Thresher Group is rolling out a central stock replenishment system to all 2,000 stores in its estate. But it admits it has yet to implement a Chip and PIN solution - despite the looming deadline for compliance.
Chief executive Roger Whiteside said central stock replenishment had been tested and was now being rolled out to 180 stores, with the aim of installing it across the estate by the end of the year.
“At the moment we have 2,000 store managers ordering their own stock. The new system will give us much greater discipline with regards our ranges; much better stock control because of better visibility at the centre; and improvements in availability.”
Thresher’s EPoS can support the roll-out of central stock replenishment, said Whiteside.
But he said the group was reviewing its EPoS needs for next year in light of Chip and PIN. He denied Thresher had left it too late to implement a Chip and Pin solution.
“This is a big investment decision that cannot be taken lightly. So there is some exposure having left it until now, but we are addressing it.
“Lots of retailers have already done the work. Therefore, the off-the-shelf solutions are proven. We will be able to do this cost-effectively because of that.”
The investment in new systems forms part of efforts to turn the business around.
That means brands such as Bottoms Up, Victoria Wine and Wine Rack are being ditched. But Haddows, which is widely-recognised in Scotland, will remain as a sub-brand to The Local north of the border.
n Thresher bought the Leapingsalmon brand last year when Rocket bought Leapingsalmon outlets.
The brand has consequently not been affected by the closure of Rocket.
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