ABB launches technical network for drives and motors 23 January 2014
ABB has amalgamated its UK variable speed drives (VSD) and electric motors channel partner groups into a single network, creating what it describes as a new benchmark for technical advice, delivery, life cycle services and overall customer service.
The former ABB Drives Alliance and ABB Motor Service Partner networks are now part of the ABB's Authorised Value Provider programme, which also goes beyond the UK, gaining global reach that will eventually cover more partners selling and engineering other products from ABB.
Neil Ritchie, local business unit manager for ABB's drives and controls business, says that the newly created and certified network raises the bar in terms of sales, support and services for drives and motors.
By that he means that it now covers technical expertise, product and service availability right across the entire life cycle of motors, drives and associated packaged systems – by providing services such as energy and productivity appraisals, installation, commissioning and ongoing preventive maintenance, optimised for value and resilience.
"Industry is evolving at a fast pace and the demands of customers are changing quicker than ever," insists Ritchie.
"The Authorised Value Provider programme marks the growth of the already successful ABB channel network into a bigger, better, stronger one," he continues, adding that the new approach effectively provides the best of both worlds.
On the one hand, it takes ABB excellence out into the global market, with partners qualified and certified to the same standards as ABB's own engineering teams. On the other, it encourages motors and drives specialist engineering firms to develop innovative solutions for the industries they serve, going beyond ABB's own remit as it
Ritchie cites growing user demand from across industry sectors for outsourcing design, operational and maintenance engineering as one of the drivers for the new network.
He also points to growing interest in packaged solutions, the increasing regulatory burden around the world, and the availability of more sophisticated engineering tools and product technology as making the time right for a more seamless approach to holding users' metaphorical hands.
Just as important, Ritchie says that joining the club is no walkover. Not only do the partners need to prove themselves financially viable, demonstrate drives and motors experience and undertake to stock significant product – so that they can respond rapidly to customer service requests. They also have to invest roughly double the cost of all that in training engineers, technicians and sales people to a consistently high level.
Brian Tinham
Related Companies
ABB Ltd
This material is protected by MA Business copyright
See Terms and Conditions.
One-off usage is permitted but bulk copying is not.
For multiple copies
contact the sales team.