SmoothWall programme pays off

Network security vendor SmoothWall is hailing its revamped channel strategy a success

Network security vendor SmoothWall is hailing its revamped channel strategy a success after signing more than 40 resellers in the first two months.

The vendor, which launched its new partner programme in August (CRN, 1 August), is targeting an additional 150 resellers across Europe with the aim of doubling its partner base by the end of next year.

George Lungley, managing director of SmoothWall, said the firm has seen a “marked increase” in the number and size of partners coming forward.

“The larger resellers asking to partner with us are taking our products on as a second offering, rather than looking to sell it as their sole product. They have customers that don’t want to pay the higher prices charged by companies such as Check Point, and we can offer more value for money.”

Lungley added the firm is still on the lookout for more UK partners, but is sticking with the single-tier model.

Steve Newcombe, managing director of SmoothWall partner PCS, said his firm has been working with the vendor for almost five years.

“We were happy with the partner programme, and the products give us the flexibility to do what the customer wants us to do,” he said.

Newcombe said the firm has seen success in the healthcare market recently, but the vendor’s products appeal to firms “across the board”.