Ingram Micro Debuts Print-as-a-Service ‘Manage Print Complete’ for SMBs

Global wholesale technology distributor Ingram Micro today announced a new managed print services (MPS) program that consists of a subscription-service bundle for small and mid-size-focused channel partners in the United States, and is designed for providing partners with a recurring revenue stream.

Available now, Ingram Micro’s Managed Print Complete (MPC) program allows channel partners to offer top-line standalone printers and/or copier MFPs, toner, and an extended warranty for a fixed monthly subscription. The firm says that this as-a-service subscription provides a flexible program under which the customer can refresh and renew the service at any time, or purchase the printer at the end of the subscription term.

A recent survey conducted by Ingram Micro notes 65 percent of SMB channel partners polled are in favor of “print-as-a-service.” The top three reasons why a subscription model is preferred are:

• Reduces time spent ordering supplies.
• Provides fixed and predictable printing costs while establishing a recurring revenue stream.
• Keeps the latest printer technology installed, which helps reduce support costs.

The survey also indicates “print-as-a-service” is more popular among those channel partners who service clients that print 3,000 to 8,000 pages a month. Ingram Micro estimates channel partners’ margins for the new MPC to be in the double-digits.

“There is a growing demand from SMB-focused channel partners and their customers for subscription-based services,” commented Ryan Grant, senior director of Document Imaging, Ingram Micro. “We developed MPC to speed the sales cycle and combat the sales pressure MSPs and VARs are feeling from agents and copier dealers. MPC also encourages greater adoption of subscription-selling and technology life-cycle management, which lead to better service and support, and promote a healthier business model for channel partners.”

“Technology is not a one and done sale, which is why subscription IT is fast-becoming a preferred consumption model for businesses of all sizes,” said Kelly Carter, executive director for Ingram Micro. “Our new MPC program makes it easier for channel partners to introduce managed services and subscription services into their client base. In addition, they ignite a recurring revenue stream and encourage a longer-term relationship with multiple touch points between the channel partner and their customer.”

Ingram Micro says its MPC program “has attracted the attention” of many print and toner manufacturers. Within the first 90-days of launch, channel partners can choose from a variety of printers, MFPs, and consumables from vendors that include Brother International, HP Inc., Lexmark International, and Xerox.

For more information about Ingram Micro’s new Managed Print Complete, visit the firm here.