Channel-connect high on Norton's agenda

To enhance its visibility and create awareness about the emerging cybercrimes, security expert Symantec has come up with intensive channel strategies to educate and incentivize channel partners. The vendor, which has increased its volume reseller base from 65 to 200, has been driving channel education and engagement programs across B- and C-class cities through roadshows, trainings and promotional offers. The company has also launched new, innovative line of security products.

As a channel strategy to increase its presence in upcountry towns and cities, the vendor is educating smaller towns and cities, such as Tripura, Varanasi, and Surat, on internet security. Recently, the vendor also tied up with HCL Digilife to create awareness about mobile security, and has now launched Windows 8 ready products Norton 360 Multi-device, Norton Internet Security 2013, and Norton Mobile Security. There is also an interactive online training portal, www.nortonasiaonlinetraining.com, for the SIs to get trained on the latest Norton products. Ritesh Chopra, country sales manager, India and Saarc, Norton by Symantec said, "As crimes involving mobile phones are on the rise, protecting the privacy and important stuff on your phone is very crucial. Norton Mobile Security lets you remotely lock the data on your phone and protects from phishing and smishing attacks. The one-of-its-kind product, Norton 360 Multi-device, protects your smartphones, tablets and computers by providing 25GB of online back-up. All the new products provide consumers the luxury of faster and safer operation."

The vendor is planning to boost foothold in large-format retail and has signed up with Snapdeal and Flipkart as its authorized e-tailers. It is also strategizing to grow the core by developing and supporting new channels besides strengthening partnership with channel and OEM partners, and developing an infrastructure for an education channel.

Norton has also planned some upcoming promotions for the festive season. Under this, it will be providing a 2nd year free subscription of Norton Internet Security on purchase of 1st year of subscription. It is also offering Diwali rush, a simple point-based scheme to reward channel partners on purchasing products from Norton authorized distributor channel.