Press release
Azlan, the value added enterprise division of Tech Data will benefit from an additional 50 highly skilled professionals and complete portfolio of IBM solutions and associated services offerings
Tech Data (NASDAQ: TECD), a leading distributor of IT products, today announced it has entered into an agreement to acquire certain assets of Compumedi, a leading IBM distributor in Spain.
Founded in 2001, over the last eight years Compumedi has established itself as one of the country's prime IBM distributors offering a full line card of IBM solutions, including Power Systems and System X servers, storage, software and vertical market systems.
As part of the agreement, a 50 strong team of highly-skilled and qualified IBM focused professionals will join Tech Data's value added enterprise division, Azlan, thereby complementing its existing market leadership in Networking and Communication, and significantly upgrading the existing Midrange Server, Storage and Software business. In addition, it further expands the reach of Tech Data into enterprise technology distribution, while providing Compumedi with a solid operational base to support partners in the current market conditions and leverage key growth segments such as Virtualisation and Unified Communications provided by Azlan.
Azlan partners will benefit from additional IBM focused Compumedi services including market leading pre- and post-sales support and integration; flexible financing provided through IBM Global Financing; and a comprehensive training program that includes specialized courses for individuals, enterprises and public institutions.
Commenting on the agreement, Paulí Amat, Country Manager of Tech Data España, said: "Working closely with its partners from the outset, Compumedi has built solid and valuable relationships with its customers through its highly skilled teams and efficient logistics. This acquisition will add significant value to our own organization and build on our strategic plan to grow our Azlan enterprise business in Spain."
Umberto Daniele, General Manager of Compumedi, added: "The agreement with Tech Data will enable us to continue growing and developing our services to meet customer needs. It provides them with access to a complete range of solutions and a solid platform through which they can address a wider range of opportunities. With its international reach and capacity, Tech Data is able to work with partners on a pan-European basis whilst also remaining close to the local market. I'm convinced that this agreement represents a great benefit for the entire channel community."
Simon England, Azlan Vice President, Europe commented: "Great fit, great opportunities! Compumedi and Azlan together offer great promises uniquely combining focus, new opportunities and financial stability in challenging times. We are both committed to highest service levels and expect our combined partner base to benefit substantially from this transaction. The tangible results will be a strengthening of the technology portfolio and an increase in sales support and channel acceleration programs - while knowing partners can rely on the financial strength of the group."
Paolo Degl'Innocenti, IBM VP South West added: "This is an exciting move by both of these IBM partners which we very much support. We expect the merger to strengthen the market presence of each party, and translate into more service and differentiation for IBM opportunities and building a stable and expandable base in a challenging market enviroment."
Under the terms of the agreement, both parties expect the merger will be completed during next quarter.
