With print volumes in decline, many office equipment resellers are looking for ways to diversify their product offerings. While managed IT services have been a logical next step for many, others are exploring more unconventional opportunities—such as EV charging stations. That’s where ACDI Energy Services comes in.
ACDI is widely known in the industry for its print management solutions, particularly as a top distributor of PaperCut. But three years ago, they expanded their portfolio with ACDI Energy Services, bringing EV charging to the dealer channel. While this may seem like a stretch at first glance, their approach is all about creating new revenue streams for dealers who already have strong customer relationships and service capabilities.
What About the Recent Federal Funding Cuts?
In my recent What’s Happenin’ interview with ACDI’s Mark Hart and Damian Cairns, they addressed concerns about the federal government pulling back on EV charging infrastructure funding. The good news? That funding was primarily aimed at massive highway corridor projects, not the local Level 2 chargers ACDI focuses on. Their core market—schools, businesses, and workplaces—remains strong, and they see even greater opportunities as companies that were only chasing federal dollars exit the space.
A Dealer-Friendly Model
One of the key takeaways from our discussion was ACDI’s evolving approach to dealer partnerships. Previously, dealers had to commit to a full EV charging program, complete with inventory and training. Now, ACDI allows any dealer to bring them an opportunity—whether it’s a school, an office, or a business in need of chargers—and ACDI will help close the deal. Dealers can test the waters without a major upfront investment, and if the opportunity grows, so does their ability to generate ongoing revenue through charging transactions.
EV Charging: A New Opportunity for Dealers
With more electric vehicles hitting the roads each year, the demand for workplace and public charging continues to grow. ACDI believes office equipment dealers are well-positioned to capitalize on this trend. If you’re already managing print environments, software, and technology solutions for your customers, adding EV charging could be a logical next step.
Want to hear more? Be sure to watch my full interview with Mark and Damian, where they break down why ACDI sees EV charging as a long-term play for dealers looking to expand their revenue streams beyond print.
SOURCE Industry Analysts Inc.