Tech Data Backing Microsoft Devices Program for Surface

Tech Data (TECD) has endorsed Microsoft’s (MSFT) new Devices Program for Surface resellers, the first of the three distributors newly authorized under the program to publicly offer a statement of involvement and support.

Microsoft also tapped Ingram Micro (IM) and Synnex (SNX) to engage with channel partners in the Surface channel effort, along with Large Account Resellers (LARs) CDW, CompuCom Systems, En Pointe Technologies, Insight Enterprises, PC Connection, PCM, Softchoice, Softmart, SHI International and Zones. The distributors are restricted to providing Surface and Surface Pro tablets only to the 10 authorized resellers, who, in turn, are certified to resell the devices to businesses and educational institutions.

“We are excited to participate in the Microsoft Devices Program and distribute one of Microsoft’s most anticipated products and its complementary accessories,” said Stacy Nethercoat, Tech Data product marketing, software and cloud services vice president. “The Surface Pro and Surface RT fit the needs of business customers seeking devices that adapt seamlessly to both work and play. Our participation in this program further demonstrates our commitment to our Microsoft channel partners.”

Tech Data said it will support the Surface portfolio through its Microsoft dedicated business unit, which currently services some 4,000 solution providers including LARs, VARs and small- to medium-sized businesses (SMBs). The team offers Microsoft’s full portfolio of products, including hardware, OEM, volume licensing and retail products.

“Bringing Surface Pro and Surface RT to the U.S. commercial channel through distributors extends the reach of our devices-and-services strategy, delivering our family of devices enabled by cloud services to more organizations than ever before,” said Eric Martorano, Microsoft U.S. SMB channel group senior director. “We look forward to working closely with our Microsoft devices authorized distributors to better serve their partners and create compelling solutions together.”

On Monday, Microsoft kicked off two new Surface partner programs for authorized tablet resellers and software developers, announcing the offer but one week before the Microsoft Worldwide Partner Conference 2013 (WPC13) starts in Houston. The Surface reseller program, delivered in two parts, enables customers to purchase Surface and commercial services through authorized resellers, and initiates a new ISV program, called AppsForSurface, which provides devices and funding for app design intended to get key enterprise apps on Surface and Window 8.