Samsung appoints Tech Data distributor for IT products

Samsung Electronics has appointed Tech Data as distributor for its complete range of IT products in the UAE. The new alliance, part of Samsung's continuing expansion plan, underlines the company's aim to acquire 75 per cent of the TFT-LCD monitor market in UAE by this year.

"With a majority market share, Samsung is already an established leader in TFT-LCD monitors in the UAE," said Taeho Roh, general manager of Samsung Gulf Electronics.

"Tech Data is one of the foremost distributors of high-end information technology products in UAE, as well as in the region. With this alliance we will be able to take advantage of Tech Data's sophisticated distribution network and further consolidate and strengthen the company's share of the UAE monitor market."

According to independent market research, the total UAE market size for TFT-LCD monitors this year is an estimated 55,000 units, up 60 per cent from last year.

In 2003 Samsung's share of the regional market stood at 66 per cent, while this year the target is 75 per cent.

Eliot Shepherd, marketing director, Tech Data, said: "We are pleased to be partnering with Samsung. Our philosophy has been to tie-up with renowned global brands and offer an array of superior technology products to our blue-chip clientele. The addition of Samsung's technology products to our offering will complement our portfolio and enrich the strong customer relations we share in UAE."

Samsung's new alliance will enable Tech Data's partners, a network of over 3,000 resellers, to sell and support Samsung products and have access to an array of sales, marketing and technical support benefits from the company.

"The agreement with Tech Data accelerates Samsung's efforts in marketing to enterprise customers through VARs and dealers," said K. S. Vaudevan, senior manager, digital information technology division, Samsung Gulf Electronics.