While taking account of the growing number of stores and the diversity between the outlets, they are now investing in a system that tracks everything in great detail. This means they will be able to take more correct decisions.
They wish to allow their gross margin to develop further in a more competitive market and to adapt to the various customer profiles within the middle market segment. They intend to start analysis in September 2005 and the implementation of phase 1 in the beginning of 2006. Phase 2 and 3 are actually planned for 2007 and 2008.”
He continues: “They selected IBM and i2 for the project based on the companies' proven technology and experience in implementing advanced supply chain systems for retail organisations, including several other major footwear retailers.
Their purchasing, merchandising and logistics experts from the UK and Belgium will work in close co-operation with experts from IBM and i2. They expect the effect of this investment to be evident from the second half of 2006.”
"In the retail industry a key success factor is building “fit for purpose” supply chains, optimized for the specific consumer situation,” says Bart Van Den Meersche, General Manager IBM Belgium. “IBM is helping Brantano to transform their business"
“i2 works with leading shoe retailers around the globe,” says Bob Barrett, i2 senior vice president, Retail and Distribution Industry Group. “They are delighted to share the best practices developed in this industry with Brantano and look forward to helping it achieve its corporate vision of more efficient supply chain operations.”
The most dynamic European shoe retailer The Brantano Group currently sells shoes under the Brantano name in Belgium, Luxembourg, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Denmark. The franchise stores opened in Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Qatar also now bear the Brantano name. At the end of June 2005 Brantano has 271 shops.
marketing@alchempro.com
