Struggling to generate profits in the hardware industry
In the face of a more challenging hardware sales landscape, CNW Meringer Systems House continues to forge ahead, focusing on their core expertise and prioritising sustainability.
Based in Mering, Germany, CNW operates four locations: Mering, Munich, Waldkraiburg, and Kulmbach. The company specialises in document-related solutions, including large-format printers. CEO Dominik Maerzluft emphasises that as a full-service provider, CNW wouldn't be able to deliver the necessary expertise across their entire portfolio.
Maerzluft considers expertise indispensable for building long-term customer relationships. This focus on expertise has led CNW to specialise in specific customer segments and market niches.
The topic of sustainability is a key priority for Maerzluft. This is evident in the design of the new Mering headquarters, a wooden office building constructed with sustainable building technologies. The building features a photovoltaic system with battery storage, a heat pump with buffer storage, and a pollinator meadow.
In daily business operations, CNW prioritises energy efficiency in the selection of hardware. This commitment to sustainability is also reflected in the demand for refurbished hardware at CNW, such as demo units, returns, and overhauled devices.
However, finding competent service providers in the area of sustainable building technology is a challenge for CNW. As this approach is not yet fully established in the trade, the company had to seek out the suitable service provider for their new headquarters.
Despite these challenges, CNW has achieved a five-star rating in HP's "HP Amplify Impact" program, making them one of a few global partners with this distinction. The program honours particularly sustainable partners in the industry.
CNW's new headquarters was built to address the space constraints faced at the main site, where over 20 employees work. The growth of the company necessitated the construction of a new headquarters.
In the hardware industry, where margins have been shrinking, CNW Meringer Systems House continues to focus on hardware business. They offer leasing, rental, or DaaS models, and there has been a rise in demand for alternatives to purchasing hardware.
Maerzluft admits that hardware sales have become more challenging over the years. However, he remains optimistic, stating that the company's focus on expertise and sustainability will continue to drive their success in the future.
HP's "HP Amplify Impact" program recognises this commitment to sustainability, and CNW Meringer Systems House continues to set an example for other companies in the industry.
