Dynamic Supplies takes a stand on behalf of its customers as HP asks for access to end customer data

This email from Dynamic Supplies from earlier this week indicates that HP, a key supplier of ink and toner through them to newsagents, is seeking access to end customer data. This would concern any retailer of these products.

The letter from Dynamic is worth reading. Their approach puts the needs of their retail partners ahead of the demands of HP, which is terrific to see.

Dear Valued Dynamic Supplies Customer,

As you may be aware, HP recently introduced changes to their distribution “partners” agreements by introducing a new Global Partner program called Amplify. This new program effective 1 November 2020 immediately impacted the HP print consumables and hardware categories and as a result we advised the retraction of all HP discounts and rebate programs.

One of the conditions of the new Amplify program is the compulsory reporting to HP of extremely detailed private data including confidential customer and inventory related information. We are very concerned that HP want this information which includes your end user drop ship information including customer names and addresses and purchase data, in addition to sell through data on compatible versus HP original supplies.

I write to you today to advise that Dynamic Supplies will not comply with this data collection program and will not at any stage provide your private customer data without your express consent. It conflicts with the core values of our organisation and we believe this sets a dangerous precedent within the print distribution channel. Whilst the request for information from HP may or may not be illegal, we regard this as a highly unethical program. HP is offering significant incentives and rebates for this data and we regard this as little more than a bribe. Dynamic Supplies have opted out of this program and are referring this matter to the ACCC.

Dynamic Supplies has always operated with the best interests of our resellers at heart. We are communicating this information so that you are aware that if you purchase HP products from an authorised HP partner, those partners will be providing this data to HP as part of the Amplify program requirements.

17 years ago Dynamic Supplies fought a similar battle with HP to protect the best interests of our Reseller customers. This included the refusal to collect and supply end user data and support predatory pricing behaviours. It is familiar territory for us and we will again defend the interests of our channel.