Arrow drops hints at European expansion
US distributor makes European appointments
Arrow Electronics last week gave further hints that it may be looking more closely at a greater presence in the European market.
The distributor, which has been linked with several possible acquisitions in the UK – and is understood to currently be in discussions with InTechnology – announced several changes to senior executive positions, including two European positions.
Arrow appointed Michael Long, formally president of components for North America and Asia Pacific, as its president of global components.
The firm has also appointed Philippe Combs to the position of president of its components business for Europe, Middle East, Africa and South America (EMEASA).
William Mitchell, chief executive of Arrow Electronics, said: “Mike will focus on building on and expanding our regional strengths to the benefit of our customers and suppliers around the world.
“Philippe’s broad experience and knowledge of the components industry will enable us to further accelerate our strategies, driving Arrow EMEASA on to the next level of success.”
Combs’s position was previously held by Germano Fanelli, who joined Arrow through its acquisition of
Italian electronics and computer components distributor Silverstar in 1991. Fanelli will now take up the position of chairman of Arrow EMEASA from 1 October.
Les Billing, managing director of Arrow’s UK components subsidiary Microtronica, told CRN that the executive changes were an interesting move.
“Obviously any changes that it makes will have an effect on Microtronica,” he said. “I’m sure it’s following the corporate strategy to grow the business. I’m also sure that it will prove to be a sensible move that highlights a commitment to the European region.”
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