daily challenges and concerns faced by the channel been revealed.
Over the next four weeks, the research, which questioned a cross section of the UK channel, will reveal details of the resellers themselves, who their key customers are, how they sell and what particular areas of growth they are seeing in the market. The results make some interesting reading.
We have also launched CRN Channel Fight Night ­ the first of its kind, white-collar boxing event to be held in the channel, and the first event CRN has launched since the Channel Awards.
As CRN continues to branch out from its traditional print format, we are constantly looking at ways to engage more with our readers and launch exciting events that bring a fresh feel to the channel. The CRN Fight Night is certainly proving to be a popular choice.
Our 16 boxers have been whittled down from a large and very willing list of applicants consisting of resellers, distributors and vendors.
The boxers will undergo a strict three-month intensive training programme with a professional boxing coach, to ensure they are fit for the fight. The black-tie gala dinner event takes place on 29 May at The Brewery in London. Each boxer will be raising money for his chosen charity and will be looking to drum up support from within the industry.
We will be profiling the boxers in the run up to the event and will also be providing regular updates on their progress, both on the web site and in the magazine.