Avnet drops anchor in Riverbed

Distributor becomes fourth UK partner as it looks to bolster WAN optimisation offering

Avnet Technology Solutions has become Riverbed’s fourth UK distributor as it pursues plans to grow its WAN optimisation business.

Under the terms of the deal, Avnet will offer Riverbed’s WAN optimisation and network and application visibility products to its reseller base.

Other Riverbed distribution partners include Arrow ECS, Zycko and VADition.

Bruce Hockin, head of business strategy at the distributor, said: “The versatility of Riverbed’s technology has broad appeal. Riverbed’s technical excellence coupled with Avnet’s expertise in bringing converged storage, networking and security solutions to the marketplace allows us to address the many challenges faced by organisations today.”

Laura Harman, sales director at Avnet Technology Solutions, said the deal will augment its existing offering. “Riverbed solutions adds real value and distinct competitive advantage to Avnet’s portfolio.

Coupled with Avnet’s ability to deliver first-class sales tools, professional services, training and support, we have the perfect foundation for developing new opportunities and driving incremental growth to the benefit of all parties: end user customers, business partners and Riverbed.”

Tim Mackie, senior director of distribution channels at Riverbed, said the deal was an extension of a successful partnership in the US.

“Riverbed has a strong, flourishing partnership with Avnet in the US,” he said.

“The new UK contract is designed to enhance sales channels for Riverbed in the storage, applications and mobility markets. We are confident that Avnet’s deep understanding of networking, security and storage, its extensive business partner network and successful track record in supporting international enterprise channels will further enhance the Riverbed Partner Network in the UK.”