Avnet Teams With IBM

TEMPE, Ariz. -- Avnet Technology Solutions, an operating group of Avnet, Inc. (NYSE: AVT) and a distributor focused on enterprise computer products and embedded subsystems, and IBM (NYSE: IBM) today announced a unique program to help appliance vendors, embedded original equipment manufacturers

(OEMs) and independent software vendors (ISVs) capitalize on the growing industry-standard server market. Focused on IBM System x and System Storage technologies, the Embedded Solutions Initiative, available through Avnet Technology Solutions North American and European businesses, enables appliance vendors, ISVs and OEMs to integrate IBM branded technology products into their customized single-purpose computing solutions.

"Hardware standardization is changing the way embedded computing partners approach technology solutions development," said John Paget, president, Avnet Technology Solutions Global. "Avnet and IBM worked together to develop the Embedded Solutions Initiative to help address the unique needs of this multi-billion dollar market. Program participants can now integrate IBM's industry-leading server and storage technology into customized solutions that are designed to support specific business computing needs, such as medical or industrial applications. Additionally, Avnet provides the resources and value-added services required to cost-effectively accelerate our partners' time to market."

As part of the program, Avnet will provide Embedded Solutions Initiative partners with configuration, integration, global logistics, post-sales support, software loading, and supply chain management services. Embedded Solutions Initiative partners will also benefit from Avnet's deep product expertise based on its global $2 billion annual relationship with IBM, as well as Avnet's global inventory management and integration facilities. Also, Embedded Solutions Initiative partners will be able to ship their solutions internationally to their end user customers to further increase their geographic reach, and can leverage reseller and distribution channels in North America.

"Embedded computing resellers drive innovation into the marketplace and strive to incorporate leading-edge technology into their solutions," said Bill Zeitler, senior vice president, IBM Systems and Technology Group. "By including IBM products in their solutions, Avnet's partners can shorten their development cycles by leveraging industry-standard technology, but with the confidence they are using technology world-renowned for its high performance and quality. Avnet is uniquely situated to help us create and manage a program developed specifically for embedded computing partners due to its deep market expertise and proven track record in developing new routes to market."Avnet Inc.

IBM Corp.