Print.IT Reseller - issue 110

www.printitreseller.uk PRINT, MFP, SOFTWARE, SERVICES, DOCUMENT & CLOUD NEWS & INFORMATION FOR VARS, CONVERGED RESELLERS & MFP DEALERS Winners Announced Tuesday December 5 Royal Lancaster, London 2023 Time to eliminate print servers and move to the cloud 10 YEARS · ISSUE II0 IN PRINT & ONLINE ISSUE 110 · 2023

Be a part of the biggest night of the year for the workplace Print & Document workflow industry You don’t have to be shortlisted to attend, we welcome all OEMs, MPS providers, distributors, channel vendors and dealers to join us and we can guarantee that it will be a night to remember! The Print IT Awards 2023 will take place at The Royal Lancaster Hotel, London on December 5. The event will bring together the industry’s great and good. We have a limited number of Tables, ½ Tables of 5 places and individual places still available... so if you fancy joining your industry colleagues and celebrating the success of this phenomenal industry book your place at this year’s Print IT Awards today – simply call Ethan or Neil on 01732 759 725, or download the booking form at https://printitawards.co.uk/attend 20 23 Royal Lancaster · December 5 • Doors Open: 7.00 p.m. • Dress Code: Black Tie • Drinks Reception • Three-course Meal • Followed by Pétits Fours & Coffee • Awards Presentation by Special Guest Presenter • Music & Dancing with Live Band & Bar • After Show Party

PRINTITRESELLER.UK 3 The countdown is on, it’s just a few short weeks until THE event of the year. I’m delighted to announce that Dominic Holland will host and compere the 2023 PrintIT Awards which will take place on Tuesday December 5 at the Royal Lancaster, London. See page 22 for another look at the shortlists and I look forward to revealing the winners and celebrating your successes on the night. Tickets are selling fast, but there’s still time to book your place – call Ethan, Neil or Jeff on 01732 759725, download the booking form at www.printitawards.co.uk or email [email protected] According to Quocirca, the managed print services market is on the verge of a significant phase of opportunity as businesses embark on initiatives to modernise their print environment. The analyst’s Managed Print Services Market Landscape 2023 study finds that organisations are undertaking a range of initiatives in a bid to drive efficiency and control costs and their priorities vary by industry sector and organisation size (page 30). Also in this issue, Dave Higgott, Technical and R&D Director at PCL Direct, picks the work tools he uses every day and couldn’t do his job without (page 18). This month’s Q&A is with Matt Bond, Sales Director, First Copy, and PITR spent 60 seconds with Roger Stocker, CEO, Intuitive Business Intelligence. If you’ve got any news about your business to share, would like to be included on our monthly VOX POP panel, have a compelling business success story or simply wish to comment on any industry issues, please get in touch with me at: [email protected] Michelle Ryder, Editor PRINT.IT Reseller is published by Kingswood Media Ltd., 10 Amherst House, 22 London Road, Sevenoaks TN13 2BT • Tel: 01732 759725 Email: [email protected] www.printitreseller.uk No part of PRINT.IT Reseller can be reproduced without prior written permission of the publisher. ©2023 Kingswood Media Ltd. Design: Sandtiger Media www.sandtiger.co.uk 04 Bulletin What’s new in printers and printing 16 People A round-up of new hires 18 I couldn’t do my job without... Dave Higgott picks his favourite work tools 20 A decade in print Tony Milford shares his print experiences over the past decade 22 PrintIT Awards 2023 Dominic Holland announced as this year’s compere 26 Focus on: What’s New A round-up of recent product launches 30 Research Quocirca identifies opportunity for MPS providers 34 Dealer Profile United-UK Technology improves internal efficiency 36 Automation Solutions PITR visits the Zebra Technologies Experience Centre 39 Industry-first Sharp UK launches virtual showroom 42 VOX POP Meeting customers’ green aspirations: part two 46 One-to-One Tony Lomax, EMEA Product Marketing Manager, at Lexmark 48 View from the Channel Matt Bond, Sales Director, First Copy 50 60 seconds with... Roger Stocker, CEO, Intuitive Business Intelligence 2023 ISSUE 110 printitreseller.uk Comment Register online To receive your regular FREE printed copy of PrintIT Reseller Magazine simply fill in our online registration form at www.printitreseller.uk/register If you no longer wish to receive PrintIT Reseller magazine please email your details to [email protected] Read PrintIT Reseller online at: www.printitreseller.uk Join us : Follow us @print-it-reseller-magazine Issue 110 ISSN 2055-3110 (Print) ISSN 2055-3129 (Online) Group Editor: James Goulding 07803 087228 · [email protected] Editor: Michelle Ryder 01732 759725 · [email protected] Publishing Director, Social Media and Web Editor: Neil Trim 01732 759725 · [email protected] Advertising Director: Ethan White 01732 759725 · [email protected] Account Manager: Jeff Root 07976 950285 · [email protected] Art Director: Nick Pledge 07767 615983 · [email protected] COMMENT Lexmark MPS Express Our turnkey cloud solution frees your customers and their teams from day-today printer management Scan the QR code to contact us now 10 YEARS · ISSUE II0 IN PRINT & ONLINE

BULLETIN 01732 759725 4 A cause for concern SecurityGen, a global provider of security solutions and services for the telecom industry says that mobile operators need to reassess security vulnerabilities in the key GTP (GPRS Tunnelling Protocol) protocol and bolster GTP security within their networks as they continue to invest in and roll out 5G. The warning comes after the company’s latest report, GTP vulnerabilities: A cause for concern in 5G and LTE networks, based on 150 telecom security assessments of 39 live mobile networks during 2022 and 2023 found that nearly 77% of networks had no cyber-security measures in place against GTP-based attacks. Only 23% had a high level of cyber-security measures to keep successful GTP-based test attacks to a minimum. www.secgen.com Hybrid work success Audio solutions manufacturer Shure commissioned IDC to conduct a comprehensive study that investigates the hurdles organisations are facing as they implement hybrid working. When compared to global metrics, the UK leads in embracing effective hybrid work systems but falls short in recognising the vital role of high quality audio. While globally, 72% of financially successful organisations invest in professional audio gear, the UK lags in this area. The report asserts that high quality audio isn't merely a tech issue; it's a human-centric concern that IT professionals must address. Investments in quality audio solutions can help dismantle the recurring cycle of workplace frustration, thereby enabling UK organisations to not just adapt but thrive in this new era of hybrid work. UK-focused data also reveals that although businesses are adopting hybrid work models more readily than their European counterparts, they are grappling with issues like poor communication and low attention levels during virtual meetings. IT professionals point to insufficient audio equipment as a core challenge. www.shure.com Cyber-engaged businesses have increased revenue growth A report published by cyber security consultancy Savanti finds that increasing numbers of UK businesses are struggling to understand how to combat cyber-crime, putting them at increased risk of cyber-attacks resulting in crippling costs such as multi-million pound ransoms, litigation and reputational damage. The Effective Board Governance of Cyber Security: A source of competitive advantage report highlights that global cyber-attacks increased by 38% in 2022, compared to 2021. In terms of numbers, across all UK businesses, there were 2.4 million instances of cyber-crime in the last 12 months. Although boards are increasingly concerned about cyber security, ranking it as one of their top priorities, many struggle to understand what to do, with the majority (59%) of directors saying their board is not very effective in understanding the drivers and impacts of cyber risks for their organisation. However, the report notes that large enterprises with digitally-savvy, cyber-engaged executive teams have significantly higher revenue growth, valuations and net margins and effective cyber security also brings many top line benefits, including greater success rates when tendering for new clients, improved data insights, investor confidence and maintenance of shareholder value during mergers and acquisitions. https://savanti.co.uk/ Bad remote work habits NordVPN’s National Privacy Test research shows that when travelling, 96% of respondents do not feel that compromised IoT devices can be a threat. 86% might mix personal and work devices, 77% of employees would charge their device on a public charging station in case the charger is lost, and 20% of Brits do not worry about unsafe public/private networks when working remotely. On the plus side, Brits are good at creating strong passwords and dealing with suspicious streaming service offers (95% each). They also know what kind of sensitive data they should avoid sharing on social media (91%) or the risks of saving their credit card details on their browser (85%). https://nordvpn.com Paper vs digital communications Across Europe, an increasing number of brands and organisations are switching their customers from paper to digital communications for cost-saving reasons, but are using misleading, unsubstantiated environmental messaging as the justification. According to Two Sides, this is greenwashing. The majority of consumers assume that digital communications are environmentally friendly. However, the environmental impact of digital is all too often overlooked. The ICT industry accounts for 5% to 9% of electricity use, which equates to more than 2% of global greenhouse gas emissions. If left unchecked, the ICT footprint could increase to 14% of global emissions by 2040. In Europe, the print and paper sector is one of the lowest industrial greenhouse gas emitters at 0.8%. The Two Sides Trend Tracker survey shows that over half (55%) of consumers agree that when a service provider wants to switch them from paper to electronic bills and statements because ‘it is better for the environment’, the real reason is to save costs. This increased from 49% in 2021. Even when consumers are forced to go digital, 62% agree (up from 54% in 2021) they should not be charged more for choosing a paper bill or statement. The survey also revealed that 76% of European consumers (up from 74% in 2021) agree that they should have the right to choose how they receive communications, printed or electronically, from financial organisations and service providers. www.twosides.info GTP vulnerabilities: A cause for concern in 5G and LTE networks EFFECTIVE BOARD GOVERNANCE OF CYBER SECURITY – A source of competitive advantage Richard Brinson and Rachel Briggs OBE THE FUTURE OF CYBER SECURITY SERIES – Part 2

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BULLETIN Partnership success IT support, office supplies, document solutions and office interiors provider Border Office Supplies and Systems (BOSS), has achieved 10 continuous years of growth and a reputation for delivering excellent expert sales support and service. Formed in 1989, the 30-strong team boasts a loyal customer base of more than 3,000 businesses, largely across an 80 miles radius of Herefordshire and Shrewsbury. The business is a sole line Konica Minolta partner for print and has partnered with the OEM for 15 years. Director Paul Jones said: “Konica Minolta is number one in the colour print market. It offers excellent colour quality solutions, which offers greater reliability than other manufacturers and are the perfect choice for our customers. “Hybrid working is definitely a key factor for our customers as they continue their digital transformation. We are very excited to be working in close partnership with Konica Minolta to support our customers on this journey, be it when their staff work in the office or from a remote location.” www.borderoffice.co.uk 01732 759725 6 SCC acquires Nimble SCC has signalled its further intention to become a leader in the digital transformation services world with a majority investment in Nimble, a UK-based, 150-person digital engineering consultancy headquartered in Sheffield. The move marks another significant step in what the company calls its ‘digital solutions and services provider’ (DSSP) strategy – a plan that will see it build a 2,000-person European digital consultancy within the decade. James Rigby, CEO of SCC EMEA noted that the company’s search for the right firm to ‘seed’ its digital transformation services business ended when he and his team encountered the Nimble team, led by CEO Chris Roberts. While the firm was still relatively young (Roberts founded Nimble in 2016), it had all the traits SCC sought. “We looked first for a company that shared our values and our commitment around customer service,” he explained. “The way Nimble engages with its clients, the culture Chris and the team have created, and the pragmatic way they make decisions – it felt comfortable from the first conversation and will fit well with the way we are already operating in our cloud.” SCC will operate Nimble as a separate company under the guidance of Roberts and the current Nimble management team, with additional strategy support to be provided by senior SCC executives. Rigby continued: “The investment in Nimble – alongside organic investments we have already made in the areas of cloud, cybersecurity, and digital workplace – will enable SCC to bring that same trust and value as they embark on digital transformation journeys.” www.scc.com Agilico opens new purpose-built office Agilico has moved into new premises in Team Valley. The move, which brings together two separate offices into one purposebuilt facility is set to improve operational efficiency, enhance collaboration, and create opportunities for local job growth. The 20,000 sq. ft. facility is designed to be more energy-efficient, economically viable, and environmentally responsible, with optimised heating, ventilation, and lighting systems. The company has invested in the latest technology to measure and monitor energy usage, aligning with its commitment to ISO 14001 standards and journey towards achieving net zero emissions. The move will facilitate better collaboration and communication among different teams, as staff from various departments will be brought together under one roof. The office space will accommodate around 70 employees initially, with a mix of finance, sales, IT and telecoms support, engineering, human resources, account management, and business development teams. www.agilico.co.uk CRC included in SmallBiz100 line-up CRC (Tasktron Limited) has been selected as one of the nation’s 100 most impressive small firms by the Small Business Saturday UK campaign. Small Business Saturday is grassroots, non-commercial campaign, which celebrates small business success and encourages consumers to 'shop local' and to support businesses in their communities. Following a nationwide search, the Surreybased firm which has repaired, refurbished and sold office machines such as printers to UK households and businesses for more than 45 years, has been chosen as part of this year’s SmallBiz100 line-up, which showcases a lineup of 100 of the most inspiring independent businesses from across the nation. Co-founder Michael Boyd-Phillips said: “We’re thrilled to be recognised in this year’s SmallBiz100 line-up. We’ve endured many highs and lows in the five decades since CRC began but business has never been tougher so having this national backing and support from the other fantastic 99 small businesses has been a much-needed boost.” www.crc-tasktron.co.uk Business Design Centre · London · 17 September 2024 ICT · MANAGED IT · MOBILE · PRINT 24

BULLETIN Optimise IT event On September 19, Espria, in partnership with some of its key strategic partners, held the third of a four-part series of events across the UK. The event showcased new services and developments to help businesses do more with less. Chief Client Officer Andrew Lashley said: “Optimise IT has been the go-to event for industry leaders and technology innovators for over 20 years. Attendees have the unique opportunity to network directly with key decision-makers and discover new ways to deliver IT strategies more effectively and efficiently.” The 2023 Optimise IT tour will conclude with the connectivity and hybrid office theme, where Microsoft will be amongst those taking to the stage on November 22 at Gray's Inn in London. www.espria.com Digital Office Solutions marks 25th anniversary Teesside-based managed print solutions provider, Digital Office Solutions is celebrating its 25th anniversary year and has announced a new collaboration with Konica Minolta. Along with noticeable changes in the market and customers looking to embrace digitisation following the pandemic, the firm is also seeing an increase in customers proactively contacting it for complete solutions that are tailored to their needs rather than looking to invest in new hardware alone. General Manager Jackie Jones, at Digital Office Solutions said: “Whilst the hardware is slower to change, it is developments in software and document management solutions for example that have rapidly changed customer expectations. When we discussed a potential partnership with Konica Minolta it was its support and investment in these services that really was a key factor in our decision.” Regional Sales Manager James Hamer added: “This partnership enables us to provide our customers with the latest bizhub multifunction print devices, backed up by the manufacturer’s direct support, with our team delivering personalised local support from a wellestablished and trusted independent managed print solutions expert.” www.digitalofficesol.co.uk Kingsfield IT named on CCS framework Public sector IT specialist Kingsfield IT has been named as a supplier on Crown Commercial Service’s (CCS) Network Services 3 framework (RM6116). Kingsfield has been named on five lots, in what it says is both a huge achievement for the growing tech team and an essential move for public sector bodies looking to boost integration and save on costs. The new NS3 framework brings cloud communications to the forefront of public sector technology, enabling government bodies, such as the NHS, to access communication software to help boost staff productivity and efficiency. Kingsfield will be largely tasked with providing connectivity solutions to various public sector bodies and their dedicated team of staff. This includes introducing cloud telephony that will largely support public sector staff by instilling an improved and unified communications service. Kieran Shah, Head of Public Sector said: “The entire Kingsfield team is incredibly proud to be on not one, but five lots of the latest iteration of the Network Services 3 framework. We believe this framework is a game-changer for organisations struggling to keep up with the increased demand for more remote and hybrid work options. Our specialist team will partner with other premium technology providers to bridge the gap between public sector institutions and the technology they need to support their internal and external communities.” www.kingsfieldit.com PRINTITRESELLER.UK 7 Aurora expands into Newcastle Aurora has opened another new office, this time in Newcastle. With the new location, the firm aims to strengthen existing customer relationships and forge new partnerships across the Northeast, create employment opportunities and contribute to the local economy. The company offers a broad range of managed print services, telecoms, access control solutions, print fleet optimisation, document security, eco-friendly printing initiatives and smart building management. Aurora’s Newcastle office is staffed by a team of highly skilled print management professionals dedicated to providing tailored print solutions that address the unique challenges faced by local businesses. Regional Sales Manager Stewart Hunter said: “We are proud to introduce our new office in Newcastle, enabling us to engage more closely with local businesses and deliver high quality managed print services. Our team is dedicated to providing efficient, cost- effective, and sustainable print solutions that empower businesses to optimise their printing infrastructure.” www.aurora.co.uk New website Parallel Office and Document Solutions has unveiled a new website as it celebrates its third year in business. Redesigned with a fresh look and user-friendly interface, enhancements include a new support area where customers will find FAQs, how to guides and will be able to raise support tickets, a dedicated blog and resources section, offering insights, industry news, and tips on optimising document management processes, as well as a series of client success stories. Founder Gavin Auckland said: “As we commemorate three years of transforming businesses through efficient document management, we are thrilled to unveil our new website. This milestone not only showcases our growth but also reinforces our commitment to helping businesses thrive by harnessing the power of cutting-edge office and document solutions.” https://parallel-group.co.uk/

BULLETIN 01732 759725 8 Exclusive UK distributor SYNOLOGY has appointed TD SYNNEX as the exclusive distributor in the UK for the new SYNOLOGY BeeDrive, underlining its strong credentials in the SMB and prosumer market and its ability to support partners in maximising their sales. Available in 1TB and 2TB capacities, the BeeDrive is a simple, compact and fast personal backup hub that can be set up easily in minutes. It is available to partners exclusively from TD SYNNEX, allowing them to take advantage of the extensive sales, financial and logistics support that the business offers to its UK customers. Adam Lee, Business Unit Manager – Global Computing Components (GCC), UK, at TD SYNNEX, said that having an exclusive on the product means that TD SYNNEX can really support partners in taking BeeDrive to market. “As hybrid working become the norm, more people need reliable, high-performance storage solutions that are simple to use and manage. The BeeDrive fits the bill exactly. It’s an ideal backup solution for mobile and home users who need to take data backup seriously and we’ll be doing everything we can to ensure our partners can maximise the excellent opportunities it brings.” https://uk.tdsynnex.com Nuvola named official channel distributor Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise (ALE) has announced that Nuvola Distribution is the first official channel distributor of Alcatel-Lucent Rainbow Hub in the UK. The technology and services distributor is delivering the full Rainbow Hub UCaaS platform, which combines ALE’s popular UC and PBX solutions as a fully cloud-based service, for the channel on a wholesale basis. The comprehensive solution enables endusers to leverage the benefits of a cloud-based platform while enabling Nuvola’s reseller partners to offer advanced services without the complexities of managing operations. Michael Lloyd, Managing Director, at Nuvola Distribution, said: “Rainbow Hub is ideal for our reseller partners who wish to expand their telecoms and unified communications beyond other available platforms. They can now easily deploy and manage customers through Rainbow’s user-friendly admin interface, without the need for expensive training or upskilling. Another major benefit is that only one invoice per customer is required based on licensing and traffic.” Moussa Zaghdoud, EVP, Cloud Communications Business Division at AlcatelLucent Enterprise, added: “We are pleased to see our long-standing partnership with Nuvola Distribution continue to grow in the UK and Ireland. Their unique approach to delivering solutions ensures that our customers benefit from Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise products as well as highly attentive engineering and technical support.” www.nuvoladistribution.com Distology and Ermetic partner up Ermetic has partnered with Distology due to its strong reputation in the security industry, technical knowledge and go-to-market expertise. By leveraging Distology's high profile within the UK channel, extensive partner network and deep expertise in Identity Access Management (IAM), Ermetic aims to increase its market share, expand its channel programme and establish a stronger presence in Europe. The collaboration goes beyond distribution. It will be a joint effort to support customers in securing their cloud environments and reducing security risks. Together, they will provide the best possible security solution available to ensure they achieve a strong and resilient cloud infrastructure. The companies will also provide ongoing support to partners and resellers through a special certification programme that offers partners in-depth insight into Ermetic's solutions. The three-level programme also offers monthly updates on the roadmap, enabling partners to deliver real value to their customers and provide them with optimal support. “Multi-cloud security is under-addressed and underserved in our markets and so we are very pleased and cannot wait to work with Ermetic to address critical threats within public cloud infrastructure," said Lance Williams, Chief Product Officer at Distology. "Ermetic's Cloud Native Application Protection Platform (CNAPP) delivers a powerful and effective way for gaining multi-cloud cybersecurity visibility aligns, which not only aligns with but pulls together perfectly with our existing multi-cloud security partner ecosystem. I’m looking forward to this partnership helping us to expand our presence in the cloud security market." www.distology.com AI and analytics leader selects TD SYNNEX SAS a leader in analytics, has signed a global agreement to make TD SYNNEX a leading global distributor and solutions aggregator for the IT ecosystem, its primary global distributor for SAS solution provider partners. It is the first time that SAS will bring its extensive suite of AI and analytics software, including the SAS Viya cloud platform, to select customers across much of the Americas, Europe and Asia through a two-tier channel distribution model. “Partnering with TD SYNNEX is a strong move for the future of SAS and should help them scale, grow and expand their reach,” said Paul Edwards, Director of Software Channels and Ecosystems at IDC. “TD SYNNEX has the potential to boost SAS’ indirect channel strategy.” John Carey, Vice President of Global Channels at SAS added: “Embracing distribution and elevating our partnerships through indirect channels is an important part of our growth strategy. Our new agreement with TD SYNNEX will help us improve scalability, reach untapped markets and deliver results for our customers alongside our valued SAS partners.” sas.com Adam Lee Michael Lloyd Shortlists page 22 2023 London · December 5 2023 Lance Williams

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01732 759725 BULLETIN 10 Dell Technologies recognises TD SYNNEX TD SYNNEX has received the 2023 Dell Technologies UK Distributor of the Year award for delivering another set of exceptional results and continuing to demonstrate its commitment to Dell partners. In addition, Jake Fielden, Technical Practice Manager for Dell at TD SYNNEX won the Technical Pre Sales of the Year award. The UK Distributor of the Year award recognises the continued growth and success of TD SYNNEX, both with Dell Client products through its Endpoint Solutions business, and with Dell’s Enterprise portfolio through TD SYNNEX Advanced Solutions. It is the fourth year in succession and the sixth time in seven years that TD SYNNEX has claimed this award, underlining the company’s strong and consistent investment, its solid commitment to Dell Technologies, and the exceptional service and support it delivers to partners. Matt Child, Managing Director, Advanced Solutions, UK and Ireland, TD SYNNEX, said: “The Dell award is a recognition of the strong customer focus and close relationships we have with Dell partners. We constantly strive to be their trusted advisor and deliver the sales and technical support that they need to deliver the best levels of service to their enduser customers.” https://uk.tdsynnex.com Integra announces conference line up Integra has revealed the keynote speakers at its ‘Elevate Your Business’ National Conference which takes place March 6, 2024, at The Hilton, St Georges, Burton Upon Trent. The line up includes Mick Heys, Vice President of IDC Future Office & Imaging in Europe who will discuss growth opportunities in the Office of the Future and Patrick Donnelly, Business Unit Leader at ES Tech Group, who will explore AI tools and managed product content. Integra will also be welcoming Highlands Partner, Gordon Christiansen, who will demonstrate the rapid changes in the B2B buysell relationship, and the skills, experience and knowledge teams need to adapt. Members will also have the opportunity of networking with over 50 key partners who will be showcasing their latest products and services at the ‘Elevate Your Business’ Supplier Exhibition. www.integra-business.co.uk Scaling Snowdon A group of eleven people (pictured) from Zyxel Networks and distributor Intec Microsystems recently took part in a testing six-hour hike up Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowden) in Wales to raise funds for Birmingham Children's Hospital. Standing at over 3,000 feet, the iconic Yr Wyddfa is the highest mountain in the Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park – and the highest point in the British Isles outside the Scottish Highlands. Intec Microsystems Sales Director John Lester said: “This charity climb carries a message of unity and hope. The joint efforts of Intec Micros and Zyxel Networks remind us that even in the midst of our busy lives and demanding professions, we can make a positive impact. We hope this sends a powerful message about unity, empathy, and the capacity for change that resides within each and every one of us.” https://intecmicros.co.uk • www.zyxel.com Exclusive stockist partner Drytac, the international manufacturer of selfadhesive materials for the large-format print and signage markets, has appointed Premier Paper Group as its exclusive stockist partner in the UK and Ireland. Premier will now distribute a wide range of Drytac products and solutions to customers in the UK and Ireland. Drytac’s extensive collection of materials covers all manner of applications and markets and will appeal to new and existing Premier customers active within a host of industries. The decision to designate Premier as an exclusive stockist comes after Drytac began working with the supplier in July. CEO Hayden Kelley said: “We have very much enjoyed working with Premier over the past couple of months and have already felt the benefits of this partnership. “In order to streamline our distribution across the UK & Ireland, we have decided to make the stockist arrangement exclusive – making it even easier and quicker for our customers to purchase Drytac products.” www.paper.co.uk • www.drytac.com Best Workplaces in Tech The 2023 UK’s Best Workplaces in Tech list, launched by Great Place To Work UK, recognises TD SYNNEX UK among the list of organisations in the super large category. TD SYNNEX’s co-workers anonymously reported that the company’s high-trust and positive workplace culture makes it an excellent working environment. The company achieved an overall Trust Index score of 83%, based on its co-workers’ feedback, compared to the 54% rating achieved by a typical UK based company. In addition, 90% of participating TD SYNNEX co-workers said that they are made to feel welcome when they join the company and are treated fairly regardless of their gender, race or sexual orientation. Benedict Gautrey, Managing Director of Great Place To Work UK said: “In one of the country’s fastest-growing industries, it’s fantastic to see these tech organisations putting their people strategy at the heart of the business and implementing policies, practices and programmes that sustain an impactful and consistently great employee experience for all. A huge congratulations to TD SYNNEX UK for making one of our most prestigious lists.” uk.tdsynnex.com Matt Child

01732 759725 12 BULLETIN Ricoh extends partnership with the Prince’s Trust Ricoh has announced an extension of its partnership agreement with the Prince’s Trust. As a silver patron, the enhanced partnership will see Ricoh UK and Ricoh Europe working together to help disadvantaged young people aged between 11 and 30 build the skills they need to find employment. The new extended agreement sees the two operating companies join forces to expand support of the charity’s operations and youth programmes, through a combined programme of volunteering and fundraising. As part of this partnership, Ricoh donated 20 multifunctional and print devices. This will support day-to-day operations of the charity’s locations which have received the new devices, with a value of £250,000, along with support services. www.ricoh.co.uk Proofpoint announces award winners Proofpoint has recognised its top performing partners during its annual UK Partner Connect summit. The event brought together Proofpoint channel leaders and channel partners from across the UK to reflect on a year of continued success in light of increasing market demand for innovative and integrated solutions to mitigate cyber risks. The following partners were recognised for their dedication to expanding Proofpoint’s footprint within the UK in the last 12 months: Partner of the Year 2023 – CDW; Growth Partner of the Year 2023 – Softcat; Specialist Sales Team 2023 – Bytes; Logo Acquisition Partner of the Year 2023 – Brookcourt and Technical Champion 2023 – Andrew Pearce, Westcon. Richard Enderby, Security Practice Lead at CDW said: “We are honoured to be recognised as Proofpoint’s 2023 Partner of the Year. Together, Proofpoint and CDW help organisations identify and stop the threats that target your workforce and provide the tools they need to stay safe and alert. We look forward to seeing our partnership with Proofpoint go from strength to strength and to continue to help organisations in the UK reduce risk and protect their greatest and biggest asset – their people.” www.proofpoint.com Cybersecurity challenges Exclusive Networks and One Identity have announced a new partnership in the UK and Ireland which will allow even more customers and partners to access the extensive portfolio of Identity and Access Management (IAM) products provided by One Identity, helping them to unify their approach to managing access rights for better visibility and control, verify everything before granting access to their most important assets and helping them adapt to an evolving threat landscape. With favourable reseller conditions and a robust award-winning partner program, One Identity has solidified its position as a trusted and leading solution for VARs, system integrators, and MSPs. “One Identity is excited to partner with Exclusive Networks as a distributor in the UK&I region, with their experience and partner reach in the security marketplace, Exclusive Networks are a great fit to help One Identity support and grow our partner ecosystem,” said Simon Hendy, Channel Manager for the UK&I at One Identity. Matthew Paynter, Vendor Director UK&I at Exclusive Networks added: “Our partnership with One Identity demonstrates our continued mission to enable channel partners to shift to a unified approach to identity security and is part of our commitment to innovation and expanding the security capabilities of our partners. Protecting identity has never been more important, end customers want to control their security and not let it control them, they should be looking to One Identity as a key component of their long-term risk mitigation strategy.” www.exclusive-networks.com http://www.oneidentity.com Elanders UK joins Two Sides Elanders UK, the global supply chain service with print and packaging solutions has joined print and paper advocacy group Two Sides. Ian Bates, European Marketing and Partnership Director at Two Sides said: “Welcoming new members on board is always a pleasure. Our partnership with Elanders will help us communicate the great sustainable story that print, and paper-based products have to tell, to brands and businesses that must be informed about the positive environmental attributes of these materials. We look forward to working with Elanders moving forward.” https://www.twosides.info • www.elanders.co.uk Tackling the digital divide Circular Computing and Kent County Council are partnering to tackle the digital divide by providing thousands of remanufactured laptops to vulnerable people in the region, helping them stay connected with sustainable technology. Using the carbon neutral remanufactured laptops supplied by Circular Computing, those currently digitally excluded in the county now have the opportunity to access technology for free through Kent County Council’s digital inclusion and capabilities team to help them get online. To date, over 4,500 laptops have been provided by Kent County Council following the partnership. By investing in Circular Computing's carbon neutral laptops, the Council will lead by example of not only tackling the digital divide but making a significant contribution towards meeting its 2030 net zero targets. For every remanufactured laptop bought instead of new, Kent County Council will prevent approximately 316kg (700lb) of CO2 emissions entering the atmosphere, save over 190,000 litres of water from being extracted and stop the mining of 1,200kg of the earth's resources. https://circularcomputing.com 20 23 Royal Lancaster · December 5 BOOK YOUR TABLE NOW www.printitawards.co.uk DECEMBER 5 ROYAL LANCASTER 2 0 24 For more information please email [email protected]

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01732 759725 14 BULLETIN Digital experience centre Ricoh is relocating 60 staff to a new office in Rum Runner Works in Birmingham where it will create a new Digital Experience Centre to showcase digital software and solutions to customers across Europe. The new office will showcase existing RICOH workplace solutions, including the (Ricoh digital experience team) RDx-developed RICOH Spaces (the firm’s workspace experience platform) occupancy and environmental sensors (to deliver actionable insights for wellbeing and space optimisation), smart lockers and room panels. The space will provide employees with a connected and modern workplace experience and will also support the incubation of R&D technology from across Ricoh globally. This investment in digital services speaks to Ricoh’s transformation from a printcentric organisation to a leading value-added workspace integrator poised to shape the future workplace. The new 3,561 sq. ft. office is smaller than Ricoh’s previous premises in the city, but it has been designed to be an open and agile space to facilitate innovation and collaboration between its hybrid workforce. www.ricoh.co.uk Lexmark 2023 charity challenge Last month, a group of Lexmark UK employees – Andrew Bloomfield, Bill Packer, Carrie Kavanagh, David Jenkins, Dwayne Cowans, Gary Stevens, James Whysall, Jenny Marc, Julia Moffat, Kinga Hudetz, Kurt Kapeller, Lynne Brown, Matt Smith, Rafael Jimenez, Richard Andrew, Richard Pells, Ruth Frost, Steve Burford, Suzanne O'Connell and Tony Lomax – raised over £5,000 for the Thames Valley Air Ambulance. The fundraising challenge was not for the faint-hearted, as the group headed off to the Peak District, canoed across Tittesworth Reservoir, abseiled down a very sheer cliff face, followed up by a gruelling 18 mile hike After reaching the finish line, all of the participants agreed they were muddy, tired and a bit battered, but very happy to have completed the challenge. Any further donations would be gratefully received. https://www.justgiving.com/page/lexmark-ukchallenge-2023 Volunteering and fundraising Konica Minolta has announced three charity partnerships as part of its ESG framework. This year, Konica Minolta asked its UK employees what charities they wanted to support, before putting the final selection to an all-company vote. Environment, Social & Governance Partner, Gillian Anderson, said: “It was important for us to listen to the voice of our employees, to understand what matters to them in their communities, and through doing so identify how, as a collective we can have the biggest impact.” Throughout the next 12 months the firm’s 600 employees working throughout the UK will embark on a programme of volunteering and fundraising for the three charities - Candlelighters, Dynamic and Trust Links. Anderson continued: “Every employee can spend one working day per year volunteering for good causes, which means we are dedicating 600 days to local community projects and initiatives. However, many employees go above and beyond when it comes to raising money and dedicating more of their time.” www.konicaminolta.co.uk DocuWare partners with Epson DocuWare has announced a new partnership with Epson that will see the OEM become an authorised DocuWare partner. David Malan, DocuWare Sales Director, UK & Ireland said: “This new partnership will allow us to bring even more value to businesses. Through Epson’s contacts and excellent reputation, our high quality DMS product can reach a wider range of industries.” Nicola Williams, Sales Manager for Document Scanning Solutions at Epson UK, added: “As an indirect sales business with a broad scanner portfolio aimed at all verticals, we rely on specialist partnerships to ensure tailored business solutions that can push boundaries with our technologies and really enhance business workflows. DocuWare epitomises this business approach and we are really excited to see how we can meet the increasing demands for digitalisation together with them.” www.epson.co.uk • https://start.docuware.com Xerox MPS maintains leadership position Xerox has announced that its MPS offering has been named an industry leader in Quocirca’s 2023 MPS Market Landscape Report and that the company has captured #1 market share worldwide in IDC’s 2022 Worldwide and U.S. Managed Print and Document Services Market Shares report. Xerox was praised by Quocirca for its data-driven approach to MPS, backed by comprehensive analytics that help clients modernise their print infrastructure. Additionally, the company’s security assessments are noted for their specific benefits to mobile and virtual workplaces. www.xerox.com Official imaging supplier Canon is continuing its long-standing Rugby World Cup partnership as the Official Imaging Supplier of Rugby World Cup France 2023. The 2023 event is the third tournament sponsored by Canon. As the Official Imaging Supplier, Canon will be supplying a full range of support from its diverse businesses, including cameras, lenses, video camcorders and network cameras. Canon Professional Services team members will also be providing technical support to more than 800 press, 400+ photographers, 300+ TV crew personnel, 300+ agency staff and 70+ radio personnel. www.canon-europe.com

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01732 759725 16 BULLETIN : PEOPLE Asolvi welcomes new CEO Asolvi has appointed Nick Barnett as its new Chief Executive Officer. Bringing a distinguished record from global SaaS software and digital technology firms, Barnett possesses a rich expertise that will guide Asolvi through its next chapter of expansion and success. Barnett is an experienced CEO and President with an extensive background from SaaS tech companies, most recently as CEO at the Edtech giant, EF English Live, where he managed a staff of 750 people spread across four continents. He has also spent five years working at McKinsey & Company mostly in the technology sector. “I am thrilled to join Asolvi at this exciting stage of their journey," he said. "The company has firmly established itself as a major player in the field service software industry, and I believe there is immense potential for further growth and innovation. I see my immediate priorities as an acceleration of both organic and inorganic growth, while working to identify synergies across the group to bring us close together as a unified service provider.” As part of his initial onboarding, Barnett aims to embark on a series of engagements with customers, associates, and teams across all locations and markets. “I'm keen to connect with the brilliant minds within the company and plan to spend my initial months ‘on the ground’ with colleagues in the UK, Norway, Germany, Spain and beyond. In parallel I am keen to start building relationships with our esteemed clients as their thoughts and feedback on our products and service quality remain the cornerstone of our operations," he explained. www.asolvi.com Okta strengthens commitment to European channel Okta, the leading independent identity provider, has welcomed James Bradley, as its new Regional Vice President of Partner and Alliances. Bradley brings more than 15 years of experience in the tech and partner space, working with companies such as Dynatrace, Covisint, and most recently, Cisco AppDynamics. He will lead all of Okta’s indirect business across EMEA in his new role. He will be responsible for building and expanding Okta’s partner community across the region, and working closely with technology partners, system integrators, and channel partners to realise the potential of identity. www.okta.com BOSS names new Chair Julie Hawley, Finance Director at YPO will be taking over from Simon Drakeford, CEO EO Group as Chairperson of the BOSS Board. Hawley joined YPO in May 2021 as Finance Director from her previous role as Managing Director of Office Friendly, a buying group in office products. She previously worked for Kingfield Heath Wholesale and has over 30 years’ experience in the business supplies industry. Drakeford said: “I feel honoured to have chaired the BOSS Federation for the last four years through such turbulent times and feel fortunate to have been able to work with our hugely impressive CEO Amy, and a brilliant bunch of hard working, pragmatic, engaging board members from across the industry. I’m thrilled to pass the chair to Julie, who from her extensive experience in our industry and legions of no-nonsense competencies, will ensure BOSS becomes even more relevant, inclusive, and supportive of our members and wider sector.” www.bossfederation.com Paul Eccleston takes on EMEA role Exclusive Networks has named Paul Eccleston Senior Vice President EMEA as it continues to drive its growth strategy and momentum across the region. Eccleston is also appointed to Exclusive’s executive committee as part of its global leadership team responsible for driving strategic growth across the group. Having joined Exclusive last September as Managing Director of its flagship UK&I business, Eccleston assumed interim responsibility for EMEA at the beginning of the year. During the first half of 2023 he oversaw strong performance and sustained growth across the region with year-onyear sales up 19% and profitability up by 27%. As of the end of June EMEA accounted for 78% of Exclusive’s global sales. Eccleston will continue to head up the UK&I business as part of his new SVP EMEA role. www.exclusive-networks.com Nutanix promotes Paulo Pereira Paulo Pereira has joined Nutanix’s worldwide leadership team as Vice President, EMEA Pre-sales. Pereira joined Nutanix in 2016, where he hit the ground running as a Systems Engineering (SE) Manager for the Middle East. With his dedication and strategic approach, he quickly moved into managing EMEA Emerging Markets, where he has been leading with distinction for the last five years. Before Nutanix, he spent 16 years at Cisco, working in diverse roles across Portugal, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. “I am truly honoured to lead Nutanix’s EMEA pre-sales team, at an exciting time when digital transformation is the need of the hour, cloud computing and AI are imperatives and no longer a luxury. I’m looking forward to progressing the great work that’s currently underway and excited to move Nutanix’s business to the next level across the region,” he said. www.nutanix.com Nick Barnett Julie Hawley Paulo Pereira Paul Eccleston

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