Ingram Micro Delivers Compaq Channel Programs Targeting Small-Midsize Businesses

Compaq commits $1 million to Ingram Micros VentureTech Network to reach small-to-midsize business market

SANTA ANA, Calif., Oct. 18, 2000

Ingram Micro Inc. (NYSE: IM), the largest global wholesale provider of technology products and services, today announced an alliance with Compaq Computer Corp. to provide product support programs for technology solution providers to better serve the small-to-midsize business (SMB) market through its national membership community, VentureTech Network.

The alliance, announced last week to VentureTech Network members at its annual meeting in Orlando, Fla., will offer benefits including business incentive programs, training and customized marketing programs to drive Compaqs reach into the important SMB market. Compaq has announced a commitment of $1 million to offer VentureTech Network solution providers with training, certification, revenue incentives and other support.

"This alliance with Compaq provides our customers with a competitive advantage," said Kevin Murai, president, Ingram Micro U.S. "VentureTech Network members will receive specialized training and services that will allow them to capitalize on special opportunities for added growth with Compaq. Additionally, Compaq is able to leverage the established relationships of VentureTech Network members and Ingram Micros expertise in helping them deliver products and services into the SMB marketplace.

Potential program components include incremental revenue growth incentives, Compaq solutions and sales training opportunities, and marketing programs tailored to reach SMB businesses. VentureTech members may also receive demonstration models of Compaq products and participate in marketing-awareness campaigns sponsored by the company. Program details will be expanded as member needs are further identified and determined.

Technology solution providers serving the SMB market have traditionally held the relationship with small businesses. Since most small and midsize businesses do not have the advantage of a full-time IT manager on site, they rely on outsourced services from technology solution providers to fulfill their information technology needs. Ingram Micros VentureTech Network members provide expertise and access to resources such as credit, financing and 24-hour, seven-day-a-week service and support to deliver high-quality customer service on behalf of Compaq.

The established client relationships owned by VentureTech Network members, coupled with their expertise in the SMB marketplace, will enable Compaq to deliver its technology leadership to the explosive SMB market, said Dan Vertrees, vice president, SMB, North America at Compaq. We look forward to working closely with Ingram Micro and the VentureTech Network members to develop this alliance program and to provide members with the tools to leverage their business growth.

About Ingram Micro Inc.

Ingram Micro Inc. is the largest global wholesale provider of technology solutions, products and services. The company operates in 34 countries with sales exceeding $29 billion for the past four reported quarters. Ingram Micros global regions offer e-commerce solutions, logistics services, and technology product distribution and marketing to more than 175,000 technology solution providers and manufacturers. The company is focused on maximizing shareowner value and achieving customer satisfaction by continuously innovating the IT supply chain.

For more information, contact:

Ingram Micro Inc.:
Jennifer Marchetta
Media Relations
(714) 382-2692

Benjamin Group/BSMG Worldwide:
Carrie Brooks or Becky Vieira
(949) 260-1300, ext. 239 or 231