F5 Networks has expanded their support and manufacturing operations to strengthen service levels and operational efficiency in China with the launch of new support centres in Beijing and Shanghai.
F5 said that the new support centres, to be operational by April 2010, will will be staffed with highly skilled engineers to support the company’s partners and customers in the greater China region. The new locations join the company’s existing support centres in Seattle, Spokane, London, Tokyo and Singapore.
Julian Eames, SVP of business operations at F5, said: China is the largest market for F5 in the Asia Pacific region, with great strength in the banking and service provider sectors. This expansion will enable us to better assist both our partners and customers. Our efforts there demonstrate F5’s continued commitment to grow our business in China and beyond.
“This expansion will enable us to better assist both our partners and customers. Our efforts there demonstrate F5’s continued commitment to grow our business in China and beyond.”
In addition, the company is also expanding the production of its BIG-IP appliances in China to increase its customer-focused service model in the region. The move is expected to bring the supply of products closer to growth markets in Asia.
F5’s manufacturing expansion into China is expected to provide access to contract manufacturing facilities where the company can utilise technologies, traditional module assembly services and device testing capabilities. Hardware devices produced in China will include the BIG-IP 1600, 3600, 3900, 6900 and 8900 appliances.
Eames added: “This manufacturing model will enable us to increase efficiencies and customer satisfaction, while at the same time allowing us to reduce production time and shipping costs.”