see attached (zip file)
MFP Copier Blog
Five Key Takeaways from the 2025 Executive Connection Summit in Scottsdale
🚀 Five Key Takeaways from the 2025 Executive Connection Summit in Scottsdale
🌟 1. Xerox’s Scanning
Xerox reported nearly 2 billion scans on their devices last year! One attendee raised the million-dollar question: "How do we monetize those scans?" 💡
🤖 2. AI-Integrated MFPs
Sam Errigo shared an update: All MFPs will soon feature integrated AI chips. The future of smart office tech is here!
💧 3. The Profitable Water Business
The water business is booming, and Quench stands out as the dealer's top choice. A refreshing way to diversify revenue streams! 🥤
💬 4. Katun & Arivia’s Strong Presence
Katun and Arivia made waves with positive dealer chatter, showcasing innovation and support for the channel. ✅
🏫 5. SaaS Model for School Safety
ARCOA and Ed Spriegel discussed KYOCERA's collaboration with tech developers on a school safety solution for education and public facilities. The SaaS model offers a big win for dealers looking to grow recurring revenue. Here's the video link
🎩 Bonus Shout-Outs
Mike Stramaglio & Hiro Ueda: Thank you for creating an excellent forum for networking, technology insights, and collaboration.
Raj Thadani (Mars International): Bourbon and cigars, plus a ride to SkyHarbor—legendary hospitality! 🥃🚗
I’ll definitely be back next year to spread the word about this incredible event.
#ExecutiveConnectionSummit #Networking #Technology #Dealers #Innovation Executive Connection Summit Michael Stramaglio Hiro Ueda Raj Thadani ARCOA Edward J. Spriegel Katun Corporation Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. Quench USA, Inc. Xerox
Lead for 28 Copiers
see attached
Lead for ManagedIT Services
See attached file
Lead for Envelope Printer
see attached
lead for 4 copiers
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Lead for Multiple Copiers and LED Wide format
someone please teach then how to scan or get them a better scanner!
see attached file
AI enhanced copiers and electrical consumption
For many years the print industry has been talking about the energy saving features of it's copier/ printer products.
AI is known for much higher energy consumption.
Will AI enhanced copiers consume more electricity for individual businesses or is that more of a probem for the electrical grid operator?
Is AI enhanced copiers going backwards in terms of electrical consumption vs a green environment?
After a few years with 100ks of AI enhanced copiers consuming electricity, the impact on the power grid should be considered.
I suspect that for any AI enhanced copier, this functionality can be turned on/off from the LCD panel or service code.
The Case for Heartfelt Leadership in a Post-Trust World.
"Love and truth form a good leader; sound leadership is founded on loving integrity."
Proverbs 20:28
In searching throughout Proverbs, this passage brings to light a profound leadership principle that combines two vitally important qualities, truth and love.
In a post-trust world, truth in leadership involves being honest, transparent, and well-principled.
This means:
- Communicating with clarity and boldly
- Applying principles with confidence
- Being accountable
In a post-trust world, love in leadership is about:
- Focusing on others' needs and interests
- Showing respect, compassion, and kindness
- Making decisions that benefit the broader organization
Authentic leaders must demonstrate integrity consistently, even when no one is watching.
In a post-trust world, leaders who embody loving integrity:
- Inspire trust among their people
- Create loyal teams and clients
- Maintain high ethical standards
- Take responsibility for outcomes
- Communicate constructively and with clarity
Why Leadership Must Be a Culture from the Heart
In an era defined by rampant skepticism, disconnection, and the complexities of a rapidly evolving world, leadership deeply rooted in authenticity and empathy has never been more critical.
Leaders today face a fundamental choice, to lead with traditional methods of authority and control or to embrace a culture from the heart, one that prioritizes trust, vulnerability, and genuine human connection.
The latter is not just a moral and ethical imperative but a strategic necessity for creating sustainable success.
In our time together, we will explore the power of heartfelt leadership, why it's essential for today's workplace, and how leaders can cultivate it within themselves and their organizations.
Mahatma Gandhi once said,
"A nation's culture resides in the hearts and in the soul of its people."
Building The Case for Heartfelt Leadership in a Post-Trust World
In Selling in a Post-Trust World, I share why trust in leadership is at an all-time low. The same forces eroding trust in sales, things like inauthenticity, misaligned values, and lack of connection; are damaging the credibility of leadership across all industries.
A culture from the heart is the cure to this crisis.
The Importance of Trust in Leadership
Trust is the foundation of effective leadership. When leaders operate with transparency, integrity, and care, they create an environment where employees feel safe to take risks, innovate, and grow.
Without trust, even the most well-intentioned strategies or initiatives can falter, as employees disengage, fear risk taking, and withdraw from their full potential.
Gallup's research consistently shows that employee engagement, a key driver of performance, is strongly correlated with trust in leadership.
In a world where trust deficits are widespread, heartfelt leadership is the bridge that connects people to purpose.
On the other hand, leaders who neglect to foster trust often find their organizations plagued by poor communication, low morale, and high turnover.
Employees are less likely to feel engaged or motivated when they perceive their leaders as unreliable, inauthentic, or self-serving.
The absence of trust creates silos and undermines cohesion, turning what could be a high-performing culture into one characterized by disconnection and stagnation.
“The first job of a leader—at work or at home—is to inspire trust. It’s to bring out the best in people by entrusting them with meaningful stewardships, and to create an environment in which high-trust interaction inspires creativity and possibility.”
Stephen M.R. Covey
The Need for Emotional Connection
People today seek more than just a paycheck; they want to feel valued, understood, and connected to a greater purpose.
Leaders who embrace empathy and the understanding of emotions inspire loyalty and foster deeper relationships. These emotional connections become vital for retaining top talent and building resilient companies.
Trust allows relationships to endure through challenging times.
By leading with heart, leaders navigate adversity while maintaining strong cohesive bonds with their teams.
In a highly competitive job market, emotional connection becomes mission critical to retaining top talent. People who feel valued and connected to their leaders are more likely to stay, reducing turnover and preserving institutional knowledge.
Connecting emotionally fosters a sense of belonging that goes beyond one's job, as it turns workplaces into communities where people thrive.
Defining a Culture from the Heart
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect”
Romans 12:2
Allow this verse to sink in as it commands us to not be conformed, not to be shaped by the wicked culture we see around us.
I believe a culture from the heart goes way beyond surface-level gestures or motivational speeches. It’s a commitment to leading with authenticity, prioritizing people, and fostering a genuine sense of community within the workplace.
Leaders, you must be in congruence in an incongruent world.
Authenticity as a Leadership Foundation
At its core, heartfelt leadership begins with authenticity.
Leaders must be willing to show up as their true selves. This means flaws, vulnerabilities, and all.
This doesn’t mean abandoning professionalism; rather, it’s about aligning actions with values and being consistent in words and deeds. In other words, the walk must match the talk.
Authenticity is not a light switch you turn on and off; it’s a lifestyle.
Leaders who are authentic inspire their teams to do the same, creating a ripple effect of trust and sincerity throughout the organization.
Empathy and Vulnerability in Leadership
Empathy is a huge component of heartfelt leadership.
By putting themselves in their peoples’ shoes, leaders demonstrate that they genuinely care about the experiences and emotions of their team members. This creates a culture of belonging where people feel empowered to bring their whole selves to work.
Vulnerability, often seen as a weakness becomes a strength in a culture from the heart.
When leaders admit mistakes, share their struggles, and ask for help, they humanize themselves and build deeper connections with their teams.
The Power of Purpose
A culture from the heart aligns the company around a shared purpose that resonates on an emotional level.
Leaders who articulate and embody this purpose inspire their teams to strive for something greater than individual success.
Purpose-driven organizations not only perform better but also create a more meaningful work environment.
To quote my friend Davin Salvagno,
"Most teams don't need a pep talk, they need a purpose talk, a reminder of who they are, of what they are here to do, and why they matter."
Benefits of Leading from the Heart
Heartfelt leadership is not just about making people feel good; it delivers tangible benefits that drive organizational success.
In a post-trust world, leading from the heart creates:
Higher employee engagement and retention. When people feel seen, heard, and valued, they are more likely to stay with an organization and perform at their best. A culture from the heart fosters engagement by meeting their emotional and psychological needs.
This reduces turnover costs and creates a stable, committed workforce. This positively impacts revenue, profits and your reputation.
Enhances collaboration and innovation. Heartfelt leadership breaks down the walls to collaboration. By building trust and encouraging open communication, leaders enable their teams to share ideas freely and work together effectively.
This collaborative culture drives innovation and helps companies adapt to rapidly changing market conditions.
Resiliency. In times of uncertainty, a culture from the heart provides stability and direction. Leaders who lead with empathy and purpose can rally their teams around a shared vision, fostering resilience and adaptability.
This allows companies to weather crises and emerge stronger.
Improves client relationships. An authentic, people-first culture doesn’t just benefit employees, it extends to clients as well.
Companies led by heartfelt leaders are more likely to deliver exceptional service, creating loyal clients who feel valued and understood.
How Leaders Can Build a Culture from the Heart
Building a heartfelt leadership culture requires intentional effort and a willingness to grow.
In a post-trust world, the question becomes... Are you willing to grow your heart to grow your people?
Let's review a few key components you can take to build this type of a culture.
Self-Reflection. Heartfelt leadership begins with self-awareness. Leaders must take the time to understand their own values, strengths, and areas for growth.
By examining motivations and aligning actions with principles, leaders start to lead with greater authenticity.
Will you be willing to open the cupboard into who you are and what makes you tick?
Active and intentional listening. Leaders must prioritize listening by truly hearing and understanding their peoples’ perspectives.
This involves being present in conversations, asking thoughtful questions, and responding with empathy.
Active and intentional listening builds trust, as this uncovers valuable insights that can drive better decision-making.
Celebrate Wins and Acknowledge Efforts. Recognizing and celebrating achievements, both big and small, reinforces a culture of appreciation.
Leaders who take the time to acknowledge their peoples’ contributions demonstrate that they value their efforts, boosting morale and motivation.
Lead by Example. Heartfelt leadership requires walking the talk. Leaders must model the behaviors they wish to see in their teams, whether it’s showing vulnerability, practicing empathy, or upholding organizational values.
Consistency between words and actions builds credibility and trust.
Challenges of Heartfelt Leadership
While leading from the heart offers profound rewards, it's not without challenges.
Leaders may encounter resistance, especially in company's deeply rooted in transactional cultures and how they treat their customers.
Clear communication about the long-term value of this approach helps to shift mindsets and start to gain buy-in.
Additionally, balancing empathy with accountability can be difficult, as this requires a delicate approach to maintaining standards while prioritizing relationships.
Boundary setting combined with clarity and expectations creates environments that thrive.
This doesn't mean lowering standards; rather, it involves helping people to meet those standards by addressing barriers and offering support.
Overcoming these challenges requires persistence, courage, and a commitment to continuous growth. Leaders who stay the course will find that the benefits of heartfelt leadership far outweigh the obstacles.
Heartfelt leadership is not a quick fix but a long-term commitment to fostering authentic relationships and creating a culture of trust and empathy.
Leaders who persevere, remain steadfast in their vision, and adapt their approach as needed will discover that the rewards far outweigh the obstacles. They will cultivate environments where people thrive, relationships flourish, and sustainable success becomes a reality.
Leading from the heart is a bold choice. In doing so, these leaders soon redefine what it means to lead effectively.
In a Post-Trust World, The Future of Leadership is Heartfelt
As the workplace evolves, so too must leadership.
In a world increasingly driven by technology, the human element is more important than ever.
Heartfelt leadership is not a trend, a fleeting concept or even a fad; it's the future of sustainable, impactful leadership and corporate growth.
By building a culture from the heart, leaders can create organizations where people thrive, innovation flourishes, and success is built on a foundation of trust and connection.
Leadership is not about being in charge; it’s about taking care of those in your charge.
I do know this... Leaders who lead from the heart soon develop a sales team that sells from the heart.
Jason Cutter , CEO of Cutter Consulting Group, is an author, podcaster, and sales success architect specializing in helping companies with inside sales teams scale their operations. With a background in marine biology, Jason’s unconventional journey into sales led him to develop a unique framework for achieving success. His book, Selling with Authentic Persuasion: Transform from Order Taker to Quota Breaker, lays out strategies for building trust, understanding client motivations, and leading with authenticity and empathy.
SHOW SUMMARY
In this episode of the Selling From the Heart podcast, Darrell Amy, CEPA, VCG and I sit down with Jason Cutter to discuss how deep empathy and authenticity are transforming sales. Drawing on insights from his book, Selling with Authentic Persuasion, Jason shares strategies for reprogramming sales mindsets, adopting a human-to-human (H2H) approach, and embracing the role of a guide rather than a hero in the sales journey. Packed with practical advice and inspirational stories, this conversation will challenge sales professionals to prioritize genuine care, ask meaningful questions, and lead clients with empathy and authenticity.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Authenticity is Key: Genuine interactions build trust and create lasting client relationships.
Empathy Drives Success: Deep empathy allows sales professionals to truly understand client motivations and provide tailored solutions.
Human-to-Human Selling: Treating clients as individuals, not just prospects, fosters meaningful connections and better outcomes.
Be the Guide, Not the Hero: Sales professionals should position themselves as guides helping clients achieve their goals.
Reprogram the Sales Mindset: Focus on the client’s outcomes and lead with a service-first approach.
Leadership in Sales: Great salespeople adopt a leadership role, guiding clients through their decision-making journey.
QUOTES TO REMEMBER
"Management is pushing. Leadership is pulling. I'm going here. Come with me. Let’s go."
"I’m not the hero. I’m the guide. I’m not Luke Skywalker; I’m Obi-Wan Kenobi."
"If you want to get the responses that no one’s getting, change the questions that you’re asking."
"Combine deep empathy with deep questions and recognize that we’re not the hero; we’re the guide."
📌FOLLOW THE CONVERSATION
Learn more about Jason Cutter:
➡️Jason's LinkedIn: / jascut
Learn more about Darrell and Larry:
➡️Darrell's LinkedIn: / darrellamy
➡️Larry's LinkedIn: / larrylevine1992
➡️Website: https://www.sellingfromtheheart.net/
🚨Explore the secrets of heart-centered leadership and thriving workplace cultures with Culture from the Heart Podcast—nominate a visionary CEO at https://culturefromtheheart.com/
📕Get the Game-Changing Book That Will Boost Your Sales... While Protecting Your Relationships and Reputation! Now available for shipping at Barnes & Noble! Discover more: https://sellinginaposttrustworld.com
📕Order the rerelease of Selling from the Heart today: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/sell...
🔔 Never miss an episode—SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube channel:
/ sellingfromtheheart
📫Click for your Daily Dose of Inspiration:
This Week in the Copier Industry 5 Years Ago
This Week in the Copier Industry 5 Years Ago
Third Week of January 2020
Real Copier Sales...
Real copier sales go beyond just moving hardware; they focus on understanding the unique needs of each business and tailoring solutions that optimize workflows, reduce costs, and enhance productivity. Successful sales reps analyze a client’s print environment, identify inefficiencies, and propose devices that align with their goals—whether it's upgrading technology, lowering operational expenses, or improving security. Building relationships, offering ongoing support, and delivering measurable value are what truly drive sustainable copier sales in today’s competitive market.
Threads from 5 Years Ago This Week
Copier Market Climbs on Positive Outlook of Booming Sales
Konica Minolta Launches Digital Print Enrichment Press
Government of Canada partners with Ricoh to simplify and streamline processes with managed print services
VarioPrint i-series from Canon Completes 250 Customer Installations
Konica Minolta’s ITS Division, All Covered, Named to ChannelE2E Top 200 Public Cloud MSPs: 2019 Edition
Canon USA is Awarded NASPO ValuePoint Copiers & Managed Services State Contract for All Six ...
New EFI MIS/ERP and Digital Print Solutions Showcased at EFI Connect 2020
Konica Minolta forays into robotic process automation
Sharp Earns Astounding 14 Buyers Lab Winter 2020 Pick Awards
Sharp Acquires The Assets Of Ace Office Solutions (New Jersey)
Canon production print install milestone
Re: Print Copy Tool versus Plotworks
Gary Starkweather, Inventor of the Laser Printer, Dies at 81
Ricoh Canada partners with Vizetto to supercharge collaboration and empowers digital workplace transformation
Epson Debuts First Industrial Direct-to-Garment Printer Bringing New Levels of Customization to ...
EFI’s New, Mid-Volume Roll-to-Roll LED 3m and 5m Printer Line Enables Unlimited Designs and Applications with Top-Quality Prints
Clickable Paper-Enabled Book Adoptions Increase Among Printing Curriculums
Canon U.S.A. is Again Awarded a Contract with the Texas Department of Information Resources (DIR)
Epson launches its first fluorescent ink, dye sublimation large format printer in the Middle East
Epson ColorWorks C6000-Series Industrial Label Printers Now Available - Providing Easy Solution for Businesses Upgrading to Color Labels
Color-Logic Certifies Industrial Printer SP/Dow
Ricoh Copy Output Tray for MP 9002
11 x 17 Printer
YSoft wins solution award - Buyers Lab (BLI) announced it chose YSoft for its 2020 Document Imaging Software Pick for Enterprise Print & Workflow Management Platform - Award from the YSoft SafeQ 6 platform for scan and secure print release solutions
OKI Delivers Pro1040 Desktop Color LED Label Printer to Craft Brewery for Producing Bottled Beer Labels
Sales Reps Dream About Prospecting, Sales Professionals Proactively Prospect! Which One Are You?
HP offers new solution for its MFPs
Chinese trade deal details
"Will Xerox Gut Lexmark? Industry Pros Sound Off on the Fallout"
In our recent survey, we asked 100 respondents to comment "If Xerox were to “gut” Lexmark, how would it affect your business?"
The results revealed diverse opinions, ranging from little to no impact to significant concerns about the future of dealer programs and product availability.
Here’s a summary of the comments:
- Very little short term, long term everyone will adjust to the changes.
- It will help us as Lexmark is such a trusted and respected brand within many of our customers.
- It would not affect mine; however, I believe there will be more opportunities to attack the Lexmark base of clients.
- It would not; Xerox needs a manufacturer now that Fuji is selling to anyone. This could be good if the young guard is allowed to innovate.
- No change; I don't sell or service Lexmark.
- Concern over the future of the dealer programs.
- Likely lose the BSD line, which would negatively impact us.
- It would just be another competitor out of my way.
- Little effect at all.
- Could lose some product availability.
- I'll stop selling Lexmark.
- It will change what we can offer our clients.
- As both a Xerox and Lexmark dealer, I don’t think it would change much; however, the reaction of other manufacturers will be interesting.
- None; we do not sell either brand, but Xerox's history suggests they will likely mishandle this.
- It could be positive if Xerox focuses on Enterprise.
- Some Lexmark products are good; maybe Xerox can influence better designs.
- Not good.
- Lexmark had a good reputation before its ban; there is relief from the print industry regarding support for existing Lexmark users.
- Increase sales.
- More business for me.
- Would have to find another supplier.
- Xerox tends to wreck companies it acquires.
- It won't affect us much.
- The weaker Xerox market position helps us gain business.
- Would probably increase the business I take from Xerox and Lexmark.
- Consolidation in the industry could restore customer confidence and stabilize pricing.
- Concern about the future of Lexmark’s dealer programs.
- It would strengthen the independent dealer market by making it easier to win over large Lexmark accounts.
- Xerox's poor reputation for service and support will not help.
- As a Lexmark reseller, it would highly affect our business.
- Will shift to products like Brother, Etria, and Toshiba in the long term.
- Significantly hurt our business; Lexmark is an important partner.
- Acquisitions like this don’t work long term.
Key Takeaways:
- No Change: 20 respondents stated that this potential change would have no effect on their business.
- Concerns: Dealer programs, product availability, and Lexmark’s reputation were major worries.
- Opportunities: Some see this as a chance to gain business or consolidate the market.
The survey highlights the varied landscape of opinions and the potential ripple effects such an acquisition could have on the industry. Whether you view this move as a challenge or an opportunity, one thing is clear: the market is watching closely.
What are your thoughts?
Share your opinions in the comments below!
Lead for 100 plus Copier and 15 Million Annual Clicks
see attached file
Digital Transformation (DX) Notes for the Week
Second Week of January 2025
Sponsored by
Digital Transformation: Key Trends and Insights
Government and Public Sector
How Digital Transformation is Delivering Efficiencies in Critical Infrastructure
Source: TechInformed
Deployment of AI, automation, and data analytics drives efficiency.
Enhanced decision-making capabilities through real-time data insights.
Streamlined operations across infrastructure sectors.
Key Takeaway: Public sector organizations can achieve greater efficiency by investing in AI and real-time data analytics.
How Digital Adoption Platforms Assist Federal Agencies
Source: FedScoop
Transitioning from waterfall development to agile approaches.
Accelerating digital transformation with minimally viable solutions.
Tools to enhance adoption and streamline processes.
Key Takeaway: Agile frameworks and adoption platforms can fast-track federal agency modernization efforts.
Technological Advancements and Human Development
Source: World Economic Forum
Estonia leads in digital-first governance.
Digital transformation improves government accessibility.
Potential game-changer for other nations.
Key Takeaway: Governments can adopt digital-first strategies to provide citizens with efficient services and improve governance.
Digital Transformation: Vision Versus Reality
Source: Local Government Chronicle
Local councils struggle to harness digital transformation fully.
Research highlights gaps and improvement opportunities.
Collaboration with private sectors to maximize potential.
Key Takeaway: Local governments should prioritize partnerships and targeted strategies to close digital transformation gaps.
Finance and Payments
Five Transformative Changes in the Digital Economy
Source: PYMNTS.com
Merging identity and payments reshapes financial services.
Evolving consumer behaviors and expectations.
Impact of technology on payment ecosystems by 2025.
Key Takeaway: Financial institutions must adapt to consumer demand for integrated identity and payment solutions.
How Digital Transformation Became CFOs' Top Priority
Source: Financial Times
CFOs now lead in digital transformation efforts.
Budget allocations shifted toward technology investments.
Optimizing financial operations through digital tools.
Key Takeaway: CFOs can drive organizational success by aligning financial strategies with tech investments.
Wealth Transfer Driving Digital Transformation
Source: Finextra Research
Embracing digital tools in payments and wealth management.
Addressing challenges on both client and institutional sides.
Unlocking opportunities through digital transformation.
Key Takeaway: Wealth managers should leverage digital tools to streamline services and enhance client engagement.
Manufacturing and Industrial Sectors
Progressive Technology Groups Lead Digital Transformation
Source: Manufacturing Management
Expansion into F1 and aerospace via digital innovation.
Leveraging technology for competitive growth.
Case studies showcasing success in tech adoption.
Key Takeaway: Manufacturing sectors can achieve growth by integrating advanced tech solutions and focusing on innovation.
Industrial Technology Transformation with Siemens US
Source: Siemens
Bridging operational technology with digital tools.
Public-private collaborations fostering innovation.
Leading advancements in industrial ecosystems.
Key Takeaway: Collaborations between industry and government can accelerate technological transformations.
Technology and Innovation
Top Digital Transformation Trends to Track in 2025
Source: CustomerThink
Integration of digital technology across all business aspects.
Shifting traditional business processes to tech-driven solutions.
Adoption of AI, cloud, and IoT to remain competitive.
Key Takeaway: Businesses must stay ahead by adopting comprehensive digital strategies encompassing AI and IoT.
Future Impact of AI in Global Tech Sector
Source: Technology Magazine
AI driving transformations across industries.
Focus on sustainability and innovation in digital tools.
Expansion of AI applications in daily operations.
Key Takeaway: AI will remain a pivotal driver of innovation across all sectors.
Digital Transformation and Emerging Tech in 2025
Source: Crowdfund Insider
Australian firms prioritize AI and emerging technologies.
Tackling challenges through advanced tech adoption.
Strategic future-proofing to stay competitive.
Key Takeaway: Early adoption of emerging technologies ensures resilience and competitiveness.
Digi International Launches Digi X-ON™
Sources: Yahoo Finance / Business Wire / Global Ag Tech Initiative
Simplifying industrial IoT with edge-to-cloud integration.
Reliable, scalable tools for industry and agriculture.
Driving seamless digital transformation in IoT.
Key Takeaway: Integrated IoT solutions can streamline operations and improve scalability.
The Chief Data Officer's Role in Digital Transformation
Source: TechRadar
Central leadership role for Chief Data Officers.
Managing complex data transitions for enterprise success.
Aligning data strategies with organizational goals.
Key Takeaway: Strong data leadership is crucial for navigating digital transitions effectively.
CyberArk's Seamless Digital Transformation Solutions
Source: RBC Capital Markets
Evolving identity security for digital environments.
Advancing cybersecurity measures in digital tools.
Ensuring secure foundations for digital initiatives.
Key Takeaway: Enhanced cybersecurity measures are vital to sustain digital transformation efforts.
EY's Transformations Campaign
Source: EY
Highlighting transformation success stories at global airports.
Encouraging industries to embrace change through tech.
Inspirational messaging for future digital strategies.
Key Takeaway: Showcasing transformation success inspires confidence and adoption among stakeholders.
Embrace Tomorrow Today
How the Industry Feels About Xerox’s Acquisition of Lexmark: A Survey Breakdown
How the Industry Feels About Xerox’s Acquisition of Lexmark: A Survey Breakdown
When Xerox announced its acquisition of Lexmark, it sent shockwaves through the office technology and managed print services (MPS) industry. In a recent anonymous survey with 100 respondents, we gathered insights into how dealers, end-users, and industry insiders perceive this move. Here’s the breakdown of the results, with some hard truths and edgy analysis to frame what might lie ahead for Xerox and Lexmark’s future.
Survey Highlights at a Glance:
1. Mixed Sentiments About the Acquisition
17% feel very positive, while 26% are somewhat positive about the acquisition.
On the flip side, 23% are somewhat negative, and 10% are very negative.
A sizeable 24% remain neutral, indicating a wait-and-see approach from a significant portion of respondents.
While there’s some optimism, over a third of the industry is skeptical. Xerox has work to do if it wants to win over its critics.
2. Does This Align With Xerox’s Strategic Goals?
45% believe it does, showing that nearly half see a coherent strategy behind this acquisition.
However, 16% disagree, and 39% are unsure.
A company of Xerox’s caliber can’t afford a 39% “unsure” rate. Clear communication about strategic objectives could convert these fence-sitters.
3. Product Innovation: Boom or Bust?
25% foresee more innovation, likely from combining R&D resources and expertise.
29% predict less innovation, citing potential restructuring and cost-cutting measures.
A majority (46%) expect no significant change.
Innovation enthusiasts might be disappointed if Xerox doesn’t deliver something groundbreaking soon.
4. Dealer Program Concerns When asked about potential impacts on Lexmark’s dealer programs:
40% fear a reduction in dealer support.
20% worry about pricing structure changes.
19% are concerned about product availability.
Only 13% have no concerns, while 8% listed “Other” concerns.
Dealer Reality Check: Dealers drive sales and customer satisfaction. Neglecting their needs post-acquisition could be a costly mistake for Xerox.
5. Restructuring: A Foregone Conclusion?
A whopping 75% believe significant restructuring is likely within the next 12 months.
Only 18% think it’s unlikely, while 5% are unsure.
No sugar-coating it: The industry anticipates major changes, and Xerox’s next moves will be closely scrutinized.
6. Anticipated Changes to Lexmark’s Operations
20% foresee minimal changes, suggesting a “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” approach.
51% expect moderate restructuring, while 27% predict a complete overhaul.
Takeaway: The majority braces for notable disruptions, but not everyone agrees on the scale.
7. Areas Likely to Be Restructured Respondents could select multiple areas where they think restructuring will hit:
78% anticipate workforce reductions.
66% expect adjustments to dealer programs.
58% predict regional office closures.
57% foresee product portfolio consolidation.
53% believe supply chain changes are on the horizon.
Xerox’s challenge is to balance cost-cutting with maintaining operational efficiency and dealer trust. Workforce reductions and regional closures may save money but could damage morale and customer service.
8. The Future of Lexmark’s Branding
24% believe Lexmark’s brand will remain intact, while a strong 69% think Lexmark will be absorbed into Xerox branding.
Only 7% are unsure.
Brand loyalty is real. If Xerox erases Lexmark’s identity too quickly, it risks alienating Lexmark’s existing customer base.
9. Dealer and Customer Relationships Post-Restructuring
68% believe restructuring will weaken relationships.
Only 17% think relationships will strengthen, while 15% foresee no significant impact.
Sobering Statistic: If over two-thirds of respondents expect weakened relationships, Xerox has a steep hill to climb in reassuring its dealers and customers.
What This Survey Tells Us:
The Good: There’s a fair amount of optimism about Xerox’s ability to align this acquisition with its strategic goals. If managed correctly, combining Xerox and Lexmark’s strengths could lead to a powerhouse in the print and MPS space.
The Bad: Dealers are wary. The survey reveals significant concerns about dealer support, restructuring impacts, and Lexmark’s future identity.
The Ugly: Workforce reductions and weakened dealer relationships are viewed as almost inevitable, and product innovation is hardly expected to skyrocket.
Key Takeaways for Xerox:
Communicate Transparently:
Address the 39% unsure about strategic alignment directly.
Explain how dealer programs and customer relationships will be protected.
Prioritize Innovation:
Convince the 46% expecting no change in innovation that this acquisition isn’t just about cost-cutting but about delivering value.
Respect Lexmark’s Legacy:
Don’t rush to eliminate Lexmark’s branding; leverage its existing equity.
Engage Dealers Early and Often:
Reassure the 40% concerned about dealer support that they remain a priority.
Deliver tangible benefits to dealers early to offset fears of disruption.
My Two Cents:
The Xerox-Lexmark acquisition has the potential to reshape the industry, but the road ahead is fraught with challenges. The survey reveals skepticism about restructuring and its impact on dealers and customers. For Xerox to turn this acquisition into a win, it must navigate these waters carefully, addressing concerns with transparency and bold action.
-=Good Selling+-
PS
This was a ten question poll for our survey. In a few days we'll post the comments to question #10.
If Xerox were to “gut” Lexmark, how would it affect your business?
You can view the questions of the poll here, keep in mind that this is only open to Print4Pay Hotel members. Becoming a member is Free