Business impact
Varner's adoption of MACH principles enabled them to replace their old POS system with ease and develop omnichannel capabilities. The outcomes of this project have surpassed expectations and include:
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number of stores in which the new POS system was deployed in just nine weeks, a week ahead of schedule
In-store processes were simplified, allowing more time for customer engagement
Weekly support calls were significantly reduced, showing the system's reliability and ease of use for nearly 9,000 employees
Many stores set daily and Black Week sales records, highlighting the project's success
Challenge
Varner faced the immense challenge of replacing its old POS system and integrating new technologies without disrupting daily operations. The new POS system had to be deployed across 1,200 stores in ten weeks and all store employees had to be able to hit the ground running with the new system.
Strategy
To achieve this ambitious goal, Varner assembled a project team comprised of highly knowledgeable individuals and field experts, including key roles like the Head of Integration and Campaigns. The team adopted MACH principles (Microservices, API-first, Cloud-native, and Headless technologies) to ensure agility, adaptability, and future growth.
Method
Varner’s decision to choose a MACH solution was driven by the necessity for a system that could seamlessly integrate with their existing platforms. The mobile aspect of the chosed solution was particularly crucial for engaging customers on the sales floor, aligning well with Varner’s vision of creating and delivering a seamless omnichannel experiences.
The Varner project team implemented a comprehensive approach that included:
- Engaging in thorough analysis and employee feedback to define the ideal shopping experience.
- Selecting Sitoo for its specialized POS solutions for the fashion industry, aiming to enhance the shopping experience and empower employees.
- Bringing in knowledgeable personnel for informed decision-making.
- Excelling in problem-solving, collaborating closely to find solutions with a shared objective.
- Building a new integration platform on Microsoft Azure, leading to the first store pilot within four months.
- Conducting pilot testing and installer training across three countries to ensure a quality rollout.
- Managing logistics for nearly 10,000 components through their HW supplier, facilitating store deliveries.
- Replacing 2000 checkout points and upgrading counters with modern equipment, improving customer interaction.
- Enhancing store connectivity with fiber internet and new wireless networks.
- Introducing a rugged tablet-based office support platform for versatile in-store use.
MACH Alliance partnerships
Varner is one of the leading fashion retailers in Northern Europe, operating in Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, and Iceland. The company encompasses several well-known brands, including Bik Bok, Carlings, Cubus, Dressmann, Dressmann XL, Junkyard, Volt, and Levi’s Store.