LEXINGTON, Ky., Jun 04, 2001 -- Lexmark International, Inc. (NYSE: LXK) today unveiled a new partner relationship building tool called Partner Source. Lexmark s Partner Source will help solution providers easily access Lexmark product information, marketing materials and order-tracking information via the Web, fostering improved customer service levels and responsiveness while allowing channel partners to more effectively sell Lexmark solutions. Solution providers are critical to our business and Partner Source is yet another indication of our commitment to these partners, said Paul Rooke, Lexmark corporate vice president and president of its Printing Solutions and Services Division. We are confident that this powerful tool will help Lexmark build even stronger relationships with these partners and, at the same time, make their jobs a little easier. Giving the channel what they want, when they want it, how they want it A study of channel partners conducted by Lexmark in January 2001 revealed that more than 71 percent preferred to receive vendor information electronically. Partner Source gives Lexmark s channel partners access to a variety of rich, online content and allows the channel partner to choose which information they receive and how they receive it. Partner Source also allows Lexmark to target communications, promotions, programs and support to each provider based on their unique business requirements. Partner Source is also dramatically improving Lexmark s channel responsiveness. Now, news of a new product, promotion or price change can be communicated to Lexmark s channel partners in minutes. While other companies may be focusing on partner management tools, Lexmark s Partner Source is a partner relationship building tool. The distinction is significant. Our partners don t want to be managed, said Rooke. They want to build relationships with their customers and with us. Partner Source will help them build these relationships and help them drive sales. Partner Source has already made a positive impression on Lexmark s partners. "Whether in the form of product news, program announcements, or the latest new business opportunities, Partner Source is helping us turn leads into sales, said Mary Decker-Danitz, of Hy-Tech Computer Systems, which helped pilot the new offering. Lexmark's Partner Source solution gives us Web access to the types of information that helps us get our job done whenever and wherever we need. With Partner Source, we are building a better relationship with Lexmark and our customers, because it allows us to customize our offering with the programs and features that best fit our unique needs." Availability Partner Source is available immediately and at no cost to all of Lexmark s authorized channel partners. Interested solution providers can call (877) 999-4360 or send an email to [email protected] to be set up with a Partner Source account and password.