By Charlene O'Hanlon

KBZ Communications has signed on to become a specialty distributor of Cisco Systems Telepresence solutions.

The company carried the Tandberg line of videoconferencing products since 1998 the longest reseller association between Tandberg and a reseller in the United States, according to KBZ Communications. Its longstanding relationship coupled with its expertise in video technology and its award-winning partner programs were catalysts in developing the relationship with Cisco, which purchased Tandberg last year.

KBZ Communications reputation in the industry and proven capabilities within this sales channel present immense opportunities to further the mass adoption of Cisco TelePresence systems,” said Scott Brown, vice president of Worldwide Distribution at Cisco in a statement. KBZs successful history with Tandberg is exceedingly well-regarded; its technical know-how and original partner programs and services will unquestionably ensure that a superior level of support continues with Cisco TelePresence reseller partners.”

As part of its value-added services to resellers, KBZ Communications offers expert system design and sales and training support including Zcare Premiere, the 24/7 technical support solution; Zpro Installation & Advanced services; financing from GE Capital and Castle Pines; partner incentives through Zbucks Rewards; and a new program for partner collaboration, currently under development.

The company works closely with resellers serving a range of verticals, and offers specialized support to those partners in the federal and public sector communities. KBZ also recently teamed with The Winvale Group for providing government access to Zcare Premiere through its GSA Schedule 70.

The cooperative relationships built with our partners over the past 20 years remain the foundation of KBZs success,” said Ken Zorzi, KBZ founder and president. KBZs relationship with Tandberg as well as with our diverse partner base can only be strengthened by this union with Cisco. We are extremely pleased to become a Cisco specialty distributor, and look forward to the opportunities this presents our valued partner community.”