Open-Xchange, which positions itself in the IT channel as an open source Microsoft Exchange competitor, has announced that it’s signed an exclusive distribution agreement with Next IT to sell its groupware products in Japan for the first time. Here’s the lowdown.

Next IT, a Japanese solution provider, is adding both hosted and on-premises Open-Xchange-powered messaging and collaboration to its portfolio. For telecommunication and IT service companies, Next IT will prove Open X-Change Hosting Edition; for enterprises, government organizations, and educational institutions get the on-premises version.

As a key oopen source hosted Microsoft Exchange competitor making a serious play, the Germany-based Open-Xchange has been working hard at expanding its mind share as well as its market share — and international presence has the potential to help them build some momentum.

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