Avaya to work with four data distributors in China

Avaya Inc., a leading global provider of voice and data networks to businesses and an official sponsor for the 2002 FIFA World Cup, the FIFA Women`s World Cup 2003 and the 2006 FIFA World Cup tournaments, is working with four data distributors in China. All agree that the ultimate goal is to enter the voice and data convergence space.

The newly recruited distributors are Laser Computer Ltd, ChoiceWay Technologies Co., Ltd., Beijing Vcom Technologies Ltd and SVAcom. Signing ceremonies were held recently in Beijing and Shanghai to formally authorize the four local distributors. Under the agreements, they will sell all Avaya`s data products including Avaya Cajun Network Switch Portfolio, Avaya Wireless LAN Portfolio and Avaya VPN Portfolio.

Linda Zhang, general manager of data networking at Avaya China, said: " Choosing the right channel is a key to our business success in China. We believe that the recruitment of the four distributors will help us to increase the market share in China`s data networking area." She disclosed that more distributors will be recruited this year to build a big and strong distributor force in China that covers all major sectors including education, power, banking, telecommunications, healthcare, manufacturing, retail, transportation and government.

Zhang said that there is a great opportunity for Avaya and the four distributors to work together to penetrate the voice and data convergence market, which is relatively small but growing in China, since all share the same goal. "Convergence is the future and we see a huge market potential in China. Avaya is the leader in convergence and we want to maintain that position. "

Avaya is already the No. 1 provider of the voice communications market in China and one of the top leaders in data networking in the country.

Founded in 1982, Laser has 15 offices across China. Laser China Regional Director Xing Shaowen said: "Avaya offers leading data products and has a good track record. Laser will relay on its strong sales channels, expertise and technical support to bring the benefit of Avaya technology to enterprises."

Founded in 2001, ChoiceWay has 12 offices in China. It had been Avaya`s distributor of voice, cabling and wireless products in China. Becoming the data distributor completed its goal to sell all Avaya`s product lines. ChoiceWay Vice President Jenny Zhang said: " Having had partnership before, we have a good relationship. Now that we sell all Avaya`s products, we are ready go into the convergence market, which is a goal shared by both Avaya and ChoieceWay."

Vcom was founded in 1997 and has eight offices in China. Vcom General Manager Ru Tao said: "As a company that focuses on networking, Vcom not only has strong sales experience and expertise, but also understands the local market and needs. So we are confident that our customers will get the industry`s best and fittest products, solutions and services from Avaya. It will be a win-win-win situation for Avaya, Vcom and customers."

Coming from the radio and TV industry, Shanghai-based SVAcom, which was founded in 1999, is strong in cable networking as well as broadband data networking for the government and enterprises. SVAcom general manager Zheng Zhudong said: "We will work with Avaya closely to provide the best products, services and training for our customers."