Barracuda kicks off distribution review

Security vendor running rule over Avnet, Wick Hill and e92plus as it looks to enter 2013 in high-growth mode

Barracuda Networks has begun a UK distribution review that sources suspect could see it part ways with Avnet, Wick Hill or e92plus.

The security vendor's distribution line-up has remained stable since 2010, when it axed Arrow ECS.

But regional sales manager Jason Howells confirmed Barracuda has begun talks with the trio as it looks to accelerate its growth in 2013.

Howells insisted that all options remain on the table and that the criteria for judging the contest had yet to be finalised.

"We are going into 2013 in high-growth mode and because of that we are reviewing our channel, and distribution in particular," he said.

"We currently still have three distributors we are working with and supporting and will continue to do so until we finalise our review."

Howells said Barracuda – which marks itself out from competitors by not operating a per-user licence fee model – is in line to grow by about 30 per cent in 2012 and harbours even more aggressive targets for 2013.

Ian Kilpatrick, chairman of Wick Hill, said: "We are happy with Barracuda. We have had extremely high growth with them and are excited with the possibilities of their product set."

Avnet and e92plus were not available for comment.