Lexmark gears up for programme launch

Printer vendor to improve communications ties with smaller dealers under the direction of new UK marketing director

Printer vendor Lexmark is overhauling its partner strategy after admitting it has not been as easy for resellers to do business with as its major rivals.

The vendor currently has limited communication with resellers outside its top 70 to 100 managed accounts but is revamping its channel programme to ensure smaller dealers receive up-to-date information on products and pricing.

Paul Callow, who joined Lexmark as UK marketing director in March from rival Brother, said: “If a dealer wants to sell Lexmark at the moment it is not as easy as some other brands.

“We need to start up a process where we can communicate with them directly to let them know about products, promotions and end-of-life announcements.”

Callow added that Lexmark is also aiming to double its base of managed accounts to between 150 and 200. Top-level partners will receive more support around vertical marketing campaigns, he added.

“We have been working on the programme for the last couple of months and will have all the boxes ticked by 1 July,” he said.