DELL : APPLIES NETFLIX MODEL TO PRINTER INK CARTRIDGES

[Anonymous]

http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2348817,00.asp
Dell Applies Netflix Model to Printer Ink
Dell has launched an “InkSave” program, where consumers can return used
ink cartridges for an automatic replacement.The model seems similar to
that used by Netflix, where customers return movies using a prepaid
envelope, and receive the next preferred movie on their list.InkSave is
similar: Dell’s printers ship with a pre-filled ink cartridge
installed, and a spare. When the original ink cartridge is exhausted,
the Dell customer simply returns the original cartridge in the prepaid
envelope, and Dell sends the customer a new one. The customer is
automatically billed for the new cartridge, a Dell representative said
in a blog post.Users can sign up for free on the Dell Web site. After
doing so, Dell will send a welcome kit with an ink cartridge and the
envelopes.It’s worth noting that HP specifically does not include
envelopes to recycle its ink cartridges. In part, that’s because the
company does not offer a program similar to what Dell offers. HP does
recycle cartridges, however, but you will need to take them to an
authorized location, such as a Staples, where you can buy another
cartridge.

In its FAQ, HP explains why it eliminated the envelopes:
Transitioning the HP Planet Partners program from envelopes to
authorized retail recycling provides more convenient opportunities for
customers to recycle HP print cartridges and reduces the amount of
shipping material required for recycling returns. Many customers
already bring their used cartridges to retail stores when purchasing
replacement cartridges, so offering HP print cartridge recycling at
Staples stores offers an added convenience for them. In addition,
cartridge collection at retail recycling locations has the potential to
improve transport efficiency, as cartridges collected at retail
locations will be transported in bulk to HP for recycling.

http://www.printercomparison.com/default.asp?newsID=502
Dell starts InkSave program
Hate
going to the store to buy more ink?  Well, Dell has a new solution for
its customers; the online InkSave program.The InkSave program allows
customers to order a new Dell ink cartridge along with a backup online
with free shipping.  When the original cartridge runs out, replace it
with the backup and send the empty cartridge back to Dell, free of
charge.  Once Dell receives the empty cartridge, they will recycle it
and send customers a new cartridge and charge them automatically.The
idea is to keep the ink coming to users in a smooth cycle so that
customers will never run out of ink and will never have to search for
their particular cartridges in stores. To sign up for the new InkSave
program, new customers will choose their printer’s specific series of
ink and then select a corresponding Welcome Kit.  For instance, if you
own the V505 AIO inkjet printer, you would select the Series 11 ink. 
Within this series, users can choose from three Welcome Kits: a simple
two cartridge kit, a three cartridge kit (includes photo ink cartridge)
or a four cartridge kit (two black, two color high yield
cartridges).Once you have chosen your kit, simply enter payment info
and shipping address.  Dell will keep the information on file so when
you send back the empty cartridge they can automatically charge you and
then ship you your new cartridges.

[Author]

June 16, 2009 at 3:55 PM