COMMENT
A fond look back As another year draws to a close, now is a good time to reflect on a largely positive year in the channel – as well as celebrate those who have performed outstandingly during the past 12 months.
So, that was 2024. As another year seems to have disappeared alarmingly quickly, now is time to reflect on the past 12 months. And they certainly haven’t been dull. Fortunately, this year isn’t one that has been overshadowed by huge world events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic – although that’s not to say there haven’t been geopolitical events that have made things more difficult for some. But with business carrying on largely as normal – and
businesses using more connected devices than ever as they seek greater automation, efficiency and data collection. Connected devices can make a real difference to businesses – including SMBs – and this is something resellers can capitalise on. Read more on 30. The end of the year is also a traditional time to celebrate successes. The second
Dan Parton
annual Stock in the Channel Awards – the Stockies – were held in November. Bigger and better than last year, there were more than 50 awards given out to companies that have excelled this year. The Stockies is an awards ceremony that differs to the norm, as winners
it is a post-COVID normal we are now used to – those in the channel have been able to focus on what they do best: selling. Many have been closely following trends in customer demand and
technology, with artificial intelligence (AI) starting to come of age as more businesses realise its potential to make their operations more efficient. As a result, we have had a slew of AI-enabled products released this year and those resellers who have been on board with it have been able to capitalise. In our review of 2024, a range of commentators from across the channel give their opinions on how the year was for their business and the wider channel. AI features heavily, but there have been plenty of other trends and challenges that they have faced up to and tried to capitalise on. Read more on p17. Another growth area in the channel this year has been with Internet of Things (IoT) devices. While these have been around for some years, IoT is now gaining popularity with
aren’t voted for, or chosen by judges, but based on data from Stock in the Channel compiled by experts – so there was no denying the winners were deserving. Who won? Find out on p38. It has been a positive year overall for the channel and, while there may be some bumps ahead, the outlook for 2025 looks positive too. After recent years, that is something to be celebrated. As always, I hope you enjoy the issue. As it is the final one of the year I would like to wish all readers a very merry Christmas and a peaceful and prosperous New Year. News in the Channel will be back in January looking ahead to 2025. If you want to get involved in the issue in any way, drop me a line at dan@newsinthechannel.com
Stockies AWARDS
See who WON stockies.co.uk
2024
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