By KR Nambiar, CRN Network, July 13 2009, 1100 hrs
Intel India categorically denied the speculation, wide-spread among channels, that it will disband the sub-distribution model—Intel Channel Supplier program. However, the vendor did say that it’s constantly evaluating the channel program and might fine-tune it to make it more acceptable to channel partners.
“All speculations regarding us scrapping Intel Channel Supplier is not true. We’re just about nine months into the program, and we are evaluating the details. We are of course listening to channel partners, and based on their feedback we may make changes and improve it,” said Sandeep Aurora, Director, Sales and Marketing, Intel India.
There have been speculations in the market that a certain section of channel partners and some distributors were unhappy about the program. “Most of the partners signed by Intel are city-based players, and they are catering only to resellers in and around their territory. The smaller B, C and D class city/town resellers are not benefiting from the program,” pointed out an Intel channel partner on condition of anonymity.
“We obviously cannot upgrade all large partners and enroll them into the program, and there can be a few partners not happy with the arrangement. However, overall we believe our resellers are happy with the program and the program is a value-add,” said Aurora.
Intel had launched the Intel channel Supplier program during Q2 2008. |