Quiksilver invest in IT for competitive advantage

Published 20th May 2008

Quiksilver, Inc. is a globally diversified company that designs, produces and distributes branded apparel, wintersports and golf equipment, footwear, accessories and related products. The company's products are sold in over 90 countries in range of distribution channels. Quiksilver Ireland was set up in November 2007. Quiksilver based in St Stephens Green is located in a busy retail hub with high volumes of customers throughout their trading hours. Efficient stock control and merchandising practices are paramount to their success. The company aimed for a flawless customer service experience and complete efficiency at the point of sale.

Karl Swan Co-Owner of Quiksilver Ireland was looking for a system that was easy to use but gave him information that would allow him to run his business more efficiently. They were introduced to BCS (Barcode Solutions), hardware partners of specialist distributor PC Cubed. Bar Code Solutions have been supplying stock control solutions to fashion retailers in Ireland for 8 years. They have built a reputation as a local IT provider that both understands the trade and provides outstanding service to customers.

The PosiFlex Jiva terminal, distributed in Ireland by PC Cubed, is tried and tested and offers great reliability. The in built backup power supply means the terminal will stay on for 15 minutes if the power in the shop suddenly goes. Cables are easy to access if there is a problem as all the cables plug in behind a cover directly below the screen. The terminal is also touch screen enabled which makes it clear and easy to use. The system allows you to quickly and easily scan items for better point of sale efficiency.

One of the main areas of concern for any retailer is the speed and efficiency of dealing with customers at the point of sale. It was paramount that customer queries in relation to stock could be answered in real-time. The software application allows staff to check products at the click of a button leading to a reduction in transaction time and customers getting answers at the point of sale. The company now have full traceability of stock levels at all times. Replenishment and best sellers reports can be run allowing management to make knowledgeable decisions.

“Reporting and doing rolling stock takes has never been easier. It gives the staff more time with our customers” Karl Swan, Co-Owner.

Now when a customer is looking for a specific product in their size, the staff at Quiksilver can look up stock figures on the touch screen, speeding up customer queries and transaction time. The system can also print replenishing reports to enable staff to carry out their regular shop floor replenishment. It also manages stock inwards as the barcoding system allows all stock codes to be uploaded onto the system for reporting purposes. It’s easy to use and has given management the comfort in knowing their stock levels are now managed efficiently. The system is also extremely cost effective and flexible and gives the team security in their IT investment.