Aruba adds Avnet to UK line-up

But long-standing ally React has cancelled its contract in response to deal

React Technologies is winding down its distribution relationship with Aruba Networks following the vendor’s decision to appoint Avnet as a third UK distributor.

Wireless LAN specialist Aruba and Avnet already work together in their native US but have rolled the relationship to this side of the Atlantic.

Jess Thompson-Hughes, managing director of React, said he cancelled his distribution contract with Aruba on 8 March and would serve out his 12 months’ notice.

“The [partnership] will expire in March next year. We do not feel the UK market is big enough for three distributors,” he said.

Roger Hockaday, director of marketing EMEA at Aruba, said: “I can confirm that React has terminated its agreement with us. As one of our two distributors it always felt more comfortable as a reseller and integrator of our wireless solutions and on that basis Avnet fits better as a distributor.”

React claims to be Aruba’s largest European partner, having generated £10m in sales for the vendor.

Thompson-Hughes stressed the duo would continue to work together in a resell capacity and that Aruba is keen for it to become a top-level Platinum partner.

Avnet declined to comment.