Hey, it’s Friday, which means it’s time for Distribution Watch. I’ll bet you jumped out of bed this morning asking yourself, “I wonder what’s happening in the world of IT distribution?” Well, we’ve got your answer! Stay tuned for news from LifeBoat Distribution, Avnet (AVT) and Ingram Micro (IM).

Lifeboat Distribution: The specialty software distributor has been named master distributor for Embarcadero Technologies, a provider of software solutions for application and database development. This announcement extends their current 10-year relationship, according to the companies.

“The growing demand for high-quality mobile applications presents a major business opportunity for those who can meet the development needs of this hot sector,” said Tony de la Lama, senior vice president of Marketing and R&D at Embarcadero Technologies. “We are committed to helping developers solve today’s unique mobile and multi-device development challenges and committed to growing our channel presence to do so. Lifeboat shares our focus on software development, has a proven track record of success among resellers and is considered a true extension of Embarcadero’s sales team so we are thrilled to build upon on our market leadership and penetration with their help.”

Avnet: Avnet Technology Solutions, the global IT solutions distribution arm of group of Avnet, has been selected for the 2013 Distributor Partner of the Year Award for the United States by Insight Enterprises (NSIT), provider of hardware, software and service solutions. The distributors was selected based on extraordinary contributions to Insight’s success in the IT channel, as well as supporting Insight’s customer-focused strategies.

“This award highlights the strong relationship between Avnet and Insight and the value that Avnet provides in helping Insight capitalize on new market opportunities,” said Gavin Miller, vice president and general manager, sales and marketing solutions, Avnet Technology Solutions, Americas. “Our unique converged infrastructure capabilities, vertical market solutions training expertise and enablement, and enterprise-level services offerings have helped Insight solve their customers’ business challenges more effectively.”

Ingram Micro: The global distributor has named Samsung Electronics America winner of the 2013 Smart Partner Award in the category of Pro AV/Digital Signage Vendor of the Year for its growth year over year in the large format display (LFD) space. Samsung Telecommunications America was also recognized by Ingram Micro in the mobility category.

Ingram Micro recognized Samsung for its teamwork to develop and deploy integrated, targeted go-to-market strategies, tactics and programs that deliver greater business value to channel partners. The 2013 Smart Partner Awards were presented during the 2014 Ingram Micro Experience, which recently took place in Carlsbad, Calif.

“A fundamental vendor within our ProAV/ Digital Signage business unit, Samsung has demonstrated a record of consistent support and loyalty to Ingram Micro and our mutual channel partners,” said Kevin Prewett, senior director of the ProAV/Digital Signage Business Unit at Ingram Micro. “We congratulate Samsung on its continued success and achievement as one of our top and most innovative vendors in the LFD category.”

And so ends another episode of Distribution Watch. Tune in next week for another exciting episode. Until then, stay safe.