Avnet

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Avnet, Inc. (NYSE: AVT) is a technology B2B distributor headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona.

The company was founded in 1921, incorporated in 1955, and went public in 1959. It is currently the largest publicly held company headquartered in the state of Arizona. They currently employ more than 11,000 employees in over 70 countries and are listed as number 212 in the Fortune 500 list as of 2006.

The company states on their website that:

"Avnet, Inc. (NYSE: AVT), is one of the world's largest value-added distributors of semiconductors, connectors, passive and electromechanical components, and RF & microwave devices; enterprise networking and computer equipment, and embedded subsystems from leading manufacturers. Serving customers in 70 countries, Avnet markets, inventories, and adds value to these products.

The company offers additional services for suppliers, customers and partners looking to solve business problems. Uniquely positioned to serve the needs of the world's leading high technology companies, Avnet, with its innovative and entrepreneurial spirit, coupled with the quality, depth and breadth of its knowledge and business relations, assures customers and suppliers that they have chosen the right partner to accelerate their success. Its global scope and economies of scale, talented employees and commitment to value-based management ensure that it will continue to be a leader in the technology industry."

[edit] Origin of Company Name

The name Avnet is a family name that traces back to the company's co-founder Charles Avnet. His two sons (Lester and Robert) followed in running the family business business until 1970. His grandson Jon Avnet exited the technology business and used his resources to become a sucessful movie producer starting with his first film Risky Business.