Backup newcomer nibbles at Barracuda

French data protection software provider says it offers reseller support that its competition cannot

French data protection provider Synerway has hired its first UK channel boss to deepen penetration of the UK market and secure new business with partners.

Synerway currently claims to have 9,000 installs of its data-loss prevention software in businesses across Europe. Its enterprise-built solution uses dual power, dual controllers and battery backup and "guarantees no data loss".

Its new channel director, ex-Unitrends EMEA channel manager Doug Williams, joined Synerway last month with the aim of grabbing market share from competition such as Barracuda Networks, and driving revenue of €1m by the end of June 2016.

"An IDC report states that Barracuda shipped just under 6,000 units in 2013. I would like 50 per cent of Barracuda's UK market share, but if we get two to five per cent market share by pulling partners and deals our way, then we will be very happy," Williams said.

When asked how he planned on coaxing partners over to Synerway, he said: "We offer strong reseller support, with excellent technical L1, on-site break-fix and installation resources in UK & Europe and we have a new reseller programme coming online and additional discounts for deal registrations.

"Synerway will also provide co-funded marketing incentives like lunch and learn, and shows."

He added: "Currently our market share in the UK is only two sites; however we are looking to take on the existing backup appliance vendors head on to gain market share, and meet our year one revenue target of €1m by the end of June 2016.

Although he is currently the sole UK employee, Williams said the vendor is planning to build a full UK operation, with internal managers assisting in the closing of new business with partners.

"We want to recruit at least ten transacting partners. The demand is great with the product, so this will easily be achieved," he added.

London-based Beta has also just been signed up to join Exertis in Synerway's UK distribution line-up.

He added that resellers could expect 15 per cent margin without deal registration, and around 25 per cent with, plus it offers educational discounts.