Retail or Dealer?

comparing print hardware purchasing

Businesses have to make a lot of long term decisions on how to equip workers with the tools and hardware needed to do their jobs. Should they head out to a local retail store or turn to a dealer? The table below compares the two:

BUYING FROM A RETAILER	BUYING FROM A DEALER
Large selections of brands are available for purchase directly from a retail store or online. Buyer receives almost no advice on their purchase.	Buyer receives consultative advice from industry experts. Salesperson works to find the best solution to fit the business' specific needs.
Purchase does not include assembly, initial drivers, software setup, or connection to the company network.	Purchase includes assembly, necessary drivers, software installation, secure device installation, connection to company network, and user training.
Customer is responsible for the setup of all security configurations.	Post-purchase support includes the proper setup of security configurations and features.
The total cost ownership may vary due to additional supplies (i.e. toner) and future maintenance fees.	Dealers offer managed print services (MPS) to provide a predictable monthly total cost, including proactive service maintenance and supplies.
Beneficial for a one-time purchase. Bulk orders only work if the same model is being purchased.	Suitable for individual or bulk purchases. Dealers can often work out bulk pricing involving a variety of different machines.
Limited local support may involve a series of emails, multiple phone calls, and complicated online form submissions for you to manage.	Most local dealerships have service technicians who can respond to a service call within 24 hours.

The choice is clear! The benefits of buying from a dealer like GFI Digital are unmatched by retailers. To learn more about obtaining print hardware for your business, contact us.

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COPIERS & PRINTERS

MANAGED PRINT SERVICES

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Source: Sharp