When Avast Software announced plans to acquire AVG Technologies last week, ChannelE2E wondered what the deal potentially meant to AVG channel partners -- particularly MSPs that run AVG's Managed Workplace software for remote monitoring and management (RMM) capabilities.
We posed that channel partner question to Avast, and a spokesperson for the company has sent us this reply:
"At this time there are no changes in regards to channel partners. Avast greatly values the partnerships AVG has built.
There is no change to the product lines. It is business as usual until we have a chance to evaluate all products. We value our Business Customers and will continue to invest in new products that keep their business safe.
Through this acquisition, Avast is able regain focus on SMB with the added talent and know-how of the business market. You should see more product innovation and new ways of protecting businesses in the future."
Avast Buys AVG for Security
The Avast buyout of AVG, valued at $1.3 billion, focuses heavily on security solutions. Many of the security offerings are promoted by VARs and resellers. AVG's Managed Workplace offering, in contrast, is consumed by MSPs for end-customer systems management.
Though it's a niche offering in the MSP software market, AVG has made progress with Managed Workplace in recent months. CEO Gary Kovacs mentioned the Managed Workplace 10 launch during an April 2016 earnings call, and described the software's importance to the company's overall SMB strategy.
Still, Avast CEO Vince Steckler is ultimately calling the shots going forward, and we've requested an interview with him for thoughts on the company's overall channel strategy. We'll update this article and our coverage if/when the interview surfaces.
