Bottom line, The copier manufacturers are in the business of manufacturing copiers. Dealers are in the business of selling copiers. Mfgs panic anytime they see their inventory exceed certain levels and do all they can to continue manufacturing at consistant levels. When inventory exceeds preset levels, what do they do? they seek other methods of distribution to move equipment. Look at car manufacturing in the US, they will offer all kinds of incentives to their current dealers to move machines , including factory direct rebates, discounts and such, without opening another dealership,but were has it gotten them? Ford, GM are all losing money with their business models of meeting competition. The Japanese manufacturers rarely if ever offer significant rebates and other financial incentives to the dealer, they simple increase distribution channels and let others inventory their equipment. Of course this is a simplistic overview of the economics involved in our industry. BUT, never forget that a manufacturer is in the business of manufacturing and we are in the business of selling. Loyalty is based on "what have you done for me lately". Ok, I'm off my soapbox and asbestos shorts are on .