Who's due to be the third distributor? Chatted with Echo about the situation recently and they said there would only be 2 for the foreseeable future.
Of course anyone is entitled to buy from overseas, however Echo have been made aware by all their official dealers (not just the UK) of the current increasing grey import trend, and they are keen to stop it with various measures now in place.
Back to the question that started this discussion, I guess if the bike was sold as a mate, then unfortunately there is clearly no warranty Mike, although if Jack was so kind as to help you out in the event of a problem that would be pretty mega.
I must admit I am becoming slightly concerned by the number of grey import parts floating about (advertised on places like Facebook), as its not good for the stability of the market, giving the official dealers less confidence in continuing to support that brand. You also then get people trying it on with warranty claims with the official channels, since their source is unable to provide such a service, but I guess you pay your money and make your choice!
Of course people with nouse will always try and make a few extra quid on the side, but long term its not sustainable IMO unless they decide to turn it into a proper business (and therefore have to deal with the associated costs).
Longest post I've made for a while! Guess I'm just pretty passionate about the situation, since what we do has to support 6 employees and the requirements of riders throughout the world.