GMAN:
Ricoh does HAVE THE LARGEST distribution channel! Even tough dealers are upset, its the same with KonicaMinolta Dealers selling against KonicaMinolta Direct, Sharp Dealers and Sharp Direct, Canon Dealers and Canon Business Solutions.
The problem is not inherent to Ricoh alone. Direct Branches are giving stuff away and no dealer can compete when service, supplies and hardware are retailed at the price that a dealer would pay or lower.