The outcome
The Cornetts IT team, supported by Truis, embarked on a training process at each of the 33 stores. Super users – those who quickly adapt – were identified in each location. Feedback has been fast and positive.
‘The cashiers say the new HP systems are easier and friendlier to use, with better touchpads,’ said Booysen.
Where the old POS equipment was ‘irritating’ to customers, the new ones are quicker.
‘We timed it and the old pin pad took an average of nine seconds. The new equipment takes just one.’
The newly integrated finance, stock and POS systems have resulted in even greater returns than Booysen expected.
‘We have saved thousands of dollars on invoicing,’ said Booysen.
Everything is now connected. If a staff member makes a ham and cheese sandwich in the deli, for example, the items used are reflected immediately in stock levels, and re-ordered when needed. There are far fewer stock availability gaps, meaning that customers find the items they need – but Cornetts do not need to over-stock to make that happen. In fact, the ERP system has been so successfully replicated that Cornetts IGA has established a business to provide the software they developed to other retail businesses.
Automating stock systems and improving POS and cash management has had a dramatic effect on administration time.
‘We are saving one person per store, per day,’ said Booysen, adding that saving on administration means more people available to work on registers, and lower overheads.
Booysen already plans to work on more projects with Truis in the future.
‘The way Truis managed the project, the information they gave us, and their efficient processes makes me confident to go back to them,’ said Booysen.
‘They’ll deliver what our business needs.’