Cisco connects with four
Vendor to consolidate direct relationships with four global distributors
Cisco is set to consolidate its direct relationships with four global distributors.
Computer Reseller News understands that Comstor, Ingram Micro, Tech Data and Azlan will be named as exclusive direct-buying international partners.
These firms are already Cisco's channel development partners in the UK, so they remain unaffected by the move. Azlan is part of the Tech Data group.
Reacting to the leaked news, Cisco said: "New strategy details will be unveiled in late July and we cannot provide further comments or confirm speculations on specific changes."
Clive Hailstone, general manager for Cisco at Computer 2000, said: "A couple of years ago Cisco had more than 50 distributors buying direct in Europe, and that was too many.
"To let so many distributors go is risky, but it does not seem to have affected its figures."
Des Lekerman, managing director at Cisco Premier Partner Eurodata Systems, agreed. "This is a good move because it helps Cisco focus on and support partners," he said.