**Editor’s Note: Please click


here

  for a recap of the biggest channel-impacting mergers in Q4 2012.**

Cloud and premises-based UC software solutions provider Mitel has completed the sale of its DataNet CommSource business unit, Sioux Falls, S.D., to EarthBend, a Midwestern-based provider of telephony and IT solutions.

All DataNet CommSource employees have transitioned to EarthBend, positioning them to provide what the company calls seamless continuity of service to existing DataNet CommSource customers and channel partners.

“I am excited to be joining an experienced team of more than 40 dedicated employees, led by General Manager Ryan Donovan, who will continue serving customers in the Midwest market and across Mitel’s extensive channel,” said Rob Beyer, president and CEO of EarthBend. “We will continue to provide voice, data and infrastructure solutions and services to our customers and invest in key technical expertise to support our customers’ needs.”

The divestiture of DataNet CommSource is part of Mitel’s ongoing strategy to simplify and focus the company’s core business. With Mitel’s shift to an indirect go-to-market model, the business need and rationale to maintain a direct value-added distribution unit and value-added reseller business has diminished.

“Employees and partners are cornerstones of Mitel’s business and corporate values,” said Richard McBee, president and CEO of Mitel. “With EarthBend, I am delighted that we identified a buyer that recognizes the skills and talent inherent in DataNet CommSource employees, and also the growth opportunity associated with ongoing support of Mitel’s channel business in the U.S.”