HP Ups Notebook Ante With New Channel Rebates

http://www.crn.com/it-channel/201802306

"Hewlett-Packard has launched a solution provider and enduser services rebate promotion for its notebook systems in an effort to further accelerate laptop channel sales and partner delivered services.
Beginning Aug. 13 and running through Oct. 31, HP said it will give solution providers a two percent upfront rebate in terms of additional product discounts on its Smart Buy notebook SKUs, said Ramona Thibeault, HP's vice president, PSG business and sales management, Solution Partners Organization.
"It sounds like a good program, but I wish they'd give the rebates in the form of a check instead of a discount," said John Marks, CEO of JDM Infrastructure, a solution provider in Chicago. "Everybody gives the discounts away and it dilutes margins. If you are going to lower the price, lower the price. If you are going to give a rebate, give me a check."
Additionally, Thibeault said HP would offer enduser rebates of $100 for each solution provider-delivered service or an HP Care Pack up to a total of $2000 bundled with the notebooks. Care Packs that qualify for the rebates include accidental damage protection, next business day service, and on-site service among others. "