Probrand is forecasting a potential uptick in PC sales as a wave of AI-enabled devices enter the marketplace during Q3 2024.
The IT procurement platform says the entry of this next generation of computers is one of several factors likely to trigger higher than typical levels of sales.
Those triggers include:
- Replacement purchases – due to the loss of support for Windows 10 products in October 2025
- Periodic product refresh – replacing emergency purchases made during the Covid-19 pandemic
- An increased supply of AI-powered devices, including Microsoft’s Copilot+
- Heavy discounting on old market stock by vendors wanting to clear a path for new stock
Probrand advises that, as the market transitions to the next-generation of PC, there will be a short window of opportunity that will allow buyers to stretch their IT budgets further – if they can be strategic in their purchasing behaviour.
Ian Nethercot, supply chain director at Probrand, explains: “As more AI-powered devices enter the market there is going to be a surge in supply, which will create increased competition between vendors, who will be under pressure to shift their existing stock. In the last week alone, we’ve seen additional discounts of between 5 and 10% in certain categories, including laptops."
Ian continues: "The supply chain is also showing more signs of improved stability, which is building confidence in the market. It’s encouraging vendors to be more transparent with buyers over what deals are available, and offer more flexibility in the way they can purchase stock. For example, many vendors are now giving organisations the option to ringfence and reserve products in advance. This means IT buyers can be more strategic. They can seize the deals available to them now and acquire stock for future deployment.’’
If IT buyers want to take advantage of the opportunities currently available, Probrand advises they follow three key steps:
Communicate with suppliers – Ask vendors about timelines, including their year-end – as this is often the period when suppliers look to move old stock and deals are more readily available. Similarly, ask suppliers about specific product categories – they may be willing to offer discounts to speed up sales of slow-moving products or encourage bulk purchases.
Check the sector deals available – Many IT buyers miss out on extra discounts because vendors are unable to monitor whether these are being passed on by resellers. Be proactive in asking suppliers about personalised pricing. Education is one vertical where we’ve seen sector-specific discounts of between 25–30% offered in the last few weeks.
Plan purchases now – Regardless of whether there is a current need or not, buyers should be proactive in planning purchases to take advantage of timely summer discounts. Suppliers being more willing to ringfence and reserve stock means organisations get the best of both worlds – best price now, and stock ready and waiting when needed.