A broad selection of HP desktop and notebook PCs will be available through an interactive configure-to-order online program inside participating OfficeMax locations in the United States, following the wind-down of OfficeMax’s relationship with Gateway, Inc. OfficeMax stores will host an exclusive, HP-branded kiosk, where customers can customize their selections, locate additional product details and more – but OfficeMax will not own any presale HP configure-to-order inventory. To further enhance the program, OfficeMax and HP will provide training to OfficeMax sales associates to become HP computer experts and better assist small business customers and consumers.
HP has been one of OfficeMax’s largest and best vendors for over ten years, and this arrangement was a natural next step in our relationship, said Michael Feuer, OfficeMax’s chairman and chief executive officer. Because of HP’s channel efficiencies and success in the PC industry, we are delighted to include this alliance as part of our comprehensive, long-term business strategy.
Mr. Feuer added, Over the past year OfficeMax has been pleased with the results from its single-brand provider computer model. As an added benefit, OfficeMax will capture all peripheral and printer sales made to computer purchasers in its stores instead of some sales going to the computer manufacturer, as was the case under the Gateway arrangement.
Because of our strong retail position in North America and our long-standing relationship with OfficeMax, this is the optimal time to join efforts, said Pradeep Jotwani, HP’s Consumer Business Organization president. We believe that our history and reputation of operational excellence will ensure success for this alliance.
