Avnet: Avnet has been busy scooping up a few companies to add to its portfolio. First acquisition up is DE2, a French-based embedded systems VAD. Avnet’s assimilation of DE2’s resources is part of Avnet’s goal of bolstering its embedded portfolio, complimented through Avnet’s recent distribution deal with Digilent Inc., a company that creates programming boards and embedded boards used in building new hardware prototypes or testing equipment. Avnet’s second acquisition, Pinnacle Data Systems Inc., augments “Avnet’s Integrated Resources, which provides reverse logistic and after-market services.” Avnet expects this to be a boon when serving vertical markets such as the government or larger telcos.

Tech Data: Tech Data hosted its TechSelect Partner Conference Nov. 3-6, 2011, which included intensive one-on-one training and peer workshop sessions to help TechSelect SMB partners dig deep into new opportunities. Tech Data also was named McAfee’s distributor of the year for the second year in a row.

Ingram Micro: On Nov. 15, 2011, Ingram Micro will celebrate its 15th year as a public company by ringing the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange. Nov. 15 will also coincide with Ingram Micro’s analyst day, which will include presentations from Ingram President Keith Bradley and its CEO, CFO and CIO.