Gateway 2000ís extremely efficient, responsive, low-cost business model is unique in the PC industry and allows us to be consistently among the first to offer the latest technology. We chose the direct channel because it allows us to keep costs very low and respond to customer needs and industry changes very quickly.

Under our business model, customers call Gateway 2000 directly to place an order, inquire about a system or get technical support. The direct model keeps overhead low by eliminating a whole layer of expense that traditionally stands between manufacturer and consumer.

This approach takes the phrase "factory direct" to new levels. Gateway has no costly inventory of assembled PCs. Gateway PCs are built only after customers order them. Each machine travels our assembly lines with a tuft of paper sticking out of it containing the name of each customer and his or her custom configuration. From the factory, the PC travels directly to your door.

Our build-to-order operation also gives us unique relationships with suppliers like Intel, Microsoft, Western Digital, Sony and many others. We strive for long-term associations with suppliers to ensure continuity in quality and supply as well as compatibility and ease of integration.

Working closely with suppliers also allows Gateway to anticipate market trends and respond quickly in ways that consistently lead the industry in delivering the freshest technology to customers. Our business relationships, as well as our quest to develop new technology, let our Major Accounts team share information with corporate customers to help them plan for changes in technology.

The direct contact has helped Gateway develop and maintain close relationships with customers. Because they talk to customers every day, our sales and customer service professionals can provide valuable ideas on how Gateway can constantly improve the customer experience. This bond between Gateway and our customers enables us to anticipate and respond to customer needs more rapidly than other PC companies.

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