Ingram Micro steps into interactive whiteboard space

Latest distribution deal with Acer sees Milton Keynes-based giant take on vendor's education-specific products

Ingram has taken its first step into the interactive whiteboard market by inking a deal with Acer to launch its new range of education-specific products.

The deal, centred around Acer’s latest range of interactive whiteboards and netbooks, follows a successful pilot phase which saw 8,000 netbooks deployed for evaluation in 240 classrooms.

Latest additions to the Acer portfolio are a 77in interactive whiteboard product, supported by existing Acer short and ultra short-throw projectors, along with an education-branded Aspire One Netbook, which includes software designed for classroom use.

Matt Sanderson, managing director of Ingram Micro, said: “We are always looking for new opportunities in the market, and despite carrying a range of products from more than 130 manufacturers and serving a large number of education resellers, we have not provided any interactive whiteboard products – until now. This is an exciting area with huge potential for growth as IT in every classroom becomes a reality.

“The new Acer education products are a fantastic complementary addition to our growing key manufacturer line-up that addresses a key market sector for us,” Sanderson added. “To be selected to drive the market adoption on behalf of Acer is testament to our strength and reach as an IT distributor.”

Bobby Watkins, managing director of Acer, said: “Following our high-profile launch at the Bett show and outstanding feedback from teachers during our pilot phase, I am pleased to now have in place a formal distribution agreement with Ingram Micro to bring this full education solution to a wider audience.”