PCWB lands notebooks deal
Retail giant wins exclusive deal to sell new NEC laptops
PC World Business (PCWB) has won an exclusive deal to sell NEC Computer’s new notebook, designed specifically for the education market.
David Newbould, UK product manager at NEC Computers, told CRN: “We decided to offer our new Generation notebook solely through PCWB as it has a lot of strengths in the education space. We are confident that our product will make waves throughout IT and will engage with teachers, parents and, most importantly, with kids as well.”
Weighing in at only 2.2kg, the Generation notebook is very thin making it easy for children to carry it in their school bags, and includes a full size keyboard. It also has scope
for wireless, Bluetooth, Infrared and FireWire features, the firm said.
In response to parental concerns about security, NEC has incorporated a fingerprint scanner to avoid the need for passwords, anti-theft tracking software and the notebook is covered by a three-year anti-theft insurance.
“We visited a lot of schools and they all said they wanted to see something like this on the market,” added Newbould.
David Gould, trading director at PCWB, said: “We’ve had a long-term relationship with NEC. We wanted a product that strengthens our position in the school market and the new Generation notebook does that. The initial response from the education market has been very positive.”
PCWB has also launched another product – a sub-£200 PC – aimed at the education market, although Gould claimed it would suit small businesses as well.
“It’s a non-branded PC that we have had assembled for us in the UK. We’re branding it under our ‘Value PC’ range. It features all the basic functions needed for students and teachers to carry out research, surf
the internet and complete assignments, at an entry level price of £199,” said Gould.
The Value Internet Celeron desktop PC was soft-launched in the run up to Christmas and Gould said he has been extremely pleased with the amount of sales so far.
“Although it fits well in the education space I also think it is suitable for smaller businesses that perhaps are not as brand conscious as some larger firms,” he added.