IBM has announced the global expansion of its previously America only, Asset Recovery Solutions (ARS) program for computer hardware disposal.

Building upon 20 years of experience in maximising value from IBM hardware coming off of lease, ARS extends this experience to any customer. Claiming that it can handle IBM and non-IBM IT assets, Big Blue says it provides a wide range of options to help the customers realise the full value of their hardware investment.

Capabilities of the service are said to include cash for IT, a system by which IBM Global Financing buys back eligible assets based on current market values to put cash in customers' hands.

Another feature is the no-cost option, for customers with a minimum of 25 units in complete and good working order, IBM will pack, transport and manage disposition of assets, at no cost to the customer.

IBM's expansion of Asset Recovery Solutions puts the corporation at the forefront of global solutions for managing surplus or obsolete IT hardware, says Daniel H. Ransdell, the general manager, IBM Global Asset Recovery Services.

'Many customers do not realise that their surplus equipment can be remarketed. Nor are they fully aware of the risks of not retiring obsolete equipment properly. Now, customers in every geography in which IBM does business can benefit from a service that maximizes the value of re-marketable machines and provides cost-effective and secure disposition,' he told SM365.