Cisco courts second-hand channel with Refresh

Cisco Refresh launched to help resellers cash in on selling refurbished products

Cisco has launched a new programme to help resellers cash in on what it claims is the growing customer trend to buy second-hand gear.

Cisco Refresh is a revamped version of its Cisco Certified Refurbished Equipment (CCRE) programme, which was launched in 2001. The networking giant claimed the "secondary market" is growing, prompting it to give the scheme a makeover.

Under Refresh, Cisco authorised resellers are now able to sell refurbished Cisco kit backed up by the same warranty and service support as if they were selling brand-new kit. On top of this, Cisco resellers will be given access to a range of extra sales tools to increase their profitability on the second-hand kit, Cisco said.

About 500 new products have been added to the Cisco refresh portfolio, taking the total available through the scheme to nearly 4,000, including routing, wireless, telephony and security items.

Cisco Refresh partners may even be able to receive bonus rebates on certain second-hand sales, Cisco said, adding that disties will be given full access to its refurbished gear too.

The vendor said refurbished equipment is ideal for customers with constrained budgets and for situations in which certain products are not available new. It added that buying second-hand can boost a company's green credentials.

"Products available through Cisco Refresh are remanufactured and certified, include all critical engineering upgrades and standard accessories, and are eligible for leasing and financing offers available through Cisco Capital," Cisco said.

"Additionally, partners are able to add in value-added services to Cisco Refresh products, providing a complete solution to best address customer needs. Cisco Refresh products are ideal as a standalone solution when specific parts and quantities are needed; however, its value is even greater when blended in a solution with new Cisco equipment."