Expanded Channel Allows Resellers to Improve Customer Service and Support
SAN RAFAEL, Calif., Nov. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Autodesk, Inc. (NASDAQ:ADSK)
, announced today that it has expanded the role of leading value-added distributors Ingram Micro Inc. (NYSE:IM)
and Tech Data Corporation (NASDAQ:TECD)
for its U.S. channel mix, beginning February 1, 2001, in an effort to improve customer service and support and better allocate Autodesk(R) resources. These agreements will standardize Autodesk's distribution process globally, as value-added distributors are currently used in all of Autodesk's geographies outside the United States.
(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000518/SFTH083LOGO )
Autodesk increased the role of these distribution partners for its U.S. channel model to better serve its customers and reseller partners. Ingram Micro and Tech Data will carry the complete Autodesk product line. Through these agreements, Autodesk expands its offerings to:
-- Allow channel partners to take advantage of the world-class logistical
and service capabilities of Ingram Micro and Tech Data
-- Improve Autodesk customer service and support and reseller satisfaction
-- Standardize Autodesk customer service practices on a global basis
"Customer service has always been a priority for Autodesk," said Doug May, Autodesk Americas Vice President. "We've already seen the value of working with leading distributors globally, and we know our customers and channel partners will all benefit from our expanded relationships with Ingram Micro and Tech Data."
The agreements provide specific advantages for both small and large Autodesk customers. Smaller resellers will benefit from logistical and service capabilities from Ingram Micro and Tech Data. Larger resellers will continue to get direct service from Autodesk, allowing Autodesk Systems Center resellers (ASCs) to provide better customer service and support to its customers and build closer relationships with Autodesk.
"We are pleased that Autodesk is embracing the power of the IT channel," said Sue Sandoval, Vice President, General Manager Product Management, Software, Ingram Micro U.S. "Ingram Micro is poised to deliver greater support for Autodesk and increase value for their products in the United States."
"We look forward to expanding our relationship with Autodesk in the United States," said Elio Levy, senior vice president of marketing for Tech Data. "Our business is about being a leading provider of IT Solutions, Autodesk will be a key player in our CAD business unit. We are confident this agreement will be successful for Autodesk in the United States, since we have a great business relationship in Europe."
About Tech Data
Tech Data Corporation, founded in 1974, is a leading global provider of IT products, logistics management, and other value-added services. The Fortune 500 company and its subsidiaries serve more than 100,000 technology resellers in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, Latin America, Europe, and the Middle East. Tech Data's extensive service offering includes pre- and postsale training and technical support, financing options and configuration and assembly services, as well as a full range of award-winning electronic commerce solutions. The company generated sales of $17 billion for its most recent fiscal year, which ended January 31, 2000.
About Ingram Micro Inc.
Ingram Micro Inc. is the largest global wholesale provider of technology solutions, products and services. The company operates in 34 countries with sales exceeding $30 billion for the past four reported quarters. Ingram Micro's global regions offer e-commerce solutions, logistics services and technology product distribution and marketing to more than 175,000 technology solution providers and manufacturers. The company is focused on maximizing shareowner value and achieving customer satisfaction by continuously innovating the IT supply chain.
About Autodesk
Autodesk is the world's leading design and digital content creation resource. The company provides software and Internet portal services to help customers drive business through the power of design. One of the largest software companies in the world, Autodesk helps more than 4 million customers in over 150 countries turn designs into reality. For more information, contact any Authorized Autodesk Reseller, call Autodesk at 800-964-6432, or visit http://www.autodesk.com/. Discreet(TM) product information is available at 800-869-3504 or on the Web at http://www.discreet.com/. Autodesk shares are traded on the Nasdaq national market under the symbol ADSK.
NOTE: Autodesk is a registered trademark, and Discreet is a trademark, of Autodesk, Inc., in the United States and/or other countries. All other brand names, product names, or trademarks belong to their respective holders.
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, 888-776-6555 or 201-369-3467
Source: Autodesk, Inc.
Contact: Farnoush Deylamian of Autodesk, Inc., 415-507-6533, or
Farnoush.deylamian@autodesk.com
Website: http://www.autodesk.com/