SPAR’s Regional Distribution Centres roll-out powerful new EPoS system to 2,600 retailers

Hemel Hempstead, 19 April 2005.  SPAR, the world's largest international food retail chain, has implemented a new EPoS system driven by Epson's MR-800 modular register. Chosen by its six Regional Distribution Centres (RDCs) in the UK, the new system is being rolled out to SPAR's network of 2,600 franchise stores in order to improve in-store efficiency and customer service.

"Our business needs are constantly evolving and we recognised that the previous system we had in place was simply unable to cope. It was clear that we weren't achieving the stable platform which the business demanded going forward," explained Roy Ford, IT controller at SPAR UK Ltd. With its aims to move to a totally electronic distribution system and eliminate the need for store visits, SPAR demanded an EPoS solution with a totally open architecture, capable of running the very latest software technology.

To meet its needs, SPAR RDCs have selected Epson's high-performance MR-800, with its ultra-slim touchscreen monitor and built-in magnetic stripe reader (MSR). The MR-800s run SPARPoS scanning software specifically developed for SPAR by its software partner, Stockport-based Business Computer Projects (BCP).

John Henderson Ltd, SPAR's RDC for Northern Ireland supplies almost 300 stores. Neil Granleese, retail technology manager commented: "It was vital that our system comprised of the latest technology and hardware from a well-recognised supplier. Tailor-made to our specific requirements, and therefore future proof, we are confident in its longevity, reliability and efficiency. For example, a real benefit to the SPAR group is the touchscreen technology; it speeds up the process of software updates and eliminates keyboard related call-outs."

In-store, at the point of sale, easy-to-use touchscreens replace traditional keyboards. Not only does this free-up more counter space, but staff training times are kept to a minimum due to the user-friendly technology. Martin Rushton, Retail IT Development Manager at Tates Ltd, a division of AF Blakemore - the largest SPAR RDC in the UK - said of the roll-out, "With more features and services available at the point of sale, the touchscreen solution is much more intuitive and easier to use than a keyboard because it only displays the options available at any moment during the transaction. This reduces till errors and ensures we have the most accurate sales and stock information."

In addition to its superb connectivity, which enables retailers to choose whatever peripherals or upgraded applications they need, the modular MR-800 also gives SPAR retailers the complete freedom to lay out their point of sale hardware in the way which suits them best.

"It's an extremely reliable system," enthused Roy Ford. "Peace of mind, security, and continuous service were top of our priority list when selecting a solution - the bespoke software and Epson hardware certainly tick all the boxes."

Epson
Established for over 30 years as the world's premier printer manufacturer, Epson has the widest range of PoS printers and touchscreen solutions in the world, each designed to be the best in its class, and built to meet quality and performance criteria that set the industry standard.

Epson's best of breed thermal, inkjet and impact printers for the point of sale have long been the choice of major retailers in the UK and overseas. The company has also been at the forefront of innovations such as 2-colour receipts, single insertion cheque printing and drop-in paper load.

Together with its channel and system partners, Epson offers system solutions for all retail and hospitality environments. The company's range of fully integrated touchscreen terminals includes the powerful Intelligent Register (IR) and SR-600.

For further details, please contact David Ormerod, Epson Retail Technology Division (RTD), Campus 100, Maylands Avenue, Hemel Hempstead, Herts, HP2 7TJ. Tel: 01442 227318
Email: dormerod@epson.co.uk
Web: www.pos.epson.co.uk

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