Compaq, Acequote launch reseller channel

Compaq is to open a new channel by partnering Acequote.com.

Compaq is to open a new channel by partnering Acequote.com.

Buyers visiting Compaq's UK website will be able to request quotations for tenders from Compaq resellers through Acequote's site.

Compaq is using Acequote's software platform to create its own marketplace where partners can subscribe and leads are fed directly to them. Acequote's reverse auction platform can be used by buyers to source products.

Mike Morgan, director of channel sales at Compaq, said: "This is an opportunity for our customers to make inquiries for pricing on specific products and for our partners to make quotations."

According to Morgan, no money has changed hands regarding this deal, but Compaq resellers are being encouraged to subscribe to the Acequote site to receive leads directly from customers requesting Compaq products.

Although Compaq already has resellers that provide sales leads, Morgan said the Acequote development recognises the increasing importance of the internet. "We have always offered leads to our partners, but we are making this arrangement because we acknowledge the increase in the number of inquiries made over the web," he said.

This deal "is in recognition of the fact that many of our customers are using the internet as a means of transacting business and sourcing information", he added.

Gary Munz, managing director of Acequote, claimed the partnership with Compaq will benefit the company's partners and customers alike.

"Every day, Acequote receives more than 100 new and qualified leads for Compaq and other vendors' products, as well as IT services and solutions," he said.

"This agreement will ensure that Compaq's reseller partners can take advantage of millions of pounds worth of new business opportunities."

Acequote said the deal with Compaq is the first of many which the company expects to make during the next few months.

First published in Computer Reseller News