Local value added distributor, First Distribution, has signed a distribution agreement to represent APC by Schneider Electric in South Africa.

According to Charlie Murray, GM at First Distribution, discussions with APC by Schneider Electric began in mid-2012 and the signing of the agreement was one of First Distribution’s first business transactions in 2013.

“We are currently in the process of positioning First Distribution as the pre-eminent South African distributor of leading brands in data centre and enterprise computing. Our latest agreement with APC by Schneider Electric strengthens this business initiative,” says Murray.

First Distribution will distribute the APC by Schneider Electric product range, which includes four primary application areas: home/ small office, business networks, data centres and facilities, and access provider networks.

All APC by Schneider Electric products are already available from First Distribution and the company is in the process of hiring a product manager to support its partners with any queries.

“Schneider Electric is pleased to partner with First Distribution, a company with a first-class track record for stable, consistent product and service supply. The new channel partner will hold APC by Schneider Electric stock, support resellers, and promote and represent APC by Schneider Electric’s products and services in the IT channel.

“We are certain that First Distribution’s national infrastructure, technically competent staff and close relationship with its business partners will add value to our brand’s products and services,” says Gina Santos, distribution manager for southern Africa at Schneider Electric.

Murray adds that the agreement enables First Distribution to offer its partners even more options in providing their customers with world class networking solutions.

“We are really pleased about our association with APC by Schneider Electric as we broaden our networking portfolio to fully encompass all relevant sectors. First Distribution is about true value added distribution and we will ensure that we have the necessary sales and technical staff in place to support the channel,” he says.