they even cut costs by leasing the computers...
So, eventually they recoup the equipment costs, wouldn't get surprised if they even make a profit out of it sometimes.
First thing they do, they write off VAT (20-23% of laptop price). Then at the EOL, they just set the EPP price to the higher market value. And return the cost.
Not that everything has to be about the US, but it's weird to make a claim about the tech market as a whole that doesn't apply to its biggest single region.
The article goes into considerable detail about the EU tech industry. My comment relates to that context.
I also want to note, that EPP isn't the correct term here. For US, EPP would mean Manufacturer Employee Purchase Programs for New Products with a discount. Like, if you work for HP, you can purchase a product it manufactures at a discount price for your personal use.
The EU practice that I was mentioning is called IT Asset Disposition through employer to employee disposal program[0]. I don't believe big companies in the US get involved in employer to employee ITAD for lots of reasons. But in EU, it's a thing, much to my surprise.
[0]: https://www.mddp.pl/disposal-of-used-equipment-by-an-employe...
>The article goes into considerable detail about the EU tech industry. My comment relates to that context.
You know what, that's entirely fair. And I'll also note that American companies can claim depreciation to offset corporate income taxes, so there's some parity there, it's just s different mechanism.