Lexmark, Dell Ink Printer Deal

Lexmark International Dell Computer

The deal involves two phases, according to the companies. Under the first phase, Lexington-based Lexmark will become Dell's preferred supplier for non-Dell imaging products for the upcoming holiday selling season and thereafter. The next phase calls for Austin-based Dell and Lexmark to produce workgroup, small-business and personal imaging products that leverage Lexmark's imaging technology.

Dell imaging products are slated to be released in the first half of next year, the companies reported. Terms of the deal and product descriptions weren't disclosed, and the companies didn't set any sales volume targets for the planned products.

The Lexmark-Dell printer pact comes after weeks of buzz that the two companies were nearing a deal. Earlier this year, Dell President Kevin Rollins said the direct PC seller planned to enter the printer business by the end of this year.