Oki jumps on trend for predictable print costs

Channel to benefit from regular monthly print payment package, says vendor

Written by Fleur Doidge
CRN, 10 Aug 2009


Oki has offered resellers a print package incorporating payments based on estimated monthly output including consumables and support.

The scheme, dubbed Flatrate, covers all “essential” consumables and support, and “fully inclusive” service for Oki printers or MFDs in the customer contract, according to the vendor.

“Oki will itself be contracted to the end user and will handle consumables and support as required,” the vendor said in a statement.

“Primarily targeted at SMEs with one to five printer units, it offers an average 24 per cent saving compared with traditional purchasing methods.”

Customers may receive the 36-month package on new Oki A4 and A3 colour printers and MFDs.

The vendor’s MIDAS programme partners will be responsible for promoting the deal, and customers will order consumables and request support – including next-day on-site service – via a dedicated Flatrate website.

Flatrate has no toner coverage limits. There is a standard office plan, an A3 plan and a plan tailored for heavy users of graphics.

Alan McLeish, senior product marketing manager at Oki, said the scheme reflected a push into managed print by customers wanting to control costs.

“This gives customers the total financial visibility they need to allow for predictable budgeting and cost control,” McLeish said.