CA evaluates its UK distribution strategy
Software giant in advanced talk with Bell Micro
Software giant CA is re-evaluating its UK distribution channel and is in advanced talks with Bell Micro, CRN has learned.
The distribution review is to ensure that resellers have access to the right distributors, and to ensure they can support all the technology CA has acquired, according to Terry O’Loughlin, UK channel sales manager at CA.
“The distribution landscape has changed, particularly with DNS’s recent acquisition of InTechnology and the fact that Bell Micro has acquired OpenPSL since our last review and has added professional services capabilities,” she said.
CA works with Ingram Micro, Computer 2000 (C2000) CMS Peripherals and Business Union in the UK.
O’Loughlin confirmed that CA will make its final decision in April, but refused to elaborate on whether a distributor will be dropped to make way for Bell.
Alice Smitherman, product marketing director at C2000, said: “It is normal for vendors to review how many partners they have.”
Bhavesh Patel, commercial director at Ingram, said: “Every vendor does a review of their distribution channel on a regular basis. We all need to be adding value in the relationship and supply chain.”
The move follows the vendor’s decision to rebrand its entire product set to simplify its branding (CRN, 5 February).
Bell Micro was unavailable for comment as CRN went to press.