Tech Data has Lollipop licked in the UK

Distribution giant is appointed HTC's exclusive UK distributor for Nexus 9 tablet, running Lollipop OS

Tech Data Mobile has been named as the exclusive UK distributor for the Nexus 9 tablet, the first to run on Google’s new Android 5.0 Lollipop OS.

Under the deal, which was secured after fierce competition from other mobile distributors, Tech Data will also be pushing uptake of the device in the consumer and B2B markets for HTC.

Adam Gay, head of development, tablets and CE at Tech Data, said: “Tech Data is focused on driving growth with its supplier partners and customers. We see a major opportunity to develop the potential of the new Nexus 9 in both the consumer and B2B markets.

“We have a strong strategic plan in the consumer market, which we are executing successfully, and we have a very well-established position in the business market and with the enhanced apps performance and features of this exciting new tablet, we believe we can grow Nexus 9 sales in both sectors.”

Hervé Fontaine, European sales director at HTC, stated: “With its established reputation and reach in the B2B sector, a growing presence in the consumer market and a focused and dedicated approach to tablet business development, Tech Data is the ideal distribution partner for the Nexus 9, designed by HTC.

"They can provide everything required – from overnight fulfillment for retailers to the value-added services and support for business partners – to help HTC achieve its ambitions in both of these markets.”

The device will be available for order immediately, with the WiFi version shipping in November and the LTE version due later this year.