Monsoon Accessorize trials in-store IT system that offers 'true multichannel environment'

The system, known as Monsoon Accessorize Extended - or MAX - and provided by Micros, uses iPads that not only enable customers to order online from stores but also process store transactions. The till is mobile as the chip and pin device for customers connects to the iPad through bluetooth.

The system means customers can pay for store purchases and with online orders in one transaction.

It was first trialled at Monsoon’s Victoria Street store and has been extended to nine further stores in its estate.

Monsoon has recorded a 5 to10% increase in sales at those stores using the technology.

Micros multichannel product director Roy Patrick said: “A lot of retailers have been putting ecommerce solutions in store which have problems reconciling sales taken online from the store and those taken in store. But this technology reconciles the sales [across different channels].”

He explained that the system also enables store staff to check stock at the warehouse, as well as online and in the rest of the store estate. Staff will also use the iPads in the changing room for on-the-spot stock checks.

Monsoon head of IT Pete Byrne said: “This project is about personalising the experience across channels using a more joined-up approach. Our store staff will have the capability to gain a clear view of stock levels across the business, which enables them to be more responsive to customer queries and go that extra mile, delivering value-added services such as personal shopping to loyal customers. It also increases revenues by incentivising staff, as sales are made and recognised on an individual store basis.”

Byrne added: “We want to ensure that our customers get a consistent experience across all channels. This system provides a true multichannel environment whereby a sale can be completed then and there, even when the physical product is not available.

“Once the roll-out across our retail estate has been complete we will look to extend the offering with the free movement of stock across the retail estate, based on a single stock pool model.”