Tech Data
 | This article contains promotional content. (May 2011) |
Tech Data Corporation (NYSE: TECD) 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. Headquartered in Clearwater, FL. Tech Data generated $24.4 billion in net sales for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2011 and is ranked 109th on the Fortune 500®.
Founded in 1974 by Edward C. Raymund, father of the company's Chairman and former Chief Executive Officer Steven A. Raymund, Tech Data's original charter was to market data processing supplies directly to end users of mini and mainframe computers. In 1983, the company expanded its target markets and redirected efforts toward servicing microcomputer resellers as a wholesale distributor. Tech Data employed about a dozen people during its formative years and handled all customer orders from a small office/warehouse building in Clearwater not far from the company's worldwide headquarters today.
Today, Tech Data is at the heart of the IT channel, the distribution network for products and services in the technology industry. Tech Data has emerged as one of the industry’s best-performing providers of IT products, logistics management and other value-added services. The company has evolved its business from a “pick, pack and ship” operation into an “integrated supply chain specialist” model where technology manufacturer and resellers rely on Tech Data as a strategic go-to-market partner. While continually expanding its product linecard and vital industry services, such as technical support, education and custom configuration, Tech Data also has successfully expanded into international markets.