SMC reassures VARs over US Robotics
Networking vendor SMC Networks has promised UK resellers that its exclusive deal with modem manufacturer US Robotics will not affect the standards of service and support available.
Networking vendor SMC Networks has promised UK resellers that its exclusive deal with modem manufacturer US Robotics will not affect the standards of service and support available.
As a result of the deal, SMC Networks Europe will be responsible for all sales, marketing and customer support activity across the entire US Robotics product range.
The partnership follows the formation of US Robotics by 3Com, Accton Technology Corporation and NatSteel Electronics in March to take over the analogue modem portion of the 3Com product line.
This includes products such as US Robotics Courier desktop analogue modems, Megahertz analogue modem-only PC cards, the OfficeConnect 56K business modem and ISDN Terminal Adapter modems.
Christine Pomeroy, vice-president of marketing at US Robotics, said: "The success of SMC Networks has been based upon its experience and understanding of the unique needs of both the end-user and the channel in Europe."
According to George Zervos, European marketing manager at SMC, some resellers had expressed concern that the creation of a new company would damage their business in terms of sales and marketing support.
"But as a result of this partnership, it will be business as usual for all US Robotics resellers in the UK," said Zervos.
"The end-user demand for these products is very strong in the UK, and we will be ensuring that the level of sales and marketing support that SMC provides to the resellers gives them every opportunity to fulfil this demand."
SMC's other main role will be to ensure the smooth running of distribution of US Robotics products through the channel.
Zervos said Computer 2000, Logitek, Ingram Micro and Northamber will remain distributors for the products in the UK.
He added: "The company has room to develop its future channel strategy in the UK and Europe."