Nortel to tap Anixter's supply chain knowledge

SINGAPORE--Nortel Networks is looking to capitalize on Anixter's supply chain expertise by roping in the cabling equipment distributor to join its channel program in Southeast Asia.

As a distributor in Nortel's Power Channel Partner Program, Anixter will supply Nortel's products including Internet Protocol (IP) telephony and wireless broadband. Anixter sales agents will also receive marketing and training resources, as well as pre-sales approach training.

Nortel and Anixter already have a longstanding relationship in Australia, Europe and Latin America, and are keen to carry on their partnership in this part of the world, said Pamela Tham, manager of enterprise sales support, Nortel Asean and Pakistan.

According to Michael R. Sefchick, Anixter Asia's vice president of sales, the company has 15 warehouses and sales offices located in 14 cities across 10 countries in Asia.

"We're focused on helping Nortel improve their supply chain performance, and reduce their supply chain costs," said Sefchick. For instance, Anixter has built up sufficient inventory management knowledge so that the company keeps adequate inventory in stock to meet customer demand.

Nortel's Tham added that the industry lead time for goods to reach customers, from the time of purchase order, is usually a couple of weeks. With the Anixter partnership, Nortel's small and midsize customers will be able to enjoy delivery within 24 hours of purchase, if the telecoms equipment company has the inventory on the floor, she said.