Echo Communications Ltd, a UK communication solutions integrator and provider of voice and data services, has achieved Platinum status in Telstra’s channel sales accreditation programme.

Echo Communications became a Telstra Limited Service Provider two years ago and by offering Telstra’s broad portfolio of telecoms and data services1 to UK businesses it has developed its business to generate monthly revenues in excess of £100,000.

Manuel Leon, Echo Sales Manager said, “With its strength in leading edge voice and data services, and commitment to channel member development, Telstra Limited is a key strategic partner for us. Its dedicated account management, technical expertise, excellent training programmes and sales and marketing support is invaluable in terms of helping us develop our customer base. As demand for IP-based services continues to grow, we aim to further develop our partnership with Telstra and together we will maximise the revenue opportunities which the convergence market is set to deliver.”

“Whilst other carriers have reduced their channel presence this year, we have total peace of mind that Telstra Limited is 100% committed to us. Our new Platinum partner status will strengthen our existing relationship and we are confident that the additional support and services will help us to develop both our businesses in the future,” he added.

The move from Gold to Platinum Service Provider will provide Echo Communications with additional new benefits including:

• Advanced sales training and support services
• Sales assistance to help win deals – including technical support for complex hosting and managed network solutions
• Marketing funds to help win new business, produce collateral and lead generation campaigns
• Funding for events and incentives to motivate staff
• The promotion of complementary services on Telstra’s website and intranet

Ben LeFeuvre, Sales Manager at Telstra Limited said, “Platinum status is a key strategic development between our two companies and I am delighted by the rapid progress Echo Communications has made with us in just two years.  As one of the UK’s leading systems integrators, our portfolio of voice and data services is a perfect match for the needs of its customers and we look forward to a continued excellent working relationship.” 

Research by Yankee Group2, commissioned by Telstra Limited, showed that carrier support for channel members was seen as the key driver for channel development, rather than the ability to offer competitive pricing incentives or lead generation. 86% of respondents want dedicated account support from their supplier whilst account management/sales support (62%) and technical support (60%) were the most popular reasons for selecting a carrier.

Media Contacts:

Telstra Limited:

Peter Fitzpatrick/Kathryn Hughes

hbl media, 020 7612 1830

peter@hblmedia.com / kathryn@hblmedia.com

Notes to Editors:

 1 – Telstra Limited’s voice and data services include: co-location and hosting, managed networks, internet, voice access and the recently launched Hosted PBX solution. 

2 – Telstra Limited press release 25th September 2006: 75% of Channel Members to Offer Convergence Services by 2007 – But Telecom Carrier Support is Key says Yankee Group Research

About Telstra Limited

Telstra Limited is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Telstra Corporation Limited (ASX:TLS). Operational in Europe for over 14 years, Telstra offers an extensive range of voice and data services including total managed network solutions using Global IP-VPN (MPLS), Internet, ATM, Frame Relay, Private Lines, hosting and co-location services and enhanced voice solutions to medium sized business and multinational corporations in the UK. Additional value added services include fully managed CPE, network reporting, consulting, planning, project management, service tools, which enable customers to monitor and view their network status 24x7 and customer support seven days a week.

Delivering connectivity business solutions, value-added services and complex managed IP solutions, Telstra Limited’s portfolio is complemented by its independently-owned and managed switched network. Switches are located in London, Birmingham and Manchester working alongside 14 co-location points throughout the UK. Additionally, state-of-the-art, resilient data centres are located in London, Docklands, Cambridge and Sunderland.

Parent company, Telstra Corporation Limited, is a full service global telecommunications company.

www.telstra.co.uk

About Echo Communications

Echo Communications Ltd is already recognised as one of the UK's most experienced Communications Solutions Integrators. Our vision is simple and clear: to connect your people, your systems, and your data with your customers.

What we offer is unique. A single, fully independent partner with a well thought out product portfolio that has been put together in conjunction with carefully selected vendors. The result is fully supported solutions that can be tailored so you utilise as little, or as much, as you require - according to your needs.

So whether you're looking for insights into communication technologies that suit your business, or you need to train your employees about new technologies, we can assist in any aspect of your requirements.