Smart Technologies appoints new distributor in Saudi Arabia

As the global interactive whiteboard product category leader, Smart is expanding its network in the region to provide local service and support for teachers, implementers, administrators and business customers to improve their knowledge of interactive communication technology (ICT) and make Smart solutions easy to implement and own.

Demand for interactive whiteboards and other classroom and meeting room products has grown dramatically around the world. Futuresource Consulting, a leading independent global research company recently reported that more than two million interactive whiteboards have been installed worldwide, and that in the next five years the global install base will reach more than seven million, or one in every five classrooms.

In Saudi Arabia's, education segment there is tremendous potential to further enhance the learning potential of students through ICT as less than three percent of classrooms are equipped with interactive whiteboards.

Obeikan and Samir will provide training, support and professional development to all new and existing Smart customers. The localised resources will complement Smart's online support that includes online tools, training and development programs, and Smart Exchange, a resource center for teachers.

David Martin, Executive Chairman and Co-Founder, Smart Technologies said: "Smart is committed to providing its customers with the highest standard of training, service and support. The appointment of Obeikan as Smart's distributor will help drive growth, and is the next logical step to strengthen relationships and provide more local customer support in the region."

Sheik Fahd Obeikan, Chairman, Al- Obeikan Investment Group, said: "Smart Technologies has been a widely respected global leader in the interactive whiteboard segment, which gives it a tremendous head start in the Saudi market. Obeikan fully believes in the potential and the value of the Smart solution, which is why we are greatly confident that this partnership will open new and exciting possibilities for business growth for our respective companies."

"Samir has done an exceptional job for Smart throughout the Kingdom over the years and we recognise the value and expertise that Samir brings to Smart. We see the introduction of Obeikan as a means to further support Samir at a local level and to strengthen our support in the education, and business segments across the region. We are confident that this partnership will enhance our leadership position in the Saudi market," concluded Patrick Lelorieux, Vice President and General Manager, EMEA, Smart Technologies.