News Release

Avnet Signs Networking Contract With AT&T

PHOENIX -- Looking to enhance its global reach and operational capabilities, Avnet (NYSE:AVT), a leading distributor of electronic components and computer products, has contracted with AT&T for a secure, integrated global networking solution that significantly increases its ability to serve overseas customers.

According to the multi-year agreement, AT&T will deploy a high-speed networking solution that integrates Avnet's flagship logistics and distribution center in Arizona with locations across Europe.

The solution enhances Avnet's ability to seamlessly manage its global operations, including supplier and customer relationships, inventory control and pricing information. 

It enables Avnet employees to access company databases and information faster and more securely than before, and at a lower cost. In addition, Avnet will be able to process orders for overseas customers quickly.

"Given the geographical scope of our facilities throughout the world, we needed a vendor who had significant global reach, flexibility and security, and we found it with AT&T," said Ed Kamins, CIO at Avnet.  

The networking solution is offered through AT&T's Enhanced Virtual Private Network (EVPN). Avnet also uses AT&T for local and long distance telephone calls and for its domestic data business. 

About Avnet

Avnet (NYSE:AVT) enables success from the center of the technology industry, providing cost-effective services and solutions vital to a broad base of more than 100,000 customers and 250 suppliers. The company markets, distributes and adds value to a wide variety of electronic components, enterprise computer products and embedded subsystems. Through its premier market position, Avnet brings a breadth and depth of capabilities that help its trading partners accelerate growth and realize cost efficiencies. Avnet generated more than $9B in revenue in fiscal 2003 (year ended June 27, 2003) through sales in 68 countries. Visit http://www.avnet.com/

About AT&T

For more than 125 years, AT&T (NYSE 'T') has been known for unparalleled quality and reliability in communications. Backed by the research and development capabilities of AT&T Labs, the company is a global leader in local, long distance, Internet and transaction-based voice and data services.