Tech Data Brings Channel Partners Together at Fall Channel Link 2012 in Orlando

Event Attracts More Than 650 Channel Partners; Microsoft Introduces Windows 8 in Keynote Presentation


CLEARWATER, Fla., Oct. 9, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Tech Data Corporation (Nasdaq:TECD) hosted its fourth Channel Link event recently at the Rosen Shingle Creek in Orlando, Fla. The semi-annual two-and-a-half-day conference attracted more than 650 channel partners to network with their peers, build relationships with top industry vendors, and learn practical business-building skills. Resellers in attendance at Fall Channel Link heard presentations on the hottest topics in the IT channel, experienced the latest technologies and products from over 85 leading vendor partners, and learned new ways to grow their businesses in areas including cloud, consumer technology, digital signage, healthcare IT, mobility and SMB.

During Channel Link's opening general session, Microsoft Vice President, U.S. OEM Peter Han, Intel Director, Distribution & DMR Sales, North America David Allen, and Lenovo Vice President, Consumer & SMB, North America Jay Parker gave the keynote presentation surrounding the upcoming launch of Microsoft's Windows 8 and its impact on the IT channel.

"We are excited to partner with Tech Data for one of Microsoft's largest launch years ever," said Han. "With the refresh of a number of products, the next year presents significant opportunities for Microsoft channel partners. With their dedicated Microsoft team, we look to continue to enable Tech Data's channel of resellers with the best Microsoft solutions for the end-user customers."

Fall Channel Link also featured a presentation from Miami Heat President Pat Riley and a musical performance by Starship featuring Mickey Thomas. The Women in the Channel luncheon, presented by Tech Data's Diversity & Inclusion Council, featured a panel of female channel executives who shared their experience and insight on leadership, building relationships and expanding opportunity horizons.

"Tech Data's Channel Link events continue to evolve and raise the bar, making them the must-attend events in the IT channel," said Derrek Hallock, vice president, TDAgency at Tech Data. "Through the hard work of the TDAgency team, our Fall Channel Link was our most successful event yet, providing attendees with both the industry-leading content and fun that our channel partners have come to expect from Channel Link."

In addition to business development courses, connection workshops and enablement sessions, resellers, Channel Link featured breakout discussions with some of the industry's top vendors and two pre-events from APC Power Solutions and HP.

"The Energy Management Summit was informative, educational and fun," said Amy Weiss, Business Development Manager at Coastal Computer Systems. "The APC and Tech Data teams provided me with all the tools I need to present and market the Energy Assessment to my current customers. The summit was an added bonus to an outstanding Channel Link event."

About Tech Data

Tech Data Corporation is one of the world's largest wholesale distributors of technology products. Its advanced logistics capabilities and value added services enable 125,000 resellers in more than 100 countries to efficiently and cost effectively support the diverse technology needs of end users. Tech Data generated $26.5 billion in net sales for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2012, and is ranked 109th on the Fortune 500®. To learn more, visit www.techdata.com.

The Tech Data Corporation logo is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=10666



            

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