FPS deploys MAM's Autocat+; E-commerce reaches new highs

FPS Distribution deploys MAM Software's Autocat+ throughout its branch network and sees E-Commerce reach new highs

Printable version 07 May 2008

FPS deploys Autocat+

Following extensive research into its own electronic cataloguing requirements, FPS Distribution, the UK's largest automotive parts wholesale distributor, has deployed MAM Software's Autocat+ electronic parts catalogue throughout its branch network. The move coincides with the appointment of dedicated cataloguing staff at FPS.

Gabriel Donnelly, FPS' new Cataloguing Manager, says "Electronic cataloguing is as important for us as it is for our customers. We have found that the Autocat+ cataloguing system provides the easiest, quickest and most accurate method of identifying the correct part number - which is why FPS has invested significantly in resource to develop this technology."

Autocat+ was selected not just for its wide coverage, but because it also contains accurate, up-to-date product, fitment and technical information. In contrast to traditional electronic catalogues, Autocat+ retrieves data from centrally-hosted internet servers which are continually maintained by MAM. Consequently, online Autocat+ users no longer have to wait for CD-based updates to gain access to the latest information.

FPS has spoken to key product suppliers to understand their particular cataloguing requirements and to ensure that only unambiguous, usable application and product data appears on Autocat+. "It's evident that all suppliers are keen to ensure the data which appears on our electronic catalogue is as easy to use as possible; there are clear benefits for supplier and customer alike" explained Donnelly.

E-Commerce reaches new highs at FPS

In a separate statement, FPS reported a significant increase in its electronic trading as a result of deploying MAM's Autonet e-commerce platform.  Autonet enables users to perform price lookups, availability enquiries and place orders directly from within MAM's Autopart  software. Through Autonet, FPS now processes in excess of 12,500 transactions electronically per month, generating over £20,000 worth of orders per day.  Since rolling out the system last year, 780,000 enquires have been made and 268,000 orders processed.

Dominique Peacock, E-Business Manager at FPS Distribution said, "The rising number of transactions is an indication of the increased benefits to our customers.  Because Autonet FPS connects directly to their local branch data, it eliminates the need to phone to confirm details. Instead, live stock and price information is presented directly within the customer's Autopart screen . With a click of a few buttons, products can be selected and ordered for same-day or next-day delivery."

Orders placed through Autonet are confirmed back to the user instantly. If stock isn't immediately available, or the part number is superseded, Autonet will suggest alternatives. Optionally, users can check stock at the Sheffield National Distribution Centre and place orders for next-day delivery. The entire process is conducted in real-time, thereby considerably lowering the time taken to complete an order. Furthermore, because the order doesn't need to be re-entered at the branch, it also helps to minimise potential keying errors.

For further information on the electronic trading solutions offered by FPS, please contact their e-business team on 01789 413050 or e-mail ebusiness@fpsdistribution.co.uk.