Original URL: https://www.theregister.com/1999/02/22/kingston_and_action_team_up/

Kingston and Action team up to sell memory over the Web

Lack of some products and lengthy lead times may dampen customer enthusiasm though

By Linda Harrison

Posted in On-Prem, 22nd February 1999 16:58 GMT

Kingston Technology is selling its memory on-line through UK reseller Action. The memory manufacturer is using a direct link from Action’s Web site to allow end-users to order memory modules. Customers can search via manufacturer, part number or specifications for the items needed. Kingston claims its entire memory range is available over the Internet. However, there are still a few hiccups in the system. For example, a search for a Fujitsu ErgoPro e365 proved fruitless for 32, 64 and 128 Mb modules, bringing up the message: "Sorry, Kingston part number D464001 is not in the current online catalogue." It was the same story for the ErgoPro e366. The Register asked Kingston if it wasn’t easier and less frustrating just to call your usual reseller direct, especially as most resellers offer next day delivery and the Kingston/Action site can only offer delivery "within three working days." Alison Heath, Kingston UK sales and marketing director, said: "We’re trying to take some of the complexity out of ordering. Memory isn’t easy to configure. Customers can now go into the site, select the memory, see if it’s available and order it. A reseller may not be able to provide all that information in one phone-call." Heath admitted that if Action didn’t have the required item in stock, and the order went in late and missed the shipment, memory could take up to three working days to arrive. But she added: "Some customers prefer to use e-commerce, others prefer the telephone. Action and many other mail-order companies are trying to show on-line ordering is a more efficient way of doing business for both parties." Kingston is looking for other resellers to take part in the scheme. It was unable to provide figures on the popularity of the selling tool. ®