Toshiba announces channel rebates

According to CRN, Toshiba is making changes in its pricing and rebates structure to even the playing field for indirect purchasers.

[Toshiba] said the higher margins create “absolute parity” with direct market resellers for independent Toshiba partners buying from distribution. “Resellers will now be able to compete with mail order,” he said.

Toshiba is also ratcheting up rebates: Entry-level Silver partners will get rebates of 1 percent, vs. zero previously; for Gold partners, rebates will rise to 2 percent, from 1.5 percent; and for Platinum partners, rebates will increase to 3 percent, vs. 1.5 percent.

It sounds like there may also be changes coming in other channel programs.

Kevin Murai, president of distributor Ingram Micro, Santa Ana, Calif., said the price parity changes are important but don’t always equate to brand preference. “To gain momentum quickly, Toshiba is working with us to develop and execute on an effective partner program that offers VARs the support and resources they need to move the needle and drive sales,” he said.