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Apple Preparing Channel Partner Program Changes?
Apple is typically pretty quiet about its channel program. On the one hand, there are signs that Apple plans to invest more in its channel partners. But on the other hand, Apple has stopped accepting reseller and service provider partner applications, The VAR Guy has learned. Are channel changes afoot?
The VAR Guy
February 15, 2011
2 Min Read
Apple_Authorized_Logo1
Apple is typically pretty quiet about its channel program. On the one hand, there are signs that Apple plans to invest more in its channel partners. But on the other hand, Apple has stopped accepting reseller and service provider partner applications, The VAR Guy has learned. Are channel changes afoot? Here’s the update.First, the good news. It involves this recent job listing from February 11, 2011. Indeed, Apple is seeking a “Reseller Account Executive – VAR” in the New York territory (The VAR Guy’s home turf). The five-plus years of channel sales experience calls for the ideal candidate to focus on VAR collaboration and partner recruitment as needed. The opportunity states:
“Work with VARs to develop strategies and infrastructure to sell and support Apple products and address needs of our Medium and Large business customers. Be able to travel extensively.”
More importantly: Does the job post indicate Apple is gearing up to work more closely with channel partners in the enterprise (despite recent shifts in enterprise products)?
New Challenges?
Hmmm… The VAR Guy remains upbeat about Apple’s product lineup. But our resident blogger continues to hear from readers that openly question Apple’s channel commitments.
A prime example: Here’s a recent email from a reader to The VAR Guy:
What is going on with Apple’s Authorized Service and reseller channel programs? I just rented a store, did everything that Apple asks for and got techs certified and I have logged on for the past two weeks to get the following [Apple reply]: “Apple is not currently accepting reseller or service provider applications. Please check the Apple Channel Programs page periodically for new information.”
To apply you go to this site, the reseller says, he visited http://channelprograms.apple.com/channel/ and clicked on Apple Service Provider. But so far, Apple has been non-responsive to the reseller’s efforts. Clearly, Apple is preparing some sort of partner program update. The VAR Guy is checking in with Apple for more details…
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