Brightpoint deal confirmed by orange

Orange confirmed it has entered into a direct distribution agreement with distributor Brightpoint in the UK as it looks to push into the IT reseller space.

Orange is making a concerted play for new reseller markets, and has also signed a deal with fellow US distribution company Brightstar in the UK.

The Brightpoint partnership will see Brightpoint's IT and PBX resellers target business customers with a range of solutions including Orange connectivity, Orange devices and SIM only deals.

It will also allow the operator to take advantage of Brightpoint’s current device agreements with Nokia and RIM, as well as its exclusive agreement with HTC in the UK.

Additional support will be given to resellers through a number of Orange-led initiatives including pre-sales training and the ability to access Orange technical support. Both companies will combine to bring hosted email for both Exchange and non-Exchange users, with Orange providing additional email training courses to support resellers.

Orange UK national sales manager for independent retail and distribution Mark O’Meara said: "Through this strategic alliance, Brightpoint will be able to gain access to all of our products and services, enabling its resellers to offer a complete mobility solution to its customers.

"Our excellent network coverage and product portfolio combined with Brightpoint’s expertise of working with IT resellers will give us the competitive edge to offer businesses the best possible service."