Intel is reducing the amount it spends on “Intel Inside” marketing. The campaign, which has been in place since 1991, has long been an additional source of revenue for OEMs and this change could potentially lead to more expensive computers.
Spending on the Intel Inside programme is being reduced by between 40% and 60%; according to CRN. If true, this is expected to hit OEMs hard. Which could possibly lead to the revenue loss being passed on to consumers to make up the difference. CRN quoted an unnamed CEO who stated that it is very likely that this will result in higher prices for everyone.
Intel Inside has been one of the longest running marketing campaigns in the world, and has been responsible for keeping the company at the forefront of consumer consciousness. That said, Intel has been undergoing some extreme restructuring as of late. Including promising to reduce the workforce by 12,000 personnel.
That Intel is looking to scale back its most successful marketing message does not bode well for the PC business. Sales have been circling the drain for years now, with no end to the decline in sight. Although, the industry appears to have at least managed to survive the predicted onslaught of lightweight tablets.
It’s not that computers will ever completely go away, but it looks like tough times are ahead for everyone. Especially for consumers who are staring at more possible price hikes.
[Source: CRN]
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