Mitel to expand European channel

Voice over Internet Protocol company Mitel Networks is looking to increase its reseller base as it expands sales through the channel across Europe.

The company is opening new offices in Europe and has set a target of recruiting 45 channel partners including distributors and value added resellers.

Enda Kenneally, director of UK indirect markets at Mitel, explained that the company wants to build on successful channel partnerships made in the last few months.

"Since November last year we have made huge progress in recruiting channel partners for our new IP platforms," she said. "Over the next six months we will be actively recruiting another 25 value oriented partners to work with our direct sales team in new business acquisitions across the enterprise market. The channel is key to our strategy of dominating the IP market."

Recent appointments include Mitech, Xpert Systems and European Electronic.

Tom Kelly, chief executive at Xpert Systems, said that Mitel comes from a traditional voice background which is very important in terms of features. "However, it also has a background in technology from its component and semiconductor business," he said.

Mitel also wants to push its 3100 Integrated Communications Platform, which is aimed at the small and medium sized enterprise market, through the channel.

And as Mitel's direct sales team concentrates on FTSE 250 companies in the hospitality, government and professional services sectors, the company said there will be opportunities for the channel as fulfilment partners.