GTDC highlights disties' importance through market changes

The Global Technology Distribution Council EMEA summit in Amsterdam focused on how distributors can provide more and better guidance to the channel

Vendors and solution providers are increasingly looking to IT distributors for guidance, support and resources for their clients - this was the top line from the recent Global Technology Distribution Council (GTDC) EMEA summit in Amsterdam.

With the rapid advances in technologies and delivery models, this year's executive forum explored many of the IT industry's top challenges and brightest prospects, with insight from respected economists, researchers, futurists, and other experts and authorities.

"Innovation is a key sales driver and rising value proposition for the channel as businesses struggle to keep pace with increases in labour costs, global competition, and regulatory compliance," said Frank Vitagliano, CEO of the GTDC.

"While organisations rely on IT solutions and technology providers to address those concerns and meet other critical objectives, distributors are a force behind the scenes.

"They deliver more technology options, services and support capabilities than ever before."

Vitagliano highlighted the evolution of distributors from their core pick, pack and ship roles to even more comprehensive responsibilities as channel orchestrators.

"All the investments in digital platforms, marketplaces, and emerging technology practices are coming into their own today, simplifying go-to-market strategies and expanding the reach for vendors and solution partners," Vitagliano continued.

"Alliances with hyperscalers and expansion of sustainability-related offerings will further boost the value of distribution in the IT ecosystem."

He also shared details of the recently introduced GTDC Innovation Enablement Guide to illustrate some of the many ways channel partners can scale emerging technologies success.

"Distributors are force-multipliers in the adoption process, providing vendors with the support, resources and visibility required to thrive in the channel."