Cisco, Westcon Group Sign Distribution Agreement

Westcon Group Inc. has signed a multi-year global distribution agreement with Cisco Systems Inc. (CSCO). The new agreement will enable both companies to conduct cross-border transactions more efficiently while increasing the companies’ ability to access emerging market opportunities in regions such as Africa, Latin America and Southeast Asia.

The new global distribution agreement provides both companies with a single contractual vehicle from which to manage global, regional and local business activities with common terms and conditions. In the past, both companies transacted business through independent regional contracts.

Westcon’s Global Procurement System (GPS), or its global order desk, delivers automation capabilities and cross-theatre support to Westcon’s Cisco-oriented reseller base. In addition to helping resellers conduct cross-border transactions more efficiently, Westcon’s GPS has also helped lower Cisco’s barrier to entry in emerging markets. Last year, Westcon Group shipped Cisco solutions to more than 60 countries for its customers.

“Globalization is changing the face of business, creating a new set of competitive dynamics and evolving traditional business models. To better serve our customers in this global economy, Cisco is evolving its partner ecosystem and channel programs,” said Dave O’Callaghan, vice president of distribution, worldwide channels at Cisco. “Westcon will be our first global logistics and distribution partner, helping Cisco and our channel partners streamline business transactions for global customers.”