Lenovo warns of upcoming price increases for PC and server configurations

Lenovo has informed its partners about upcoming price increases for selected configurations of personal computers and servers that will take effect in March. The reason is the shortage and rising cost of DRAM and 3D NAND memory, driven by increased demand, including from the AI sector.

In a letter dated February 2 to partners in North America, Wade McFarland, Lenovo’s Channel Chief, outlined new order deadlines and pricing reassessment conditions affecting both the Intelligent Devices Group (IDG)—responsible for client devices—and the Infrastructure Solutions Group (ISG), the company’s server solutions business line.

New deadlines and conditions for PC products

The changes affect “certain products and configurations” within IDG’s commercial portfolio, including desktops, laptops, and other client devices.

Lenovo requires partners to submit their orders to distributors by February 25, with orders needing to be received by Lenovo no later than February 28 to secure current pricing (subject to availability and delivery timelines).

The company also clarified that all orders received before February 28 but not delivered by March 31, 2026, will be subject to price reassessment.

Changes for server solutions

In the server segment (ISG), Lenovo is shortening the validity of quotes to 14 days in the internal quoting system and 30 days in the platform for resellers and distributors.

The company has already re-evaluated some larger deals—both in the backlog and currently in the quoting process—due to increased costs.

Additionally, as of January 26, Lenovo has suspended its new customer acquisition bonus program, which previously provided upfront discounts to partners. Under the current market conditions, such advance discounts would further pressure the manufacturer’s margins.

Pressure from the memory market

The hardware price increases are part of a broader trend across the industry. The shortage of 3D NAND and DRAM memory, intensified by demand related to AI infrastructure, has already led to adjustments in pricing policies by other major vendors such as Cisco and HPE.

Although large OEM companies traditionally rely on long-term supply contracts for memory components, current market dynamics are forcing adjustments to pricing models and commercial conditions.

Reactions from the partner network

The reaction from channel partners has been mixed. Some appreciate Lenovo’s transparency and the clear communication of deadlines, while others note that the requirement for delivery by March 31 effectively allows price reassessment for delayed orders in case of supply chain issues.

Nevertheless, most partners acknowledge that the memory market environment is extremely dynamic and requires flexibility.