Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America Expands

With Sharp expanding their "...direct regional sales operation...", just like all the other manufacturers, it is a wonder there are ANY independent dealers left at all.

All of us here at Death of The Copier wish the folks at Kearns all the best with Sharp. We know Sharp made out well by aligning with Kearns and the strong track record in Managed Print Services they bring to the table.

Here is the PR -

Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America Expands Direct, Local Sales Operations with Sharp Business Systems in South Carolina
Greenville-based Kearns Business Solutions now part of Sharp Business Systems; combines high-end management and local service with the industry's leading MFP technology

Last update: 11:50 a.m. EST Nov. 14, 2008

MAHWAH, N.J., Nov 14, 2008 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA) today announced it has once again expanded its direct regional sales operation with the opening of the newest Sharp Business Systems (SBS) branch in Greenville, SC. SIICA's SBS unit has purchased Greenville-based Kearns Business Solutions from The Pater Group, to serve the Upstate South Carolina market.

Sharp Business Systems in South Carolina will be managed by current president Tom Pickens, who will serve as branch president, and brings vast knowledge and industry experience to Sharp.

"We take great pride in providing our customers with the highest quality service and support. As a part of Sharp, we are very excited to represent some of the most innovative document imaging products available today. We will continue to provide our existing customers with the same level of service, but now with the full range of Sharp hardware and software for all document management needs."

Kearns Business Solutions has served the Upstate South Carolina market for 27 years and in that time they have garnered a reputation for excellent service and commitment to its customers. They also have a strong track record of success in managed print services, particularly in the education market. Kearns Business Solutions brings all of its 70 employees to Sharp Business Systems and will offer customers the newest and most advanced Sharp office products and solutions while continuing to serve existing equipment and contract agreements.

"After a successful tenure with The Pater Group, we felt that the combination of Kearns sales staff working in the Sharp Business Systems model was the best opportunity for the employees of Kearns," said Tony Pater, Chairman of the Pater Group. "We appreciate Kearns' hard work and commitment to excellence and wish Tom, and his entire team, the best of luck as part of Sharp Business Systems."