AVM looks for in-sync partners for global deal

Integrator corrals like-minded support for protection of international client base

Integrator Audio Visual Machines (AVM) is on the hunt for like-minded integrators to create a global network of partners to support its international client base.
AVM has already signed up four partners: Digicom; Imager Equiper Connecter; Media-Go; and Microtech who, between them, have offices in Ireland, France, Spain, Italy, Finland, Poland, Hong Kong and China, but is looking for more integrators to come on board.
“We are looking to create a club of like-minded AV integrators,” Sandy MacPherson, chairman of AVM, told CRN.
“We have about 700 clients, many of whom are multinational and need to be looked after wherever they are in the world. I am trying to get together AV resellers and integrators who can look after our clients in other countries. So, if a client says it needs a videoconferencing call set up in Beijing and we are unable to provide the service ourselves, we would speak to our partner in China, for example,” he added.
AVM began seeking out global partners two months ago and anticipates it will reach a total of 20 partners in the next few months.
“After that we will add new partners on a need-to basis only,” said MacPherson. He added that he has been amazed at the receptiveness of companies willing to join the network. “These AV integrators have obviously been experiencing the same problem as us.”
Greg Clark, managing director of Ireland-based Digicom, said: “It is commercially advantageous for both us and AVM. We have clients that require AV assistance in Edinburgh, Bristol and London that we simply cannot service ourselves, but AVM has a presence in those regions. Likewise, if AVM has requirements in Ireland, we can help them out.
“To have an agreement in place with a company of AVM’s experience is a win/win situation. Rather than fishing about trying to find a firm to meet our requirements, we have a reliable partner we can turn to.”
Sam McMaster, managing director of VAR Questmark, added: “I think it is a fantastic idea and should work well, providing AVM and its partners stick to an agreed set of standards so they do not start stealing each other’s clients.”
AVM looks to bolster AV presence