There must be a better way to do business.
These were just some of the issues raised by the proprietor of Modelenium when he approached Zarr for advice. Modelenium sell die cast models from a range of over 50 manufacturers. They have a retail outlet but wanted to service both national and international markets. Stock control was a big concern, primarily having to keep track of many items and suppliers. Zarr’s initial brief was to develop a website with a shopping cart facility, allowing for online trading and the ability to make multiple purchases.
Zarr realised they could easily achieve the brief, but that they could take it a step further and really revolutionize this business. The solution was to automate and link the front-end selling and back-end stock control and invoicing processes via a database driven website.
Zarr developed a highly functional retail website for Modelenium. In practical terms, this means that whether orders are placed online, via the telephone or in the shop, the website manages the flow of information. No special equipment was required, as the business is conducted over the web. Staff had no problem learning how to use the site, as only a basic knowledge of computers is required and the proprietor didn’t have to worry about business records as Zarr stores and backs-up the website on our secure servers.
Using the Modelenium website, a customer can shop at their leisure, select and add items to their shopping cart and check out when they are ready. They can pay securely using a credit or debit card. The site links to a payment facility which checks if the card is valid. Modelenium staff can view current orders, pick and dispatch the items. The website automatically reduces the stock levels accordingly and notifies staff when to reorder an item. When new stock arrives, staff input details of the order to keep the stock levels accurate. The website manages the business operation.
Customers can still shop in person or via the telephone as well. Staff can create a transaction in the same way that customers on the web can, with additional features, such as the ability to print invoices and statements.
Managing suppliers is much easier as well. Staff can edit a supplier’s details or add new suppliers as needed. Reorder lists can be emailed to a supplier.
The Modelenium site encourages interaction with customers: there is a feedback section where users can rate the site and a search facility, where users can search for items by manufacturer, keyword or category.
Zarr sites have the option of staff intranet areas, which can include things like health and safety or human resources policies. Having your policies and procedures online makes it much easier to update them, without incurring printing costs.
Modelenium now process in excess of 50 orders a day through their website. A subscriber facility has allowed Modelenium to create a database of customers, which they can contact via emails and newsletters. They now have over 5000 subscribers and can email news and special offers to these customers. In 5 days after sending out an email newsletter Modelenium had generated £25,000 of orders. In short, Zarr’s website has transformed this business, as the proprietor testifies:
“Zarr has made an enormous contribution to our business in a short period.” - Phil Peake
Today’s web developing technology, combined with professional design and a team that really listens to your needs and goals can transform your business. Why not invite Zarr to help your business reach its full potential?
