MUEHLHEIM, Germany -- Brenntag, the leading chemicals distribution company worldwide, has chosen AT&T to expand and operate its global corporate data network.

The three-year multimillion-dollar contract covers the implementation of an Internet Protocol Virtual Private Network (IP VPN) integrating up to 67 Brenntag locations in 29 countries. It includes expanding country-specific networks in Europe and introducing a number of new, network-based services.

The core network will link Brenntag’s key locations and IT centers in Europe and the United States. From these core locations, connectivity will be established to additional national and regional networks. AT&T will gradually integrate further local networks across Europe into the core network, ensuring the company’s global IT infrastructure is deployed across a common platform using the latest technology on a consistent global basis.

“By continuously improving our network,” said Daniel Pithois, Brenntag managing director, “we are preparing ourselves for new business models and need to optimize one of our greatest competitive advantages – the steady flow of information and products between our partners and customers around the world. The support of AT&T will increase quality and security – while also keeping a tight rein on our costs.”

The network will be deployed and operated by AT&T in accordance with Brenntag’s specifications and service level requirements.

AT&T Corp.