Businessweek

Systemax Inc. operates as a direct marketer of brand name and private label products. The company had 42 retail stores operating in North America, as of December 31, 2011. Segments The company’s operations are organized in two segments, Technology Products and Industrial Products. Technology Products The Technology Products segment sells computers, computer supplies and consumer electronics which are marketed in North America and Europe. Most of these products are manufactured by other companies. It offers a selection of products that are manufactured for the company to its own design and marketed on a private label basis. Industrial Products The Industrial Products segment sells a range of industrial products and supplies which are marketed in North America. Most of these products are manufactured by other companies. Some products are manufactured for the company to its own design and marketed on a private label basis. Products Products offered by the Technology Products segment include individual technology products in the following categories: computers; computer parts; TV and video; audio; cameras and surveillance; car and GPS; cell phones; software; video games and toys; home and office; and other products. Products offered by the Industrial Products segment include individual industrial products in the following categories: material handling; storage and shelving; workbench & shop desks; packaging and supplies; furniture and office; foodservice and appliances; janitorial and maintenance; tools and instruments; fasteners and hardware; motors and power transmission; HVAC/R and fans; electrical and bulbs; plumbing supplies; and safety and medical items. Catalogs The company produces a total of 15 full-line or direct mail publications in North America and Europe under distinct titles. Its portfolio of catalogs includes brand names, such as TigerDirect.com, Global Computer Supplies, TigerDirect.ca, Misco, Global Industrial, Nexel, and Inmac WStore. The company mails catalogs to both businesses and individual consumers. In the case of business mailings, the company mails its catalogs to individuals at a single business location. Customers The company markets its products to both individual consumers and business customers. Its business customers include for-profit businesses, educational organizations and government entities. History Systemax Inc. was founded in 1949.