Just days after Lenovo officially took over IBM’s x86 business unit; the hardware vendor has struck a deal with value added distributor Avnet Technology Solutions that would get it access to 40 markets around the globe.
Avnet was named a Lenovo authorized global distributor of its enterprise products consisting main of the x86 server line and related solutions. The transition of IBM’s System x server business to Lenovo became official on Oct. 1 and Tony Madden, senior vice president and supplier business executive for Avnet, said the distributor would be working closely with Lenovo to ensure a seamless transition for existing System x channel partners and their customers.
The company has already started to actively engage with channel partners to capture new opportunities, Madden added.
Besides System X, Avnet will now distribute BladeCenter and Flex System blade servers and switches, x86-based Flex integrated systems, NeXtScale and iDataPlex servers and associated software, blade networking, and maintenance operations. Part of the arrangement will be for Avnet to provide service offerings such as logistics, sales, marketing, finance, and technical services, strategically paired with business, IT, lifecycle and education services.
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Wilfredo Sotolongo, vice president, worldwide sales, enterprise systems for Lenovo, said Avnet has the expertise worldwide to help Lenovo implement a clear, scalable channel strategy that will align with Lenovo’s commitment to quality, innovation and value with one of the most comprehensive server portfolios available.
In addition to its new relationship with Lenovo, Avnet will build on its nearly 30-year history in working with IBM. Avnet will continue to support IBM and the solutions, services and programs that were not part of the Lenovo System x acquisition. This includes IBM’s Power Systems, Storage Systems, Power-based Flex servers, and PureApplication and PureData appliances, as well as IBM training services offered through Avnet Academy. Additionally, Avnet will continue to provide partners with a wide range of IBM software, services and storage technologies to enable them to offer complete solutions.