PCR Tech and IT retail, distribution and vendor news
Go to any tech trade show in 2017 and there will be several constants: pens, tiny foods and drones. Capitalising on the increasing interest in the latter, Tech Data has announced a distribution agreement with Propel, one of the market-leading developers of consumer drones and remote-control helicopters. Propel has hit headlines of late with its range of Star Wars-themed drones, including a nifty X-Wing.
Outside of the new Star Wars range, Propel’s products include some of the best-selling devices on the market. Tech Data says that its ‘extensive reach and unrivalled stock-holding and logistics’ will help the brand grow in the UK market and provide optimal availability for retail partners.
Propel is already a renowned name and the company picked up Disney UK’s Most Innovative Product 2016 award for its Star Wars drones. A whole new series of models are being added to this family ahead of the release of The Last Jedi, which is set for release this December.
The partnership is also a major milestone for Tech Data, as the distributor’s first with a major drone manufacturer and it sends a clear message to the market, said Matt Child, managing director of the Tech Data Consumer Technology Group (CTG). “Tech Data is committed to developing its consumer technology business and supporting retailers in driving sales. Obviously, there is huge potential with drones and this agreement with Propel sets a marker for where we want to be in the market – making the very best products available and helping both our retailer customers and our vendor partners to maximise the potential.”
Darren Matloff, CEO of Propel, stated: “Tech Data’s consistent success in delivering products to the marketplace will ensure that delighted customers will be able to pilot their favourite Star Wars ships at speeds of over 35 mph and engage friends and family in multiplayer battles.
"Each drone is intricately detailed, hand-painted to model-quality finish, certified, numbered and packaged in a collectible display box that has to be experienced to fully appreciate. We are excited to partner with Tech Data on the launch of the new Star Wars drones who have been heavily involved in getting these products to market and has shown their versatility and capabilities when it comes to supporting the consumer channel."
