Ingram Micro has been appointed as Dell New Zealand's Kiwi distributor, with the distie offering the full range of Dell's commercial and enterprise products.

As reported by ChannelLife, Dell has been evaluating distributors for some time. The vendor, which was traditionally seen as channel unfriendly with its direct model, appointed Ingram Micro as its Australian distributor late last year.

Gary Bigwood, Ingram Micro New Zealand managing director, says the deal is ‘great news' for the distributor's resellers.

“We are really excited for what the future holds,” Bigwood says.

James Arnold, Dell New Zealand general manager, says the appointment of Ingram Micro is a clear signal that Dell is genuinely committed to implementing a full channel strategy in New Zealand.

“This isn't Dell dipping its toe in the water, so to speak,” Arnold says.

“We have partnered with Ingram Micro because it is a global company with systems and processes to match, coupled with an intimate knowledge of the New Zealand market and how best to meet the needs of customers.

Arnold says the deal provides resellers with access to Dell's products, along with Ingram Micro's financial strength, selection of complementary products and services and specialised marketing expertise.

“We are looking forward to a long and mutually successful relationship,” Arnold says.

Both Dell and Ingram Micro will have dedicated teams to ensure the partnership is ‘an immediate success'.

Arnold previously told ChannelLife that the appointment of a New Zealand distributor would enable local stock holding and credit for smaller resellers, while also providing Dell with a bigger play in provincial areas, a traditional weak spot for the vendor.

The announcement of the deal comes as Ingram Micro gears up for its Showcase events, which kick off in Auckland tomorrow.

“It's perfect for our reseller partners as they can come along to Showcase, meet the Dell team, get all the information they need on the products and attend a seminar session with the Dell team to gain real insights on how they can best incorporate Dell products into the solutions they offer their customers,” Bigwood says.

Dell has several other New Zealand distributors who handle specific product lines from the vendor.