Mitel targets SME VoIP in Saudi Arabia with Apral Intl.

Apral International, a Riyadh-based Turnkey IT solution provider with a technical support staff of more than 100 people and an SME-focus spanning 2 decades, has been selected to be the prime distribution route of Mitel's 3300 CX(i) platforms in Saudi Arabia targeting the SME-segment.

Mitel's SME product is a simple, integrated and secure IP communications solution specifically designed to address not only the standalone SME offices but also the SME branches connected via VPNs across geography. The Mitel 3300 CX(i) Controller greatly simplifies communications and offers everything needed to support phones, fax machines, and with a choice of integrated data switch, enables computer, printer and high-speed Internet connectivity all in one compact box.

The appointment of Apral International will see the immediate availability of a large CX(i) consignment, readily accesible in-country for swift supply and demand fulfillment. The measure will further enhance Mitel's market leading position and its commitment to the Saudi market.

'There are no longer any market-barriers in the Kingdom in terms of regulation, IP awareness, or aspiration for early adoption. The dynamics of the new SME business environment is exciting and encouraging for VoIP adoption, which now is accepted as an essential IT tool for business. With the inclusion of Apral International to the network of Mitel channel partners in the region, the Saudi IP adopters are now further assured of a dedicated SME operation in all aspects', said Hisham Amili, Mitel GM, GCC.

'Mitel and Apral will through joint marketing efforts and dedicated field work aim to take a greater slice of the SME VoIP pie in the Kingdom, a segment that is witnessing a notable growth. The SME segment in KSA is estimated to represent over 60% of potential market size with great opportunities particularly for a partnership between Apral and Mitel maximising on combined resources and presence throughout the kingdom', said Engr. Loay Al Baba, Research And Development General Manager, Apral Communications & Security Systems.

'The availability of faster broadband access is becoming a major component of the IP adoption by many companies in the SME segment and it is in such climate that Mitel's CX(i) continues to demonstrate its value propositions providing effective control of cost and business process improvements via exciting applications such a 'Teleworker', concluded Hisham Amili, Mitel GM, GCC.