Martinair Signs Information Technology Services Agreement With Getronics and IBM

Collaboration Prepares Dutch Airline for the Future



AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS - Jul 2008: Dutch airline Martinair has chosen Getronics and IBM (NYSE: IBM) to manage part of Martinair’s IT organization. In terms of the five-year agreement, Getronics and IBM will manage part of Martinair’s front and back office applications. From its Aviation Competence Center in Amsterdam, IBM will also help the airline to develop new services that will benefit its cargo and passenger customers. The joint contract is worth 23 million euro, of which IBM will receive 6 million euro.

“With Getronics and IBM, Martinair chose two ’best in class’ parties,” according to Martinair’s Vice President Information Services, René Bos. “Getronics’ outstanding operational qualities in environment management convinced us to choose them. IBM’s innovative solutions and its knowledge of the aviation industry played a large role. We have chosen the two parties who scored highest for the criteria that are most important for us: cost effectiveness, flexibility and aviation expertise.”

By outsourcing its IT infrastructure and application management, Martinair will be able to focus on its core competences. As of October 1, Getronics will take over the help desk function, via the Getronics Service Desk in Beek as well as on-site at Martinair. IBM will take over Martinair’s application portfolio and will assist the airline with the development of new services including RFID-based baggage handling and mobile e-business solutions.

Jos Schoemaker, Chief Operating Officer of Getronics: “We are looking forward to the arrival of Martinair’s ICT employees; they will bring an enormous treasure trove of experience in and knowledge of the aviation sector. In taking this step, Getronics confirms its ambition of expanding its position within the aviation industry. In this sector, where outsourcing is increasingly playing a more important role, Getronics is a player to be reckoned with.”

Hans Deijkers, director of Travel and Transport Industry for IBM Global Business Services, said, “Martinair will be able to leverage the knowledge at the IBM Aviation Competence Center in the Netherlands, as well as our global expertise. In addition, Martinair will benefit from the innovations IBM has realized worldwide within the aviation sector.”

The agreement was signed in July 2008, and approximately 35 Martinair employees will transfer to Getronics and IBM on October 1.