Technology and supply chain services company Ingram Micro is returning its annual Showcase event that brings together players across the IT ecosystem over the latest innovation. Scheduled to start on 4 August, this year’s event has a twist: instead of drawing its nationwide network of partners into Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, Showcase is taking to the road, visiting ten cities and regions from Auckland to Dunedin.
The company’s managing director Jason Langley is pleased to see Showcase back in physical format. “This has always been a popular event as it gives resellers and vendors an ideal opportunity to network, build relationships, learn and share” he notes. “It’s where a lot of business is done.”
Langley describes the pandemic response of the technology industry as ‘incredibly resilient. “We’ve seen innovation and drive throughout the channel, with vendors, distribution and partners working together to keep the wheels of industry turning. But at the same time, we’ve all missed the ‘in person’ interaction, which is why I’m thrilled to announce the presentation of Showcase On The Road 2021 in a town or city near you.”
He stresses the ‘human’ aspect of the technology industry and the in-person meetings, events, travel, and all that goes with it, including personal connections, discussions, learning and socialising. “The pandemic really has shown us the social and economic worth of events and travel, which broaden horizons and build the relationships which are so central to the creation of value for end customers.”
By taking Showcase on the road, Ingram Micro is mitigating the risk presented to large, concentrated events by sudden or unanticipated lockdowns. “Enormous effort and cost go into the production of large-scale events and when it cannot proceed, it is not only an inconvenience for delegates, but a real blow for hosts and sponsors,” Langley observes.
Visitors can expect exhibits and presentations from vendors including Logitech, Microsoft, Trend Micro, Fortinet, Amazon Web Services, HPE and much more covering the latest technologies, products and services. With direct engagement with product and marketing managers and other vendor executives, new and existing resellers can discover new solutions to take to market and grow customer value.
Plenary sessions cover the latest trends, insights, and developments, with refreshment breaks providing ample time for informal engagement.
“We’ve designed a more intimate, more hands-on Showcase this year, with plenty of variety and a lot packed into a half-day. By taking the show on the road, we’re delivering the great value and in-person experience attendees have come to expect, on a larger scale,” Langley concludes.
Ingram Micro Showcase On The Road is scheduled for:
4 August - Auckland, Ellerslie Events Centre
5 August - Hamilton, Claudelands
6 August - Tauranga, Trustpower Baypark
23 August - Wellington, Shed 6
25 August - Nelson, Rutherford Hotel
27 August - Christchurch, Wigram Airforce Museum
30 August - Dunedin, Town Hall
19 October - New Plymouth, The Devon Hotel
20 October - Palmerston North, Palmerston North Convention Centre
21 October - Napier, Napier Convention Centre
