New software means that a simple PC and broadband is all that is now required for local shops to benefit from wholesaler drop shipment deals – and it is free to independent retailers.
Launched by Spedi Retail Software, the new system, known as Spedi Connect, enables independent retailers who do not have EPoS scanning installations to link electronically with the wholesaler setting up drop shipment.
Spedi managing director David Mendus said: “Previously, wholesaler drop shipment deals required the retailer to have the more elaborate electronic point of sale (EPoS) installation in-store.
“But Connect is a breakthrough. It means every local shop, including those without EPoS, can now take drop shipment deliveries direct from suppliers organised electronically through the wholesaler,” he added.
The flexibility of Connect also means that symbol group wholesalers whose retailers do have EPoS will find advantages in the system.
Mendus said that drop shipment was growing in the wholesale/independent sector because it gave wholesalers increasing flexibility in organising deliveries from smaller regional and local manufacturers, as well as big national brands.
This reduces food miles and encourages independents to stock local products for which there is consumer demand.
“We are giving independents a least–cost entry into drop shipment and we are also providing them with the means to get into technology using a pc and broadband, to which every retailer has access. EPoS is by no means universal” said Mendus.
Spedi believes that Connect will help every small non-EPoS store to cut costs and increase efficiency as market competition increases. Manual ordering by ‘phone, with back office paperwork and invoice handling, is costly in time and admin.”
Readers can obtain their free software by contacting the Spedi helpdesk on 020 8336 4999 or visiting www.spedi.com.
Spedi Retail Software is the marketing arm of STD Retail Solutions Ltd, supplier of software to the convenience store sector for 25 years. Spedi software is used by major wholesalers and convenience stores throughout the country. Dedicated Spedi dealerships nationwide provide in-store installation, training and support services.
