Friday, February 07, 2014: Avnet Electronics Marketing Americas, a business region of Avnet, Inc. (NYSE: AVT), has entered a distribution agreement with SMARTRAC N.V., a leading developer, manufacturer and supplier of radio-frequency identification (RFID) and near field communications (NFC) transponders, tags and inlays. The distribution agreement focuses on NFC and ultra-high frequency (UHF) products – market segments with particularly strong growth potential driven by the development of NFC-enabled cellphones, tablets and e-readers.
NFC uses short-range wireless technologies to enable connections to transmit information or complete transactions with one simple wave or touch. Avnet now offers SMARTRAC’s solutions used in access control, contactless payment cards, automated fare collection, border control, RFID-based car immobilizers, asset tracking, baggage handling, industry and manufacturing, inventory management, logistics, supply chain management and more. Avnet and SMARTRAC will also collaborate on offering design-in support and services, as well as develop customized solutions for customers.
“The possibilities for RFID technologies are endless. Imagine using your phone as a digital wallet, as a master key for your house or your car, or as an identification badge to get into your office building or to scan your loyalty number at the grocery store,” said Alex Iuorio, senior vice president, supplier management and business development for Avnet Electronics Marketing Americas. “SMARTRAC’s RFID transponders offer increased security, more reliability, faster transactions and greater convenience, simplifying numerous processes in everyday life.”
“We are combining SMARTRAC’s industry-leading RFID and NFC technologies and services with Avnet’s power as the global leader in distribution and design chain,” said Corey Wilson, global director, consumer experience at SMARTRAC. “Working alongside Avnet’s experienced sales and field application resources, this partnership will provide a dedicated focus on delivering proven high-quality RFID tags and inlays targeting a variety of applications and use cases.”
