In the process it has established a channel that is aimed at providing a cost-effective print environment to SMEs, based on Oki's MFP range of devices.

"This is a landmark move for Oki," says Peter Vieira, business development manager of Oki's corporate solutions division.

"Not only will our products benefit from the OAPs' extensive reach into the local market, but this move marks the first time that customers will gain access to Oki solutions on a pay-per-print basis."

North Business Systems' Marc Olivier explains that the decision to include the Oki colour range in the company's line-up stems from the level of quality the Oki products deliver, as well as their competitive price point.

"After identifying a gap in the entry-level segment of the colour copier market, which is currently experiencing a massive rise in demand for cost-effective solutions, we were attracted to the Oki range of solutions as they provided what our customers needed," says Olivier.

Mpumalanga Copiers' Francois Willemse says that his customers have been most intrigued by Oki 9800GA's print quality, which is claimed to be suitable for the graphic design market; and the entry-level Oki 3200 because of its price and attractive list of specifications. "Our customers find the versatility of the machines to be a massive benefit.

"The many additional features add to the overall attractiveness of the machines," he says. "For most businesses, instant short run print jobs like business card printing can become a headache.

"The ability to print jobs like this on demand, using Oki's versatile colour lasers or MFPs, can save time and money."