AV broadliner Midwich Group has launched a new Hardware as a Service programme, designed specifically so that new and existing channel partners can offer the latest UC technology to their customers, without the requirement for substantial upfront outlay. The new offering coincides with the announcement of a worldwide distribution partnership with Plantronics (“Poly” – formerly Plantronics and Polycom) and is initially designed to meet the demand for the Zoom Video Communications, Inc. platform.
Launched since a few weeks, the Hardware as a Service offering addresses the increase in end-user demand for consuming technology as a service and is available in Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, North America and the United Kingdom, with a subsequent roll-out to additional regions planned.
Further to this announcement, and in alignment with the Group’s ongoing focus on UC for its channel partners, the Group welcomes Poly, a global communications company that powers meaningful human connection and collaboration, as a global vendor, whose renowned video solutions certified for Zoom will be deployed by Midwich as part of the Hardware as a Service offering.
Stephen Fenby, Group Managing Director, Midwich Group, commented: “the global pandemic has resulted in unprecedented financial constraints and a need to optimise communication is key for every organisation, through work-from-home (WFH), office or classroom UC solutions. The launch of the new Hardware as a Service programme along with this exciting new global partnership with Poly, leaves us well positioned to offer the leading UC technology to our channel partners and their customers, without the substantial upfront costs.”
Nick Tidd, Vice President – Global Partner Organization, Poly, said: “customers are facing the unprecedented challenge of navigating a world where the work ‘place’ is less important. The partnership we have with Zoom, coupled with this impressive Hardware-as-a-Service model, enables our customers to not only connect from any location, but maintain productivity effectively.”
Jeff Smith, Head of Zoom Rooms, Zoom Video Communications, added: "Hardware as a Service is an important tool to help customers deploy video communications equipment more quickly in these challenging times. We're pleased to work with Midwich Group to enable channel resellers to offer Zoom appliances as a service to our joint customers."