Markdowns? (Excess inventory of older macs)

[metanoia]

Does anyone know what Apple Retail does to excess inventory of macs after the introduction of a new model, say, like after the recent speedbumps to the MacBook? Do they mark it down in-store, or do they ship it elsewhere to a discounter like Costco?

Thanks,
Brian

 

[ab2650]

I would guess a lot of them get sent back to apple to sell in the refurb store. There is a good chance when you order a refurb "prior model" after new models have been out a bit you are getting a technically "new" system.

That seems like a lot of volume however, so I'd think there must be another outlet where they let these go.